Moving to Florence, South Carolina, means joining one of the Pee Dee region’s most welcoming and steadily growing communities. Known for its mix of small-town charm, industrial opportunity, and cultural energy, Florence offers an affordable cost of living with expanding amenities and a strong sense of local pride.
Local Government and Community Rules
Florence operates under a mayor-council form of government with active departments dedicated to neighborhood revitalization, housing support, and community welfare. The City of Florence Community Services Department offers several important programs, including:
First-Time Homebuyers Program – provides educational workshops and credit guidance for eligible residents throughout the year.
Emergency Rehabilitation and Rental Assistance – supports low- to moderate-income homeowners facing urgent home repairs or rental needs.
Fair Housing and Demolition Assistance Programs – maintain neighborhood safety and improve housing conditions.
Residents are encouraged to keep properties maintained to city standards, register pets as required by city ordinance, and observe local yard waste and trash pickup schedules that are administered by Florence Public Works.
Cost of Living and Neighborhood Life
Florence’s cost of living remains about 83% of the national average, making it one of the more affordable medium-sized cities in South Carolina.
Median Home Value: about $186,000
Median Rent: about $620 per month
Median Household Income: around $60,000
The city has multiple residential options—from historic districts with early 1900s architecture to family-friendly subdivisions and new developments on the city’s outskirts.
Transportation and Commuting Rules
Florence lies at the junction of Interstates 20 and 95, connecting residents quickly to Columbia, Myrtle Beach, and Charleston. The Pee Dee Regional Transportation Authority (PDRTA) runs local bus routes at low fares throughout the city. Drivers must maintain valid South Carolina registration and insurance; the DMV is located on South Irby Street for license updates.
Cultural Etiquette and Local Engagement
Florence residents value friendliness and community participation. Supporting local farmers markets, attending school district events, and joining neighborhood associations are key parts of civic life. Every November, residents gather downtown for the South Carolina Pecan Music and Food Festival, a signature event drawing more than 50,000 people.
Newcomers can also volunteer at organizations supported by the Community Services Department or enjoy theater at the Florence Little Theatre and art exhibits at the Florence County Museum, which celebrates regional history and the work of local artist William H. Johnson.
Environmental and Safety Policies
Florence promotes environmentally conscious behavior through designated recycling pickup schedules and encouraging stormwater awareness near the Pee Dee River Basin. Fire and emergency services are municipally managed, and new residents should sign up for Florence Emergency Alerts via the city website to receive notifications of weather or utility advisories.
For new residents, Florence combines southern hospitality with strong civic structure. Understanding local ordinances, housing programs, and community traditions will make settling in easy. With low living costs, efficient transportation, and numerous cultural outlets, Florence continues to thrive as a balanced hub where newcomers can comfortably build roots.
SOURCES
[1](https://www.ezhomesearch.com/blog/moving-to-florence-your-ez-guide-to-everything-florence-sc/)
[2](https://www.expedia.com/Florence.dx1221)
[3](https://livability.com/sc/florence)
[4](https://www.homes.com/local-guide/florence-sc/)
[5](https://www.cityofflorence.com/community-services)
