Hilton Head, Bluffton and Hardeeville named among best places to live

Three neighboring Lowcountry communities have been recognized as among the best places to live in South Carolina, according to a new list by Travel + Leisure.

The magazine’s “11 Best Places to Live in South Carolina, According to Local Real Estate Experts” was published Aug. 17th and features Hilton Head Island, Bluffton and Hardeeville alongside other cities and towns across the Palmetto State.

Hilton Head Island — No. 5
If you’ve always dreamed of living by the beach, there are several options in South Carolina, but Hilton Head Island is certainly one of the top highlights.

“Hilton Head remains one of the most iconic coastal communities in the Southeast. The appeal has never wavered,” said Mitch Burns, license partner and private office advisor at Engel & Völkers Hilton Head.

“Between the private golf communities, the pristine beaches, and the island’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty, it offers a level of lifestyle, investment opportunities, and stability that’s incredibly rare.”

Bluffton — No. 9
Ranked ninth on the list, Bluffton was praised for its balance of charm, convenience and long-term value.

“For clients who want a blend of charm, convenience, amazing lifestyle, and long-term value, Bluffton is a clear standout,” Burns told Travel + Leisure. “As someone who’s watched this town evolve over the last decade, I can tell you it’s one of the most exciting markets in the Southeast right now.”

As you walk through Old Town Bluffton, he added, it’s hard not to fall for what he described as a “magnetic energy,” one created by “walkable streets, art galleries, chef-owned restaurants, and a strong sense of community.”

Hardeeville — No. 11
Hardeeville rounded out the statewide ranking at No. 11, recognized as an increasingly popular choice for retirees.

“Hilton Head has always been popular for its beautiful beaches, golf, shopping, and dining, but many may not know that the average age of a homeowner there is in their late 50s, so it has become a retirement mecca,” said Aimee Peterson, owner of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Palmetto.

“And if you’re looking to spend your post-career chapter in this part of South Carolina, I recommend looking at Hardeeville—specifically, Latitude Margaritaville. The 55-plus community started welcoming new homeowners five years ago. With an average home sale price of $500,000, homes here are well-priced compared with similar communities along the coast,” she said.

Statewide recognition
The three Beaufort County communities joined Mount Pleasant, Blythewood, Charleston, Summerville, Simpsonville, Fort Mill, Greenville and Chapin in the statewide rankings.

According to Travel + Leisure, the top destinations share common features: access to natural beauty, growing cultural opportunities, a slower pace of life and, in many cases, more affordable housing compared with larger metropolitan areas in neighboring states.
For Beaufort County, having Hilton Head, Bluffton and Hardeeville recognized together reflects the region’s range of options—from established resort living to small-town vibrancy and rapidly growing retirement communities.

See Travel + Leisure’s full rankings online at: www.travelandleisure.com/best-places-to-live-in-south-carolina-11791072