5 Best Places to Live on Lake Murray SC – 2023 Update

If you want to experience the relaxed lake lifestyle in South Carolina, then consider these best places to live on Lake Murray SC. We hand-picked the top towns around the lake that provide a quiet, serene lifestyle with plenty of things to do.

Lake Murray is located in central South Carolina about 15 miles west of Columbia, which is the state’s capital. It is the self-proclaimed “Jewel of South Carolina” and it is well-known for offering a wide range of outdoor activities, especially boating and fishing on the lake, and hiking around its 600+ miles of shoreline.

It is also the host to many fishing competitions throughout the year.

There is also the Dreher Island State Park that sits on the northern shores of the lake that features almost 350 acres of stunning beauty spread over 3 islands. Check out more things to do and see around Lake Murray from their official tourism website.

Lake Murray’s proximity to the state capital also means that it is easy to live around here.

You could go into town for shopping and events and then retreat back to your undisturbed community next to the water.

So, what are you waiting for? Let’s take a look at the 5 best places to live on Lake Murray SC so you can decide on your favorite location for your next move.

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5 Best Places to Live on Lake Murray SC

5. Yacht Cove, South Carolina

Location: Check on Google Maps

Yacht Cove just made it onto our list of the best places to live on Lake Murray SC. It is situated right on the eastern coastline of the lake and features an excellent little community that is ideal for boating enthusiasts, just as its name implies.

This heavily wooded community offers several neighborhoods of quiet and private streets that feel quite rural in nature. There is also a nice condo community as well.

But, there are still many amenities in the area. On the lakeshores of Yacht Cove, there are 2 boating clubs – Windward Point Yacht Club and Columbia Sailing Club.

Meanwhile, Columbia is less than a 30 minute drive away, making Yacht Cove’s location a great balance between easy, outdoor living and access to the big city for a night out.

4. Lexington, South Carolina

Location: Check on Google Maps

Lexington, South Carolina is located on the southeastern corner of Lake Murray and is the largest city on this list. It is one of the fastest growing cities in South Carolina and its population is now just over 22,000 people.

t is one of Columbia’s top suburbs and has the benefit of being next to the lake.

The best part about Lexington is the countless number of shops, bars, and restaurants that it offers, especially for such a small city. There are numerous big box stores like Walmart and The Home Depot, as well as a small main street on US 1 that features many small boutiques, cafes, and bars.

There are also tons of places to eat, ranging from big chains like Chick-fil-A, Sonic, McDonald’s, and Wendy’s, but also many locally owned restaurants, especially in the main street area.

There is also a cool amphitheater and park in the center of town that hosts an open air market and live music throughout the year.

Considering that Lexington costs over 10% less to live in than the average US city, we think that it is a great value and one of the best places to live on Lake Murray SC.

3. Acapulco, South Carolina

Location: Check on Google Maps

Don’t confuse this city with the resort town in Mexico, although this Acapulco in South Carolina does share some characteristics with its neighbor south of the border. They both sit right on the water and offer a laid back life that locals and visitors continuously rave about.

Acapulco, South Carolina is located on the western side of Lake Murray and it is quite secluded, especially compared to the other places on this list of the best places to live on Lake Murray SC.

But, that’s why we think this town is an excellent place to call home. It is totally undisturbed and offers a true connection to nature.

There are only a handful of houses in this community, but many sit directly on the waterfront and even have their own docks. There is also the Acapulco Marina that lets you easily get onto the water.

The city is probably best known for its park for long-term RV stays. The reason why it attracts so many campers is that it is detached from society, yet still offers many outdoor activities.

We think this is the best choice for people really looking to escape and live an uninterrupted life.

2. Lake Murray Of Richland, South Carolina

Location: Check on Google Maps

Lake Murray Of Richland is a community of just over 5,000 residents that is located on the northeast corner of Lake Murray. Almost every home in this town is either right on the lake or just steps away from it.

Lake Murray Of Richland is heavily residential and doesn’t offer many amenities around town, as there are only a handful of restaurants and bars in the city. But, it is close to other cities like Chapin and Irmo that will provide you with everything you need in a 10 to 15 minute drive.

Besides, you’re coming here to enjoy the quaint, peaceful lake life, and that is what Lake Murray Of Richland truly delivers.

This town is also a bit more upscale than some of the other small towns around the lake, so you can be sure to find a quality home here with amenities like a swimming pool and your own dock.

1. Chapin, South Carolina

Location: Check on Google Maps

The town of Chapin ranks first on our list of the best places to live on Lake Murray SC. This well-rounded town of about 1,500 residents also made our list of the best rural places to live in the state, as well.

What makes Chapin so great? Let’s start with its location. It has been called the “Capital of Lake Murray” and is located in the northern area of the lake and only 30 minutes from Columbia.

It features many quiet neighborhoods and a good amount of restaurants and shops, especially for a city of this size. There are also several supermarkets, including a Publix.

Meanwhile, there are many outdoor activities to do around Chapin. The town is filled with parks that feature baseball fields and tennis courts and also offers easy access to the lake.

Best of all, Chapin’s school system is highly regarded and it earned an A+ grade from AreaVibes, making it a top choice for families as well.

Summary – Best Places to Live on Lake Murray SC

Lake Murray offers a wonderful blend of tranquil living with exciting outdoor activities that makes it one of the true gems of South Carolina.

There are many small towns that are situated right on the lake and we think the list above highlights the very best of them all.

You really can’t go wrong with any of them. It’s up to you to decide if you want a more isolated life directly on the water or if you want a bit of a town feeling mixed with nature.