Page 2 of Best Nursing Homes in South Carolina

Why trust this guide? Our editorial team analyzed 133 nursing homes in SC using CMS data, inspection records, complaints, amenities, and facility-level details. How we rank nursing homes in SC
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Last updated
We analyzed These are the facilities in South Carolina our team has analyzed — not a count of every nursing home provider in South Carolina.
133 homes
Other senior care options in South Carolina:
Avg Overall CMS Rating: 2.8/ 5The average Overall CMS Rating for all CMS-certified nursing homes in South Carolina. Ratings combine health inspections, staffing, and quality measures, with inspections weighted most. Individual facilities can vary widely from this average.
National Average: 3.2/ 5
Avg Staffing Rating: 2.9/ 5The average Staffing Rating across all CMS-certified nursing homes in South Carolina. Reflects nursing staff hours per resident per day (including RNs), adjusted for residents' care needs. Individual facilities can vary widely from this average.
National Average: 3.4/ 5
Avg Health Insp. Rating: 2.7/ 5The average Health Inspection Rating across all CMS-certified nursing homes in South Carolina. Based on each facility's recent inspections and complaint investigations, weighing the number, scope, and severity of deficiencies. Individual facilities can vary widely from this average.
National Average: 3.0/ 5

Compare Nursing Homes around South Carolina

Info below is compiled from CMS reports & the SC Dept. of Public Health (DPH), senior community websites & trusted data sources such as Walk Score & BBB.

Communities are listed from highest to lowest based on our ranking methodology.

