Anderson
The Electric City — Friendliest City in South Carolina
Life in Anderson
Anderson was settled in 1826 and incorporated in 1833, named after Robert Anderson, a Revolutionary War hero who explored the region in the mid-1700s. The city earned its nickname "The Electric City" by becoming one of the first in the Southeast to have electricity — the Portman Shoals hydroelectric plant on the Rocky River powered the city's streetlights as early as the 1890s, well ahead of most Southern towns.
Today, Anderson is a city of over 28,000 and the county seat of Anderson County. Sitting just off Interstate 85, it's positioned 120 miles from Atlanta and 140 miles from Charlotte — making it the westernmost anchor of the Upstate's Greenville-Anderson-Greer metro area (population nearing one million). Anderson University brings academic energy and cultural programming, while AnMed Health serves as the region's major healthcare employer.
Downtown Anderson is experiencing a revival. The courthouse square, historic buildings, and new restaurants are drawing foot traffic back to the center. Lake Hartwell — a massive 56,000-acre Army Corps reservoir — sits at the city's doorstep, offering world-class bass fishing, boating, and lakefront living. Anderson combines small-city affordability with Upstate access, making it an increasingly attractive option for buyers priced out of Greenville.
Featured Listings in Anderson
Active
310 Boulevard
Active
89 Lakeshore Dr
Pending
145 North Main St
Active
22 University Blvd
Active
501 Hartwell Marina Rd
Active
78 McCants Dr
Market Snapshot
Hot Neighborhoods
Who Lives in Anderson
Anderson is a diverse working-class city with a growing professional class. The population has held steady around 28,000, though the broader county continues to expand. Anderson University and its student body add youthful energy, while longtime residents maintain deep community ties. The cost of living sits well below national and state averages, making Anderson one of the most affordable entry points to the Upstate market.
Top Employers
Schools in Anderson
T.L. Hanna High School
Westside High School
Anderson University
North Pointe Elementary
Southwood Academy of the Arts
Boulevard Elementary
Local Favorites
Sullivan's Metropolitan Grill
Fine dining on the courthouse square. Steaks, seafood, and craft cocktails in a restored historic building.
Earle Street Kitchen & Bar
Farm-to-fork Southern cuisine in a casual downtown space. The fried chicken and pimento cheese are standouts.
Anderson County Museum
Local history from Cherokee settlement through the Electric City era. Free admission and well-curated exhibits.
Carolina Wren Park
Downtown green space with a playground, splash pad, and performance stage. Hub for community events and festivals.
Electric City Brewing
Craft brewery keeping the Electric City name alive. Rotating taps, food trucks, and trivia nights.
Lake Hartwell State Recreation Area
Camping, boating, fishing, and lakefront trails on the 56,000-acre Army Corps reservoir.
Grits & Groceries
Iconic roadside restaurant with elevated Southern cooking. Worth the short drive from downtown.
Anderson Mall & North Main
The city's primary retail corridor with national chains, local boutiques, and dining options.
Ready to Explore Anderson?
Whether you're buying, selling, or just curious — our team knows Anderson inside and out.
Talk to Our Team →