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Consider Beaufort SC. Very historic. Wasn't wrecked by General Sherman because it was occupied by Union officers. Very picturesque, walk around town center. But the main advantage is that it is thriving economically for several reasons including the nearby military installations. Really beautiful,active waterfront and harbor downtown, with atlantic beaches about 20 miles away. Mayberry is nice for a week or two but there needs to be some other things too. Google it!
This is not hard and fast, but generally your best places to live if looking for small town, but decent government services, restaurants, entertainment, shopping, etc. is going to be in towns with 10,000 plus people.
Towns with populations of 5,000 or less have very little to offer unless they are butted up against a big city. Also, people tend to be more insular-not one of "us" unless born here. I know I live in one.
BTW, Fort Mill IS a suburb of Charlotte. Tremendous residential growth along with the concurrent high prices and traffic, but lots of places to eat, shop and live.
Allendale is one of poorest counties in state. Situation was so bad there that the state had to take over the county school system-only time it has ever happened.
Contact the state tourism office for information. Could specifically ask for info. on Heritage Corridors. They are along western side of state from Charleston to Walhalla.