Living in Charleston, SC (8 Things You Need To Know)

From atop one of Charleston’s many rooftop eateries, a 360-degree sweep takes in a striking panorama: Historic neighborhoods throughout — home to majestic Civil War-era mansions — with more than a dozen steeples downtown and the Atlantic Ocean on the outskirts. In the middle of all of this? A booming job market, a thriving cultural and dining scene, and mild weather — everything that makes living in Charleston, SC, a year-round pleasure.

If you’re considering a move to Charleston, here’s a look at some facts you need to know, from the best neighborhoods and schools to the Lowcountry’s favorite beaches.

1. People Are Moving to Charleston, SC, Every Day

You can’t deny the fact that living in Charleston, SC, puts you in close proximity to some pretty sweet places. It’s only about a two-hour drive from South Carolina’s capital, Columbia, and two hours north of Savannah, Georgia. Atlanta is not too far, either, at four hours by car. And did we mention the 90 miles of coastline that stretches along Charleston’s Atlantic Ocean border? It’s one of the many reasons the city is a top vacation destination.

Spread across about 115 square miles and with a population near 159,300, Charleston is the largest city in South Carolina. Regionally, however, the Charleston metro area population is now close to 850,000 and marked a 5.7 percent growth rate between 2020 and 2024. The average age in Charleston, SC? That’s almost 39, with 35 percent of the population in the 20- 39-years-old range.

2. Charleston, South Carolina, Weather Is Fantastic — Until the Tropics Heat Up

Who wouldn’t want an average of 230 days of sunshine every year? And with temperatures averaging about 50°F in the winter to 80°F in the summer, the subtropical climate makes living in Charleston a dreamy prospect for outdoor lovers.

But when the tropics get steamy from June to September, the city can find itself in the path of a hurricane — just like every other Southeastern and Gulf Coast locale. For instance, the monster known as Hugo hit the Charleston area in 1989, and remnants of its impact still linger in certain parts of town. Fortunately, Hugo was the last major hurricane to make landfall in the state — though other (increasingly fierce) hurricanes and tropical storms have done considerable damage over the years.

Even when the tropics aren’t roiling, living in Charleston, SC, means your summer is going to be active when it comes to the weather. Afternoon storms are a regular occurrence, with seriously intense lightning and torrential rains. So given all that, is Charleston, SC, a good place to live? Look on the bright side: The “thunderboomers” are good for cooling off the sometimes sweltering summer days. Just don’t get caught outside in one!

Living in Charleston, SC, means beautiful beaches are just a quick drive away.  

3. You’ll Never Run Out of Things To Do Living in Charleston, SC

What’s it like living in Charleston, SC? For starters, the rich history of the city is alive and well, preserved in revered art institutions like the Charleston Museum and the International African American Museum, on guided tours, and merely by walking down the street. In the historic district, for example, you’ll find narrow cobblestone streets lined with upscale shops and restaurants. Wind your way to the neighborhood known as the Battery and you’ll find elegant Civil War-era mansions that tower above the waterfront on the stunning Rainbow Row, named for the homes’ vibrant colors.

Want more options? Here’s a quick look at our favorite must-do activities for people new to living in Charleston, South Carolina:

Charleston-Area Beaches

Sugar-soft sand and ocean waves are just a quick drive from downtown — and there are so many to choose from. Want a laid-back beach-town vibe? Folly Beach is popular with surfers, and you’ll find top-rated locally owned restaurants and bars within walking distance. For a more residential, less touristy environment, check out Sullivan’s Island. The Lowcountry favorite is home to the lighthouse known as the “Charleston Light,” standing guard on the beach to guide ships into Charleston Harbor.

King Street

Once the main drag in and out of town, King Street is now the heart of the city's fashion, dining, and arts scenes — what living in Charleston, SC, is all about. Dozens of boutique hotels — pricey, of course, reflecting the cost of living in Charleston, SC — offer luxurious digs for the tourists who flock to the district, and galleries, boutiques, and antique stores offer endless choices for window shopping. Don’t miss Blue Bicycle Books, a cozy nook featuring regional authors and rare finds.

