Winnsboro is an industrious but small city north of Columbia
Winnsboro is a small city that offers residents a downtown corridor, plenty of single-family homes and access to outdoor attractions. The Fairfield County seat was founded in the 1780s, and the city became a hub for cotton milling. While there is less industrial activity today, a mattress manufacturer, Element Electronics and other smaller producers call Winnsboro home. However, there are more industrial opportunities to the south of town, with an industrial park near Interstate 77 and a new multi-billion-dollar electric vehicle plant under construction in nearby Blythewood. “It’s a small town that is full of potential growth. There is great opportunities for businesses and residential [properties],” says Jasma Gadson, a Realtor with EXP Realty, who sells in the area. “It's very close to I-77, [and you’re] about 45 minutes from Charlotte, North Carolina, and around 20 minutes from Columbia.”
A mix of historical and modern styles with low HOA activity
Homes can range from historic Georgian and Colonial Revivals to bungalows, ranch styles and split levels. The median home price is over $209,000, lower than the national and state medians. However, depending on age, condition and location, prices can typically range between $120,000 and $650,000 and even beyond $1 million. Gadson says HOA activity in Winnsboro is low.
Properties are typically on gridded streets with large lots and oak trees accenting lawns. Homes with more acreage and farmsteads surround the city.
Gadson says the community has attracted a mix of retirees and people relocating for work. She also notes that the property taxes can be lower than in the surrounding area, and the cost-effectiveness leads buyers to Winnsboro.
Public and private options are available
Students can attend the Fairfield County School District for public school, which earns a C-plus grade on Niche. Private school options include the B-plus-graded Richard Winn Academy, offering pre-kindergarten through twelfth-grade programs. Midlands Technical College earns a C and has a campus just north of Winnsboro, and has courses in manufacturing, health care and business.
Fun can be found at parks, Carolina Adventure World and local museums
Green spaces include Fortune Springs Park, featuring gardens and a pool. Drawdy Park includes baseball diamonds, a basketball court and a soccer pitch. Carolina Adventure World, located northeast of downtown, has over 2,600 acres of ATV trails, motocross tracks and campgrounds and has live music events.
The South Carolina Railroad Museum displays historical trains and artifacts from the state’s railroading history. The Pine Tree Playhouse hosts community theatre productions. The Fairfield County Museum also includes exhibits on local history.
More events and attractions in Columbia are 28 miles south.
Dining and shopping in downtown and on U.S. Highway 321
Restaurants are primarily located off U.S. Highway 321 or Congress Street and include a mix of chain and local spots. The Cornwallis House Tea Company serves sandwiches, soups and salads. Italian Garden offers pizza, pasta dishes and sandwiches. The Barn Express has southern classics buffet style.
Downtown has boutiques and independent shops. U.S. 321 has a Food Lion, KJ’s Market and several dollar stores.
Weather and noise risks in Winnsboro
Maps from the Federal Emergency Management Agency show a slight flooding risk. Storms and tornadoes can also be factors. A rail line does pass through downtown, but it does not cause too many annoyances for residents, Gadson says.
County bus system and access to Interstate 77
The Fairfield County Transit System provides bus service to Winnsboro. The entrance to Interstate 77 is east of downtown along Highway 34 or Old River Road. Columbia Metropolitan Airport is 38 miles south. MUSC Health maintains an emergency and imaging center on Highway 321 just south of downtown.
