Dan Hamilton’s Guide to Upstate Neighborhoods

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Looking for the best Upstate, SC neighborhoods? Greenville, South Carolina has a lot going for it: Great local and state parks, a budding food scene, lively arts and entertainment, plenty of family friendly fun, quality schools, a cost of living below the national average… the list goes on. In this guest article by partner realtor Dan Hamilton, he offers an overview of some of Greenville’s gems–its quaint communities and neighborhoods. Whether you’re already settled into a community you love or you’re looking for a new one, learn a little more about the neighborhoods that make Greenville special!

The secret is out – Greenville, SC is the place to be! Greenville has seen rapid growth in recent years and is becoming steadily more popular with remote workers, families, and retirees looking for a small-town feel with big-city amenities. 

But what – or where – exactly is Greenville? The name gets used to describe a few different places depending on the context. The City of Greenville is 30 square miles of land located in the heart of Upstate, SC. This city is the major contributor to the explosive growth the Upstate has seen in recent years. Greenville County is a little different. Our county encompasses a number of towns and municipalities that each bring their own unique flair to the county. Some of these include Greer, Greenville, Simpsonville, and Mauldin.

With so many different towns, it can be difficult to know exactly where in Greenville you want to call home. This article breaks down a few of the popular cities and towns in Greenville County, sharing demographic information and highlighting popular neighborhoods, to help you understand the differences in these communities and make an informed decision about your next move! 

Liberty Bridge at Falls Park
Falls Park and its iconic Liberty Bridge lie at the heart of downtown Greenville.

Greenville, South Carolina

The city of Greenville was founded in the late 1700s by European settlers on Cherokee hunting grounds. In the early 1900s, the town was known as the “Textile Center of the World,” but experienced a period of decline in the latter half of the century. Starting in the 1980’s, the city began revitalizing the downtown area with a new streetscape design, followed by numerous beautification projects and the removal of the Camperdown highway bridge to be replaced with the famous Liberty Pedestrian Bridge. Today, Greenville has been transformed from a tired mill village into a bustling city known nationally for its unique restaurants, art scene, and connection to nature. Conveniently located between Atlanta and Charlotte, Miami and New York, Greenville has become a desired location for young families, remote professionals, and international corporations alike.

The rapidly growing city has earned numerous accolades over the last 15 years. Most recently, Greenville has been named one of America’s Best Small Cities (2020), The South’s Most Tasteful Towns (2020), and Conde Nast’s Best Places to Spend Christmas in the U.S (2019) to name just a few. Just this month, Greenville was ranked #7 on the Realtor.com Top Housing Market 2022 Report.

City of Greenville Demographics 

  • Population: 74,207
  • Median Age: 34.3 years
  • Number of Households: 29,942
  • Average Household Annual Income: $92,204
  • Median Home Value: $255,432

Neighborhoods in Greenville 

North Main

The North Main historic neighborhood is one of the oldest in Greenville and is loosely defined as the area north of Stone Avenue and between Mohawk Drive, Worley Road, and Rutherford Street. The neighborhood’s proximity to downtown Greenville gives its residents easy access to dining and retail locations as well as a host of recreational activities. The area also boasts a number of beautiful green spaces and parks. 

Homes in North Main vary in price and increase the closer you move to Greenville proper. Potential homeowners can expect to find a home anywhere from $140K to $1.25M. Schools servicing this area include Summit Drive Elementary, League Middle Academy, and Wade Hampton High School.

If you are interested in seeing what homes in North Main look like or would like to know what is currently on the market, view North Main listings here!

Overbrook

Overbrook is another historical neighborhood directly east of Downtown Greenville. One of the first suburbs in Greenville, this area is dominated by the Craftsman bungalow style home that was popular in the early 20th century and large brick homes that followed in the 1920’s.

Overbrook’s desirable location allows residents to enjoy access to dining and retail amenities in Downtown Greenville as well as near Bob Jones University and Wade Hampton Boulevard. The area’s active association hosts a variety of events throughout the year and residents enjoy beautiful green spaces like Timmons Park.

Homes in this area range from $240K-$417K. Schools serving the Overbrook Historic District include East North Street Academy, Greenville Middle Academy, and Greenville High Academy.

If you are interested in seeing what homes in Overbrook look like or would like to know what is currently on the market, view Overbrook listings here!

Black bench across the lake from Furman clock tower
Furman University, located in Travelers Rest, is a gorgeous spot for family walks and bike rides.

Travelers Rest

The city of Travelers Rest is a small town about 20 minutes north of Downtown Greenville that is rapidly growing in popularity. Literally named a traveler’s haven, the town is known for its proximity to both Greenville’s city amenities and the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountain Foothills.

Despite recent growth including a new streetscaping project and a flood of new restaurants and businesses, Travelers Rest has maintained its natural, idyllic charm and small-town flavor. The town is minutes away from Furman University, the state’s oldest private university, and the famous Swamp Rabbit Trail runs right through downtown. For those interested in exploring further north, Hendersonville is only 25 minutes away and Asheville is 45 minutes. 

