Let the numbers do the talking.
Greenville, SC vs Hilton Head Island, SC
Greenville, SC vs Hilton Head Island, SC: What the data shows
Greenville, SC is in Greenville, SC while Hilton Head Island, SC is in Hilton Head Island, SC — both in the same state. On home prices, Greenville, SC is the more affordable option at $493,700 median — $220,000 less than Hilton Head Island, SC's $713,700. WYLT rates Greenville, SC as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Hilton Head Island, SC as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Hilton Head Island, SC has the stronger safety profile of the two. Greenville, SC has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Hilton Head Island, SC has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Greenville, SC has Low flood risk and Hilton Head Island, SC has Low flood risk.
Greenville, SC is the more walkable neighborhood. Greenville, SC scores 68/100 (somewhat walkable) versus Hilton Head Island, SC's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, Greenville, SC has the higher school rating — Greenville, SC rates 8.4/10 and Hilton Head Island, SC rates 8/10.
| Category | Greenville, SC | Hilton Head Island, SC |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $494K ✓ Lower price | $714K |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $71K | $95K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate ✓ More stable | High |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 68/100 ✓ More walkable | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | 47/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 74/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 15 min | N/A |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | A ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8.4/10 ✓ Better schools | 8/10 |
| Best for | Young professionalsCollege studentsSmall families | RetireesBeach loversRemote workers |
Bottom line
If you're a young professional, a college student, or a family with good finances, Greenville might be the better choice due to its affordability and walkable downtown compared to the high cost of living and limited walkability of Hilton Head Island. On the other hand, if you're looking for a quiet beach lifestyle and are willing to pay a premium, Hilton Head might be suitable. Ultimately, both neighborhoods should be carefully evaluated based on individual preferences and budget.
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