8 Things You Need To Know About Living In Charleston, South Carolina

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.

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

You can’t deny the fact that Charleston is 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 153,000, Charleston is the largest city in South Carolina. Regionally, however, the Charleston population across the metro area is now more than 830,000, with more than 30 people moving in every day. The average age in Charleston, SC? That’s almost 38, with 35 percent of the population in the 20-39 range.

Whether you want to spend a day on the beach or wake up to the Atlantic Coast sunrise each morning, living in Charleston, SC, means you can.

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 Charleston a dreamy destination 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 its remains still linger in certain parts of the town. Fortunately, Hugo was the last major hurricane to make landfall in the state — though other hurricanes and tropical storms have done some damage over the years. 

Even when the tropics aren’t roiling, the summer is active weather-wise in Charleston. Afternoon storms are a regular occurance, with seriously intense lightning and torrential rains. Looking on the bright side, though, the “thunderboomers” are good for cooling off the sometimes sweltering summer days. Just don’t get caught outside in one!

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

New residents are living in Charleston, SC, for lots of reasons. For starters, the rich history of the city is well preserved and accessible in museums, 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 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:

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. Dozens of boutique hotels 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 King Street selection makes it nearly impossible to choose — from quick and easy take-out spots to elegant destination dining. But 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 local 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 — 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.

Downtown History Tour 

Same as above but with fewer ghost tales. Wear comfy shoes.

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, moving to (and from) Dallas, 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

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.

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. 

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. 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.

Charleston is filled with unique and vibrant neighborhoods that are perfect for any lifestyle.

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

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 new rentals and condos sprouting 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, Harleston Village, and 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 its benefits, the housing market is a little more manageable, with the average home value around $291,700 as of February 2024. Rentals go for an average $1,575 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. 

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 need for young families eager for an active lifestyle, easy access to downtown, and a quick hop to the beaches. 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! 

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 $1.5M, and rentals averaging around $2,225 per month for a 940-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, boutique shopping, and endless recreation, there's really little reason to leave the island.

Mount Pleasant

This quaint town lives up to its name. With an inviting, walkable center and some of the best-rated schools in the area, Mount Pleasant, SC, is one of the most desirable areas for families. Like most Charleston-area communities, it’s close enough to downtown for a decent commute — but beware of rush-hour traffic 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 $781,000 — up 10.5 percent from 2023. 

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 $748,800, and rentals are going for an average of $2,650 per month for a one-bedroom. But with a thriving neighborhood association — check out the annual Oyster Roast at the Lowndes Grove Plantation — and all the goodies of Charleston just a few minutes away, this area is a hot ticket.

Here are five more top-notch neighborhoods, including two Lowcountry islands:

1. Kiawah Island
2. Summerville
3. West Ashley
4. James Island
5. Hanahan

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

From the Academic Magnet High School — ranked No. 8 in the nation by U.S. News and World Report — to Wando High and the Charleston School of the Arts, the city 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 2022 — slightly above the state average.

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

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

Charleston boasted the highest job growth in the nation for 2023, with a 6.1 percent jump over the previous year. Tech gigs, in particular, are booming with an influx of multinational corporations setting up headquarters in the immediate area. 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 nearly $84,000 with The Boeing Company, Roper St. Francis Healthcare, and Walmart as the top private sector employers.

What Charleston lacks in public transit it makes up for in accessibility to historic monuments, access to the outdoors, and proximity to other major cities, like Atlanta and Savannah.

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

Public transportation is not one of Charleston’s charms. 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 joking. Once only found in the Sunshine State, these odd little critters (which are actually a type of fly) have migrated northward during the past few decades into the entire Southeastern region, including South Carolina. The insects 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 bugs 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!

Making the Move

Ready to start living your best life in Charleston, SC? Let’s get moving! From renting a truck to hiring a squad of professional movers, there are plenty of options to go with. 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.