Just north of the South Carolina state capital, the suburb of Blythewood hasn’t lost its rural roots. The town was initially called Doko, a name still taken by a few businesses and a park. Accounts differ as to whether it was an African or Native American word; either way, the name Blythewood eventually took over, coming from a local private school in the 1870s. The community was primarily agricultural in its early days, and a Columbia-Charlotte rail line stopped in town, affording the town easier transportation for farm produce and mail. While no longer central to the town, the train sparked much of its early economic growth. Today, Blythewood maintains a mostly rural atmosphere even as quickly developing subdivisions and a central shopping area allow for modern amenities. The population of 4,700 is sure to rise as Scout Motors, a subsidiary of Volkswagen Group, builds a new car manufacturing plant in town, set to open in 2026. Blythewood is also popular among horse owners, and its large lots and wooded areas provide a bit more privacy compared to other Columbia suburbs. “It has nice open spaces and beautiful homes,“ says Renee Friar, a Realtor with Home Advantage Realty. "And now that the plant is under construction, it’s going to explode. It’s going to bring thousands of jobs to the area.”
The historic Clara's Sandwich Shop is part of the museum located on Main street in the town of Blythewood.
Doko Meadows' Christmas Tree Lighting is a beloved Blythewood holiday tradition.
Blythewood Road’s small businesses reflect the town’s warm and welcoming vibe.
City Hall plays a vital role in hosting meetings and guiding Blythewood's development.
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A blend of rural homes and contemporary properties
Although Blythewood still has its rural pockets, new developments with contemporary homes are sprouting around town. “It is rural, but builders have moved in by the droves,” Friar says. Contemporary homes in neighborhoods like Cobblestone Park offer golf course views, while Blythewood Farms has even newer homes. The median home price is around $370,000, below the national median of $416,000. Some homes in town can reach $650,000, higher than in Columbia — and, Friar notes, prices will likely continue to rise as more jobs come to town. There are also a number of lots available for sale, ranging from $35,000 for lots smaller than a quarter acre and up to $500,000 for multiacre lots.
A row of homes in Cobblestone Park in town of Blythewood.
A classic brick multi-gambled home is adorned with colorful shutters and blossoming landscaping in Blythewood.
Sidewalks and landscaped spaces make Blythewood Farms walkable and family-friendly.
Cobblestone offers resort-style living with well-maintained homes and amenities.
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Richland School District 2 receives high marks
Richland School District 2 receives an A-minus grade from Niche, and each public school serving Blythewood earns a rating of B or higher. The school district has a student-to-teacher ratio of 14-to-1 and a high school graduation rate of 89%. Meanwhile, the Blythewood branch of Richland Library hosts craft workshops, book club meetings, story times and more.
Richland District 2 schools, like Blythewood High, excel in academics and sports programs.
Muller Road Middle has programs that cater to the diverse needs of its student population.
Sandlapper Elementary School is committed to academic excellence and student success.
Longleaf Middle School is an above average, public school with an overall Niche score of B-.
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Town events at Doko Meadows Park
Blythewood is home to the University of South Carolina equestrian team and numerous other farms and boarding facilities. Blythewood also has two public parks near Main Street. Blythewood Park covers 21 acres with three baseball diamonds, a playground and a picnic shelter, along with an indoor recreation area featuring a gymnasium. The town’s primary outdoor space, 22-acre Doko Meadows Park, has playgrounds, walking trails, a fishing pond and an amphitheater. The park hosts the annual Christmas Tree Lighting event and the weekly Movies in the Park, which runs from summer until fall. The town’s northeast subdivision winds around Cobblestone Park Golf Club, a 27-hole course.
Blythewood welcomes visitors from Columbia and beyond thanks to its I-77 connection.
Blythewood’s Tree Lighting kicks off at 5 PM at 171 Langford Road with live music to follow.
Families can enjoy the holiday cheer at Blythewood's Tree Lighting in Doko Meadows Park.
Blythewood’s Tree Lighting tradition includes lighting a second tree across the street.
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Blythewood Road and local eateries
Much of Blythewood’s restaurants and shops are along Blythewood Road. Though there are fast-food options, the town has its fair share of local restaurants like Doko Smoke BBQ and Doko Station Pub & Eatery, plus several grocery stores.
