Falls Park on the Reedy is in the heart of Greenville, South Carolina, and the natural beauty just multiplies from there. Surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, lakes, and waterfalls, independent living in Greenville is an incredible choice for active seniors.
A Place for Mom has six partner independent living communities within 10 miles of the heart of Greenville, as well as two additional options a little further out. Providing a retirement community feel and plenty of activities and amenities, there is something for everyone. Independent living in Greenville offers access to on-site fitness centers, beauty salons, and, in some cases, swimming pools. Bringing along your favorite furry friend is also an option!
This guide will walk you through your independent living decision by providing in-depth information on costs, features, payment options, laws and regulations, and health care options. It will also focus on ways to get around Greenville and things to do.
Falls Park on the Reedy is in the heart of Greenville, South Carolina, and the natural beauty just multiplies from there. Surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, lakes, and waterfalls, independent living in Greenville is an incredible choice for active seniors.Read more
A Place for Mom has six partner independent living communities within 10 miles of the heart of Greenville, as well as two additional options a little further out. Providing a retirement community feel and plenty of activities and amenities, there is something for everyone. Independent living in Greenville offers access to on-site fitness centers, beauty salons, and, in some cases, swimming pools. Bringing along your favorite furry friend is also an option!
This guide will walk you through your independent living decision by providing in-depth information on costs, features, payment options, laws and regulations, and health care options. It will also focus on ways to get around Greenville and things to do.
My wife and I spent a week living the Maplebrook life. Everything was exceptional. The staff, food and the value. Kudos go out to [names removed]. Even though we were unable to relocate due to family...
All 5 stars! The main reason we initially chose The Parker was because of the location. [name removed] and [name removed] are key employees who are so kind and helpful!
They do care about their residents as if they were their own family in my opinion, And I am very thankful to have found this place for my Mom! The staff is extremely friendly and very personal. The...
The staff at TerraBella Greenville was excellent and the housekeeping did an excellent job for the 3 weeks that we were there. The staff went above and beyond to try to get my mom to do the activities, but...
Really like the staff so far and although change is hard for older folks, I think they are working to make certain Mom is happy.
Based off of our personal experience, I would recommend The palmettos of Mauldin to other families looking for care for their loved ones.
Staff was terrific! Friendly, extremely helpful and professional! The surroundings are clean, bright and well maintained. Safety of residents are a priority. A large variety of activities to choose from...
I would tell a friend the staff, especially the executive nursing, marketing, PT and administrative staff are extremely kind and responsive to any concerns. The facility is very clean and quite frankly,...
The staff is very friendly and they work well together to cover for one another when needed. The housekeeping is very good - trash is emptied twice a day, room is always clean. It took a little work to get...
My loved one is currently a resident at Legacy Reserve at Fairview Park and everything has been great for her at this facility so far. The staff and residents are both great. Everyone is very friendly and...
One thing I definitely like is the fixed cost that is an option with this community. Also the care, any questions you have, the cleanliness, involvement with residents, not having to worry if your loved one...
All is good. The best thing about Harmony is that their Independent Living provides 1 meal per day and weekly light housekeeping, including bed linens, which is included in their monthly rent/fee. That fits...
My Mom passed away in September but we liked it so much that my wife and I decided to move my in-laws there. Great place with very caring staff!
It's been a great experience thus far.I'm so glad I had "A place for Mom" to help find Pine Grove for my brother because it has been a great experience. Especially the cleanliness, kindness of staff, and the...
Staff are the best, always checking in. They take the time to get to know the client and our family. Also spend time visiting with residents who need encouragement. Their meals are good quality, options...
Haywood Estates is lovely. They're in a transition right now. The manager is new, and there is a lot of turnover. The ones who have left seem to be the ones who paid the most attention to the residents. ...
So pleased with the service & attention my mom is receiving at The Residences at Greer. Started off rough in the beginning due to staffing challenges and Covid issues, but has made tremendous progress with...
They're good to my mom. They try to do everything they can to keep her comfortable and happy. And that's all I could ask for. We've had no problems, and I'm happy to have her at Greenville Glen.
The staff at Kempton of Greenville was always very courteous and kind, speaking to visitors, other staff and residents when passing in the halls. The residents were also very kind to me as a visitor. I got...
Overall the facility was nice and well run. The staff was helpful when we visited. Housekeeping kept up with most items. The communication with family was a little difficult. Maybe setting up a scheduled...
Taking into consideration they are shorthanded, the only thing is that they are lacking in communication. We had some things that they said would be done, but it wasn't done and calls weren't returned....
Staff was very helpful, especially with the move in process. My loved one's room was not as clean as I might have liked. The receptionist, [name removed], was always so kind, caring and helpful. I...
