
Finding the perfect place to call home is about more than just a roof over your head — it's about discovering a community that aligns with your lifestyle, values, and aspirations. With its picturesque landscapes and friendly communities, Upstate South Carolina stands out as a jewel in the Southeast for those seeking a blend of Southern charm with modern amenities and gorgeous scenery.
Whether you're a young professional, raising a family, or looking for a peaceful retirement, this guide explores some of the top areas in the region and how Keystone Custom Homes can help you navigate the path to your next dream home.
Stunning mountain ranges and vibrant urban centers surround Upstate South Carolina's small towns and suburbs. You can enjoy the charm of quiet communities and the excitement of nearby cities and nature. Living in Upstate South Carolina offers the following advantages:
South Carolina has a lower cost of living compared to other states in the country. Housing, taxes, and everyday expenses tend to be more affordable, which can make it easier to save back more money to enjoy local businesses and attractions to the fullest.
South Carolina's pleasant four-season climate delivers mild temperatures for most of the year. You can enjoy outdoor activities year-round when you settle down in this beautiful state. Winters tend to be short, and temperatures typically stay above freezing throughout the season. Summers can be hot and humid, making it the perfect opportunity to take a weekend trip to one of the coast's many beaches.
Upstate South Carolina's fall and spring seasons offer pleasant, comfortable temperatures — and because this is a mountainous region, expect vibrant autumn foliage and colorful wildflowers in the spring. You can also look forward to cookouts, hiking in the nearby Appalachian and Blue Ridge mountains, and fun days out on the town.
A strong and diversifying job market offers opportunities in industries such as health care, manufacturing, and technology. Whether you want to grow in your existing career or break into a new market, South Carolina offers plenty of opportunities.
There is often a high demand for nurses, physicians, and administrative staff in the state's health care industry. You may also find openings for positions such as industrial engineers, machine operators, IT specialists, and software developers.
The region's economy shows steady growth, and its diversified manufacturing and innovation hub help create a more resilient economic environment. Healthy economies often offer better public services, making it easier to thrive.
Commercial growth in Upstate South Carolina indirectly supports its residential real estate market. As it attracts home buyers and creates demand, homeowners often find that their property values increase over time. The state also offers tax advantages for residents, such as the homestead exemption for seniors, to enhance affordability and reduce property tax burdens.

Finding the best place to call home is an important decision. Here are some of the best areas to consider:
Five Forks, South Carolina, is a thriving suburb of Greenville County. Greenville area communities are known for their family-friendly atmosphere, highly-rated public schools, and a wide variety of shopping centers, restaurants, and local businesses.
Numerous parks, recreational facilities, and community events make this area a vibrant place to live. Nature lovers will enjoy being just 20 minutes from Conestee Nature Preserve Viewpoint and Falls Park on the Reedy.
Some of the most desirable communities are located in nearby Simpsonville, where you will find new construction homes by Keystone Custom Homes. We have a variety of different floorplans available to help you find a place that satisfies all of your wants and needs.
York is a historic area with a charming downtown. It offers a quieter pace of life, but it's in close proximity to major urban centers. Local shops, boutiques, and restaurants give York a distinct character. Stroll down picturesque streets, search for treasures in antique stores, and pop into artisan shops showcasing local talent.
York has historical sites, museums, and community events that celebrate the area's heritage, and it's only 20 minutes from Kings Mountain State Park. Living here also puts you within an easy one-hour commute to Charlotte if you work in the city but prefer a slower-paced lifestyle.
Keystone Custom Homes builds new, custom homes in and near the York area, and our communities are a great place to put down roots. Our Designers work closely with you throughout the process to ensure we match your vision.
Upstate South Carolina is full of picturesque areas that blend a strong heritage with a mix of activities that appeal to a range of interests. Keystone Custom Homes offers communities in both vibrant suburban settings and charming historic towns, allowing you to choose your ideal pace.
When selecting the perfect place to call home, start by considering the characteristics you most value. Do you prefer a more vibrant, suburban environment, or do you crave a quieter, slower-paced small-town atmosphere? Five Forks offers a slightly more suburban feel, and York offers the charm and simplicity of a rural community. Both locations are close to urban centers if you want to spend the day exploring.
Consider your workplace location and how far you will need to commute. If you have or plan to have kids in the family, don't forget to check parent reviews and district websites to evaluate schools in each location. It's also important to look into local parks, recreational amenities, and health care quality to settle somewhere that fits your current and anticipated lifestyle needs.
It helps to start the search by visiting communities with new construction homes. Custom or recently-built homes often come with more modern and energy-efficient features, allowing you to enjoy your new place with greater peace of mind and reduced maintenance.
Many homeowners consider Upstate South Carolina a fantastic place to live and work. As a premier builder in the Upstate, Keystone Custom Homes specializes in helping those looking to call this area home find a place to settle down. We are passionate about bringing your vision to life and building you a home that lasts for generations.
Our expert team guides you through choosing a floorplan you love from a selection of award-winning options. We then bring your dream to life with skilled craftsmanship, durable materials, and a dedication to quality. Explore our newest home communities, and call 717-368-9831 or contact us online to request an appointment and start building your dream home.