Living outside of Sumter? (Columbia, Camden: house, luxury, high schools)

[kimpm1]

I am considering a job offer in Sumter. From what I have read I don't think living in Sumter is a good idea. Are there any towns outside of/near Sumter that are considered nice? I have one child who will be in high school. Any advice is greatly appreciated!!

[anonymous]

I wouldn't say that the towns outside of Sumter are any nicer than Sumter itself. Unless you want to commute every day from Columbia (45 min), then living in Sumter is probably better than living in Dalzell, Mayesville, Wedgefield, Paxville, Pinewood, Rembert, or any other little crossroad towns. It really depends how far out in the woods that you're willing to live. Camden might be an option, but I wouldn't want to make the drive every day.

I'd recommend living on the northwest side of town, near Alice Dr, Wise Dr, Loring Mill Rd, Wilson Hall Rd, etc. As far as schools go, I'd send my kid to Wilson Hall, or maybe Sumter High. Sumter isn't a bad place to live, but it isn't for everyone. If you're used to being near a big city, you probably won't like it.

[Lulu11]

We moved to Camden after hearing about the high schools in Sumter County. Besides that, I was having a terrible time trying to find a house in Sumter that we liked. Both my children attended Camden High and I can't say I'm sorry about that decision. My husband's commute time was 25 minutes (Downtown Camden to north end of Shaw AFB). Camden is a small town though, so you have to be willing to trade the luxury of malls, etc.

[kat2k]

Sumter is the typical SC small town ... I suggest thoroughly looking at the city before doing anything concrete. Never really cared much for the area, I found it pretty run down in spots. There aren't many places around it except for rural country towns where there REALLY isn't anything, unless you're willing to commute. Like another poster said, it's not for everyone.