Last year, Forbes named Bluffton, South Carolina as one of the best places to retire to in the U.S. – and we’re not surprised why! Here are some of the top reasons this southern city should be on your list of places to look:
It Doesn’t Break the (Retirement) Bank
Being outside of bigger metro cities can have its advantages, including more affordability, and this coastal area is no different. South Carolina has one of the lowest cost of living rates in the nation, around 10% below the national average, with an average home in Bluffton being around $120,000 less than other coastal destinations in the state like Hilton Head Island. For retirees specifically, the city is also one of the lowest retirement tax areas.
Homes and Communities are Designed for Luxe Living
Retiring in this area shouldn’t put visions of dusty, run-down homes in your head. Bluffton offers luxury retirement neighborhoods and master-planned communities for retirees. Some of the top retirement private clubs in the area often include restaurants, fully equipped fitness facilities and more. Oldfield, for example, offers some of the best amenities in Bluffton. Those purchasing a home from Stanley Martin Homes in Oldfield can receive a two-year membership to the exclusive Oldfield Club as part of the purchase.
Nature is Around Every Corner
An easy driving distance from beautiful beaches on the Atlantic, it’s not hard to get lost in nature in Bluffton. Once you’re near the water, take advantage of opportunities to head out deep salt water fishing or on romantic sunset cruises. Make sure to stop by the Outfitters nature center to learn how you can experience Okatie River boating or fly fishing with a local expert in one of the state’s top fishing areas! Heading back on land, discover some of the best Lowcountry birding areas on a tour where you can see over 200 types of wild bird species. Many communities, including the Audubon International-certified Oldfield community, are dedicated to preserving these areas, creating additional green areas and even wildlife scenic habitat areas. Bluffton is also an extremely walkable city, with numerous surrounding nature trails providing a great way to ditch the car and discover the area on foot.
There are Endless Opportunities to Play
Now that you have the time to do whatever your heart desires, use it to the fullest! For the quintessential retiring activity, Bluffton is full of beautiful, high-end golf courses, many of which follow sustainable golf course practices. If that is your passion, one of the best golf communities to retire to is our Oldfield neighborhood. The Oldfield Golf Club was designed by professional golfer Greg Norman for an ideal course. Golf Digest agrees, with several Bluffton private golf clubs on their Best Golf Courses in South Carolina list this year. With the warm climate, horse communities are another outing of choice. For homeowners in Stanley Martin Homes’ Oldfield neighborhood, you’ll have access to Oldfield’s top equestrian private club. In addition to the many outdoor experiences the area provides, you can also experience art and culture indoors at one of Bluffton's many galleries or museums like the Heyward House Historic Center.
Now that you’re sold on Bluffton as one of the top places to retire to, it’s time to find your perfect home there. For more information about how you can retire in style in Bluffton, S.C., read more here.