Moving to Anderson, SC: What to Know About Living in the Electric City
If you like the idea of being close to a lake while still having restaurants, shopping, healthcare and a traditional downtown nearby, Anderson, SC offers an interesting mix.
Located in the western portion of the Upstate, Anderson serves as the county seat of Anderson County and sits within easy reach of I-85, Lake Hartwell and Clemson.
For buyers searching for homes for sale in Anderson, SC, the area can include everything from older homes near downtown to established neighborhoods, newer subdivisions, acreage, rural properties and lake-area homes.
Downtown Anderson Has Its Own Identity
Downtown Anderson has undergone significant revitalization and today includes restaurants, boutiques, public art, parks and event spaces.
The city describes downtown as the centerpiece of the Electric City, with Carolina Wren Park, restaurants, specialty shopping, public art and signature events such as the Soirée arts festival.
Downtown's smaller scale gives it a different feel from Greenville while still providing a central place for dining and community events.
Why Is Anderson Called the Electric City?
Anderson was founded in 1826 and incorporated in 1833.
The city was named for Revolutionary War figure Robert Anderson and later became known for its role in the early adoption of electricity. According to the City of Anderson, it was the first city in the South with an unlimited supply of electric power, and Anderson County was home to an electrically operated cotton gin by the late 1890s.
That history is where the “Electric City” nickname comes from.
Lake Hartwell Is a Major Part of the Anderson Lifestyle
One of Anderson County's most significant recreational features is Lake Hartwell.
The reservoir provides boating, fishing, kayaking and other water recreation, with numerous boat ramps and public access points throughout the region.
Depending on where you live, the lake may be a weekend destination or part of your everyday surroundings.
What Kind of Homes Can You Find in Anderson?
Housing changes considerably as you move through Anderson County.
Around the city, you'll find established neighborhoods, traditional brick homes, newer developments and townhomes. Move toward the lake or farther into the county and you'll find larger lots, rural properties, lake communities and waterfront homes.
Important things to consider include:
- Distance to I-85
- Distance to Lake Hartwell access
- City versus county utilities
- Well and septic systems
- HOA or lake-community restrictions
- Waterfront setbacks and dock considerations
- Commute distance to Greenville, Clemson or other employment centers
- School attendance zones
A lake-area property may require a completely different set of considerations than a home near downtown Anderson.
Parks, Recreation and Things to Do
Beyond Lake Hartwell, Anderson offers a network of local parks.
Carolina Wren Park is located downtown, while Dolly Cooper Park, Darwin Wright Park, Linley Park, Rocky River Conservancy and other destinations provide outdoor options throughout Anderson County.
Clemson and Pendleton are also nearby, opening up additional dining, sporting, cultural and outdoor opportunities.
Schools in the Anderson Area
Many City of Anderson addresses are served by Anderson School District Five, including schools such as T.L. Hanna and Westside High School. The district publishes current South Carolina School Report Card information for its schools each year.
Anderson County contains several school districts, however, so buyers should verify the district and school assignment for the specific address they're considering.
Is Anderson, SC Right for You?
Anderson is worth exploring in sections.
Spend time downtown, drive toward Lake Hartwell, explore Highway 81 and compare those locations with areas closer to I-85 or farther into the county.
If you're considering moving to Anderson, SC, a local agent can help you compare everything from established neighborhoods to acreage and lake-area properties.
Thinking about buying or selling a home in Anderson or the surrounding Upstate?
The BRANDT/MULLINS Mom & Sons Team would be happy to help.