Charleston, often referred to as the "Holy City" due to its numerous historic churches, is a vibrant city located on the southeastern coast of South Carolina. Founded in 1670, Charleston is one of the oldest cities in the United States, boasting a rich history that is reflected in its well-preserved architecture, cobblestone streets, and historic landmarks.

Charleston is surrounded by several charming towns and communities, each with its own unique character and appeal. These areas include:

Whether you're drawn to the historic charm of Charleston itself or the unique characteristics of its neighboring communities, this guide will help you make an informed decision about where to live and how to make the most of your new home in the Lowcountry.

Charleston, South Carolina, is a city steeped in history and brimming with Southern charm. Founded in 1670, Charleston is known for its well-preserved architecture, historic landmarks, and vibrant cultural scene. With a population of around 150,000 residents, Charleston offers a unique blend of historic and modern living, making it a desirable destination for individuals and families alike.

Charleston offers a diverse range of housing options, from historic homes in the heart of the city to modern condos and suburban family homes.

As of May 2023, the cost of living in Charleston is 11.5% higher than the national average but offers a range of options to fit different budgets. Here's a breakdown of typical expenses:

Housing: The median home price in Charleston is around $400,000, but prices can vary significantly by neighborhood.

Utilities: Average utility costs are comparable to the national average, with monthly expenses around $150-$200.

Groceries: Grocery prices are slightly higher than the national average.

Transportation: Charleston offers public transportation options, but many residents rely on personal vehicles. Gas prices are in line with the national average.

Healthcare: Healthcare costs are slightly higher than the national average, with several reputable hospitals and medical centers in the area.

Charleston boasts a variety of educational institutions, from public and private schools to higher education facilities:

1. Public Schools: The Charleston County School District (CCSD) serves the area, offering numerous highly-rated elementary, middle, and high schools.

2. Private Schools: Charleston is home to several prestigious private schools, including Porter-Gaud School and Ashley Hall.

3. Higher Education: The College of Charleston, The Citadel, and Charleston Southern University are notable higher education institutions offering a wide range of programs.

Charleston's economy is diverse, with key industries including tourism, healthcare, education, and manufacturing. Major employers in the area include:

Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC): A leading employer in the healthcare sector.

Boeing: A significant presence in the aerospace industry.

College of Charleston: A major employer in education.

Roper St. Francis Healthcare: Another key player in the healthcare industry.

Charleston County School District: A major employer in education.

Charleston enjoys a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters. Here's what you can expect:

Summer: Highs often reach the upper 80s to low 90s (°F), with frequent afternoon thunderstorms.

Winter: Mild, with highs in the upper 50s to low 60s (°F), and occasional colder spells.

Spring and Fall: Pleasant temperatures, with highs in the 70s to 80s (°F) and lower humidity.

Charleston offers a wealth of recreational and cultural activities:

Parks and Outdoor Activities: Visit Waterfront Park, Battery Park, and numerous beaches for outdoor fun.

Cultural Attractions: Explore historic sites like Fort Sumter, the Charleston Museum, and the historic homes and plantations.

Dining and Entertainment: Charleston is renowned for its culinary scene, with numerous acclaimed restaurants, bars, and cafes.

Charleston's transportation options include:

Public Transportation: The Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) provides bus services throughout the city and surrounding areas.

Driving: Many residents rely on personal vehicles. Major highways include I-26, US-17, and I-526.

Cycling and Walking: Charleston is bike-friendly, with numerous bike lanes and pedestrian-friendly areas.

To assist with your move, here are some valuable resources:

Real Estate Agents: The Family Real Estate Group can help you find the perfect home.

Moving Companies: Companies like Two Men and a Truck and All My Sons Moving & Storage offer reliable moving services.

Utilities: Contact Charleston Water System, Dominion Energy, and other providers to set up your utilities.

Charleston, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and friendly communities, is an excellent place to call home. Whether you're moving for work, retirement, or a change of scenery, this guide provides the information you need to make an informed decision. Explore further, connect with local communities, and embrace the Lowcountry lifestyle!