Eggs Up Grill is a popular with residents of Blythewood, and Spring Valley.
Doko Smoke BBQ is a staple in the town of Blythewood.
Five Guys restaurant at The Village offers outdoor seating for warm days.
Located in Columbia's Village at Sandhill, Le Peep offers cozy dining and fast service.
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Important to Know
Blythewood has a moderate climate, with humid summers and mild winters. Rainy days are common, though. FEMA gives Blythewood a relatively high risk for tornados and strong winds. The town has a CAP Index crime score of 3 out of 10, lower than the national average of 4.
Interstate 77 connects to Columbia
Blythewood is minutes from Interstate 77, which commuters can take 20 miles south to Columbia’s city center or 75 miles north to Charlotte in neighborhing North Carolina. The town’s Main Street, which is also U.S. Highway 21, is another route for commuters, most of whom rely on cars. For traveling outside the metro area, Columbia Metropolitan Airport is 33 miles away. I-77 is also used by residents to reach Fort Jackson, which is about 16 miles from town.
Written By
Robert Breckenridge
Photography Contributed By
David Robinson
Video By
Mark Barakat
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Karen Yip,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Blythewood, SC sell after 69 days on the market compared to the national average of 49 days. The median sale price for homes in Blythewood, SC over the last 12 months is $350,000, up 6% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
*10K towards CC with acceptable purchase terms* Seize the extraordinary opportunity to own this meticulously maintained 5BR, 3BA executive home, ideally situated on a distant lot just minutes to I-77. With over 325 feet of prime frontage, a grand foyer, and a custom garage, this home exudes sophisticationfrom the moment you arrive. Discover unparalleled elegance on the main level, featuring
This Blythewood beauty is all about space, charm, and LOCATION. Tucked inside the desirable Blythewood Crossing neighborhood, this 3-bed, 2.5-bath home has all bedrooms (plus a loft!) upstairs and living space below. The kitchen steals the show with a massive island, tons of cabinet space, and an open layout that flows into the eat-in area and living room. Crown molding, wood accents, and
Welcome home! This spacious home is conveniently located in the heart of the desirable Blythewood, SC area with easy access to I-77 N. The home is ideal for a growing young family as it is close to all the necessities: just a 5 minute drive to grocery stores, a local park, doctor/dental offices and Richland District 2 zoned schools. This contemporary home features 5 bedrooms and 3 full baths and
This charming new construction house will make a perfect home! This is a five bedroom, 3.5 bathroom home with a fire place. The master bedroom is located on the main floor, while the other bedrooms are upstairs, giving the master bedroom privacy from the other rooms. The master bedroom also over looks a pond in the back of the house, making the view gorgeous. The neighborhood features a large
This charming new construction house will make a perfect home! This is a five bedroom, 3.5 bathroom home with a fire place. The master bedroom is located on the main floor, while the other bedrooms are upstairs, giving the master bedroom privacy from the other rooms. The neighborhood features a large golf course, pool house, clubhouse, and security officers at the main gate keeping track of all
This charming new construction house will make a perfect home! This is a five bedroom, 3.5 bathroom home with a fire place. The master bedroom is located on the main floor, while the other bedrooms are upstairs, giving the master bedroom privacy from the other rooms. The neighborhood features a large golf course, pool house, clubhouse, and security officers at the main gate keeping track of all
4-Bedrooms and 2.5 Bathrooms located in Blythewood. Owner is willing to do Lease to Own or Seller Finance. Disclaimer: CMLS has not reviewed and, therefore, does not endorse vendors who may appear in listings.
Quaint countryside resort lifestyle. But minutes from Downtown Columbia. The Palisades of Blythewood has it all!We have something for everyone! With two distinct gated communities, there is a tremendous variety of amenities. There are resort style pools, state of the art fitness centers, and a game room. Walking trails throughout the property and a bark park.Choose from over
Discover comfort and style in this thoughtfully updated residence, where every detail has been carefully considered. The spacious living room welcomes you with abundant natural light and a seamless flow into the dining area—ideal for everyday living or entertaining guests. The kitchen boasts modern appliances, granite countertops, and plentiful cabinet space, making it both functional and
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