South Carolina is a fairly good state for off grid living, mostly due to its unique geographical position which allows you to grow a wide variety of crops relatively easily. South Carolina doesn’t have a problem with freshwater, in fact it gets plenty of rainfall every year and for the most part even the groundwater is relatively clean. Living off the grid on the coast is somewhat more difficult due to the high humidity but plenty of people live off the grid on the coast.
The best places to live off the grid in South Carolina are in areas where the humidity is relatively low and the cost of living is also low. Generally speaking the best counties in South Carolina for off grid living and homesteading are Greenville County, Richland County, Charleston County, Allendale County, Hampton County, Horry County, and Aiken County.
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South Carolina’s climate is relatively mild, the winters are not that harsh, although there is a fairly large temperature difference between the north and the southern part of the state especially during the wintertime. The tourism industry is booming in South Carolina and the closer you get to the coast the more tourist there will be. Tourism is excellent for the local economy but it is not exactly ideal for off grid living or homesteading.
Areas that are frequented by tourists tend to have a fairly high cost of living, and the price of property in these areas is one of the highest in the entire state. So if you are on a tight budget and you want to live off the grid in this state, then just try to stay away from the coast. If you want more information about this state then check out my recent article Off grid living in South Carolina ( The Palmetto State ).
Best Places To Live Off The Grid In South Carolina
South Carolina presents some intriguing options for living off the grid. The state’s diverse landscapes, including the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains and the stunning coastal areas, create a captivating backdrop for a self-sustaining lifestyle. Areas like Pickens County and Oconee County, situated in the upstate region, offer breathtaking natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and a sense of tranquility. These regions provide opportunities for sustainable agriculture, off-grid energy solutions, and a strong sense of community.
Additionally, the remote communities of Hampton County and Bamberg County in the Lowcountry offer a peaceful and secluded environment, surrounded by scenic rural landscapes and a slower pace of life. South Carolina’s moderate climate, affordable land prices, and a culture rooted in Southern charm and hospitality make it an appealing choice for those seeking to disconnect from traditional utilities and embrace a more independent and sustainable way of life amidst the natural wonders of the Palmetto State.
Greenville County
Greenville County is located in the northern part of the state, although it has one of the highest population densities in the state it is still a very good place for off grid living mostly due to the local climate. As Greenville County is relatively far away from the coast the humidity levels are relatively low, so if you are not a fan of areas with high humidity then this is the place to be.
Currently, there are around 500k people living in an area of 795 sq mi, and your best options for off grid living are in the south and in the northern parts of the county. If you want to know how to get free firewood then check out my recent article Free Firewood ( Top 14 Places ).
Richland County
Richland County is located in the central part of the state, the population density is relatively high but there are a couple of excellent places for off grid living in this county. Currently, there are around 410k people living in an area of 772 sq mi, and your best options for off grid living are in the south and southeastern parts of the county as the population density is relatively low in these areas.
Charleston County
Charleston County is located in the southeastern part of the state, although not ideal for off grid living but it can be good for the right kind of people. Charleston County has everything that you would need for off grid living, but the cost of living is one of the highest in this county mostly due to the booming tourism industry. Currently, there are around 396k people living in an area of 1,358 sq mi, and your best options for off grid living are in the eastern and western parts of the county. If you want to know the most important homesteading must-haves then check out my recent article ( Top 18 ) Homestead kitchen must haves.
Allendale County
Allendale County is located in the western part of the state, and this is an excellent county for anybody who wants to live off the grid on a tight budget. Due to the low population density, the demand for housing and land is one of the lowest in the state, which makes their prices low as well. Currently, there are around 9k people living in an area of 413 sq mi, and your best options for off grid living are in the western parts of the county.
Hampton County
Hampton County is located in the southwestern part of the state, and this small county can be an excellent place for off grid living. The population density is one of the lowest in the area, currently, there are around 20k people living in an area of 563 sq mi and your best options for off grid living are in the south and southwestern parts of the county.
Horry County
Horry County is located in the eastern part of the state, right on the coast. The northern parts of the county are excellent for off grid living and homesteading as the population density is relatively low in this area and the climate is also ideal for growing different types of crops. Currently, there are around 322k people living in an area of 1,255 sq mi, and the highest population density is near the coast.
Aiken County
Aiken County is located in the western part of the state, and this is an excellent place if you want to buy a big plot of land for as cheap as possible. Currently, there are around 167k people living in an area of 1,080 sq mi, due to the large size of the county you won’t have any problems finding suitable land for off grid living and homesteading. Your best options for off grid living are in the northern parts of the county.
Key Takeaways
- South Carolina offers a wealth of natural resources, including forests, rivers, and fertile soil, which are beneficial for off-grid living. The state’s diverse ecosystems provide opportunities for activities like hunting, fishing, gardening, and sustainable forestry.
- South Carolina’s mild climate, with its relatively short and mild winters, is conducive to year-round agricultural activities. The state’s fertile soil and longer growing season make it suitable for growing a variety of crops, including vegetables, fruits, and herbs. Off-grid residents can take advantage of the agricultural potential to establish self-sustaining food systems.
- South Carolina is home to supportive off-grid communities and individuals who prioritize sustainable living practices. These communities offer a network for knowledge sharing, resource exchange, and community building. The state also promotes sustainable initiatives, such as renewable energy projects and local food movements, aligning with the values and lifestyle of off-grid living.