The facility name. Click to view the full profile page on Assisted Living Magazine, including photos, services, and contact info.
CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, the federal agency that regulates nursing homes) Overall 5-star rating — a composite of Health Inspection, Staffing, and Quality Measures scores. 5 stars = top 10% nationally. 1 star = bottom 10%. The single most important number to start with when comparing facilities.
Care Types in This Table AL (Assisted Living): Housing with help for daily activities like bathing, dressing, and medication, without 24-hour skilled nursing. NH (Nursing Home): 24/7 skilled nursing care for residents with complex, ongoing medical needs. SNF (Skilled Nursing Facility): Round-the-clock nursing care, often for recovery after surgery, injury, or illness. MC (Memory Care): Secured, specialized care for people living with Alzheimer's or dementia. RC (Respite Care): Short-term temporary care that gives family caregivers a break. IL (Independent Living): Community living with dining, activities, and transportation for active seniors who need little personal care. HC (Home Care): Professional care delivered in the person's own home, from companionship to skilled nursing. HOS (Hospice Care): Comfort-focused care for those with a terminal illness, prioritizing quality of life over treatment.
Neighborhood or city area where the facility is located. Proximity to family, hospitals, and green space matters for both quality of life and ease of visitation. Consider drive time and transit access when evaluating location.
Licensed bed capacity. Larger facilities (300+ beds) often have more specialized programs but can feel institutional. Smaller homes (under 150 beds) tend to deliver more personalized care. Compare with Avg Res/Day to understand how full the facility typically runs.
Percentage of licensed beds filled on an average day. Color indicates financial health: green (90%+) = operationally strong, typically profitable. Amber (80–89%) = stable but leaving revenue on the table. Orange (70–79%) = financial strain likely, may struggle with fixed costs. Red (<70%) = significant distress, closure or ownership change risk increases sharply.
This facility's occupancy rate compared to the statewide average for similar facilities. A positive number means above-average demand. Facilities running 5%+ above the state average are typically the most sought-after in their market — a strong proxy for reputation.
CMS-adjusted total nurse hours per resident per day (RN + LPN + CNA combined). The national average is approximately 3.5 hrs. Higher is better — more direct care time per resident. Below 3.0 is a red flag. CMS weights RN hours more heavily because RNs handle complex clinical decisions that CNAs cannot.
CMS Health Inspection star rating (1–5 stars), based on the 3 most recent annual state surveys plus any complaint investigations. This is the hardest rating to manipulate — it reflects real surveyor findings on-site. 5 stars = fewest deficiencies found. 1 star = most. It carries the heaviest weight in the Overall CMS rating.
CMS Staffing star rating (1–5 stars), based on daily nurse staffing hours submitted to CMS via verified payroll data. Compares RN, LPN, and CNA coverage relative to resident acuity level. 5 stars = well above expected staffing. Weekend staffing is evaluated separately, as that's where many facilities quietly reduce coverage.
CMS Quality Measures star rating (1–5 stars), based on 15 clinical outcome metrics including fall rates, pressure ulcers, antipsychotic drug use, and hospital readmissions. Captures actual resident health outcomes, not just compliance. High QM combined with low Health Inspection scores can indicate a facility with strong care but weak documentation practices.
Registered Nurse hours per resident/day compared to the statewide average. RNs are the highest-skilled nursing staff — they assess residents, manage medications, and respond to emergencies. A value of +50% means RN coverage is 50% above the state norm. Negative values are a concern for residents with complex or acute medical needs.
Total nursing staff hours (RN + LPN + CNA combined) per resident/day vs. the statewide average. A broader measure than RN vs State — it captures the entire care team. A facility can have high total staffing but low RN hours, meaning more aides and fewer nurses. Read both columns together for the full picture.
Total dollar amount of federal monetary fines (civil money penalties) issued by CMS in the past 3 years. Fines are only levied for serious violations — typically actual harm to residents, repeated uncorrected deficiencies, or systemic non-compliance. Even a single fine is noteworthy. Multiple fines strongly suggest a pattern, not isolated incidents.
