Photo Credit: Sean Pavone
There’s no denying that Charleston is a wonderful place to live, work, and visit. For the past few years, publication after publication has named Charleston things like “Best City in the US,” one of “The South’s Friendliest Cities,” and one of “The Best Cities to Retire to in the US.”
With accolades like those, it’s no wonder the real estate market is booming in The Holy City! Since many of our agents have been living in Charleston for decades (or even their whole lives), we wanted to give you the inside scoop on what it’s really like living in Charleston.
About Charleston
Charleston is a port city in the Lowcountry of South Carolina. Perched on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, Charleston is known for its cobblestone streets, antebellum houses, and waterfront park. According to a 2023 census, this historic city is home to 155,369 residents who live across the 156.6 square miles that Charleston spans.
The location of Charleston is ideal for commuters and anyone wanting to explore the American South on fun-packed day trips. Atlanta, GA, is just one hour by plane; the stunning white sands of Folly Beach and Mount Pleasant are a 30-minute drive; the vacation destination of Myrtle Beach (near the North Carolina state border) is 2.5 hours by car, and Columbia, the cultural heart of South Carolina, can be reached in less than two hours.
Photo Credit: Sharkshock
Small City Feel, Big City Amenities
Charleston oozes with the small-town charm of yore that so many people yearn for. Neighbors know each other by name, people are kind to strangers, and things move at a slower pace than in the city. That’s a wonderful feeling for those raising a family or looking to retire in an idyllic setting.
But Charleston also has a number of city perks, such as a state-of-the-art concert venue, a lively arts and cultural scene, an international airport, and plenty of visiting celebrities. It’s the best of both worlds!
Photo Credit: Grindstone Media Group
Live Among Charleston’s Rich History
Charleston was established in 1670, so it’s been through a lot: British rule, the struggle for American independence, the birth of a new nation, the war between the states, civil rights, and the recent Charleston 9 tragedy. As frequently painful as Charleston’s history can be, there’s no denying its importance and depth.
The downtown Charleston Historic District is home to buildings, homes, and features that are hundreds of years old. Downtown Charleston real estate in the historic district is highly sought after because of its convenience of living (shops and restaurants are often within walking distance) and high investment potential. From Fort Sumter to the Angel Oak tree, living in Charleston is like being immersed in history every single day.
Charleston Climate and Weather
Charleston’s subtropical climate means that you can expect hot and steamy summers and comfortably mild winters. The city’s position off the Atlantic coast means that humidity is relatively high and ranges from 50% to 65%, depending on the time of year.
Hurricane Season in Charleston
The hurricane season runs from June to November, and Charleston residents should be aware of developing storms throughout the season and take all necessary precautions. On the plus side, hurricane season doesn’t tend to be as strong as in more southern coastal towns.
Cost of Living in Charleston
The cost of living in Charleston is in line with the national average, making it a very attractive option for those who are looking to move to a good size city without compromising on living standards. Home prices are also aligned with national averages, and transportation comes in at 9% cheaper, which is ideal for anyone looking for an affordable base to commute from.
Charleston Safety
Charleston is a safe place to live and is ranked safer than 14% of U.S. cities. The violent crime rate is less than 5 per 1,000 residents, meaning you can sleep soundly at night knowing you’ve chosen a safe place to live. Walking in the downtown area is generally considered to be safe. However, caution is advised, as it is in any large city.
Charleston Healthcare
Overall, South Carolina ranks 36th out of the 50 states in terms of healthcare quality, access, and outcomes. Two of America’s best 250 hospitals — Summerville Medical Center and Trident Medical Center — are both located here, meaning that residents have good access to excellent healthcare.
Charleston Job Market
Charleston’s robust job market is a major draw for anyone looking to relocate to the Lowcountry. The city’s tech industry is booming, and sales, marketing, and advertising roles are plentiful. The tourist industry is also thriving, and service and hospitality industries are major employers in the city, and the high number of schools, colleges, and universities also make Charleston an attractive option for academics seeking new roles. Aviation is another big industry because the production of the 787 Dreamliner happens in the nearby city of Boeing. There is also always the option of working remotely in South Carolina for an out-of-state company via a Professional Employer Organization (PEO)
Charleston Schools
There are many excellent schools in the Charleston area, with both public and private options available. Students at every stage of their schooling can enjoy a top-tier education, from preschool to high school.
There are also over a dozen public and private colleges and universities located in Charleson, including the College of Charleston. The Citadel, one of the country’s top military institutions, is also located here. Read more about Charleston County’s top schools here.
Things to Do in Charleston
Photo Credit: Rhonda Kingen Photography
There's really so many great things to do in Charleston. From stunning beaches to a fantastic foodie scene, residents certainly don't get bored living here.
Charleston’s Plentiful Outdoor Activities
Those looking for more extreme sports will find trampoline gyms, zip lines, adventure ropes courses, and other activities to get one’s blood pumping. One thing’s for sure: There’s no shortage of things to do in Charleston!
Photo Credit: sweet marshmallow
Award-Winning Chefs, Restaurants, and Nightlife
The culinary scene in Charleston is on par with that of New York City or L.A. in that its restaurants and bars are constantly bringing home accolades. 12 of them are James Beard Award winners, and there are many more nominees in the area.
In addition to critical success, Charleston’s best restaurants are extremely popular with locals and tourists, and many spots will be just as packed on a Monday night as on a Friday night. Whether you’re craving shrimp and grits, sushi, pizza, tacos, or even pierogies, Charleston has a restaurant ready to tickle every foodie's taste buds!
Upper King Street is a popular place for drinking and dining, but you’ll find charming neighborhood cafes and wine bars in many parts of the city.
Enjoy Some Retail Therapy
Charleston is a shopper’s paradise, and you’ll find an abundance of top brands, independent boutiques, and modern malls in and around the city. Head to North Charleston for big savings on popular brands at Tanger Outlet Center, Mt. Pleasant Towne Center for a day of shopping and dining, or Kiawah Island to browse 30 stylish shops at Freshfields Village.
The Pros and Cons of Living in Charleston
Buying your dream home in Charleston is a big decision with lots to consider. To help you make the decision, we’ve narrowed down the pros and cons of living in Charleston:
Charleston Pros:
- Southern hospitality
- Pleasant weather year-round
- Family-friendly
- Superb food and drink scene
- Living costs are in line with the national average
- Ideal for lovers of the great outdoors
- Rich history
Charleston Cons:
- Threat of hurricanes
- Safety scores aren’t as high as in other U.S. cities
- Summers can be very hot and humid
Ready to Move to Charleston SC?
Looking for Charleston homes for sale? Whether you’re looking to join the full-time Charlestonians or trying to establish an investment property in one of the fastest-growing cities in the country, our Charleston real estate agents are here to help you every step of the way!
Featured Image Credit: Sean Pavone