As for restaurants, the vast, tasty, and always evolving King Street selection makes it nearly impossible to choose — from quick and easy take-out spots to elegant destination dining. Try the not-to-be-believed oyster bar at Delaney Oyster House, a true local treasure. And if you're looking for a leisurely late lunch after a day of retail therapy, duck off of King Street just a block to Le Farfalle, a neighborhood gem. Sit in the breezy courtyard and savor the chef's classic Italian cuisine — touched, of course, with a distinctive Charleston flavor.

Ghost Tours

In a city with as many churches (and cemeteries) as Charleston, there are bound to be spirits in the night — or at least that’s what the tour guides tell us. Believer or not, you’ll get a tour of the city — on foot, by carriage, or by bus — and an enlightening history lesson. And who knows? You might also get spooked.

From food tours to history tours (and ghost tours), there are plenty of opportunities to explore Charleston and learn more about the city and its past.
(Source: Bulldog Tours via Facebook)

Downtown History Tour

Same as above but with fewer ghost tales. Wear comfy shoes for this walk through what living in Charleston, SC, was like in yesteryear.

Parks and Recreation

Outdoor living is one of the keys to the city’s charm — and a big reason so many people are moving to Charleston, SC. Be sure to visit the South Carolina Aquarium, home to more than 5,000 creatures and host of special events and classes for sea-critter lovers. Another favorite destination is the 10-acre Waterfront Park overlooking the Cooper River and Charleston Harbor. There you’ll find the famed Pineapple Fountain, Charleston’s treasured monument symbolizing the southern hospitality Charlestonians are famous for.

Insider Tip: Not totally sold on Charleston? Southern cities are some of the fastest-growing destinations in the country. Check out the PODS Blog to find out what you need to know about other potential destinations, such as living in intown Atlanta neighborhoods, moving in Dallas (including tips for both to-and-from), and Nashville neighborhoods of note.

Charleston Dining

The world-class Charleston Wine + Food Festival draws thousands of guests annually in March. But every day of the year, Charleston’s dining scene attracts foodies — and hungry newbies — for some of the best cuisine in the country. In fact, locals insist visitors can’t leave town without sampling the Charleston-bred she-crab soup, shrimp and grits, and Planters Punch (created at downtown’s historic Planters Inn).

Fort Sumter National Monument

Living in Charleston, SC, puts you in the heart of history. Hop on a ferry to the site of the first shots of the Civil War, and take a tour with park rangers who know everything there is to know about the battleground, the soldiers and sailors, and the fort.

 

You’ll find an abundance of options for where to live in Charleston, SC, including unique and vibrant neighborhoods that offer something for everyone.

4. The Best Places To Live in Charleston, SC, Include Downtown, North Charleston, Johns Island, and More

It’s practically impossible to name all the best Charleston neighborhoods. But here are a few of our faves:

Downtown

What is it like living in Charleston, SC? Just go downtown and take it all in. Culturally rich with award-winning dining, art galleries, museums, and shopping within walking distance, downtown Charleston is a desirable — albeit pricey — neighborhood. Like most urban core areas, its eclecticism is what makes it vibrant, with College of Charleston students living on campus or in nearby apartments, affluent “Old Charleston'' families on the upscale blocks near the waterfront, and young professionals flocking to the rentals and condos throughout the city. The Charleston Airport is just 15 minutes west of downtown, making business trips easy as pie.

Check out downtown’s Upper King, where the Saturday Farmers Market takes over historic Marion Square with fresh produce, crafts, and other goodies. Other downtown neighborhoods to check out include South of Broad, where stunningly stately homes line elegant streets; the lively tourist attraction-filled Harleston Village; and the romantic streets of the French Quarter.

North Charleston

Known as Charleston’s “cousin,” this now-thriving city 10 miles north of downtown has become a destination all its own — and not just because the international airport is here.

