Retirement
Looking for a new place to call home? Make your decision today...move to the Capital City/Lake Murray Country region in the heart of South Carolina! The region ranks fourth as the most popular destination for newcomers within South Carolina. And, newcomers say that they love the region’s weather and that the people are so friendly. Plus, it’s a great place to live, work and really enjoy life. The region has so much to offer...it’s sophisticated and cultural, it’s economical and educational, it’s recreational and has endless outlets for fun.
Columbia is conveniently situated on three Rivers (the Broad, Congaree and Saluda Rivers) which makes it a unique city. Columbia hosts thriving businesses, the University of South Carolina, fantastic restaurants and great entertainment options.
Although its known for its relaxed Southern atmosphere, excitement is alive at any one of the University of South Carolina sporting events and often on the steps of the state house. There’s little traffic compared to most large cities which makes getting around much easier.
Enjoy a small town atmosphere in this region through exceptional neighborhoods in the bedroom communities such as Lexington, Newberry and Saluda where Southern charm and hospitality still lives.
Important Info for Newcomers
Housing
Housing costs in the region are below the national average. In 2008, the median price of a home was $128,508. The average rent for apartment communities is $619 a month for a one bedroom, $841 for a two bedroom and $1064 for a three bedroom. For information about new and planned communities in the region, visit www.columbiabuilders.com
Hospitals
Whatever your family’s needs might be when you relocate or retire to the area, your healthcare needs will be addressed. The region offers a wide variety of medical professionals and facilities, providing the most advanced technology and treatment.
• Dorn VA Medical Center
(803) 776-4000 • www.va.gov/columbiasc
• Lexington Medical Center
(803) 791-2000 • www.lexmed.com
• Palmetto Health Baptist
(803) 296-5010
• Palmetto Health Richland
(803) 434-7000 • www.palmettohealth.org
• Providence Hospital
(803) 256-5300 • www.provhosp.com
• Newberry Memorial Hospital
(803) 924-8126 • www.newberryhospital.org
Newspapers
Lexington County - Lexington County Chronicle
(803) 359-2059
Richland County – The State Newspaper
(800) 888-3566 or (803) 771-6161
Newberry County – Newberry Observer
(803) 276-0625
Saluda County – Saluda Standard Sentinel
(864) 445-2527
Taxes
The income tax structure for South Carolina follows the federal income tax laws. Your federal taxable income is the starting point in determining your state liability. South Carolina state sales tax is 6%. Seniors 85 years and older are entitled to a 1% exemption in the state sales tax rate. For property taxes, the real estate which is owner occupied is assessed at 4% of market value. Personal property tax is collected annually on cars, trucks, motorcycles, recreational vehicles and boats. Personal cars, trucks and motorcycles are assessed at 6% of the market value. A state brochure is available that explains tax details and is titled, “Moving to South Carolina.” Call to get your free copy, (803) 898-5405 or visit www.sctax.org.
US Social Security Administration
Office for the Capital City/Lake Murray Country Region:
1835 Assembly Street, Columbia (803) 929-7635
Vehicle Registration
Within 45 days of moving to South Carolina, you must register your vehicle with the South Carolina Motor Vehicles
(SC DMV). Within 90 days, you must obtain a South Carolina’s driver’s license. SC DMV office locations:
1630 Shop Road, Columbia, SC, (803) 737-8350
122 Park Road, Lexington, SC, (803) 356-8537
1016 Broad Stone Road, Irmo, SC, (803) 749-9041
