Greenville, South Carolina’s natural beauty starts with the Blue Ridge Mountains and expands to 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, with additional options available for those willing to live a little further out. Providing community with plenty of activities and amenities, there’s something for everyone. Independent living in Greenville offers access to on-site fitness centers, beauty salons, and, in some cases, swimming pools. You can even bring along your four-legged friend as all of our partner independent living communities are pet friendly.
This guide will walk you through your independent living decision by providing in-depth information on costs, features, payment options, laws and regulations, and care options for independent living communities in Greenville. It will also focus on ways to get around and things to do.
How do we rank Greenville’s independent living communities?
Our goal is to help you find high-quality independent living facilities that fit your needs. Using our 20+ years of experience in senior living, we developed a proprietary rating system based on the following:
- Recent, high-quality reviews. We take into account reviews from the past two years. Then, we look for independent living options that people prefer. Communities that have mostly positive ratings in the past two years are prioritized over facilities that have low or no reviews in the past two years. Reviews also help us understand what matters most to families like yours and how you rate communities based on subcategories like meals and dining, staff, and cleanliness.
- Facility transparency. Communities that have robust information are prioritized over facilities that don’t offer the same level of transparency.
- Location. Independent living options vary based on proximity to your desired location.
10 Best Independent Living Communities in Greenville, SC
Greenville, South Carolina’s natural beauty starts with the Blue Ridge Mountains and expands to 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, with additional options available for those willing to live a little further out. Providing community with plenty of activities and amenities, there’s something for everyone. Independent living in Greenville offers access to on-site fitness centers, beauty salons, and, in some cases, swimming pools. You can even bring along your four-legged friend as all of our partner independent living communities are pet friendly.
This guide will walk you through your independent living decision by providing in-depth information on costs, features, payment options, laws and regulations, and care options for independent living communities in Greenville. It will also focus on ways to get around and things to do.
How do we rank Greenville’s independent living communities?
Our goal is to help you find high-quality independent living facilities that fit your needs. Using our 20+ years of experience in senior living, we developed a proprietary rating system based on the following:
- Recent, high-quality reviews. We take into account reviews from the past two years. Then, we look for independent living options that people prefer. Communities that have mostly positive ratings in the past two years are prioritized over facilities that have low or no reviews in the past two years. Reviews also help us understand what matters most to families like yours and how you rate communities based on subcategories like meals and dining, staff, and cleanliness.
- Facility transparency. Communities that have robust information are prioritized over facilities that don’t offer the same level of transparency.
- Location. Independent living options vary based on proximity to your desired location.
Greenville Independent Living Facilities | 818 Reviews
We chose Southern Oaks because they were the only assisted living facility we looked at that said they would be willing to accommodate my uncle’s need for CPAP oxygen. In addition to that, I like that the...
I have been here 5 1/2 months and I like it here. A couple of comments: 1. When contribution flex dollars to the employee appreciation fund, make a dollar for dollar, not a .30 on a dollar. 2. Have a...
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My Mother has been a resident of Shepherds Care for many years, starting in the general population and now in the Memory Care Unit. Given the lengthy duration of her residency, I have had numerous dealings...
My Aunt lived here for a few weeks. Eventually, she needed a different type of care that wasn’t offered so we moved her somewhere else. However, while she was here everything went well. The staff seemed to...
My loved on is in skilled nursing here and it is wonderful, this is the second time he has lived here. We moved him out the first time only because it was during covid and he was having to quarantine. The...
- What families are saying about independent living in Greenville
- Costs of independent living in the Greenville area
- How people pay for independent living in Greenville
- Understand South Carolina laws and regulations for independent living communities
- Get to know independent living in Greenville
- What to expect from independent living in Greenville
- Explore senior care with confidence
- Unfamiliar with Greenville? Highlights for seniors
What families are saying about independent living in Greenville
Recent reviews for independent living in Greenville
Oakview Park in Greenville, SC
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TerraBella Summit in Greenville, SC
Costs of independent living in the Greenville area
The average monthly cost for Greenville independent living is $3,467, while the national average is $3,170, according to A Place for Mom’s proprietary data.[01] This figure includes all associated fees and add-on services.
In general, independent living is more expensive than senior apartments. However, independent living can be more cost-effective because the monthly fee typically covers considerably more. Independent living communities often combine their fees into one monthly charge, typically including the following:
- Rent
- Utilities
- Maintenance
- Housekeeping
- Meals
- Access to resort-style services and amenities
Many of Greenville’s independent living communities offer complimentary transportation, salons, and more.[01] The numbers below are representative of the average starting costs for Greenville independent living communities, not including any additional fees.
Average monthly cost of Independent Living in Greenville, SC vs. nearby cities
Greenville, SC
How people pay for independent living in Greenville
Medicare, Medicaid, and long-term care insurance typically don’t cover the cost of independent living. That’s because independent living isn’t the same as a senior care facility, such as assisted living or long-term care. However, necessary in-home health care services might be covered.
Here, we’ll dive into detail about private pay options, VA benefits, Medicare, and Medicaid resources that can help independent living residents cover costs associated with independent living.
Private pay 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
About 45% of Greenville veterans who are 65+
Veterans who qualify for a VA 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 basic pension.[03] These are just some of the available benefits veterans might qualify for. It’s best to work with a VA benefits counselor to inquire about what benefits may be available to you based on your service and medical history. Many veterans qualify for more benefits than they anticipate, so finding help navigating the process can be especially beneficial.