Among North Charleston’s benefits: The housing market is a little more manageable, with the average home value at about $311,000. Rentals go for an average of around $1,450 per month for a one-bedroom.

And there’s plenty for residents to do, from events at the massive North Charleston Coliseum to the delightful hub of Park Circle, where dining and entertainment are flourishing at places like the Firefly Distillery, Charleston’s oldest (try the sweet-tea vodka). And don’t miss the High Water Festival — an annual celebration of music, Lowcountry cuisine, and local crafts under the live oaks of North Charleston’s Riverfront Park.

Newer neighborhoods are popping up on Johns Island to accommodate the influx of young families eager for an active lifestyle and easy access to downtown and the beaches.
(Source: Jennifer Packard Pratt via Facebook)

Johns Island

Families love the vibe of this barrier island bedroom community, just 20 minutes from the Downtown Charleston business center. Newer neighborhoods are popping up to accommodate the influx of young families eager for an active lifestyle, easy access to downtown, and a quick hop to the beaches. Housing costs are down more than 9.5 percent from last year — but still at a stiff $827,500 median sale price. As for rentals, the median cost for a one-bedroom is around $2,300.

When you visit Johns Island, be sure to check out the Angel Oak Tree, one of the largest and oldest trees east of the Mississippi River at 66½ feet tall and 28 feet around — and thought to be between 400 and 500 years old! And don’t leave without a stop at the Tattooed Moose for oyster roasts, live music, and excellent seafood and sandwiches.

Isle of Palms

One of many barrier islands along the South Carolina Coast, Isle of Palms is a picturesque destination just seven miles long and one mile wide. But don't let its modest size make you think there's not much to it. Resort-style living — along with several actual resorts — makes this a paradise for year-round residents and tourists alike. Homes are pricey, with an average home value at around $1.6M, and rentals averaging around $3,500 per month for a one-bedroom apartment.

Can’t do without the conveniences of suburban living? You'll find everything you need just across the bridge in Mount Pleasant. But with plenty of tasty local dining options (do not miss the Long Island Cafe, a 40-year island tradition with a scrumptious raw bar, locally sourced seafood dishes, and innovative takes on classic faves), boutique shopping, and endless recreation, there's really little reason to leave the island.

Mount Pleasant

This quaint burg lives up to its name. With an inviting, walkable town center and some of the best-rated schools in the area, Mount Pleasant, SC, is one of the most desirable areas in Charleston for families. Like most local communities, it’s close enough to downtown for a decent commute — but beware of rush-hour congestion around the heavily trafficked tourist attractions — and it’s only about 15 minutes to Isle of Palms, SC, one of the area’s loveliest beach destinations. Needless to say, Mount Pleasant homes are a little pricey, with an average home value of nearly $860,200 — up about half a percent from the previous year.

Wagener Terrace/Hampton Park

Families looking for a not-so-touristy neighborhood are discovering this old-school gem with homes dating from the 1940s and a friendly, welcoming charm. And instead of the density of Charleston’s downtown historic district homes, Wagener Terrace features a variety of styles, from Craftsman bungalows to cozy cottages. Prices are still on the higher side — the average home value is around $903,200, and rentals are going for an average of around $3,100 per month for a one-bedroom. But with a thriving neighborhood association — check out the annual Oyster Roast at the Lowndes Grove Plantation — and local restaurants like Rutledge Cab Co., which is equal parts hip and delicious, and situated in a former gas station. It’s also got Charleston’s only indoor charcoal grill.

5 More Top-Notch Neighborhoods, Including 2 Lowcountry Islands:

• Kiawah Island
• Summerville
• West Ashley
• James Island
• Hanahan

IT specialists, software engineers, and other tech pros living in Charleston, SC, can take advantage of a booming tech industry.

