Why I Chose Lexington, South Carolina to Raise My Family - Ronnie Michel

When I tell people that I grew up in Los Angeles, spent time in New York City, and then decided to settle down in Lexington, South Carolina, I usually get the same reaction: “That’s a big change!” And they’re right, it was a huge shift. But for me and my wife, it was the best decision we’ve ever made.

For my wife, this move was also a homecoming, she grew up here in Lexington. Coming back to her hometown meant reconnecting with family and community, while for me, it was the chance to experience small-town life for the first time. After years of big-city living, we were ready for something different. We wanted a place where we could raise our kids surrounded by family, community, and a slower pace of life. Lexington checked all of those boxes, and more.

From Fast-Paced Cities to a Slower Southern Lifestyle

In LA and NYC, everything is nonstop, traffic, schedules, noise. It’s exciting, but after a while, we realized it wasn’t the lifestyle we wanted for our family. In Lexington, things are different. People wave when you drive by, neighbors stop to chat, and weekends aren’t swallowed by long commutes. Instead, our days are spent enjoying time with family and friends, making memories on the lake, taking weekend getaways, and slowing down enough to appreciate the little moments.

Lake Murray: Where We Spend Our Best Days

One of the biggest reasons we fell in love with this area is Lake Murray. Having 50,000 acres of water right here changes the way you live. We’ve spent countless evenings watching the sun set over the water, and summer weekends almost always include boating or swimming. It’s more than just a beautiful lake, it’s a lifestyle that brings families and friends together.

A Central Location with Endless Possibilities

Another reason I love living in Lexington is how centrally located it is. While we enjoy the slower pace here, it’s also amazing how much is just a short drive away. We can be in Charleston for a weekend on the coast, or head to Charlotte for a city getaway. The beaches are an easy drive, Atlanta isn’t too far, and even Disney World is manageable by car. Lexington gives us the best of both worlds, peaceful everyday living with quick access to some of the Southeast’s most exciting destinations.

Why Lexington Feels Like the Perfect Fit

For me personally, Lexington offered something I had been wanting for a long time, balance. I’ve been able to grow a career I love in real estate while also having the time and space to be present with my family. It’s rare to find a place that supports both personal and professional growth, but Lexington does that.

If you’re thinking about moving to South Carolina, I can tell you firsthand, Lexington is a special place. Whether you’re drawn to Lake Murray, the schools, the central location, or simply the welcoming lifestyle, this town has a way of making you feel at home fast.

Top Real Estate Team in South Carolina

Key Takeaways

  • The Slower Southern Lifestyle in South Carolina

  • Lake Murray is a big reason many move to The Midlands of South Carolina

  • The Midlands is a central location on the east coast

  • Lexington, SC is the perfect location for a family

Top agent in Lexington, SC

About Ronnie Michel

Originally from Los Angeles, Ronnie Michel spent time living in New York City before settling in Lexington, SC, in 2019. Drawn to the area's family-friendly atmosphere and the slower pace of life, Ronnie and his wife chose Lexington—her hometown—as the perfect place to raise their family.

Ronnie launched his real estate career in 2021 and quickly rose to prominence. In just four years, he has become one of the top agents in the area, earning the prestigious Top Producing Agent award on The Patrick O'Connor Team four years in a row. The Patrick O'Connor Team is the top-performing Coldwell Banker team across North and South Carolina, solidifying Ronnie’s reputation as a trusted expert in the market.

Ronnie specializes in assisting buyers and sellers at all price points. Whether you're purchasing your first home, upgrading to a dream property, or selling a home on beautiful Lake Murray, Ronnie is committed to delivering exceptional results. Having relocated himself, Ronnie has a unique ability to connect with out-of-state clients and guide them seamlessly through the process of moving to the area.

Serving Columbia, Lake Murray, and sought-after communities like Lexington and Chapin, Ronnie is known for his excellent communication, availability, and unwavering work ethic. His dedication to his clients has earned him a loyal following and continued success in the competitive real estate industry.

Learn more about Ronnie Michel

Top Real Estate Agent in the SC Midlands

Patrick O'Connor