It is wonderful they are absolutely fantastic all around and have been very helpful to my husband. He is now in hospice and that portion is also absolutely outstanding.
I don't feel there's any uncertainty here at Overture Greenville. I feel like my mom is in a very safe place, and she's close enough to everything to still live a great lifestyle - the location is perfect. ...
New, light & airy rooms. Well-situated for doctors, hospitals and everything culturally that Greenville has to offer. Dining options are much better than other places.
The average monthly cost for Greenville independent living is $3,365, according to A Place for Mom’s proprietary data.[01] The numbers below are representative of the average starting costs for Greenville independent living communities, not including any additional fees.
Average monthly costs
Greenville, SC
Medicare, Medicaid, and long-term care insurance do not cover the cost of independent living. That’s because independent living is not the same as a senior care facility, such as assisted living or long-term care. However, necessary in-home care services might be covered.
Here, we’ll dive into details about private pay options, VA benefits, Medicare, and Medicaid resources that can help independent living residents with some types of care.
This is the most common way to fund the independent living lifestyle. Most seniors pay out of pocket from a combination of sources. Income might come from Social Security benefits, pensions, personal savings accounts, investment returns, or any of the following:
Number of veterans who live in Greenville
Percentage of Greenville veterans who are 65+
Veterans who qualify for the VA Pension or the VA Survivors Pension receive monthly payments, which can be used to help pay for independent living. Additionally, some veterans qualify to receive the Aid and Attendance benefit, which is paid on top of the Veteran’s Pension.[03] Senior veterans who are mostly bed-bound, have limited vision, or need help with activities of daily living could qualify.
It’s worth checking with the Greenville County Office of Veterans Affairs about eligibility. Making an appointment is recommended because walk-ins are limited to certain days of the week. A regional benefit office of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs offers claims assistance, too.
It’s not always easy to know how to begin the process of checking for eligibility, so getting help with the process is common. Greenville’s Upstate Warrior Solution has advocates ready to help senior veterans coordinate benefits. This organization is tied to the Upstate Veterans Alliance Network (UVAN), which brings together more than 200 community resources and organizations in Greenville and several surrounding counties. This form is the starting point for assistance. Veterans Service Organization (VSO) representatives can be found through the Greenville American Legion, and they can help with VA benefits claims.
The Greenville Housing Authority offers the Veterans Affairs supportive housing program (HUD-VASH). This voucher program is primarily for homeless vets or those at risk of homelessness. The assistance can be used for independent living if eligibility requirements are met.
Resources for Greenville veterans
Greenville County VA Office
301 University Ridge
Suite 5900
Greenville, SC 29601
Phone: 864-467-7230
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
(Mondays and Fridays are by appointment only.)
Columbia VA Regional Benefit Office
6437 Garners Ferry Road
Columbia, SC 29209
Phone: 800-827-1000
Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. and Wednesday, 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.
The Greenville Housing Authority
122 Edinburgh Court
Greenville, SC 29607
Phone: 864-467-4250
Hours: Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Upstate Warrior Solution
770 Pelham Road
Suite 102
Greenville, SC 29615
Phone: 864-520-2073
Hours: Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Friday, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
American Legion Post 3
430 N. Main St.
Greenville, SC 29601
Phone: 864-271-2000
Fax: 864-271-8793
Email: talp3sc@outlook.com
Healthy Connections, South Carolina’s Medicaid program, does not pay for independent living. It does, however, cover certain care needs through Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers. For qualified seniors, the Community Choices waiver can cover personal care help, respite care, and meal delivery, to name a few.
To apply for Healthy Connections Medicaid, use this online application or apply at Greenville’s Medicaid eligibility office. Seniors can apply for the HCBS waiver online.
Medicare, the federal health insurance program for seniors 65 and over, doesn’t cover independent living. However, like Medicaid, it will help cover necessary in-home care.[04] Medicare Savings Programs and Extra Help are two state programs that help seniors with health care costs. Extra Help assists with prescription medication costs, while the Medicare Savings Program helps with out-of-pocket expenses such as copays. There are four different Medicare Savings Programs, and each has its own income and eligibility requirements.
South Carolina State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) counselors can help you navigate applications for Medicare, explain Medicare plans, go over additional coverage options, and help with enrollment. You can also get help from the South Carolina Department on Aging’s GetCareSC. Seniors can sign up for Medicare through the Social Security Administration’s website.
Coordinated care for seniors who are eligible for both Medicaid and Medicare is available in just 15 states, and South Carolina is one of them. This dual Medicaid and Medicare program for seniors 65 and older is called Healthy Connections Prime. The ombudsman can help seniors who are enrolled in Healthy Connections Prime navigate the dual program.
The Appalachian Council of Governments, which acts as the Area Agency on Aging in Greenville, provides assistance to seniors who need help applying or learning more about eligibility. SC Thrive is another organization providing help in this area.
