From affordability pressures to fast-moving inventory, the housing market in Upstate South Carolina continues to shift. In August 2025, we’re seeing unique trends unfold; trends that impact both buyers and renters alike. Whether you’re a homeowner, investor, landlord, or house-hunter, staying informed about local shifts can help you plan ahead. 

Woodruff: Then and Now

Just five years ago, Woodruff was a quiet, affordable small town with deep roots and modest growth. Today, it’s a hotspot of industrial investment and residential growth, all while keeping its small-town identity intact.

One of the biggest catalysts? The announcement and ongoing development of the BMW Battery Assembly Plant, a $700 million investment that’s bringing jobs, infrastructure upgrades, and long-term economic impact to the area. It’s not just a win for BMW—it’s a transformation for Woodruff.

What’s changed:

• Home values have surged by over 2.4% in the last year alone
• The average home price is now over $300,000
• New housing and commercial activity is reshaping the town’s footprint

Woodruff has gone from under-the-radar to a prime destination for both buyers and businesses looking for growth potential. It’s a town on the move—fast.

Fountain Inn: A Young, Growing Community with Vision

Fountain Inn isn’t just growing—it’s evolving.

With a population that continues to climb and a median homeowner age in the mid-30s, this is a town defined by energy, vision, and intentional development. It’s quickly becoming a magnet for first-time buyers, young families, and professionals seeking small-town charm with big-town access.

At the center of that momentum is Mayor GP McLeer, the youngest elected mayor in the state when he took office. Under his leadership, Fountain Inn has made major strides in economic development, arts programming, and infrastructure improvements—while working hard to preserve the community’s identity.

Why people are paying attention:

• Strong growth in restaurants, retail, and community events
• Affordable home prices, paired with lifestyle-driven amenities
• Forward-thinking leadership with an eye on long-term livability

Fountain Inn has found a rare balance: it’s deeply rooted in tradition, but driven by a young and forward-looking community spirit.

Simpsonville: Resilience + Regional Connectivity

Simpsonville has always been a solid real estate choice, but it’s now gaining new attention for how it’s connecting to the broader Upstate region.

The Swamp Rabbit Trail extension is now reaching into Simpsonville, following its path from Conestee and Mauldin. For residents and investors alike, this means new levels of accessibility, recreation, and walkability. It’s more than a bike path—it’s a lifestyle enhancement that boosts home values, local business visibility, and quality of life.

What’s happening:

• Population has more than doubled since 2010
• Steady job market and low unemployment support long-term growth
• The trail connection positions Simpsonville as a more walkable, active, and connected place to live

Simpsonville blends strength and stability with fresh energy—and that’s a combination worth paying attention to.

These Towns Are No Longer “Next”—They’re Now

If you’re exploring real estate or planning your next investment, these three Upstate communities deserve a closer look. They each offer a unique mix of growth, affordability, access, and livability—and they’re proving that smart investment doesn’t have to come with a downtown Greenville price tag.

Want to talk about how these trends might affect your property or portfolio? We’d love to help.