Total health deficiency citations from the most recent standard inspection cycle. Minor citations (scope A–C) are common and often administrative in nature. Higher counts aren't always disqualifying, but should be read alongside Severe Citations to understand actual harm levels. Under 10 is strong for a large facility; 30+ warrants a closer look.
Average deficiency citations per CMS inspection (survey) in the reporting window — total citations divided by the number of inspections. Lower is better; compare alongside total Citations and Severe Citations for context.
Citations at CMS scope/severity level G or higher — G–I means actual harm occurred; J–L means residents were placed in immediate jeopardy. (D–F is potential for harm only). Examples include unaddressed falls, medication errors causing injury, neglect, or abuse.
Average number of residents in the building on any given day, derived from annual census data. Reflects true operating scale — a 400-bed facility running 200 residents/day operates very differently from one at 390. Higher resident counts generally mean more funded staffing hours.
Better Business Bureau rating (A+ to F). Reflects complaint history, business transparency, and how family disputes were resolved. A+ means no significant unresolved complaints. A blank (—) means the facility isn't BBB-accredited, which is common for healthcare providers and not necessarily a negative signal.
Walk Score® (0–100). Measures walkability of the surrounding area. 90–100 = Walker's Paradise. 70–89 = Very Walkable. 50–69 = Somewhat Walkable. Below 50 = Car-Dependent. Higher scores benefit family visitors, resident outings, and staff commuting.
The licensed owner or operator of record filed with CMS — the individual or organization legally accountable for the facility. Searching the operator name across other facilities can reveal chain or multi-site ownership, which matters: chain-operated homes tend to have more variable quality outcomes than independently run facilities.
What the home actually collects for resident care, after contractual allowances, bad debt and discounts — not gross billings. Taken from the latest complete annual cost report, so it is comparable across homes reporting the same period. Revenue alone doesn't indicate care quality, but it funds staffing and capital reinvestment. Pair with Payroll %. Figures are from each facility's most recent complete fiscal year — hover a value for the exact year; a * marks homes that report an older period than most facilities.
Staff salaries plus wage-related benefits from the latest complete annual cost report. Contract and agency labour is counted separately, under other operating costs, so a home leaning on agency staff can show a low figure here. Payroll is the cost most directly tied to care quality — compare with Payroll % for full context. Figures are from each facility's most recent complete fiscal year — hover a value for the exact year; a * marks homes that report an older period than most facilities.
Payroll as a share of NET PATIENT REVENUE (not gross revenue). Both figures come from the same cost-report year. A higher figure means more of each revenue dollar goes to staff pay. Read with the Staffing star rating to judge whether spend translates into coverage — and note that homes whose patient revenue covers only part of their operation can read implausibly high. The South Carolina average is: 62.8% Figures are from each facility's most recent complete fiscal year — hover a value for the exact year; a * marks homes that report an older period than most facilities.
CMS Certification Number: the unique federal identifier for this skilled nursing provider.
Lakes at Litchfield Assisted Living
NH
AL
IL
MC
SNF
Pawleys Island
79
Facility 79
SC AVG 90
Rank #170 / 304
--
4.35
Facility 4.35
SC AVG 4.00
Rank #37 / 117
-57%+9%
$5.2k
Facility $5.2k
SC AVG $34.8k
Rank #59 / 120
9
Facility 9
SC AVG 13.7
Rank #44 / 119
2.3
Facility 2.3
SC AVG 3.4
Rank #29 / 119
-15A+-Litchfield Retirement LLC
$3.9MFiscal year ending 12/2023
Facility $3.9MFiscal year ending 12/2023
SC AVG $12.1M
Rank #108 / 113
$5.5MFiscal year ending 12/2023
Facility $5.5MFiscal year ending 12/2023
SC AVG $7.3M
Rank #77 / 113
141.7%Fiscal year ending 12/2023
Facility 141.7%Fiscal year ending 12/2023
SC AVG 62.8%
Rank #2 / 113
425380
The Palms at Florence
NH
RC
SNF
Florence
163
Facility 163
SC AVG 90
Rank #19 / 304
95.2%
Facility 95.2%
SC AVG 86.4%
Rank #18 / 92
+10%
4.09
Facility 4.09
SC AVG 4.00
Rank #49 / 117
-43%+2%
$7.9k
Facility $7.9k
SC AVG $34.8k
Rank #66 / 120
11
Facility 11
SC AVG 13.7
Rank #57 / 119
3.7
Facility 3.7
SC AVG 3.4
Rank #74 / 119
1155--Commander Operator Holdco, LLC
$16.6MFiscal year ending 12/2023
Facility $16.6MFiscal year ending 12/2023
SC AVG $12.1M
Rank #18 / 113
$7.4MFiscal year ending 12/2023
Facility $7.4MFiscal year ending 12/2023
SC AVG $7.3M
Rank #39 / 113
