Discover the 6 Coldest Places in South Carolina

Winter in South Carolina is generally mild, with bouts of rain and occasional snow flurries. Unlike many parts of the U.S., this southeast state doesn’t see its first freeze until December, and its last freeze occurs in late February. Despite its forgiving climate, South Carolina can have frigid temperatures during the winter, particularly in the far western portion of the state. So, if you’re looking for some of the best towns in which to get cozy by the fire and watch the snow fall, check out the six coldest places in South Carolina! 

Long Creek

The unincorporated community of Long Creek is in Oconee County near the Georgia border in western South Carolina. The small, charming town only has a population of around 100, but it’s known for its proximity to the Chattooga River in the Southern Appalachians. Visitors to the area will find scenic bed and breakfasts and plenty of recreational opportunities. The coldest months in Long Creek are December, January, and February, when the town experiences average highs in the low 50s and lows in the low 30s and upper 20s. Despite being one of the coldest places in South Carolina, Long Creek has a relatively short winter, with occasional snowfall that rarely disrupts daily living activities. The lowest recorded temperature on record was -8 degrees Fahrenheit on January 21, 1985.

Columbia

Columbia is often thought of as the coldest city in South Carolina. However, compared to many places, it is relatively pleasant year-round. Columbia is the capital of South Carolina, and it’s in the state’s central region. This city experiences hot and muggy summers and cold and cloudy winters with occasional snowfall. Columbia is an excellent option for visitors if you’re looking for a chilly night out on the town. January is the coldest month of the year, featuring an average overnight temperature of 34 degrees. But the cool season runs from late November to late February. Columbia recorded its lowest temperature at -1 degrees on January 21, 1985.

Clemson

Home to Clemson University, the city of Clemson is a charming college community in Western South Carolina. Clemson has four seasons, featuring relatively mild winters and overcast skies about half the time. Winters are also pretty wet in the area, with nearly 30% of annual precipitation occurring during winter. Daily average highs are around 57 degrees, and the cold season runs for three months, similar to Columbia. January is the coldest month, with average low temperatures hovering around 42 degrees. Clemson does not get snowfall every year. You can expect snow in roughly six out of 10 winters. The coldest temperature ever recorded in Clemson was -7 degrees on February 14, 1899.

Traveler’s Rest

Located in Greenville County, Traveler’s Rest is a quaint city in western South Carolina with a small-town feel. It sits at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains and gets its name for its stopover reputation for weary travelers. Traveler’s Rest features pleasant weather year-round, and January is its coldest month, with average high temperatures dipping into the upper 40s. Temperatures can get as low as the 30s but rarely fall below 20 degrees. January is also the snowiest month, accumulating around three inches over three to four days. The lowest recorded temperature in Traveler’s Rest is unknown. 

Greenville

Greenville is a major metropolitan area in South Carolina. It’s home to many cultural attractions and recreational areas. It sits in the western part of the state, where its cold season lasts from December through March. If you plan on visiting Greenville during the winter, you can expect temperatures to fluctuate between mid-30s and mid-50s. Freezing temperatures are typical at night, and the city gets up to an inch of snow during the season. The lowest recorded temperature in Greenville occurred at the nearby Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport on January 30, 1966, with a temperature of -6 degrees. 

Rocky Bottom

Located in Pickens County near the North Carolina border and just 27 miles northwest of Greenville, Rocky Bottom is one of the coldest places in South Carolina. This small, unincorporated community can get cold during the winter, particularly in January, the coldest month of the year. During the month, Rocky Bottom sees average highs in the low 50s and lows in the 30s. The town’s lowest recorded temperature is unknown. 

Summary of the Six Coldest Places in South Carolina

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