5. Tech and Hospitality Are Among the Hottest Fields in the Charleston Job Market

If you’re asking yourself, “Should I move to Charleston, SC?,” consider the job market. Charleston tied for the sixth-highest job growth in the nation for 2025, with a 4.1 percent jump over the previous year — and that’s consistently been the case for the past few years. Tech gigs, in particular, are booming. And hospitality jobs continue to increase as more tourists and new residents discover Charleston — boosting the need for more hotels and restaurants. The median household income is just under $94,000 with The Boeing Company, Roper St. Francis Healthcare, and Walmart as the top three private-sector employers.

6. Charleston Has Some of the Top Schools in South Carolina

From the Academic Magnet High School — ranked No. 14 in the nation by U.S. News and World Report — to Wando High School and the Charleston County School of the Arts, schools in the area consistently earn top marks, with highly dedicated teachers and administrators. Charleston County Schools is also the second-largest district in South Carolina, with a reported graduation rate of over 89 percent in 2024 — slightly above the state average.

7. You Definitely Need a Car To Get Around the Greater Charleston Region

Public transportation is not one of the charms of living in Charleston, SC. The Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority offers a free shuttle around downtown (DASH) and bus service around the city and outbound to some of the beaches. But living outside the city requires a car or the ability to use rideshare services. Of course, urbanites in neighborhoods like Upper King or Harleston Village can walk practically everywhere. But for the outlying areas, motorcars are a must.

8. Pros and Cons of Living in Charleston, SC: Pros Win

The pros are plentiful: A rich cultural scene, beautiful weather most of the year, and an above-average job market drawing new residents to the charms of Charleston. There are a few cons, however, to Charleston living. Among them: A not-great crime rate and a pricey housing market. And a big one: If you’re not a patient person, living in Charleston, SC — a tourist destination town — isn’t for you. Slow traffic in popular areas, restaurants crowded with out-of-towners (when your local dive gets “discovered” by newcomers and you can’t get a table, you’ll know), and jacked-up prices at the height of the season. Still, on balance, living in Charleston, SC, is pretty fabulous. Because after all, every grand dame has to have a few flaws, right?

9. Fun Fact: Lowcountry Love Bugs Honeymoon in Charleston Twice a Year

Nope, we’re not kidding. No longer is Charleston, SC, safe from these pesky critters. Once found only in the Sunshine State, these odd little bugs (which are actually a type of fly) have migrated northward during the past few decades into the entire Southeastern region, including South Carolina. The love bugs appear in late spring and fall, swarming in the thousands — but if you look closely, you’ll see that they travel mostly in connected pairs. The amorous insects are harmless but annoying as they splat onto cars during their biannual Lowcountry visits. And although love bugs aren’t poisonous in any way, bicyclists may want to keep their mouths closed during spring and fall rides along Charleston’s many scenic bike paths and trails. Yuck!

Some of the benefits of living in Charleston, SC, include a rich cultural scene, beautiful weather most of the year, and a thriving job market.

Living in Charleston, SC — FAQs

Q: Why do people love Charleston, SC?

A: Let us count the ways! We could start with the mild climate (don’t think about the threats from the tropics for now) and beautiful waterfront and nearby beaches. The city’s historic charm is another plus, with beautifully preserved antebellum homes, cobblestone streets, and landmarks like Fort Sumter to explore. Culturally, Charleston competes with much larger cities, with a thriving local arts scene and exciting festivals like Spoleto drawing international acclaim. The city has also emerged in the past decade as a major contender in the dining world, with amazing restaurants serving local classics from the Lowcountry and Atlantic Ocean and innovative takes on traditional favorites. We could go on.

Q: Is Charleston, SC, safe?

A: As much as the area has going for it, truth be told, crime is a bit higher here than in the rest of the state and nation. So, what is the crime rate in Charleston, SC? On the NeighborhoodScout index, the city scores 14. That means Charleston is safer than just 14 percent of other U.S. cities. Like any metro, though, Charleston has plenty of areas that statistically experience less crime. So, when you’re considering where to live in Charleston, SC, do your research and think about your comfort levels before you make a move.