44.4%Fiscal year ending 12/2023
Facility 44.4%Fiscal year ending 12/2023
SC AVG 62.8%
Rank #107 / 113
425119
The Reserve Healthcare and Rehabilitation
NH
SNF
Hanahan
135
Facility 135
SC AVG 90
Rank #34 / 304
90.9%
Facility 90.9%
SC AVG 86.4%
Rank #54 / 92
+5%
3.40
Facility 3.40
SC AVG 4.00
Rank #88 / 117
+36%-15%
$0
Facility $0
SC AVG $34.8k
Rank #1 / 120
9
Facility 9
SC AVG 13.7
Rank #44 / 119
2.3
Facility 2.3
SC AVG 3.4
Rank #29 / 119
2123--Railroad Crossing Healthcare Inc$8.6M*Fiscal year ending 08/2022These figures are from this home's most recent complete cost report — an older period than most facilities report. Compare with that in mind.$5.9M*Fiscal year ending 08/2022These figures are from this home's most recent complete cost report — an older period than most facilities report. Compare with that in mind.68.7%*Fiscal year ending 08/2022These figures are from this home's most recent complete cost report — an older period than most facilities report. Compare with that in mind.425289
Sprenger Healthcare of Bluffton
NH
AL
IL
MC
RC
SNF
Okatie
60
Facility 60
SC AVG 90
Rank #206 / 304
95.8%
Facility 95.8%
SC AVG 86.4%
Rank #14 / 92
+11%
4.06
Facility 4.06
SC AVG 4.00
Rank #49 / 117
+50%+2%
$0
Facility $0
SC AVG $34.8k
Rank #1 / 120
5
Facility 5
SC AVG 13.7
Rank #14 / 119
5.0
Facility 5.0
SC AVG 3.4
Rank #99 / 119
158--Janelle Shaw
$6.6MFiscal year ending 12/2023
Facility $6.6MFiscal year ending 12/2023
SC AVG $12.1M
Rank #100 / 113
$3.2MFiscal year ending 12/2023
Facility $3.2MFiscal year ending 12/2023
SC AVG $7.3M
Rank #105 / 113
48.3%Fiscal year ending 12/2023
Facility 48.3%Fiscal year ending 12/2023
SC AVG 62.8%
Rank #97 / 113
425415
Rosecrest Community Residential Care
NH
AL
IL
MC
SNF
Inman
45
Facility 45
SC AVG 90
Rank #268 / 304
--
4.58
Facility 4.58
SC AVG 4.00
Rank #28 / 117
-43%+15%
$0
Facility $0
SC AVG $34.8k
Rank #1 / 120
4
Facility 4
SC AVG 13.7
Rank #8 / 119
2.0
Facility 2.0
SC AVG 3.4
Rank #14 / 119
-56--Lutheran Homes Of South Carolina Inc
$8.5MFiscal year ending 09/2023
Facility $8.5MFiscal year ending 09/2023
SC AVG $12.1M
Rank #79 / 113
$5.3MFiscal year ending 09/2023
Facility $5.3MFiscal year ending 09/2023
SC AVG $7.3M
Rank #84 / 113
62%Fiscal year ending 09/2023
Facility 62%Fiscal year ending 09/2023
SC AVG 62.8%
Rank #48 / 113
425376
Ashley River Healthcare
NH
SNF
Charleston (Sandhurst)
125
Facility 125
SC AVG 90
Rank #55 / 304
82.1%
Facility 82.1%
SC AVG 86.4%
Rank #73 / 92
-5%
3.64
Facility 3.64
SC AVG 4.00
Rank #76 / 117
-41%-9%
$46.2k
Facility $46.2k
SC AVG $34.8k
Rank #112 / 120
27
Facility 27
SC AVG 13.7
Rank #111 / 119
5.4
Facility 5.4
SC AVG 3.4
Rank #107 / 119
3103-
45
Facility 45
SC AVG 34
Rank #58 / 221
-
$8.9MFiscal year ending 12/2023
Facility $8.9MFiscal year ending 12/2023
SC AVG $12.1M
Rank #73 / 113
$5.8MFiscal year ending 12/2023
Facility $5.8MFiscal year ending 12/2023
SC AVG $7.3M
Rank #74 / 113
65.2%Fiscal year ending 12/2023
Facility 65.2%Fiscal year ending 12/2023
SC AVG 62.8%
Rank #37 / 113
425362
Kempton of Charleston
NH
AL
MC
SNF
Charleston
89
Facility 89
SC AVG 90
Rank #140 / 304
--
4.63
Facility 4.63
SC AVG 4.00
Rank #28 / 117
+8%+16%
$6.0k
Facility $6.0k
SC AVG $34.8k
Rank #61 / 120
4
Facility 4
SC AVG 13.7
Rank #8 / 119
2.0
Facility 2.0
SC AVG 3.4
Rank #14 / 119
-20--Spring Street Senior Housing Opco LLC---425418
Presbyterian Communities of South Carolina-Clinton
NH
AL
IL
MC
RC
SNF
Clinton
43
Facility 43
SC AVG 90
Rank #281 / 304
--- - --
$0
Facility $0
SC AVG $34.8k
Rank #1 / 120
1
Facility 1
SC AVG 13.7
Rank #1 / 119
1.0
Facility 1.0
SC AVG 3.4
Rank #1 / 119
-4--Presbyterian Communities Of South Carolina
$6.0MFiscal year ending 12/2023
Facility $6.0MFiscal year ending 12/2023
SC AVG $12.1M
Rank #102 / 113
$3.7MFiscal year ending 12/2023
Facility $3.7MFiscal year ending 12/2023
SC AVG $7.3M
Rank #103 / 113
61.2%Fiscal year ending 12/2023
Facility 61.2%Fiscal year ending 12/2023
SC AVG 62.8%
Rank #51 / 113
425393
Nhc Healthcare Laurens
NH
HC
HOS
SNF
Ext Laurens
176
Facility 176
SC AVG 90
Rank #10 / 304
91.5%
Facility 91.5%
SC AVG 86.4%
Rank #49 / 92
+6%
4.30
Facility 4.30
SC AVG 4.00
Rank #37 / 117
+62%+8%
$0
Facility $0
SC AVG $34.8k
Rank #1 / 120
7
Facility 7
SC AVG 13.7
Rank #29 / 119
1.8
Facility 1.8
SC AVG 3.4
Rank #13 / 119
2161A+-Rickie Shearer
$13.1MFiscal year ending 12/2023
Facility $13.1MFiscal year ending 12/2023
SC AVG $12.1M
Rank #33 / 113
$9.9MFiscal year ending 12/2023
Facility $9.9MFiscal year ending 12/2023
SC AVG $7.3M
Rank #17 / 113
75.8%Fiscal year ending 12/2023
Facility 75.8%Fiscal year ending 12/2023
SC AVG 62.8%
Rank #17 / 113
425054
Palmetto Patriots Home
NH
SNF
Gaffney
104
Facility 104
SC AVG 90
Rank #103 / 304
--
7.46
Facility 7.46
SC AVG 4.00
Rank #1 / 117
-23%+87%
$30.1k
Facility $30.1k
SC AVG $34.8k
Rank #106 / 120
---50--South Carolina Department Of Veterans Affairs---425003