Moncks Corner is approximately 35 miles from Charleston, 17 miles from Summerville, and 16 miles from Goose Creek, making it desirable for those who wish to enjoy the areas and commute to work. The town is on Lake Moultrie and the Cooper River, which connects to Charleston Harbor. Lake Moultrie has over 60 thousand acres of water for recreation, boating, and fishing. The waters are famous for their world-class fishing.

Also adjacent to Moncks Corner is the Francis Marion National Forest with nearly 250,000 acres for hunting, fishing, hiking, camping, and picnicking. These lands are where General Francis Marion- "the Swamp Fox"- came to fame as a hero of the Revolutionary War.

Although the place is still blessed by an absence of the extreme hustle and bustle of heavy urban areas, there is still a wide variety of housing available to those wishing to locate here. The gamut runs from budget housing in the '40s to country estates with acreage and lovely homes in the spacious tree-shaded subdivisions with access to the river or lake. If you wish for a historic home there are still a few available for those who enjoy the romance of the past. Vacation villas with tennis, a pool, and a deep-water marina are also there for your enjoyment.

Nestled among stately pines, blithely indifferent to the busy hum of the surrounding world, lies the old village of Summerville. To experience the true flavor of this charming and once world-renowned health resort, park your car and walk or bicycle the shady winding streets. You will soon be eager to know the history that has fashioned Summerville's existence.

Summerville has maintained a graceful balance between the old and the new. Housing is readily available and ranges from economy homes, townhouses, condominiums, and mobile home parks to middle-class subdivisions, country club residential developments, and restored country properties.

Multifaceted Summerville offers something for everyone. Each spring brings the Flowertown Festival, a weekend‑long arts and crafts event for the whole family. History buffs are invited to stroll the inviting lanes and peer beyond the picket fences. Car‑bound children will enjoy a romp at nearby historic Old Dorchester State Park. Local restaurants, antique and specialty shops offer tempting wares. Quaint churches abound in the area.

The Town of Summerville maintains 2-lighted recreational fields, 3 parks, and 4 playgrounds with 6 lighted tennis courts within the town limits. A full range of youth recreation leagues and programs operate year-round. In addition, recreational, cultural, and athletic programs are offered by the Summerville Family YMCA, church groups, and other community organizations.

West of the Peninsular City and across the Ashley River, locally referred to as West Ashley, is primarily a residential area, but also offers a complete and competitive range of services. West Ashley's largest advantage, though, is its proximity to everything. The Downtown area, the medical complex, military installations, and industry are all just a few minutes down the highway. The Mark Clark expressway makes the North Charleston and the Mt. Pleasant areas very convenient and accessible.

Because there are so many subdivisions in the West Ashley area, it isn't feasible to tell you about each one. There is so much and so little room. Our AgentOwned sales associate will be glad to show you the characteristics and advantages of living in any of the subdivisions that suit your price range and needs.

Named for Capt. Robert Daniell, whose presence in South Carolina dates to 1678, Daniel Island is part of both the City of Charleston (annexed in 1991) and Berkeley County. Used as a fishing and hunting retreat by the wealthy Guggenheim family beginning in 1946, the island remained undeveloped until the early 1990s. This is when the Guggenheims sold the southern tip of the island to the developer of Kiawah Island on the heels of the Interstate 526 project that drastically improved access to the area. Now a master-planned city within a city, Daniel Island is situated between Mount Pleasant and North Charleston and bordered by the Cooper and Wando Rivers. The community comprises walkable neighborhoods with sprawling sidewalks and numerous well-maintained parks. The neighborhoods are built around a town center with retail, restaurant, and grocery accommodations. And directly across the street is the Family Circle Tennis Complex that hosts world level tennis tournaments from around the world. Housing in Daniel Island includes townhome, executive mansion, gated, and other single-family options.

For your child to enter a school he or she must be at least five years old by September 1 of the current school year, have a valid birth certificate and a vaccination certificate. The immunizations may be performed by their doctor of Health Department and will be accepted if it includes the following:

Four (4) doses of any combination of DTP, DT, DTP-Hib, DTaP, Td, or Tdap vaccine with at least one (1) dose received on or after the fourth birthday.

Three (3) doses of any combination of oral or inactivated Polio vaccine with at least one (1) dose received on or after the fourth birthday.

