Your Guide to Living in Elgin, SC

  • Written on January 24, 2023 By Stanley Martin

Welcome to Elgin, SC – a stunning southern town nestled in the rolling hills of Kershaw County. This serene, picturesque town is steeped in history and has served as home to generations of Southerners since its founding during Reconstruction. Experience centuries-old charm and modern hospitality when you visit Elgin: From traditional Southern eats to lush rolling hills perfect for walking and biking, this historic Columbia exurb offers something for everyone. Whether it’s spending your days birdwatching at the nearby Nature Park or learning more about the city’s rich past by touring one of the many local preserves, come find out why Elgin is truly an exceptional southern destination!

Elgin, SC History

The town of Elgin is steeped in historical significance, having been founded during Reconstruction. The original settlers were primarily farmers who came to the area following emancipation. Over time, Elgin has grown into a thriving community with a rich heritage and culture that still flourishes today. Elgin offers a unique look into the past, from its churches and cemeteries to its historic homes and landmarks.

What is there to do in Elgin, SC?

Elgin’s charm doesn’t end with its history, though. This beautiful town offers a variety of nearby shopping and dining experiences to suit any taste. You can check out the town's vibrant arts and music scene, with many events and performances throughout the year. From the YMCA facility to the Steedman Woods Natural Area and Pleasant Hill Lake Park, the area provides plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors with fishing and hiking trails, swimming spots, and nature trails. Cultural attractions such as The Antharc Experience and The Elgin Mill Heritage Museum are fun places to explore the local history as well. Popular restaurants like Darden’s Bar-B-Que Shack make for excellent dining options to try some classic Southern cuisine after a day out.

And there are even more fun things to do right outside of Elgin. You can take a short drive to Downtown Columbia. There, you will find a variety of shops and eateries as well as fun activities unique to the area, like the Riverbanks Zoo and college sports at the University of South Carolina. Visit Segra Park to catch a Fireflies baseball game. Afterward, you can grab a bite at one of the many eateries peppered throughout Main Street and The Vista. Kids will love visiting Edventure or Columbia Children’s Theatre or discovering some local gems such as Palmetto Falls Water Park. You can also venture into nearby Camden, SC, for additional attractions like the Kershaw County Historical Museum, the Old McCaskill’s Store and historic war sites.

Elgin is an excellent choice for a tremendous small-town experience with plenty of nearby attractions. Its convenient location makes it easy to explore all that Columbia, SC, has to offer without sacrificing a peaceful lifestyle.

Elgin, SC Schools

The schools in Elgin have something for everyone. From advanced learning centers to competitive athletics programs, Elgin provides a wealth of educational options for students of all ages. The town is situated within two school districts, Kershaw 1 and Richland 2. Whether you're looking for a rigorous public school system or a prestigious private academy, Elgin has it. The area is also known for its highly competitive college prep academies for high schoolers that offer students a chance to stand out when applying to colleges.

Major Employers

U.S. Route 1 runs right through town, providing an easy commute to Columbia.These major commuter routes make it easy to travel to and from the several employment centers throughout the Columbia metro area. Elgin is minutes from Interstate 20 for quick access to Myrtle Beach.A short drive on the interstate, and you will be in Downtown Columbia in no time. Elgin is also an excellent option for members of the armed forces and their families -- Fort Jackson is a 30-minute drive away.

Elgin, SC Homes For Sale

Living in Elgin is a great way to enjoy the small-town charm of this historic region while still having easy access to all the amenities of Columbia. Stanley Martin Homes has several new homes for sale in the Elgin area. The homes range from cozy main-level living designs offered at The Mill at Woodcreek to spacious estate homes on large homesites at Kelsney Ridge. Stanley Martin even has townhomes coming to the area. Woodcreek Towns will offer an affordable opportunity to join the established Woodcreek master-planned community. Residents will enjoy the lifestyle at Woodcreek; from the low-maintenance exteriors to the functional floor plans, the townhomes at Woodcreek Towns are sure to impress. Another benefit of living in this small town is residency in Kershaw County, which offers one of the country's lowest median property tax rates in the country. Those savings mean more money in your pocket!

For those looking for a peaceful, small-town lifestyle, Elgin is an ideal location. With its rich history, convenient access to attractions in Columbia and the surrounding areas, excellent schools, and beautiful homes for sale from Stanley Martin Homes, Elgin is an exceptional southern destination! Whether you're looking for a floor plan with a main-level primary suite, a spacious estate home or an easy-to-maintain townhome, Stanley Martin has something to meet your needs in the Elgin area. Our knowledgeable neighborhood sales managers can help find the right home and location for you. Would you be interested in learning more about our available neighborhoods and homes? Visit our website!