Greenville resident Medicaid and Medicare resources
Greenville’s Healthy Connections Eligibility Office
352 Halton Road
Greenville, SC 29607
Phone: 888-549-0820
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Social Security Administration
1835 Assembly St.
Columbia, SC 29201
Phone: 866-964-7594
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
South Carolina Department on Aging
1301 Gervais St.
Suite 350
Columbia, SC 29201
Phone: 803-734-9900
Fax: 803-734-9886
SC Thrive
120 Research Drive
Columbia, SC 29203
Phone: 800-726-8774
Email: contact@scthrive.org
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
The Appalachian Council of Governments
Area Agency on Aging
30 Century Circle
Columbia, SC 29607
Phone: 864-242-9733
Healthy Connections Prime Advocate (Ombudsman)
1301 Gervais St.
Suite 350
Columbia, SC 29201
Phone: 844-477-4632
Email: primeadvocate@aging.sc.gov
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) is responsible for the licensing, regulation, and inspection of long-term care facilities in the state. Standalone independent living facilities are not subject to DHEC regulations because they do not provide care, but facilities combined with assisted living and/or memory care are. However, if a senior in a standalone independent living facility is receiving care from a home health agency or an independent in-home care provider, they must be licensed by the state.
State licensing regulations for assisted living facilities include (but are not limited to) the following:
Unannounced routine inspections, as well as those triggered by a complaint, are also part of the licensing requirements for long-term care facilities in Greenville. The DHEC is checking to make sure facilities are following the guidelines and laws discussed above. As a general rule, facilities are inspected at least annually. Inspection reports are available to the public by contacting DHEC.[05]
South Carolina has a Bill of Rights for Residents of Long-Term Care Facilities. South Carolina’s Omnibus Adult Protection Act protects seniors from neglect and abuse. This law defines the responsibilities of state agencies, including the long-term care ombudsman, to investigate complaints and protect vulnerable adults.
Independent living communities in South Carolina adhere to minimum age requirements (generally 55 and above).
Greenville properties can be inspected by the city of Greenville’s Code Enforcement Division or the Greenville County Building Codes Enforcement Division. There is no required cadence for inspections. If you would like to access an inspection report from the City of Greenville’s Code Enforcement Division, you may contact the office directly or submit a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request to Greenville’s legal department. You can request an inspection report from the Greenville County Building Codes Enforcement Division by submitting a FOIA request to the Greenville county legal department or contacting them directly. A fee might be charged to obtain a copy of a report.
South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control
2600 Bull St.
Columbia, SC 29201
Phone: 803-898-3432
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
There are no mandated COVID-19 regulations for standalone independent living communities in Greenville. However, for the facilities combined with any long-term care, the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control expects COVID-19 prevention tactics to be in place, such as frequent disinfecting, instructional signage, and staff testing. All facilities are required to allow visitation.
Vaccinations. South Carolina recommends COVID-19 vaccinations as a preventative measure.
Masking. South Carolina recommends wearing masks to prevent transmission.
Gender split: 68% female, 30% male
There are six highly rated options for independent living close to Greenville’s vibrant downtown area.
There are two independent living facilities that also offer assisted living and memory care on the same premises. These are ideal options for seniors who are looking to seamlessly age in place. But if you prefer a standalone independent living option, there are four in-network options within 10 miles of the city center.
There is no shortage of options for finding ways to stay entertained and make friends in Greenville. All of the independent living facilities include both indoor and outdoor common areas, as well as game rooms, for plenty of opportunities to socialize. Movie or theater rooms and billiard lounges are available in 83% of the facilities. Half of the facilities offer an arts-and-crafts center, and you can enjoy private dining rooms at 67% of facilities.
A lot of conveniences are also available in many of the Greenville independent living facilities. Access to a haircut won’t be hard to come by because all of them have on-site beauty salons, and 83% offer barber shops. All residents have access to a library and high-speed internet, while 83% are offered a computer or media center, too. If you like to stay in shape or need somewhere to work on physical therapy exercises, fitness centers are offered at 83% of the facilities. You can even find a pool at 17% of the facilities.
Most places have showers only, but you can find bathtubs at 33% of the independent living facilities in our network. You might have access to a private patio, deck, or balcony at one-third of our facilities, but you won’t find a lot of covered parking.
If you have a furry friend in your life, you’ll be glad to know that 83% of the facilities allow residents to have cats and dogs.[01]
A couple more independent living options are available if you don’t mind going a little further from the city center. Within a 25-mile radius of downtown, another combination of independent living/assisted living/memory care facilities can be found. There is also an independent living/assisted living combo available.