Two (2) doses of Rubeola (Measles) vaccine with both doses received on or after the first birthday & separated by at least one month.

One (1) dose of Rubella (German Measles) vaccine received on or after the first birthday.

One (1) dose of Mumps vaccine received on or after the first birthday.

Three (3) doses of Hepatitis B vaccine.

One (1) dose of Varicella vaccine received on or after the first birthday or positive history of disease for all children admitted to kindergarten, first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh grades, and eighth grades. Two (2) doses of varicella vaccine, separated by at least one month, are required for unimmunized children 13 years of age and older who have no positive history of disease.

Includes: Awendaw, Charleston, Folly Beach, Hollywood, Isle of Palms, James Island, Kiawah Island, Lincolnville, McClellanville, Meggett, Mount Pleasant, North Charleston, Ravenel, Rockville, Seabrook Island, Sullivan's Island, & Summerville

Includes: Charleston, Bonneau, Goose Creek, Hanahan, Jamestown, Moncks Corner, North Charleston,

St. Stephen, & Summerville

Includes: Harleyville, North Charleston, Reevesville, Ridgeville, St. George, Summerville

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When it comes to the weather, temperatures in the summer average in the high 80s while lows in the winter average around 40 degrees. Although summers are hot, you will find plenty of ways to cool off on Charleston’s many waterways. In addition, because snow is a rare occurrence, you can look forward to enjoying your favorite outdoor activities (like golf, fishing, and gardening) throughout the four seasons.

The four seasons in charleston

SPRING

AVERAGE TEMPERATURES: 58° F (14.4° C) to 72° F (22.2° C) 

Spring is the Charleston area's most spectacular time of the year. From early March into early June, enjoy the vibrant colors of azaleas, dogwoods and other flowers in bloom.

SUMMER

AVERAGE TEMPERATURES: 78° F (25.6° C) to 82° F (27.8° C) 

The Charleston region's warm, sultry summers are punctuated by cooling coastal breezes and passing afternoon thunderstorms - all of which invite visitors to slow down, sip something refreshing and relax for a while.

AUTUMN

AVERAGE TEMPERATURES: 58° F (14.4° C) to 76° F (24.4° C) 

Autumn in the Charleston region brings with it days of bright sunshine, clear blue skies, golden marshes and perfectly crisp evenings

WINTER

AVERAGE TEMPERATURES: 47° F (8.3° C) to 52° F (11.1° C) 

Typically mild, winters in the Charleston region are cool with periods of rain and the chance of snow flurries come late December or early January.

We are here 24/7 to assist you with your home buying and selling needs from start to finish.

Charleston, South Carolina gets 48 inches of rain, on average, per year. The US average is 38 inches of rain per year.

Charleston averages 0 inches of snow per year.  The US average is 28 inches of snow per year.

On average, there are 209 sunny days per year in Charleston. The US average is 205 sunny days.

Summer High: the July high is around 90 degrees

Winter Low: the January low is 39 degrees

Sperling's Comfort Index for Charleston is an 85 out of 100

A higher score indicates a more comfortable year-round climate. The US average for the comfort index is 54. Our index is based on the total number of days annually within the comfort range of 70-80 degrees, and we also applied a penalty for days of excessive humidity.

YOU SHOULD KNOW

Charleston gets some kind of precipitation, on average, 106 days per year. Precipitation is rain, snow, sleet, or hail that falls to the ground. For precipitation to be counted, you have to get at least .01 inches on the ground to measure.

MILITARY

The military remains a major industry in the Charleston area today, despite major downsizings. In July 1993, the Base Realignment and Closure Commission voted to close the Charleston Naval Base and Naval Shipyard by April 1996. The naval facilities remaining in the area include the Naval Weapons Station; the Naval Command, Control, and Ocean Surveillance Center In-Service Engineering, East Coast Division (NISE East); and the Naval Hospital. In addition, the 1995 round of Base Realignments and Closures resulted in the decision for Charleston to receive the Naval Nuclear Power Training Command transferring from Orlando, Florida, bringing with it 500 permanent active military jobs as well as 2,500 transient students attending the school each year. The Navy expects to have an estimated 7,800 active and civilian employees after the April '96 closure, with the 500 Power Training Command employees to be added by 1999.

