🏝️ Living in Charleston: 12 Things to Know Before Moving Here (2025 Guide)By Brandon Bott — Charleston Realtor Since 2012
Charleston, South Carolina continues to be one of the most moved-to cities in the country, and it’s easy to see why: unbelievable food, stunning beaches, historic charm, strong job growth, and some of the most lifestyle-friendly suburbs in the Southeast.
If you’re thinking about relocating, here are the 12 things you’ll want to know before calling Charleston home.
1. The Lifestyle Is Laid-Back… But Not Slow
Charleston has a relaxed coastal pace, but it’s also growing fast.
You’ll find an easy mix of:
Beach days
Golf communities
Boating culture
High-end dining
Family-friendly suburbs
It’s not “sleepy.” It’s coastal energy with Southern charm.
2. Mount Pleasant Is One of the Most Popular Places to Live
If you want top schools, quick beach access, and safe, master-planned neighborhoods like Dunes West, Carolina Park, Rivertowne, and Old Village, Mount Pleasant is usually the #1 pick for relocators.
Expect higher prices — but also strong appreciation.
3. Cost of Living Is Higher Than the National Average
Not crazy high like Miami or NYC, but:
Groceries: slightly higher
Housing: higher
Insurance: varies
Property taxes: surprisingly low (more on that below)
Charleston is affordable compared to major metros, but more expensive than many Southern cities.
4. Beaches Are 15–25 Minutes From Most Suburbs
Depending on where you live, you’ll be close to:
Isle of Palms
Sullivan’s Island
Folly Beach
Charleston’s coastline is a major draw — especially for families and outdoor lovers.
5. Schools in Mt. Pleasant and Daniel Island Are Top-Tier
Parents relocate here specifically for schools.
High-ranking options include:
Oceanside Collegiate
Wando High
Lucy Beckham
Daniel Island schools
Laurel Hill, Whitesides, Carolina Park Elementary
This is a HUGE driver of Mt. Pleasant demand.
6. Job Growth Is Strong (Tech, Medical, Manufacturing)
Major employers continue expanding:
MUSC
Boeing
Volvo
Roper
Blackbaud
A growing tech/startup scene
This contributes to long-term housing demand and stability.
7. Flood Zones Matter — But They Are Manageable
Not every home is in a flood zone.
In fact:
Dunes West
Park West
Most of North Mt. Pleasant
…are generally lower risk.
FEMA maps are updated frequently, so working with a local realtor (hi, that’s me 👋) helps a ton.
8. Southern Food Is a Lifestyle
Charleston is consistently ranked one of the top food cities in America.
Must-try spots:
Hall’s Chophouse
The Ordinary
Leon’s
Lewis BBQ
Poe’s
The Obstinate Daughter
Trust me — you’ll be eating well.
9. Summers Are Hot, Winters Are Mild
Expect:
July/August humidity
Rare freezing temps
Golfable weather almost year-round
Perfect spring & fall seasons
If you love the outdoors, Charleston is hard to beat.
10. Real Estate Appreciates Steadily
Charleston is not a boom-and-bust market.
Over the last decade, appreciation has been:
Consistent
High
Driven by demand, jobs, and limited land
Areas like Dunes West, Daniel Island, and Old Village have strong long-term value.
11. Charleston Traffic Depends on Where You Live
Mount Pleasant to downtown? Manageable.
Summerville to downtown? Longer.
Pro tip:
If you want short commutes, choose your neighborhood carefully.
12. Charleston Has a Strong Community Feel
People here are friendly, welcoming, and involved.
You’ll feel it immediately — especially in family-oriented neighborhoods.
🌴 Thinking About Moving to Charleston?
I’ve helped families relocate to the Charleston area since 2012, and I’d love to help you figure out:
Right neighborhood
Right school district
Right price range
Right commute
And whether Dunes West, Mt. Pleasant, Daniel Island, or elsewhere fits you best
Call or text me at 843-754-9737.
