Find Independent Living Communities Near Greenville, SC
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.
Independent living facilities near Greenville, SC
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...
Memory care units are not beautiful like the assisted living apartments are in any facility. However, once you get over that, the caregiving at The Parker is first rate and the Physical Therapy,...
I love TerraBella Greenville! I'm so grateful for [name removed] and [name removed]they are like family to my mom and I. All the staff are kind and care for the residents. It's bright, clean and always...
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...
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.
My mother is happy with the Waterstone. It was more problematic for my father, who was in memory care. They oversold the capabilities of their memory care unit and we had to move him. (He has since passed...
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...
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...
I am very pleased overall. I've made so many friends and I truly call this home!!! Legacy Reserve in Simpsonville has a post on Facebook where someone can see all the activities going on here! You can be...
Great staff, but alot of Turn over as in most facilities. Visit your loved ones to make sure they are being taken care of . Don't depend on the assisted living staff to do what you should. I saw this alot...
Our free advisors can help
- Compare local facilities
- Determine care type
- Schedule tours
- Evaluate pricing
What we like most about the Harmony at Five Forks are the people who are there, they are super nice and there is a lot of different things to do. Based on the experience we have had so far, we would...
I would recommend this facility to anyone. The staff is outstanding, friendly and caring. The move in was odd as Brookstone knew we were coming and there was no help or direction at move in. Overall, we...
Pine Grove is very cost effective, lower pricing than many other facilities we looked at initially. I absolutely love the fact that pets are included.
The employees are great . I'm thinking about getting a job there. Feels like home and has really helped my father in-law physically and emotionally.
I can't thank Terra Bella Thornblade enough for all they've done to care for us. We became aware that our loved one's former facility was no longer safe. We immediately began looking for a new home for...
When we realized that our mom could no longer live alone in FL, we began a search for a care facility that was attractive, near our home & affordable! After looking at several places, The Residences was...
Most all apartments have been renovated and I think are nice. Housekeeping is spotty and there's been a lot of turnover in administration. I think it's pretty steady now. My father was on 3rd floor at the...
I moved my mom and dad to the Gables two months ago and my mom told me last week that it feels like home to them. Everyone at The Gables has been very helpful and kind to both of my parents. There are daily...
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.
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...
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.
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....
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.
Our methodology
How we identify the top facilities in your location
We developed a proprietary recommendation system that ranks communities based on factors
we know are important to seniors and their families:
- Proximity to your location
- Recent, high-quality reviews
- How much information the facility shares with our users
Where we source our information
14,000+ communities
We’ve collected data from and about our network of more than 14,000 senior living communities in the U.S. for over twenty years, and we update this information at least once a year.
350,000+ reviews
Additionally, we’ve gathered over 350,000 reviews from senior living residents and family members to provide first-hand accounts of what senior living communities are really like.
- 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
- What to expect from independent living in Greenville
- Explore senior care with confidence
- Unfamiliar with Greenville? Highlights for seniors
- Health care for seniors in Greenville
- Transportation for seniors in Greenville
- Senior activities in Greenville
Costs of independent living in the Greenville area
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 cost of Independent Living in Greenville, SC vs. nearby cities
Average monthly cost of Independent Living in Greenville, SC vs. the state and national average
Average monthly cost of Independent Living in Greenville vs. other types of senior living
Median monthly costs of Independent Living in Greenville, SC by room type
Average cost of Independent Living in Greenville over time
How people pay for independent living in Greenville
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
Medicaid
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
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.
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 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.
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, 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:
- 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. 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]
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 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.
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. 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.
What to expect from independent living in Greenville
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]
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, another combination of independent living/assisted living/memory care facilities can be found. There is also an independent living/assisted living combo available.
Explore senior care with confidence
Know where to start.
Identify the right care for your loved one with our free assessment.
See what you can afford.
Understand cost and payment for long-term care based on your loved one's needs.
Find top facilities for you.
Free, personalized guidance from our Senior Living Advisors can help you narrow your search.
Tour your favorite facilities.
Our free touring checklist can help you choose the right community.
Unfamiliar with Greenville? Highlights for seniors
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.[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.
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.[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.
Walk Score
Transit Score
Bike Score
Senior activities in Greenville
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Summit Place, Maple Brook Terrace Retirement Community 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 $3,681 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.
Summit Place, Maple Brook Terrace Retirement Community and The Springs at Simpsonville are the top rated independent living facilities near Greenville, South Carolina. See full list of communities.
This is from View > Destination > FAQs
There are 39 $3,580independent living facilities near Greenville, South Carolina See the full list.
Test “Review” Short Code 8.16
Test default radius short code10-mile radius
This is from View > Destination > FAQs
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.
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.
More questions?
Ask an A Place for Mom local advisor at no cost.
- Greer, South Carolina
- Fountain Inn, South Carolina
- Travelers Rest, South Carolina
- Piedmont, South Carolina
- Woodruff, South Carolina
- Pelzer, South Carolina
- Lyman, South Carolina
- Central, South Carolina
- Powdersville, South Carolina
- Campobello, South Carolina
- Pickens, South Carolina
- Mauldin, South Carolina
- Taylors, South Carolina
- Simpsonville, South Carolina
- Dellwood, South Carolina
- Inman, South Carolina
- Moore, South Carolina
- Reidville, South Carolina
- Cross Plains, South Carolina
- Woodside, South Carolina