City of Travelers Rest Demographics

  • Population: 5,528
  • Median Age: 31.1 years
  • Number of Households: 1,751
  • Median household income: $68,535
  • Median Home Value: $287,408

Neighborhoods in Travelers Rest

Cliffs Valley

Mountain living at its finest, The Cliffs offers 7 club communities throughout the Blue Ridge Mountains, one of which is in Travelers Rest. The Cliffs Valley Community is just south of the North Carolina/South Carolina state line and offers outstanding amenities including tennis, hiking, cycling, a private dog park, luxurious clubhouse, wellness center, and more. 

If you love mountain views and living with nature in luxury, The Cliffs is for you! Plus, this community is only 20 minutes away from Hendersonville and 30 minutes from Greenville. Homes in this luxury community typically range from $415K-$3M, and land listings in the area are available as well. Schools servicing this community include Slater-Marietta Elementary, Northwest Middle, and Travelers Rest High

If you are interested in seeing homes and land currently for sale in the Cliffs Valley community, view Cliffs Valley listings here

The Ridge at Sunset

The Ridge at Sunset is a small neighborhood offering reasonably priced custom homes in the idyllic Blue Ridge Mountains. The 30 lots in this community all have properties larger than half an acre, ensuring plenty of wiggle room and space to play. The vast majority of the community is densely wooded, offering privacy to each lot.

At the Ridge, you are only minutes away from the Swamp Rabbit Trail, Furman University and downtown Travelers Rest. Greenville is a short 15-minute drive and dining, retail, and a movie theatre are closer than that. 

This fairly new neighborhood is filling up quickly with custom homes ranging from $375K-698K, and there are still two lots available for purchase around $45K. Schools near The Ridge include Heritage Elementary, Northwest Middle School, and Travelers Rest High.

If you are interested in viewing homes for sale in The Ridge at Sunset, see all listings for The Ridge at Sunset currently available here!

Greer Station’s recent makeover has invigorated its downtown.

Greer

Greer, South Carolina is one of the fastest-growing cities in the Upstate and is the proud home of the United States’ only BMW manufacturing facility. The city’s downtown, known as Greer Station, has established itself as a top Upstate destination with its perfectly maintained, charming streetscape, unique dining and retail options, and a bursting calendar full of family-friendly events. 

City of Greer Demographics

  • Population: 35,883
  • Median Age: 35.1 years
  • Number of Households: 11,531
  • Average Household Annual Income: $77,605
  • Median Home Value: $279,500

Neighborhoods in Greer

Sugar Creek

If suburb living is your style, Sugar Creek is for you. This established community has over 800 homes, making it one of the largest (and most popular) neighborhoods in Greenville County. Homes in this community vary in architectural style, but are typically older, traditional-style homes from the 70’s and 90’s. Homes are 2,000-4,000 sq. ft. and approximately $415K-$626K. Finally, these homes sit on larger lots (up to three-quarters of an acre) and feature a beautiful, mature landscape. 

Sugar Creek residents enjoy three swimming pools, clubhouses, and tennis courts as well as two lakes, green spaces, and multiple parks. The neighborhood also has a large swim team. This vibrant community is perfect for families of any size and is conveniently located only 20 minutes from Downtown Greenville and 10 minutes from Downtown Greer. Schools in this area include Buena Vista Elementary, Northwood Middle and Riverside High.

If you are interested in viewing homes for sale in the Sugar Creek area, see all Greer listings currently available here!

Pelham Falls

Pelham Falls is another popular subdivision in the city of Greer. There are more than 400 homes in this community, all surrounded by mature landscaping and the natural beauty of the Enoree River and Rocky Creek. The homes in Pelham Falls are predominantly multi-level, valued between $256K-$549K, featuring a variety of architectural styles and sitting on anywhere from a quarter acre to an acre and a half lot.

This developed neighborhood’s amenities include tennis courts, a soccer field, volleyball and basketball courts, a playground, green and open play areas, 2 swimming pools with a swim team, and a paved walking trail along the Enoree River that borders the community.

If you live in Pelham Falls, you will have access to amazing schools such as Woodland Elementary, Riverside Middle, and Riverside High. This sought-after neighborhood is known for its amenities, family-oriented atmosphere, and picturesque settings.

If you are interested in viewing homes for sale in the Pelham Falls area, see all Pelham Falls listings currently available here!

Mural at Mauldin's City Center Park
Mauldin’s vibrant City Center Park includes a cultural center, brand new playground equipment, and an ice cream shop!

Mauldin

Mauldin is a small city whose downtown lies approximately 20 minutes from Downtown Greenville. Despite its size, Mauldin offers its residents a variety of comforts and amenities on par with larger cities. Mauldin’s historical center offers a massive arrangement of dining, retail, and entertainment options, and the Mauldin Cultural Center hosts educational experiences, theatre productions, festivals and more all year long.

