Powdersville, South Carolina, gets its name from (big surprise!) powder. Exactly which type of powder remains a hot topic of debate in these parts. The three prevailing local legends are that the name comes from: a fine dusting of gunpowder that coated the town (originating from the many stores that sold the stuff), the fact that the area served as an ammo storage facility during the Civil War, and that the town apparently was a favorite stop for female travelers wishing to powder their noses. Regardless, the name stuck like powder to an oily face.
Located in Northwestern South Carolina, Powdersville is an unincorporated area of just over 7,600 residents according to the last Census count. What started as a rural farming community has evolved into a thriving suburb of Greenville (population 850,000-plus, which CNN Money named one of the Top 10 Fastest Growing Cities in the U.S.) Just eight miles away from this booming city, Powdersville continues to attract new residents and new homes, subdivisions, and businesses to cater to them.
Moving to Powdersville
Whether you are in the market for a Powdersville rental apartment or prefer to look at rental homes in the area, you will find plenty of options. Business is booming and the population is growing at a rapid rate. Developers have noticed, and are taking full advantage of opportunities to get in on the action.
Early Bird Gets the Worm
As soon as apartments or rental homes in the most popular apartment complex communities and subdivisions hit the market, they're snapped up. To avoid having your dreams crushed when you find the perfect place to live and it gets snapped up by someone else, be prepared to commit before you start looking. Many apartments and homes rent out almost as soon as they're listed. Another thing to consider is that in a hot market such as Powdersville, landlords can charge a premium for rent. Don't worry, we're not talking New York City dollars, but be prepared.
What You'll Need
Before you set out on your search, make sure that you have money for first month's rent and the security deposit, as well as references and employment history just in case you're asked. Also keep in mind that some landlords will only allow you to move in after you have secured renter's insurance. Even if you're not required to have it, it's a good idea to have a policy to protect yourself, and renter's insurance is relatively inexpensive.
Powdersville Neighborhoods
Powdersville is a suburb full of neighborhoods and subdivisions. Each has its own character and feel; some are gated, some feature manufactured homes or townhomes, and many offer newer single-family homes. Here are a couple of examples of Powdersville subdivisions.
Bagwell Farms: This is a newer subdivision of detached homes on large lots. People who appreciate having large, open floor plans and huge yards find this subdivision appealing. It's very convenient to shops and restaurants.
Birch River: This is a smaller neighborhood that features rolling hills, walking trails, and even a small lake. Think large, inviting homes on treelined streets where neighbors hold block parties and potlucks -- that's Birch River. This neighborhood is near Powdersville High School and backs up to the pretty Saluda River.
Living in Powdersville
As you already know, when you live in Powdersville you're just minutes from Greenville and all of the attractions of a major city. World-class dining, museums, restaurants, shopping, concerts, and more are a quick drive or taxi ride away.
Powdersville offers the best of both worlds. It's near Greenville, but it's definitely not Greenville. And that's exactly why people love living here. In Powdersville, people know one another by name and gather on front porches for impromptu get-togethers.
When you live here, your life is filled with such things as farmers markets, Fourth of July parades, county fairs, and sports. Hurricane Park is a popular outdoor recreation area with soccer fields, tennis courts, and trails. You'll be within short distance of six golf courses, and you'll have plenty of opportunities to cheer on the Clemson University, University of South Carolina, and Furman College athletics teams and (of course) the Carolina Panthers football team. Meet up with your neighbors to catch a game on TV -- perhaps while enjoying a margarita at Los Amigos Mexican Restaurant, a local hot spot.
If you want access to all that Greenville has to offer, without big-city crime and traffic, Powdersville is the place for you.