Moving to Charleston, SC: The Ultimate Guide

Charleston, South Carolina is a city that is rich in history, culture, and charm. From its cobblestone streets and antebellum homes, to its award-winning restaurants and beautiful beaches, it is no wonder that more and more people are choosing to call Charleston their home. If you are considering a move to Charleston, then this guide is for you. In this article, we will provide you with everything you need to know about living in Charleston, from its cost of living, to its schools and neighborhoods, to its job market and culture.

Cost of Living in Charleston, SC

One of the biggest factors to consider when moving to a new city is the cost of living. In Charleston, the cost of living is higher than the national average, but it is still lower than many other popular cities in the South. According to Numbeo, the cost of living in Charleston is 16% higher than the national average. Housing costs in Charleston may seem affordable of you are coming form other coastal cities or high if you are moving from rural inland ares. 

Neighborhoods in Charleston, SC

Charleston has a variety of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm. Some of the most popular neighborhoods in Charleston include:

• Downtown Charleston: This is the heart of the city, and is home to many of Charleston's most popular attractions, such as the Battery, the Charleston Historic District, and the Market.

• Mount Pleasant: Mount Pleasant is a suburb of Charleston that is located just across the Cooper River from Downtown. It is a growing, family-friendly community that is known for its high-quality schools, parks, and recreational facilities.

• West Ashley: West Ashley is a suburb of Charleston that is located just west of the city center. It is a growing community with more affordable housing, restaurants, shopping, and a few hip social scene for younger adults.  

• Daniel Island: an Upscale Community designed to feel like small town America.  It is well planned with an beautiful waterfront district with restaurants and walking trails.  It is home to the Daniel Island Club, one of Charleston's premiere country clubs.  

• Sullivans Island:  A very cozy beach town located on a barrier Island. Homes are very expensive although the beaches are public.  Sullivans Island has a quaint business district with informal dining and shopping.  

• Isle of Palms:  A family oriented Island makes this a great spot for a vacation or to purchase a 2nd home.  About 1/3 of the residents live on Isle of Palms year round.  The Wild Dunes Resort is located on the Northern End of the Island with 2 Golf Courses and a Marina.
• Folly Beach:  A flip flops very informal beach town.  It has a shabby chic appeal and is also known as a great spot to surf. 

Schools in Charleston, SC

Charleston is home to many high-quality public and private schools. Some of the best public schools in Charleston include:

• Mt. Pleasant School District: From K-12, these are some of the highest performing schools in the State as ranked by the SC Dept. of Education.

• Dorchester District 2: Located in and around Summerville, it is known for its strong academic programs, dedicated teachers, and supportive community.

• Academic Magnet: A public charter school in North Charleston was ranked the #2 best public school in the Nation in 2022 by US News and World Report. 

There are also many private schools in Charleston, including:

• Ashley Hall: This is a private all-girls school that is known for its strong academic programs, dedicated teachers, and supportive community.

• Porter-Gaud School: This is a private co-educational school that is known for its strong academic programs, dedicated teachers, and supportive community.

• Bishop England: A Catholic School located in the Heart of Daniel Island known for its rigerous

Job Market in Charleston, SC

Charleston is a growing city with a strong job market. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate in Charleston is lower than the national average. Some of the top industries in Charleston include:

• Tourism: Charleston is one of the top tourist destinations in the United States, and is home to many hotels, restaurants, and attractions.

• Military and Aerospace: Charleston is home to several aerospace companies, including Boeing and the Naval Information Warfare Center Atlantic, formerly SPAWAR.

• Manufacturing:  Several manufacturing companies are located in Charleston, including Volvo, Bosch, and Mercedes

• Healthcare: Charleston's top-rated hospitals include the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) and Roper St. Francis Healthcare systems. 

• Technology: Charleston is home to a growing technology industry, with companies like Benefitfocus and Blackbaud located in the area.

Culture and Lifestyle in Charleston, SC

Charleston is a city that is known for its rich history, culture, and southern hospitality. Some of the most popular cultural attractions in Charleston include:

• Charleston Museum: This is the oldest museum in the United States, and is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich history of Charleston and the Lowcountry.

• Charleston Music Hall: This is a venue that hosts a variety of musical acts, from classical music to rock and roll.

• Charleston Stage: This is a theater company that produces a variety of plays and musicals throughout the year.

• The Downtown Restaurant Scene: From Lowcountry and Farm to Table, to Asian fusion themed restaurants, Charleston is considered a top Foodie Destination. 

In addition to its cultural attractions, Charleston is also home to a variety of outdoor activities, including:

• Beaches: Charleston's beaches are located on Folly Beach, Isle of Palms, and Sullivan's Island.

• Parks: Some highlights are Hampton Park, the Battery, and Waterfront Park.

• Boating and Fishing: Charleston is a popular destination for boating and fishing, with numerous marinas and boat launches located throughout the area.

Conclusion

Charleston, SC is a city that is rich in history, culture, and charm. With its relatively affordable housing, high-quality schools, and strong job market, it is no wonder that more and more people are choosing to call Charleston their home. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, there is something for everyone in Charleston. So, if you are considering a move to Charleston, SC, then this guide is for you.

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