Rank badges are statewide: each community is ranked against every SC community we track that reports that metric, not just the 133 on this page.

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Lakes at Litchfield Assisted Living

120 Lakes At Litchfield Dr, Pawleys Island, SC 29585-5515
Overview of Lakes at Litchfield Assisted Living

Serving residents in Pawleys Island, South Carolina, Lakes at Litchfield Assisted Living is an assisted living community operated by Litchfield Retirement LLC and administered by Joseph Mason. The 79-bed community has been serving the area for 27 years. It has a strong occupancy of 87%. Medicare and private pay are accepted, giving families coverage options to explore with admissions.

The community mainly serves active and engaged residents. There’s a specific program and schedule built around that lifestyle. Short-term rehabilitation and respite care are available alongside full-time assisted living. This makes the community a flexible option for families whose needs may change over time.

Total nurse staffing averages 4 hours and 50 minutes per resident each day. Also, 24-hour staffing and daily assistance are available.

Residents stay an average of 43 days, including short-stay rehabilitation clients and longer-term assisted living residents. With this population, the community can serve people recovering from health events as well as those who need ongoing support with daily activities, as they stay as independent as possible.

Families considering Lakes at Litchfield Assisted Living should take a tour of the community to see how the daily schedule, activity programs, and care services support residents’ needs and lifestyles.

Contact Lakes at Litchfield Assisted Living

Overview of The Palms at Florence

Located on Pamplico Hwy in Florence, South Carolina, The Palms at Florence is a skilled nursing home operated by Commander Operator LLC, owned by Commander Operator Holdco, LLC, and administered by Melissa Boatwright. The community accepts Medicare, Medicaid, and private pay, giving families several ways to cover both short-term rehabilitation and longer-term nursing care.

With 163 beds, this is a larger nursing home. It runs close to full, with occupancy around 94%. That kind of steady occupancy often reflects consistent local demand and an established presence in the Florence care community. Clinically, the home covers a broad range of post-acute and long-term needs. It offers skilled nursing alongside subacute rehabilitation, restorative care, and pain management. Memory care and respite stays are also available for residents who need it for a shorter period.

Nursing support is a central part of daily life here. Total nursing care averages about 4 hours and 8 minutes per resident daily, and it’s split across registered nurses, licensed nurses, and nurse aides. That level of hands-on coverage matters most for residents recovering from a hospital stay or managing more complex medical needs.

Residents can choose from private and semi-private room options, and every room comes with cable and Wi-Fi. Dining is handled by an on-staff dietitian who oversees the fine dining program. An on-staff activities director leads recreation and programming for residents. Guest spaces and meeting rooms give visiting family a place to gather. The setting is built around consistent nursing care combined with daily comforts.

Contact The Palms at Florence

Overview of The Reserve Healthcare and Rehabilitation

Operated by Railroad Crossing Healthcare Inc under the administration of Gregory Hicks, Jr. , The Reserve Healthcare and Rehabilitation is a skilled nursing home in Hanahan, South Carolina. The 135-bed home is located on Eagle Landing Boulevard. Medicare, Medicaid, and private pay are accepted, giving families several ways to cover short-term rehabilitation and longer-term nursing care. Residents stay an average of 74 days, including post-acute rehabilitation and ongoing nursing care needs.

Rehabilitation services are a major focus of the facility. In-house therapy is available for residents recovering from hospitalization, surgery, and other acute health events.

Nurse staffing averages 3 hours and 35 minutes per resident each day. Registered nurses provide 32 minutes of direct care daily, nurse aides contribute 1 hour and 44 minutes, and licensed practical nurses provide 1 hour and 7 minutes. This staffing level provides 24-hour nursing coverage and hands-on care for residents with medical and recovery needs. The facility has an occupancy rate of 62%, and it houses 84 residents.

State inspections have reviewed the facility’s operations and care practices over the past several years. These are important parts of daily operations in a nursing home. Families considering the facility should ask about inspection findings through the state regulator to understand any areas of focus.