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.[04]
The process of checking for eligibility can be complex, 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.[05] By filling out Upstate Warrior Solution’s veteran assistance form, a representative will contact you to provide 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 veterans or those at risk of homelessness. The assistance can be used for independent living if eligibility requirements are met.[06]
Resources for Greenville veterans
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.
430 N. Main St.
Greenville, SC 29601
Phone: 864-271-2000
Fax: 864-271-8793
Email: talp3sc@outlook.com
This section details how Medicaid, Medicare, and related programs won’t cover independent living, but can help fund some associated costs, like meal delivery services, personal care help, and some prescription medication costs.
Medicaid
Healthy Connections, South Carolina’s Medicaid program, doesn’t pay for room and board at independent living communities. It can, 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, visit their website or apply at Greenville’s Medicaid eligibility office. Seniors can also apply for the HCBS waiver online.
Medicare
Medicare, the federal health insurance program for seniors 65 and over, doesn’t cover the costs of room and board for independent living. However, like Medicaid, it can help cover necessary in-home health care.[07] 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.[08,09]
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, which provides a search tool to help you find local service providers. Seniors can sign up for Medicare through the Social Security Administration’s website.
Dual Program
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 is a senior advocate who 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
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.
Understand South Carolina laws and regulations for independent living communities
The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) is responsible for the licensing, regulating, and inspecting of long-term care facilities in the state. Stand-alone independent living facilities aren’t subject to DHEC regulations because they don’t provide care, but facilities combined with assisted living or memory care are. However, if a senior in a stand-alone 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.[10,11]
State licensing regulations for assisted living facilities include (but aren’t limited to) the following:[12]
- Guidance for staffing levels and training requirements
- Required reporting of accidents
- Record maintenance rules
- Safety precautions
- Transportation and recreation guidance
- Medication management
- Meal service
- Emergency preparedness
- Infection control
- Maintenance and construction requirements
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. By conducting these surprise inspections, 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 at (803) 898-0163.[12]
Senior Protections
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).
General Property Inspections
Greenville properties can be inspected by the city of Greenville’s Code Enforcement Division or the Greenville County Building Codes Enforcement Division. There’s 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.[13] 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.[14]
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.
COVID-19 regulations for Greenville independent living communities
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. You can view the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) latest COVID-19 guidelines for the most up-to-date recommendations. Local recommendations include the following:
Vaccinations. South Carolina recommends COVID-19 vaccinations as a preventative measure.
Masking. South Carolina recommends wearing masks to prevent transmission.
Get to know independent living in Greenville
Number of people we referred in-market
Average age of residents we’ve referred to Greenville independent living communities
Gender split: 68% female
What to expect from independent living in Greenville
There are six highly rated options for independent living close to Greenville’s vibrant downtown area.
Independent living options in Greenville
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.[01]
Nearby and on-site entertainment in Greenville
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.[01]
Independent living services and amenities in Greenville
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.
Independent living in the surrounding Greenville suburbs
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, two more facilities with a combination of independent living/assisted living/memory care can be found. There’s also an independent living/assisted living combo available.
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Unfamiliar with Greenville? Highlights for seniors
Number of seniors over the age of 65 currently living in Greenville
Percentage of seniors 65 and older within the Greenville population
Median annual income for Greenville seniors 65 and over {{citation:15,16}
Health care for seniors in Greenville
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.[17]
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.
Transportation for seniors in Greenville
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.[20] 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, as well as wheelchair accessibility. Additionally, downtown offers a free trolley.
Moreover, Senior Solutions, a local senior center, has dozens of vans available for seniors across the Upstate region. This service can be used for things like getting to medical appointments, grocery shopping trips, or beauty salon appointments.
Walk Score has rated Greenville on its walkability, bike-ability, and local transit. This value is based on public density, walking routes, public transportation options, biking trails, and other factors. For the most part, getting around in Greenville will require a car.
Walk Score
Transit Score
Bike Score
Senior activities in Greenville
Greenville, South Carolina, is a wondrous city beaming with natural beauty and an abundance of family-friendly activities. Check out a few top options, according to Greenville’s Visitor Center and Greenville County Rec.[21,22]
Outdoor recreation
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.”
Local festivities
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.
Museums and cultural exploration
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. Take in some performing arts at The Peace Center, and swing by the Greenville Zoo for a fun afternoon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Maple Brook Terrace Retirement Community, Summit Place and The Springs at Simpsonville 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 3912.33 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.
References
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.
South Carolina Department of Veteran’s Affairs. Claims Assistance.
Upstate Warrior Solution. Upstate Veterans Alliance Network (UVAN).
The Greenville Housing Authority. Programs & Eligibility.
U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. (2023). Home Health Services.
Medicare.gov. Medicare Savings Programs.
Social Security Administration. (2023, February). Understanding the Extra Help with Your Medicare Prescription Drug Plan.
South Carolina Code of Laws Unannotated. Licensure of Home Health Agencies. South Carolina Legislature.
South Carolina Code of Laws Unannotated. Licensure of In-Home Care Providers Act. South Carolina Legislature.
South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control. Regulation 61-84. Standards for Licensing Community Residential Care Facilities.
Greenville County. Code Compliance: Code Enforcement.
Greenvillesc.gov. Building & Permit Center.
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.
Walk Score. (2023). Living in Greenville.
VisitGreensvilleSC. Greenville Visitor Center.
GreenvilleCountyRec. Fun Activities for Seniors.
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