The Charleston Air Force Base is home to the U.S. Air Force's 437th Airlift Wing and employs 5,900 active and civilian employees. It is the home base of 41 aircraft, including the new C-17. For Air Force Base information telephone 554‑3210.

The district office of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the U.S. Army Transportation Corps Base is also situated in Charleston. For Army Base information telephone 554‑3210.

The U.S. Coast Guard Charleston Group includes patrol, marine inspection, marine and air emergency service, port inspection, and services.

CHURCHES

In the metropolitan area of Charleston, there are over 250 churches and synagogues representing over 24 denominations and 4 non‑denominational churches. Several congregations date from the 17th Century and several church buildings date from the early part of the 18th Century. Many of the church buildings are noted for their beauty and outstanding architecture.

VOTER REGISTRATION

Registration offices are generally open during regular business hours Monday through Friday‑ but are closed 30 days before an election. Special provisions are made for members of the Armed Forces, Merchant Marines, Red Cross, and United States service organizations who are serving outside the counties of their residence, and for members and employees of any Department of the United States Government who are serving outside the country, you must be 18 years or older to register. No length of residency is required. However, you must show proof of residency when you go to register. Your driver’s license will serve as proof. For information contact the Board of Voter Registration in your area.

AUTOMOBILES

You need to get your state automobile tags and a South Carolina title within 10 days of your arrival, and your Driver's License sometimes 90 days after your arrival. You must secure the following: fill out Form 400, fill out Form 402 (liability insurance certificate), and Form 406 which shows you do not owe any back taxes on your motor vehicle (County Tax Department in the County Courthouse). The Driver's License Examiners offices are located at 135 Wimberly Dr. Ladson, 572-7854, and Iron Bridge Drive in Mt. Pleasant, 884-9760; and at the Police Station in Charleston on Lockwood Blvd. 727-6477. If you have a valid out-of-state license, you will only need to take the written exam.

MEDICAL FACILITIES

One of the largest medical complexes in the Southeast (MUSC) is located in the City of Charleston, included are five major hospitals. There are approximately 3000 combined total beds in the Charleston area. There are three nursing homes, as well as three convalescent homes, a psychiatric hospital, Charter Hospital of Charleston, and a private alcoholism and drug dependency treatment facility.

PETS

While the State doesn't maintain laws for pet licensing, most municipalities do. You should familiarize yourself with the laws concerning the licensing, vaccination, and restraint of your pets. You can get this information from your local Animal Control Office or a veterinarian.

LOCAL TAXES

In South Carolina, counties are authorized to levy property taxes on taxable real estate and personal property. Each county sets its millage rate and to this rate is added the rate set by the local municipality or special service district to arrive at the total millage rate.

RETAIL SALES TAX

South Carolina levies a five percent retail sales tax. Exemptions from the tax include production machinery, repair parts, industrial electricity, and materials, which will become an integral part of the finished product of a manufacturer. Also, any items which change the physical or chemical characteristics of a finished product are exempt. The entire proceeds of this tax are pledged to the construction and operation of South Carolina's public

schools. Charleston County adds 2.5% Sales Tax.

PERSONAL INCOME TAXES

There are no municipal income taxes. A state income tax is imposed upon every individual residing in South Carolina. The tax levied, collected, and paid annually concerning net income of the taxpayer and income earned within the jurisdiction of the state of every non‑resident having a business and/or agency in the state from the sale, rental, or income from property within the state.

TELEPHONE 

When you wish to establish a telephone service simply contact the Business Office of your local telephone company. You will probably be required to make an initial deposit which will be refunded at a later date. You will need to supply your telephone.    (AT&T 780-2355 or 1-888-757-6500)

ELECTRICITY AND GAS 

You will need to get in touch with your local electric and gas utility company for these services to be turned on at your residence. In areas covered by SCE&G, a deposit is required unless

(a) you bring a letter showing one year of credit history from your previous electric company or (b) active duty air force initiate service from on-base SCE&G office. In areas covered by Berkeley Electric Co‑op, a deposit is required unless you bring a letter showing two years of credit history from your previous electric company.