Contact The Reserve Healthcare and Rehabilitation

Overview of Sprenger Healthcare of Bluffton

Located in Okatie, South Carolina, Sprenger Healthcare of Bluffton is a nursing home in Beaufort County, along the Bluffton–Hilton Head corridor. The community offers skilled nursing, assisted living, independent living, memory care, and respite services. Sprenger Healthcare of Bluffton, Inc. operates the facility. Janelle Shaw owns it, while Teresa Dixon serves as administrator. Medicare and private pay are accepted, giving families more than one way to cover care.

The 60-bed community is currently near full capacity, with an occupancy rate of 91%. Residents stay an average of about 33 days, a pattern consistent with short-term rehabilitation stays. Total nursing care averages 3 hours and 50 minutes per resident daily. Registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, and nurse aides share that coverage. This hands-on staffing supports residents recovering from surgery, a hospital stay, or an acute illness.

Clinical services focus mainly on short-term recovery. On-site therapies, outpatient therapy, and nurse practitioner services support skilled nursing and rehabilitation. State and federal inspections have often focused on pharmacy services and infection control practices. The facility has addressed and corrected those areas over time. Families touring the community can ask how staff manage these processes.

Residents have access to chef-designed menus based on local cuisine, and meals are served in elegant dining rooms with a restaurant-style setting. Rehabilitation therapies, nursing coverage, and dining services support the community’s short-stay recovery role. Longer-term nursing and memory care are also available for residents who need them.

Contact Sprenger Healthcare of Bluffton

Overview of Rosecrest Community Residential Care

Rosecrest Community Residential Care is a continuing care retirement community in Inman, South Carolina, in Spartanburg County, offering independent living, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing under one roof. The community is owned and operated by Lutheran Homes of South Carolina Inc., with Rebecca Mccurry serving as administrator. That full continuum lets residents move between levels of care without relocating as their needs change over time.

The community has 45 beds and recent occupancy of 64.3 percent, leaving room across its care levels. The average length of stay is about 39 days, reflecting a mix of shorter, post-acute residents and those receiving longer-term care. Respite care is also available for families who need a temporary stay option.

Total nursing care per resident averages 5 hours and 3 minutes each day. That total includes 32 minutes of registered nurse time, 1 hour and 15 minutes of licensed practical nurse care, and 2 hours and 19 minutes of nurse aide support per resident daily. Rehabilitation services round out the clinical program, supporting residents recovering from illness, injury, or a hospital stay.

State inspections here have most often touched on pharmacy practices, nutrition, and quality of care documentation. Findings in those areas were addressed and corrected according to the facility’s inspection record.

Rosecrest maintains a dedicated Alzheimer’s unit within its memory care program. Amenities include a wellness center with LifeTrail fitness equipment, a walking trail, a library, a business center, on-site laundry with dry cleaning, and a beauty shop and barber. Community programming rounds out day-to-day life alongside the rehabilitation and nursing services already in place.

The community accepts Medicare and private pay, giving families more than one route to help cover the cost of care. Families touring Rosecrest may want to ask how the memory care unit is staffed day to day.

Contact Rosecrest Community Residential Care

Overview of Ashley River Healthcare

Ashley River Healthcare is a well-recognized nursing home in Charleston, SC, offering rehabilitation and skilled nursing. The community ensures older adults are treated well in its supportive and home-like setting. With 24-hour care, recreational opportunities, and therapies, residents experience a worry-free retirement. Through a holistic approach to care, the community strives to meet residents’ needs and preferences.

Ice cream socials, lectures, and local trips ensure residents can stay active and explore new interests. Top-notch rehabilitation equipment and cozy common areas ensure residents can rest and interact with their surroundings. Charleston Medical Associates, various restaurants, and a bus stop are available nearby, providing easy access to necessities and leisure. This nursing home is a trusted choice for senior living in South Carolina, especially with its high standards of care.

Contact Ashley River Healthcare

Overview of Kempton of Charleston

Kempton of Charleston is an 89-bed skilled nursing and rehabilitation community in downtown Charleston, South Carolina. It offers nursing home care, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing, functioning as a full continuum of care within a Continuing Care Retirement Community, so residents can move between levels of support without leaving the campus. The community is operated by Spring Street Senior Housing Opco LLC and administered by Joe Carr.

Nursing coverage is a defining feature of the home. Registered nurses average 1 hour and 23 minutes per resident each day, and total nursing care runs about 4 hours and 26 minutes per resident daily, with licensed practical nurses contributing roughly an hour and nurse aides adding about 2 hours and 30 minutes. That combination points to a strong clinical presence supporting residents around the clock.

