Preserved history and a college presence in Newberry
Found in the Midlands region of South Carolina, Newberry is known for its many beautifully preserved historic sites and Newberry College, a highly rated private institution. This city of 10,700 is the county seat of Newberry County and proudly wears the motto "The City of Friendly Folk."
"Newberry has the small-town feeling down, with all the historical buildings and events for the holidays. It's almost like nostalgia," says Ashley Garcia, a Realtor with ERA Wilder Realty with over 20 years of real estate experience. "However, I think the college makes it feel young and fresh. The city is always trying to do something different. It doesn't stay the same forever."
Originally driven by agriculture, Newberry now has a significant manufacturing presence, employing many in the area, along with other industries such as healthcare and retail.
Oscar Mayer operates a plant in Newberry, contributing to the town’s industrial base.
Many new businesses continue to emerge, providing more shopping choices for locals.
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Modern homes in Newberry Landing
Much of Newberry's housing was built in the early-to-mid-20th century and features many ranch styles and Craftsman cottages. At the start of the 21st century, new developments, such as Newberry Landing, filled subdivisions with board-and-batten and new-traditional styles. The median sales price in Newberry is $197,000, lower than Columbia's median of $250,000 and significantly lower than the national median.
Newberry’s Historic District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Many historic homes and storefronts on Main Street have been restored while maintaining their original character.
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Exploring the local personality on Main Street
With its carefully preserved historic buildings, downtown Newberry is the city's beating heart of personal flair. Main Street and the surrounding blocks are lined with specialty shops and beloved eateries, the site for hometown parades and the seasonal Grow Newberry Farmers Market. Downtown is one of Newberry's most popular draws for tourists and locals, garnering accolades as one of the "Most Charming Small Towns in America" by Travel Channel. The city's east side has big-box stores and grocers for weekend errand runs.
Newberry’s historic Main Street features well-preserved 19th-century buildings.
Downtown Newberry is a walkable hub of boutiques, antique shops, and restaurants.
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The unique architecture of Newberry Opera House
Newberry has eight parks within the city proper, including a recreation complex and the Wells Japanese Garden, which is on the National Register of Historic Places. It's one of several sites and districts that qualify for the register here, with some of the most well-known being the Newberry College Historic District and the Newberry Opera House, built in the distinct French Gothic style. Restored in 1998, the Newberry Opera House is still used for theater performances. As of 2025, Newberry is developing its first Urban Forest Master Plan, intending to plant hundreds of trees across the city to help mitigate stormwater issues, save energy and foster community.
The Opera House attracts visitors from across the region, drawn by both its architecture and live performances.
The grand interior combines historic charm with modern acoustics, making the Newberry Opera House a premier performing arts venue.
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Top grades at Newberry College
The city is served by the Newberry County School District, which scores a B from Niche. The District School Choice of South Carolina allows students to attend schools outside of their zoned assignments within the same district. The 90-acre campus of Newberry College, a private liberal arts Lutheran college, is located just north of the downtown district.
Alumni of Newberry College have gone on to excel in various fields, from business to education.
Newberry College has invested in sustainability initiatives, including energy-efficient buildings.
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Meeting up with neighbors for Moonlight Movie Nights
No matter what season, Newberry has significant events organized for the community. "Newberry does a great job with getting the community involved. Oktoberfest is big there, they have a huge festival. And their Christmas celebrations are very Hallmark," Garcia says. In summer, people gather in Memorial Park for Moonlight Movie Nights, and April brings Pork in the Park, a huge barbecue competition with live music and family-friendly activities.
Flying out of Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport
Major thoroughfares in the area include Route 76 and Highways 121 and 34. Both highways connect to Interstate 26, which runs parallel to Newberry, just a few miles away. The closest airport with commercial flights is Columbia Metropolitan Airport, 44 miles southeast; alternatively, locals can drive 68 miles north to the Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport for a larger selection of airlines. Newberry Health, the city's general hospital, is in the northern district off Route 76 and has a surrounding medical plaza.
Crime statistics and weather in Newberry
According to Newberry Police Department data, violent crime rates fell between 2021 and 2022 and are the lowest they've been since the 1990s. Property crime rates rose slightly between 2021 and 2022. Overall, crime rates in Newberry are somewhat higher than the national average.
The city generally experiences mild winters and hot summers, though temperatures rarely surpass 100 degrees.