Q: What is the safest place to live in Charleston?

A: According to NeighborhoodScout, the safest place to settle down is the Grimball Gates/Grace Plantation neighborhood. Niche says it’s Mount Pleasant. The two neighborhoods are about 10 miles apart, separated by the Wando River, but Mount Pleasant comes with a few more accolades — including being named the No. 1 place to live in the Charleston area, the No. 1 best place in the Charleston area to raise a family, and the No. 1 best suburb for young professionals in Charleston.

Q: What income do you need to live comfortably in Charleston, SC?

A: For a family of four with two adults in the workforce full-time, living in Charleston, SC, requires a before-tax income of just under $57,700. Note: That’s just to maintain the standard of living. To live comfortably as a family of four, apply the 50/30/20 rule (50 percent of income goes to necessities, 30 percent for “wants,” and 20 percent for savings and paying off debt). That means that for a family of four with two adults working full-time, living comfortably in Charleston means an income of about $115,400.

Q: Is it expensive to live in Charleston, SC?

A: Living in Charleston is a little more pricey than in the rest of the U.S., with the average cost of living in Charleston, SC, about 12 percent higher than the national average and 25.4 percent higher than the state average.

So, is Charleston, SC, safe for middle-income families trying to stay financially secure? The average home value comes in at around $579,500, which is considerably higher than the U.S. average of $363,900. The rental market is equally pricey. A little under half of all residences in the city are rentals, and the average monthly rent is just under $2,100 (think 1-bedroom, 980-square-foot apartment).

Q: Is Charleston, SC, a nice place to live?

A: If rich cultural history, award-winning dining, gorgeous beaches nearby, and vibrant nightlife are your definition of “nice,” then the answer is absolutely yes — living in Charleston, SC, is a great idea! Part of the city’s charm and reputation as a nice place to live is its eclecticism: There’s truly something for everyone, from families to young professionals to retirees (golf, anyone?).

Q: Is Charleston, SC, a good place to live in your 20s?

A: Gen Z-ers and Millennials abound in Charleston. Given the city’s arts and entertainment scene, it’s no wonder living in Charleston, SC, is popular with younger generations. And downtown isn’t the only thriving sector for twenty-somethings. Niche names Mount Pleasant, Isle of Palms, and North Charleston among its Top 5 Best Places for Young Professionals in the Charleston area. Now, is Charleston, SC, a good place to live for beach-loving twenty-somethings? Absolutely. Coastal towns like Folly Beach and Sullivan’s Island offer plenty of nightlife and a relatively quick commute to most regional business centers.

Q: Is Charleston Republican or Democrat?

A: Like many metro areas across the U.S., Charleston leans Democratic, but is considered a battleground, with almost one-fifth of local, state, and national races coming within five percentage points.

One month of storage is built into the cost of every PODS move, so you don’t have to feel rushed during your move.

Moving to Charleston, SC, With PODS

Once you’ve figured out where to live in Charleston, SC, it’s time to start planning your move. Make your move to Charleston flexible with PODS portable moving containers.  Have a container delivered to your driveway for convenient loading. PODS can even refer you to local packing and loading assistance if you’d like help with that part of your move. When you’re ready, your container will be picked up and transported to your new home in Charleston, SC. Visit PODS online for a free local moving quote or call 877-350-7637 for long-distance moving.

Shannon Jacobs is a Tampa-based freelance writer and frequent contributor to the PODS Blog. She has lived in Atlanta, the Berkshires, the Jersey Shore, and Nashville, but always returns to the warmth of Florida’s Gulf Coast.

Editor’s note: For ease of reading, monthly rental prices were rounded to the nearest $25 and home values were rounded to the nearest $100. Home values in the millions were rounded to the nearest $100,000.

^{*This article was written on behalf of PODS Enterprises, LLC (“PODS”). PODS does not warrant the completeness or accuracy of any information contained in this article and disclaims any liability for reliance upon the content herein.}