Rehabilitation is a core part of the program, with physical and speech therapy available on a contracted basis for residents recovering from surgery, illness, or hospitalization. The average Medicare stay runs about 19 days, reflecting a focus on short-term, post-acute recovery, while residents receiving assisted living or memory care tend to stay considerably longer. A dedicated Alzheimer’s unit supports residents who need memory care in a more structured setting. Current occupancy sits at 61 percent, which suggests availability for families exploring their options now.

State and federal inspectors have most often focused on pharmacy administration, nutrition, and infection control practices, with identified issues addressed and corrected. Day-to-day life is rounded out by distinctive dining service, organized life enrichment programming, and access to outdoor spaces for residents and visiting family. Families weighing a short-term rehab stay against longer-term memory or assisted living care may want to ask how Kempton structures the transition between those levels of service.

Contact Kempton of Charleston

Overview of Presbyterian Communities of South Carolina-Clinton

Presbyterian Communities of South Carolina-Clinton is a continuing care retirement community in Clinton, South Carolina, offering nursing home, assisted living, independent living, memory care, respite, and skilled nursing services at 801 Musgrove St. The community is operated by Presbyterian Communities of South Carolina and administered by Tamieka Hawkins. With 43 beds, it is a moderately sized setting that can support close staff attention alongside shared programming. It accepts Medicare and private pay, giving families more than one route to cover a stay.

Clinical care here centers on short-term rehabilitation, with respite stays and around-the-clock staffing supporting residents recovering from a hospital stay or surgery. Memory care is delivered through a dedicated Alzheimer’s unit, giving families a distinct option for residents living with dementia. Because the community spans multiple levels of care under one roof, residents can move between rehab, memory care, and longer-term nursing support without changing address.

Occupancy runs around 73 percent, leaving some room for new residents. The average length of stay is 105 days, which points to a community oriented more toward post-acute and transitional rehab than toward permanent residence. That rhythm fits families who need a bridge between a hospital discharge and a return home, or a temporary respite stay while a primary caregiver is away.

Life enrichment programming and volunteer opportunities give residents ways to stay engaged, and an active resident council gives residents a regular voice in community policies and daily life. State inspections here have most often centered on documentation and oversight tied to resident safety, an area that was addressed and corrected, with no financial penalties on record.

Contact Presbyterian Communities of South Carolina-Clinton

Overview of Nhc Healthcare Laurens

Located in the Laurens area of South Carolina, Nhc Healthcare Laurens is a skilled nursing home operated by NHC Healthcare/Laurens LLC under the administration of Rickie L. Families can choose from Medicare, Medicaid, and private pay to arrange care for both short-term rehabilitation and ongoing nursing support. With 176 beds and an occupancy rate of 86%, it is a substantial community that can accommodate new admissions.

The home focuses on rehabilitation and short-term recovery. Dedicated rehabilitation services, respite care, and specialized short-term rehabilitation programs are available for residents recovering from surgery, illness, or a hospital stay.

Residents stay an average of 106 days. The population here is mostly on post-acute recovery, along with some longer-term placements. The facility has been operating for 26 years, so it has established continuity in the local area.

Staffing support is provided across the clinical spectrum. Total nurse staffing averages 4 hours per resident each day. Residents are supported by registered nurses, nurse aides, and licensed practical nurses. The level of hands-on support meets the medical needs of residents in a skilled nursing setting. The home also offers home care and hospice services to provide additional support for families managing complex care transitions.

Residents have access to amenities for both comfort and quality of life. These include high-speed wireless internet, cable television in their rooms, housekeeping and laundry services, and an on-site beauty and barber shop. In the dining room, meals are prepared by a chef and reviewed by a dietitian to meet individual nutritional needs. Residents can access an outdoor relaxation area and a daily activities and entertainment program to stay engaged.

Contact Nhc Healthcare Laurens

Overview of Palmetto Patriots Home

Operated by the South Carolina Department of Veterans Affairs under the administration of Christopher Palmer, Palmetto Patriots Home is a skilled nursing facility in Gaffney, South Carolina. The 104-bed home serves veterans and their families who need nursing care and rehabilitation services. All resident rooms are private, so residents have their own space and access to large shared living areas.

