Pros and Cons of Moving to Lake Keowee in Seneca, SC

Thinking about moving to Lake Keowee in Seneca, South Carolina? You’re not alone. Lake Keowee has become one of the most desirable destinations in the Southeast for retirees, second-home buyers, and families who want to enjoy the outdoors while still being close to city conveniences. With crystal-clear waters, breathtaking mountain views, and a slower pace of life, the appeal is obvious.

But no move is perfect. While there are plenty of reasons to fall in love with Lake Keowee, there are also some things you’ll want to weigh carefully before calling this community home. This guide covers the top pros and cons of living at Lake Keowee, so you can make the best decision for your lifestyle.

The Cons of Moving to Lake Keowee

1. Termites and Pest Concerns

The Upstate region of South Carolina is warm and humid for much of the year. Unfortunately, that makes it an ideal environment for termites. If you’re moving to Seneca or purchasing Lake Keowee real estate, you’ll want to budget for annual termite inspections and treatments. While pest control companies make it manageable, newcomers from northern climates may be surprised at how common termite prevention is here.

2. The Weather Isn’t for Everyone

South Carolina’s climate offers four distinct seasons, but summers can feel long, hot, and humid. Temperatures often climb into the 90s, with sticky humidity and afternoon thunderstorms. If you’re moving from a cooler or drier region, it can take time to adjust. Severe storms do occasionally roll through, so being prepared is important.

3. Small-Town Living (Not a Big City)

Seneca is a charming, welcoming town, but it isn’t a big city. You’ll find plenty of locally owned restaurants, shops, and services, but don’t expect the big-city amenities you’d find in Charlotte or Atlanta. The tradeoff is peace, safety, and a tight-knit community. Luckily, Greenville is about an hour away, offering cultural events, a thriving downtown, and an international airport.

4. Pollen and Seasonal Allergies

Spring around Lake Keowee is gorgeous, but it comes with a side of pollen. Cars, boats, and porches are often coated with a yellow haze during peak season. If you suffer from allergies, you’ll want to prepare for a few challenging weeks each year. For many residents, the beauty of azaleas, dogwoods, and other spring blooms outweighs the inconvenience.

5. South Carolina State Income Tax

Unlike some neighboring states (such as Tennessee or Florida), South Carolina does have a state income tax. Rates vary from 0–6.5% depending on income. That said, retirees often receive generous deductions, and the lower property taxes (see below) help balance things out. Still, for those moving from states without income tax, this is an adjustment.

The Pros of Moving to Lake Keowee

1. Endless Hiking Opportunities

Lake Keowee sits at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains, which means residents enjoy quick access to world-class hiking trails. From Table Rock State Park to the Jocassee Gorges Wilderness Area, there are trails for all skill levels. Whether you’re looking for a morning stroll or a challenging climb with panoramic mountain views, outdoor adventure is always close by.

2. Clemson University Nearby

One of the unique perks of living at Lake Keowee is proximity to Clemson University, just 15 minutes away. Clemson brings excitement to the area with college football, performing arts, continuing education, and a youthful energy that balances Seneca’s laid-back vibe. Residents benefit from both small-town living and university-driven culture.

3. Fishing and Lake Activities

Lake Keowee is a dream for anglers and water enthusiasts alike. The lake is stocked with bass, crappie, trout, and catfish, making it a year-round fishing haven. Beyond fishing, residents enjoy boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming in one of the cleanest, clearest lakes in the Southeast. Owning a home here means every day can feel like a vacation.

4. Weather—A Big Advantage Too

Yes, the summer humidity can be tough, but many consider the weather one of Lake Keowee’s greatest assets. Winters are mild, snowfall is rare, and you can spend time outdoors nearly year-round. Compared to northern states, the climate is far more forgiving, allowing residents to golf, hike, and boat throughout the seasons.

5. Location and Accessibility

Lake Keowee’s location is hard to beat. Nestled in the Upstate of South Carolina, you’re less than an hour from Greenville, 90 minutes from Asheville, and two hours from Atlanta. This makes it easy to enjoy big-city amenities without giving up lakefront tranquility. For retirees, professionals, and families alike, the accessibility is a huge advantage.

6. Low Property Taxes

South Carolina is known for low property taxes, and Oconee County (home to Seneca and Lake Keowee) is no exception. Retirees, in particular, benefit from favorable tax rules, especially when claiming their primary residence. This makes homeownership more affordable compared to many northern and coastal states.

7. Affordable Cost of Living

Beyond low property taxes, the overall cost of living in Seneca is below the national average. Groceries, utilities, and healthcare often cost less than in larger metro areas. Whether you’re looking for a primary residence, a second home, or a retirement property, your dollar stretches further here.

Weighing the Pros and Cons

When you put it all together, moving to Lake Keowee is about trade-offs. You’ll need to adjust to warm, humid summers, small-town living, and seasonal pollen. But in return, you gain access to a vibrant outdoor lifestyle, lower costs, favorable property taxes, and one of the most beautiful lakes in the country.

For many buyers, the pros far outweigh the cons—which is why Lake Keowee continues to be one of the fastest-growing real estate markets in the Carolinas.

Call to Action

If you’re considering making Lake Keowee your new home, I’d love to guide you through the process. From gated golf communities like The Cliffs and The Reserve at Lake Keowee to charming neighborhoods in Seneca, there’s a home for every lifestyle.

📞 Call or text me at 864-903-5719
📧 Email: lakekeoweesales@gmail.com
🌐 Visit: www.lakekeoweerealestatepro.com