Growing Communities Around Lake Murray

by Nima Sherpa

Growing Communities Around Lake Murray

Lake Murray has long been one of South Carolina’s most desirable lakefront areas. With miles of shoreline, scenic views, and great amenities, it continues to attract families, retirees, and commuters alike. Over recent years, several communities around Lake Murray have accelerated in growth new subdivisions, infrastructure, and investment are changing the landscape. Here are five of the fastest-growing communities you should know about, why they’re expanding, and what makes them attractive.

1. Chapin, SC

What’s Driving Growth

Chapin is often called the “Capital of Lake Murray.” It offers small-town charm but with increasing new development.
The Lake Murray Business Park (mixed-use development) is under construction, bringing office, retail, and restaurant spaces closer to where people live. Since 2016, 700-plus new home lots have been added between Chapin and Lake Murray, showing strong demand.

What Makes It Appealing

Top-rated schools, especially in Lexington County.
The balance of lake access and natural beauty many neighborhoods offer lake views and waterfront lots.
Community planning: efforts are underway via “Envision Chapin” to manage growth in ways that preserve character.

2. Lexington, SC

What’s Driving Growth

As one of the more established towns around Lake Murray, Lexington has seen rapid growth due to its amenities, shopping, schools, and proximity to Columbia. Residential development continues expanding, including new subdivisions and homes planned along the lake shore and its periphery.

What Makes It Appealing

Broad variety in housing: from historic neighborhoods to newer homes and lake-view possibilities.
Strong local infrastructure, good shopping/dining, and relative ease of commute to Columbia.

3. Irmo / Ballentine Area

What’s Driving Growth

Irmo and Ballentine are increasingly popular for families desiring suburban amenities, good schools, and closeness to the lake without the premium of waterfront property.
The area is seeing new commercial and residential development which supports local amenities, reducing the need to travel for everyday needs.

What Makes It Appealing

It’s scenic, quieter, yet well-connected to city life.
Amenities like parks, trails, and natural areas (Harbison State Forest etc.) offer recreational value.

At The Sherpa Group, we stay tuned to what’s new new subdivisions, amenity updates, school zones so that our clients can make informed decisions. If you’re thinking about moving, investing, or selling in the Lake Murray area, we’d love to help you explore your best options. Reach out when you’re ready.