Written By
Kaitie Lamb
Photography Contributed By
David Robinson
Video By
Samantha Houtchens
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Welcome to 1721 Harrington Street — a charming home nestled in one of Newberry’s most established and picturesque areas. Situated on a spacious lot with mature landscaping, this property offers timeless character, inviting living spaces, and the perfect blend of small-town charm and everyday convenience. Inside, you’ll find comfortable living areas filled with natural light, creating a warm and
Classic Cape Cod Charm on the Golf Course! Nestled on a picturesque 1-acre lot overlooking the 11th green of Newberry Country Club, this beautiful brick home combines timeless character with a desirable golf course setting. A circular driveway welcomes you home, while hardwood flooring and molding flow through the foyer, great room, and dining room. The spacious great room features a fireplace,
All brick, 3 bedroom, 2 bath home completely renovated on 1.12 acres, located on Mt. Bethel Garmany Road. All new ductwork, subflooring, luxury vinyl plank flooring and new appliances. Privacy fence. Numerous pecan trees. Horse, cow, goat and chicken friendly!This is a must see property! Disclaimer: CMLS has not reviewed and, therefore, does not endorse vendors who may appear in listings.
Commercial lot, cleared and ready for development! Located with quick, convenient access to the interstate, this versatile property is ideal for a mechanic shop, truck/boat storage facility, or a wide variety of other commercial ventures. Bring your vision and build your business here. Disclaimer: CMLS has not reviewed and, therefore, does not endorse vendors who may appear in listings.
The perfect place to build your home - Forest Ridge Subdivision. Forest Ridge is a unique subdivision with different home styles - build your own custom home! Must see to appreciate. Disclaimer: CMLS has not reviewed and, therefore, does not endorse vendors who may appear in listings.
Home Sweet Home! This charming 3-bedroom ranch offers the perfect blend of comfort, space, and convenience. The spacious primary bedroom features beautiful hardwood floors, while bedrooms two and three include cedar-lined closets for added character and storage. The inviting kitchen is designed for both everyday living and entertaining, showcasing a stunning wood-top island, abundant cabinet
From mid-century charm, to modern ranch living, this gorgeous 4 bedroom, 4 FULL bath home comes fully renovated and move-in ready! 907 Amelia Street was lovingly cared for and occupied by the ORIGINAL owner before it was recently fitted with the perfect blend of modern upgrades and open functional living space. Located within walking distance of Historic Downtown Newberry, this home sits on over
Tons of character in this mixed-use property. That’s right, commercial or residential, and only steps away from downtown Main Street, Newberry! Historically, over 10k babies were delivered here. Dr Dickers was a physician in WWII and opened up this medical facility in Newberry upon his return from the War. From the 40s to the 70s, he served the Newberry community. Built with incredible bones.
An oasis just outside of the City of Newberry, this well-built custom home is nestled on over ten acres within a mile of downtown Newberry. City water and city sewer but no city taxes. This Mid-Century Modern home offers the perfect blend of comfort, functionality and style. With three bedrooms and two and a half bathrooms, this spacious layout is ideal for both relaxation and everyday living.
LARGE PRICE REDUCTION!!!!Welcome to this inviting 4 bedroom, 3 bath brick ranch, where hardwood floors add warmth and charm . The finished basement is a great bonus, offering space for laundry, playtime, an additional bedroom, and a full bath—perfect for families or guests. Included are tax maps 342-1-3-9; 342-1-3-16; and 342-1-3-17, giving you a generous 1.2 acres inside city limits. Out back,
Welcome Home! This cozy two-bedroom, one-bath charmer is perfect as a starter home or for those looking to downsize. Recently remodeled, it features a brand new roof, new carpet and flooring, fresh paint throughout and a beautifully updated bathroom. Move-in ready and budget friendly- don't miss this opportunity! Disclaimer: CMLS has not reviewed and, therefore, does not endorse vendors who may
The perfect place to build your home - Forest Ridge Subdivision. Forest Ridge is a unique subdivision with different home styles - build your own custom home! Must see to appreciate. Disclaimer: CMLS has not reviewed and, therefore, does not endorse vendors who may appear in listings.
This fully FURNISHED home is available for rent August 8th for six months! Maximum lease goes to the end of Jan. Nightly rental not accepted. All utilities are included an extra $175 added to rent, which includes wi-fi.Want a peaceful setting in Newberry that's fully furnished and not too far away from town? This home offers convenience to everything without compromising on
Discover modern, comfortable living in this beautifully and fully renovated 1-bedroom, 1-bath unit located in a quiet quadplex. The open kitchen layout is perfect for entertaining and features all new appliances, including a sleek stainless steel refrigerator and an electric coil top oven.Every detail has been refreshed with:Fresh paint throughoutBrand-new flooringElegant
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