SCE&G     (843) 554‑7234

Berkeley Electric Co‑op     (843) 572-5454

Goose Creek     (843) 553‑5020

Johns Island     (843) 559‑2458

Awendaw     (843) 884‑7525

Moncks Corner    (843) 572‑5454

WATER 

Charleston, West Ashley     (843) 727‑6800 

CPW (Commissioner of Public Works).    (843) 727-6800 

Sullivan's Island     (843) 883‑3198 

Mt. Pleasant     (843) 884‑9626 

Isle of Palms     (843) 886‑6148 

Folly Beach     (843) 588‑2447 

Summerville     (843) 871‑0810

Goose Creek     (843) 797‑6220 

Moncks Corner     (843) 719‑7965 

Berkeley County     (843) 572‑4400

SEWERAGE 

Most subdivisions have sewerage. This service is provided in a variety of ways, some are provided by

the municipal government as a tax service, some by municipal governments that add a sewerage fee to the water bill and some by private companies which bill the user directly. Any subdivision which has on‑site sewerage is approved by the State Health Department. Therefore such service is considered adequate.

Fresh‑Water Fishing:  Fishing is a major sport in the trident area. Lakes Marion and Moultrie are the home of the Landlocked Striped Bass and the Annual Striper Rodeo. These man‑made lakes attract thousands annually. License fees for visiting freshwater fishermen are nominal. Government agencies throughout the tri‑county area construct and maintain public boat landings and facilities to attract fishermen and boating enthusiasts

In‑Shore Fishing: The Low Country's reputation for trout, snapper, bass, whiting, and king mackerel attract fishermen to the thousands of miles of rivers, creeks, and sounds that are prevalent in the Trident Area. Shrimpers also enjoy the plentiful bounty available to them.

Deep‑Sea Fishing: Charter and head boats are available to take deep‑sea enthusiasts to the world-famous blackfish banks off Charleston Harbor. The Gulf Stream is 60 miles off the coast where dolphins and sailfish are plentiful. All boats are Coast Guard approved and licensed.

Marinas: Charleston maintains some of the finest marinas along the inland waterway. Service is available in Charleston for large yachts and other boats. Water skiing and pleasure boating are widespread. There are several marinas with which your AgentOwned Sales Associate will be happy to assist you.

Sailing: The beautiful Charleston Harbor and offshore area boast some of the finest sailing on the entire Atlantic Seaboard. Five area Yacht Clubs promote sailing with planned instruction for the beginner and racing for the old salts. Fifteen regularly scheduled regattas are held in Charleston annually as well as many National and Regional Championships.

Parks: Francis Marion National Forest covers thousands of acres in Charleston and Berkeley Counties. Facilities for camping enthusiasts are available. Privately operated campsites are available near Folly Beach, Highway 17, and Highway 178. The National Park Service, Fort Moultrie, and Fort Sumter, the latter accessible only by boat have restored two historic forts. There is an admission for the boat ride to Fort Sumter. The city maintains a park known as Hampton Park and also the Waterfront Park in downtown Charleston. A "must" for the tourist is the Tricentennial Exposition at Charlestown Landing on S.C. Highway 171 that features exhibition areas, an animal forest, and landscaped gardens.

We are here 24/7 to assist you with your home buying and selling needs from start to finish.

The Beaches: Charleston County's coastline affords plenty of open public beachfront for swimming, sunning, surfing and fishing. The primary beaches are Isle of Palms, Sullivan's Island, Folly Beach, Edisto Beach, Seabrook, and Kiawah Islands.

Tennis: There are numerous public and private tennis courts throughout the area. Additionally, the Family

Circle Cup Tennis Tournament takes place on Daniel Island each spring.

College Athletics & The Riverdogs: The Citadel fields teams in major sports and many minor sports in the Southern Conference. The College of Charleston and Charleston Southern also participate in intercollegiate athletics. The games of both Clemson and the University of South Carolina are within motoring distance via convenient interstate highways. Atlanta, with turn‑around jet flights, provides professional spectator sports. Charleston also has minor league baseball, hockey, and soccer teams with some of the finest sports facilities in the Southeast.