Where to Live Off Grid in South Carolina? (Top 7 Counties) 

South Carolina is a good state for off-grid living. Its unique geographical location allows you to simply cultivate a wide range of crops. South Carolina does not have a freshwater shortage; it receives enough rain each year, and the groundwater is generally pure. Living off the grid near the coast is a little more challenging because of the excessive humidity, but many people do.

In South Carolina, the greatest places to live off the grid are in areas where the humidity is low, and the cost of living is cheap. Charleston County, Greenville County, Richland County, Allendale County, Hampton County, Horry County, and Aiken County are the greatest counties in South Carolina for off grid living and homesteading.

South Carolina’s climate is warm, with mild winters. At the same time, there is a significant temperature variation between the north and south of the state, particularly during the winter. South Carolina’s tourism business is thriving, and the closer you come to the shore, the more tourists there will be. Tourism benefits the local economy, but it is unsuitable for off-grid life or homesteading.

Tourist-friendly areas have a relatively high cost of living. The price of real estate in these locations is among the highest in the state. So, if you’re on a tight budget and wish to live off the grid in this state, try to avoid the coast.

Want to learn more about living off grid in South Carolina? I recommend reading my Complete Guide.

What County is Best for Off Grid Living in South Carolina? 

Greenville County

Greenville County is located in the northern section of the state. Although having one of the largest population densities in the state, it is still an excellent location for off-grid living, owing primarily to the local climate. Because Greenville County is relatively distant from the coast, humidity levels are quite low; therefore, this is the place to be if you dislike locations with heavy humidity.

There are currently roughly 500k people living in an area of 795 sq mi, and your greatest alternatives for off grid living are in the county’s south and north. 

Richland County 

Richland County is in the state’s center, with a relatively large population density. Yet, there are a few ideal sites for off-grid living in this county. There are currently roughly 410k people living in 772 sq mi. Your greatest possibilities for off grid living are in the county’s south and southeast, where population density is low.

Charleston County 

Charleston County is located in the southeastern section of the state. While not ideal for off-grid life, it can benefit the proper folks. Charleston County contains everything you need for off-grid life. However, the cost of living is one of the highest in the region, owing to the county’s thriving tourism economy. There are roughly 396k people living in an area of 1,358 sq mi, and your best alternatives for off grid life are in the county’s eastern and western regions.

Allendale County 

Allendale County is located in the western section of the state. It is ideal for anyone looking to live off the grid on a small budget. Because of the low population density, demand for homes and land are among the state’s lowest, resulting in inexpensive costs. There are currently roughly 9k people living in 413 sq mi, and your best chances for off grid life are in the county’s western regions.

Hampton County 

Hampton County is located in the southwestern section of the state and can be a good spot to live off the grid. The county has one of the lowest population densities. Approximately 20k people live within 563 square miles. Your greatest places for off-grid living in this county are in the south and southwest.

Horry County 

Horry County is located on the seashore in the state’s eastern region. The county’s northern areas are good for off-grid living and homesteading because the population density is low, and the environment is ideal for cultivating a variety of crops. There are currently roughly 322k inhabitants living in 1,255 square miles, with the largest population density towards the coast.

Aiken County 

Aiken County is located in the western portion of the state and is a great spot to acquire a large property plot for the lowest feasible price. There are currently approximately 167k people living in an area of 1,080 sq mi; due to the enormous size of the county, you will have no difficulty finding suitable land for off grid living and homesteading. The northern regions of the county have the best off-grid living alternatives.

Final Thoughts on Off Grid Living in South Carolina

As you can see, there are many ideal spots for off-grid living in South Carolina; however, keep in mind that the expense of living tends to be somewhat expensive in tourist areas. Living off the grid near the shore is difficult though, owing to high humidity and extremely unpredictable weather, which might be troublesome if you are cultivating your own food.

Want to learn more about choosing the best land for off grid living? Here’s some of favorite tips!