There’s just so much to love about Charleston, SC. The Holy City draws in hundreds of new residents because of its laidback lifestyle, warm weather, beautiful beaches, amazing culinary scene, and a strong sense of community. It offers a unique blend of historic preservation and new development in an environment where Southern hospitality abounds.
If you have plans of moving to Charleston, SC, here are a few things about Chucktown that you need to know.
People and Culture in Charleston, SC
- Charleston ranks second friendliest city in the United States, based on the latest Conde Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards survey.
- The locals are known for their infectious energy, Southern charm and hospitality, and neighborliness.
- Charleston’s culture is slow-paced and easy-going.
- The art, music, and entertainment scene in Charleston reflects the creativity and passion of its people.
- There are more than 40 art galleries in the Charleston area.
History of Charleston, SC
- Founded in 1670, Charleston is the oldest city in South Carolina and one of the oldest in the country.
- The Southern Live Oak tree at the Angel Oak Park is considered to be the largest Live Oak Tree east of the Mississippi, estimating to be 300 to 400 years old.
- The Battery is a landmark defensive seawall that stretches along the southern tip of Charleston. It features a row of Southern-style mansions overlooking Charleston Harbor, which was once the heart and soul of the city’s maritime activity and where the first shots of the Civil War rang.
- The Aiken-Rhett House Museum, built in the early 1800s, allows visitors to experience life in the Old South through self-guided tours. The antique furnishings, original wallpaper, slave quarters, and stables have all been well-preserved.
- In the heart of the historic downtown district, you’ll find White Point Gardens which provides amazing views of Fort Sumter and the Charleston Harbor, in addition to monuments and Civil War displays.
Weather in Charleston, SC
- One of the reasons people decide to live in Charleston is its perfect year-round climate.
- Residents enjoy mild winters, hot summers, pleasant springs, and crisp autumns.
- The only time the weather gets a little intense in the Holy City is during the summer.
Neighborhoods in Charleston, SC
- Located over the beautiful and iconic Ravenel Bridge, Mount Pleasant is a growing community that is home to Isle of Palms and Sullivan’s Island beaches. One of the best schools in the area is the Wando High School which is known for its innovative, excellent quality education and has one of the top-ranked marching bands in the nation.
- Summerville is known for its southern charm and rich history. It boasts of some of the best school districts in the region and its convenient access to beaches. The average home price in the area is $235,000.
- The residential communities in Charleston’s barrier islands and beaches – Sullivan’s Island, Isle of Palm and Folly Beach – offer a down-home family feel. The average home price in the area is $1 million.
- Downtown Charleston’s European feel, church steeples, cobblestone streets, and charming alleys make it a highly sought-after place to live. Homes in this area are relatively more expensive compared to other neighborhoods. The average home price here is over $700,000.
- Located a few miles from Downtown Charleston across the Ashley River, West Ashley is home to a mix of older, historic homes and modern subdivisions. The average home price in the area is $300,000.
Schools in Charleston, SC
- Charleston County School District (CCSD) is the second-largest school system in the state, representing urban, suburban, and rural schools that span 1,000 square miles.
- Some of the best elementary schools in the district include Ashley River Creative Arts Elementary School, Orange Grove Elementary Charter School, and Montessori Community School.
- Some of the top ranked middle schools and high schools include Wando High School and West Ashley High.
- Magnet schools such as the Academic Magnet High School and Charleston County School of the Arts offer specialized education opportunities.
- Reputable colleges and universities in the area include The College of Charleston, Trident Technical College, Charleston Southern, and The Citadel.
- The Citadel is one of the most prestigious military colleges in the United States.
- The College of Charleston was named Most Beautiful Campus in the country by Travel + Leisure and Most Beautiful College Campus in South Carolina by Microsoft News.
Culinary Scene in Charleston, SC
- Middleton Place Restaurant serves Southern culinary traditions prepared from fresh produce from the on-site organic farm.
- Hank’s Seafood is an award-winning restaurant that serves the best seafood in the city.
- Charleston Grill is popular for their signature crab cakes. Enjoy your food as you listen to world-class jazz music.
- Husk is known for serving the best burger in the South and its ever-changing menu that features the freshest ingredients delivered daily by the region’s producers.
- Bowens Island Restaurant is a no-frills fish shack that is popular for serving fresh-caught oysters and Southern classics like Frogmore Stew.
Beaches in Charleston, SC
- Folly Beach is one of Charleston’s most popular beaches that boasts of over 2,500 feet of ocean frontage, a 1,000-foot pier, and plenty of amenities, including restaurants, picnic areas, and a snack bar.
- Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway just 12 miles from historic Charleston, the Isle of Palms features a beautiful beach, championship golf and tennis, a marina, and recreational opportunities both on and off the water.
- Kiawah Island is a luxury beach destination that offers five-star accommodations and world-class resort amenities, as well as recreational activities and championship golf courses.
- Nestled at the mouth of the Charleston Harbor and neighbor to the Isle of Palms, Sullivan’s Island is one of the most popular local beaches in the area, known for its wide beaches and watersports, history and folklore, local restaurants, and shops.
- Seabrook Island is famous for its activities, such as backwater fishing, golf, tennis, and horseback riding.
Moving to Charleston, SC
The Holy City is indeed an amazing place to live in. If you are considering relocating to Charleston, South Carolina and are planning to buy your new home in this paradise, feel free to get in touch with us and we will be more than happy to help you find the perfect home for you and your family given your lifestyle, personal preferences, and budget. Give us a call today at 843-400-3032 or send us an email at info@riverlandrealtysc.com if you have any questions or if you would like to schedule an appointment.