The facility provides comprehensive nursing care and rehabilitation services. Residents receive an average of 7 hours and 2 minutes of nursing care each day. Registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, nurse aides, and activity therapists work together around the clock to support residents. The level of staffing helps residents recovering from illness or injury and those managing ongoing health conditions.

Rehabilitation services are a major part of the home’s care program. Licensed therapists provide therapy based on each resident’s needs. Recreational and therapeutic activities are also available for recovery, participation, and daily engagement. An on-site pharmacy is staffed by a full-time licensed pharmacist to ensure medications are managed safely and efficiently.

Meals are prepared on site, and the dietary team accommodates special diets ordered by physicians. Snacks are available throughout the day. Additional services include a beauty and barber shop, laundry services, and transportation. These services help support daily comfort and reduce the need for outside appointments whenever possible.

Contact Palmetto Patriots Home

Ranking Methodology

How we rank these nursing homes

Every nursing home above is evaluated across five weighted categories using CMS data including Care Compare, Payroll-Based Journal, and Medicare Cost Reports.

  • CMS data
  • 5 weighted categories
  • Updated quarterly
Full methodology

Weighting overview

  • 35%
    Care Quality
  • 20%
    Staffing
  • 20%
    Regulatory
  • 20%
    Operational
  • 5%
    Environment
01

Care Quality 35%

The largest single share of every ranking. CMS star ratings and quality measures that reflect actual care delivered to residents.

  • Includes
  • Overall Rating
  • Health Inspection
  • QM Rating
  • Long-Stay QM
  • Short-Stay QM
02

Staffing Adequacy 20%

The strongest predictor of resident outcomes. Volume and stability of nursing care, drawn from CMS Payroll-Based Journal.

  • Includes
  • Nurse Hrs/Res/Day
  • RN vs State
  • Total Nurse Staff Hrs vs State
  • RN Turnover
03

Regulatory & Safety Record 20%

Inspection patterns that star ratings can mask. We weight per-inspection rates more heavily than raw counts.

  • Includes
  • Citations
  • Citations/Inspection
  • Severe Citations
  • Fines
  • Accreditations
04

Operational & Financial Stability 20%

Stable operations and sound finances are leading indicators of consistent care over time.

  • Includes
  • Occupancy vs State
  • Avg Length of Stay
  • Revenue
  • Payroll %
  • Years in Operation
  • Admin Tenure
05

Environment & Accessibility 5%

Context that matters to families but doesn't directly measure clinical care. Weighted lower for nursing homes than for assisted or independent living.

  • Includes
  • Walk Score
  • BBB Rating
No paid rankings Facilities cannot pay to influence placement.
How we're paid: If we help you find a home and you move in, that home may pay us a referral fee. This never affects where they rank or what you pay. Learn more
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Frequently Asked Questions about Nursing Homes in South Carolina

What's the difference between assisted living and a nursing home in South Carolina?

Assisted living in South Carolina is a residential model focused on housing, hospitality, and help with daily activities. Nursing homes (skilled nursing facilities) provide 24/7 medical care from licensed nurses for residents with significant health needs, and are regulated more strictly under both state and federal CMS rules.

Does South Carolina Medicaid cover nursing home care?

Yes — South Carolina Medicaid covers nursing home care for residents who meet income, asset, and medical-need eligibility requirements. Most CMS-certified nursing homes accept Medicaid as a primary payer once long-term-care eligibility is established.

What is nursing home care?

Nursing homes (also called skilled nursing facilities) provide 24/7 medical care from licensed nurses, rehabilitation services, and long-term custodial care for residents with significant health or functional needs.

How many nursing homes are listed on this page?

This page features 133 nursing homes in South Carolina. Use the filters and comparison tools above to compare ratings, amenities, and pricing.

How do I choose the right nursing home in South Carolina?

Start by matching the level of care offered to the resident's current and anticipated needs, then compare licensing status, staff-to-resident ratios, recent inspection results, and pricing. Tour at least two or three communities in South Carolina, talk to current residents and families, and confirm what is included in the base rate versus billed as add-on services.

What should I look for when visiting nursing homes in South Carolina?

Pay attention to staff interactions with residents, cleanliness and odor, food quality at meal times, the activity calendar, and how questions about pricing and care plans are answered. Ask to see the most recent state inspection report, the move-out / level-of-care-change policy, and a sample monthly bill that lists every fee.