City of Mauldin Demographics

  • Population: 25,697
  • Median Age: 40.2 years
  • Number of Households: 9,968
  • Average Household Annual Income: $80,528
  • Median Home Value: $241,291

Neighborhoods in Mauldin 

The Grove

The Grove Subdivision is a planned community located just off Ashmore Road in Mauldin. The neighborhood has about 230 homes and was developed in the 90’s. Most homes are between 2000 and 2400 sq. ft. and are priced between $158K-$295K, making it the perfect neighborhood for young families and empty nesters alike.

The Grove’s amenities include a junior Olympic pool, play and picnic area, developed sidewalks and landscaping, and a small private lake. If you are a family looking to settle at The Grove, some of the schools servicing the area include Greenbrier Elementary School, Hillcrest Middle, and Mauldin High School.

If you are interested in viewing homes for sale in The Grove, see all listings currently available here!

Brookside

Brookside is a Mauldin subdivision closely bordering Simpsonville and the popular Five Forks area. This family-friendly community consists of about 320 homes and offers a quiet, natural setting with all the convenience of nearby amenities.

Most homes in Brookside are multi-level with attached garages and front porches and a mix of brick and vinyl siding. These homes typically stay in the 2000-3000 sq. ft. range and price around $133K-$340K. Amenities include a pool and clubhouse with a covered patio.

Some of the schools servicing the area include Greenbrier Elementary School, Hillcrest Middle, and Mauldin High School.

If you are interested in viewing homes for sale in the Brookside area, see all Brookside listings currently available here!

Simpsonville’s City Park has new playground equipment, a dog park, a fitness trail, a disc golf course, and a picnic area. It’s also a stone’s throw from the city center.

Simpsonville

Located approximately 25 minutes from Downtown Greenville, Simpsonville is a popular location for families of all sizes. The city’s charming downtown features a functioning railroad and a brick clock tower as well as historic architecture. Simpsonville may look quaint, but this town has some big-city resources, including four city parks, a waterpark, and a 15,000-seat outdoor amphitheater featuring headliners like Darius Rucker, Counting Crows, Post Malone, and more.

City of Simpsonville Demographics

  • Population: 26,699
  • Median Age: 37.8 years
  • Number of Households: 8,464
  • Average Household Annual Income: $83,266
  • Median Home Value: $302,989

Neighborhoods in Simpsonville

Cobblestone 

Cobblestone is an upscale community near the intersection of Batesville and Roper Mountain Road that features gorgeous European-style homes inspired by the English Countryside. This gated community boasts approximately 150 homes with lot sizes between half an acre and more than an acre and a half. All the homes in Cobblestone are custom-designed between 3000-6000 sq. ft. and are finished with stone, brick, or stucco. Most homes are valued between $735K and $1.6M+.

Residents of Cobblestone are about 10 minutes away from downtown Simpsonville and only five minutes away from the plentiful retail and dining options of Woodruff Road. Neighborhood amenities include a luxurious clubhouse, swimming pool and pool house, tennis court, and more! Schools servicing this area include Oakview Elementary, Beck International Academy, and J.L. Mann High School.

If you are interested in viewing homes available in Cobblestone, see all Cobblestone listings currently available here!

Holly Tree Plantation

If you love golf, Holly Tree Plantation is the place for you. This large neighborhood’s most distinct feature is a spectacular 18-hole golf course and country club. Holly Tree Plantation consists of over 500 single-family homes with some of the most variety of any community in Greenville. In Holly Tree, you’ll find 1,500 sq. ft. brick ranches, 4,500 sq. ft. estate-style homes and everything in between. This neighborhood varies in price as well, with homes selling anywhere from $197K-$400K.

Holly Tree may specialize in golf, but don’t be fooled, the community has much more to offer including an Olympic size pool, 10 tennis courts, large green spaces and lengthy walking trails, and much more. Holly Tree’s premier amenities and ideal location make it one of Simpsonville’s most sought-after communities.

If you are a family interested in moving to Windsor Forest, some of the local schools include Bethel Elementary, Hillcrest Middle, and Hillcrest High School.

Are you interested in viewing homes available in Holly Tree Plantation? See all listings currently available here!

If you are new to Greenville or looking to move here, we hope this guide has been helpful! The neighborhoods shared here are just a few of hundreds in Greenville County. If you don’t see a neighborhood here that fits your budget or expectations, we’re sure there is one that will! At Hamilton & Co., we provide our clients with unique Home Searches designed to identify ideal home factors and notify you as soon as your dream home comes on the market! If you would be interested in utilizing this free service, fill out our free Home Search form today!

Dan Hamilton
About the Author
Dan Hamilton is a founder and Team Leader of Hamilton & Co. of Keller Williams Realty, which consistently ranks as one of the top producing real estate teams in South Carolina. Passionate about Greenville and the Upstate, Dan is also a former member of the SC House of Representatives and has also served as a Director for the Greater Greenville Association of REALTORS and the South Carolina Association of REALTORS. Dan and his wife Kelly are also parents to four children. On most weekends, Dan can be found on the sidelines of the soccer field either coaching or cheering on one of his kids.

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