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.

Planning a move to Charleston? Start by getting a quote from PODS.

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 over 155,300, 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 2023. The average age in Charleston, SC? That’s almost 38, 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 occurance, 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!

Beautiful beaches are just a quick drive from downtown Charleston. 

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

New residents are living in Charleston, SC, for lots of reasons. 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 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.

Charleston is filled with unique and vibrant neighborhoods, offering 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 places to live in Charleston. 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 that have sprouted up 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 stunning stately homes line elegant streets; the lively tourist attraction-filled Harleston Village; and the romantic streets of the French Quarter.

Insider Tip: Tourists and horse-drawn carriages are everywhere on downtown Charleston’s narrow, cobblestone streets, so leave your impatience behind. Just breathe and go with the flow.

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 around $308,100. Rentals go for an average of around $1,625 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 business center of downtown. 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 6 percent from last year — but still at a stiff $599,000 median sale price. As for rentals, the average for a one-bedroom is around $1,700. 

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 — make 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 $2,300 per month for a 950-square-foot 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 $837,200 — up almost 10 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 $826,800, and rentals are going for an average of around $2,750 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

If you’re looking to switch careers into tech, Charleston might be a great place to consider moving.

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 boasted the highest job growth in the nation for 2024, with a 7.5 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 over $89,000 with The Boeing Company, Roper St. Francis Healthcare, and Walmart as the top private-sector employers.

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

From the Academic Magnet High School — ranked No. 7 in the nation by U.S. News and World Report — to Wando High School and the Charleston County School of the Arts, the area consistently earns top marks for good schools 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 87 percent in 2023 — 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. 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 pros of living in Charleston, SC, include a rich cultural scene, beautiful weather most of the year, and a thriving job market.

FAQs About Living in Charleston, SC

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: What are the pros and cons of living in Charleston, SC?
A: The pros are plentiful: a rich cultural scene, beautiful weather most of the year, and a thriving job market that’s 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? 

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, with a rating of 17, according to the NeighborhoodScout index. That means Charleston is safer than just 17 percent of other U.S. cities. Like any city, though, Charleston has plenty of areas that statistically experience less crime.

Q: What is the safest place to live in Charleston?
A: According to NeighborhoodScout, the safest place to settle down is Daniel Island East. According to Niche, 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 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. 2 best suburb for young professionals in South Carolina.

Q: What salary 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-taxes salary of just under $108,800 to live comfortably. 

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. 

The Charleston housing market is even more of an overachiever: The average home value comes in at around $564,300, which is 8 percent more than last year and nearly $203,000 more than the rest of the U.S. 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 over $2,000 (think 1-bedroom, 968-square-foot apartment).

Q: Is Charleston, SC, a good place to live?
A: If rich cultural history, award-winning dining, gorgeous beaches, and vibrant nightlife are your definition of “good,” then the answer is absolutely yes — living in Charleston, SC, is a good 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 a good place to live in your 20s?
A: Gen Z-ers and Millennials abound in Charleston. Given the city’s job market 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. Coastal towns like Folly Beach and Sullivan’s Island also offer plenty of nightlife and affordable housing, with a relatively quick commute to most regional business centers.

Making the Move to Charleston, SC

Ready to start living your best life? Once you’ve narrowed down where to live in Charleston, SC, you’re ready to get moving. From renting a truck to hiring a squad of professional movers, there are plenty of options to consider for moving to Charleston, SC. If you’re looking for a flexible solution, PODS can help. PODS drops off a portable moving and storage container right in your driveway so you can pack and load at your own pace. Then, when you’re ready, they pick it up and deliver it straight to your new South Carolina home.

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

Editor’s note: Average rent prices were obtained from RentCafe; average home values were obtained from Zillow; and median home sale prices were obtained from Redfin. For ease of reading, monthly rental prices were rounded to the nearest $25 and home values were rounded to the nearest $100.