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The Upstate is the northwestern corner of South Carolina that encompasses 10 counties. Greenville is the largest city within the Upstate. In Greenville, two of the biggest employers are Prisma Health and Bon Secours, which means access to health care is plentiful.[08]
Prisma Health Greenville Memorial Hospital
Classified as a high performer in both colon cancer surgery and heart failure care, this hospital is also a certified comprehensive stroke center.
This facility is built on a foundation of Catholic values and social justice with a focus on contributing to the health of the community. The providers have consistently scored in the top 1% in the nation for providing the highest clinical quality year over year.
Prisma Health Patewood Hospital
Patewood describes itself as a “relaxing, healing environment” that has an exceptionally high patient satisfaction rating.
St. Francis is on Healthgrades’ America’s 50 Best Hospitals list. It’s also renowned for its cardiology care.
Lance Corporal Dana Cornell Darnell VA Clinic
The VA clinic provides a wide array of services, from dentistry to vision care. It’s closed on Sundays.
CenterWell Senior Primary Care
CenterWell focuses on the physical, social, and emotional health of seniors. This primary care clinic takes same-day appointments.
The best way to get around Greenville is by car. While downtown is a walkable area, the city doesn’t rank high for overall walkability.[11] The same holds true for biking. With the exception of downtown, there are not a lot of bike lanes throughout Greenville.
There are some public transportation options, though. Greenville’s public transit, Greenlink, has 11 fixed routes countywide. If you want to mix it up, you can ride your bike in combination with taking the bus. Bike racks are a feature on all Greenlink buses. All buses have wheelchair accessibility, too, and downtown offers a free trolley.
Senior Solutions has 60 vans available for seniors across the Upstate region. This service can be used for things like medical appointments, grocery shopping trips, or beauty salon appointments.
The Blue Ridge Mountains, lakes, and waterfalls are just a few of nature’s blessings you can enjoy in the Greenville area. The natural beauty of Greenville begins in its downtown area, which centers around Falls Park on the Reedy. The park features natural waterfalls and an enormous suspension bridge from which to take in the views. While you’re there, consider taking in the sights on a Segway tour or renting an electric bike for a guided tour. Take a stroll on the 23-mile Swamp Rabbit Trail or head down the main street and look for the Mice on Main. These nine bronze statues were inspired by the children’s classic “Goodnight Moon.”
If you enjoy local celebrations, Greenville has five signature events. The annual art festival, Artisphere, is held each spring along with the Scottish festival, Gallabrae. In the summer, golf fans can enjoy the BMW charity Pro-Am tournament, while Fall for Greenville is the signature fall event. Foodies look forward to Euphoria, which highlights the area’s culinary delights. Greenville County Parks and Recreation has tons more fun things to do, from gardening classes to pickleball tournaments.
If you’re a history buff, you’ll want to check out the Upcountry History Museum, which offers senior discounts. The Greenville area has 13 African-American cultural sites to visit, and Museum & Gallery features European Old Master paintings, according to the Greenville Visitor Center. Take in some performing arts at The Peace Center, and swing by the Greenville Zoo for a fun afternoon.
Maple Brook Terrace Retirement Community, Summit Place and The Willows of Easley are the top-rated Independent Living facilities near Greenville, SC. These Independent Living facilities received the highest rankings based on verified family reviews. See full list of communities.
The average cost of Independent Living in Greenville is 3885.66 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.
A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran Status (S2101) [Data Set]. American Community Survey.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. (2023). VA Aid and Attendance Benefits and Housebound Allowance.
U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. (2023). Home Health Services.
South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control. Regulation 61-84. Standards for Licensing Community Residential Care Facilities.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Age and Sex (S0101) [Data Set]. American Community Survey.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Median Income in the Past 12 Months (in 2021 Inflation-Adjusted Dollars) (S1903) [Data Set]. American Community Survey.
Upstate SC Alliance. (2022). Data Resources: Major Employers.
US News & World Report. (2023). Prisma Health Greenville Memorial Hospital.
Healthgrades. (2023). St. Francis Downtown.
WalkScore. (2023). Living in Greenville.
Ask an A Place for Mom local advisor at no cost.
A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran Status (S2101) [Data Set]. American Community Survey.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. (2023). VA Aid and Attendance Benefits and Housebound Allowance.
U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. (2023). Home Health Services.
South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control. Regulation 61-84. Standards for Licensing Community Residential Care Facilities.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Age and Sex (S0101) [Data Set]. American Community Survey.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Median Income in the Past 12 Months (in 2021 Inflation-Adjusted Dollars) (S1903) [Data Set]. American Community Survey.
Upstate SC Alliance. (2022). Data Resources: Major Employers.
US News & World Report. (2023). Prisma Health Greenville Memorial Hospital.
Healthgrades. (2023). St. Francis Downtown.
WalkScore. (2023). Living in Greenville.