Folly Beach is one of the best neighborhoods in Charleston, SC
Charleston, the largest city in South Carolina and located south of the geographic midpoint of South Carolina’s coastline on Charleston Harbor, is a popular tourism and lifestyle destination for its world-class restaurants, rich history, and of course, its gorgeous beaches. Not only is the area popular among tourists and active adults, but locals also deem Charleston as one of the best places to live in South Carolina for its vibrant neighborhoods, gated communities, and lifestyle options.
In 2021, the city of Charleston had a population of approximately 140,476. Because of its small town appeal, excellent schools, natural surroundings, and coastal location, Charleston is the ideal place to:
- Raise a family
- Build your retirement home
- Have a luxury vacation home near the beach
Read on to find out more.
Why move to Charleston, SC?
There are at least 20 neighborhoods in Charleston, each with its own charm. You’ll find the perfect neighborhood to suit your taste, lifestyle, goals, and price point.
In December 2021, the median listing home price in Charleston was $429,900, a trend up of 11.8% year-over-year, according to Realtor.com. Residential areas range from the affluent to the affordable. But some of the best neighborhoods in Charleston, SC are a mix of property types, including:
- Single-family homes
- Lakefront and waterfront properties
- Luxury homes
- Beachside villas
- Historic homes
- Apartments and townhouses.
According to Money Magazine, Charleston SC is one of the best places to live in America. It was also named by Conde Nast Traveler as the Top City in the World for nine consecutive years, and it is frequently one of the Best Cities in the World for Travel+Leisure. Charleston is, indeed, the crown jewel of the south.
For visitors, the city’s appeal lies in its scenic areas, coastal charm, and excellent restaurants. For those looking to put down roots, are there many practical reasons to make Charleston your permanent address. Whether you are raising a family, a young professional, or a retiree, there is something for you in Charleston.
The best neighborhoods in Charleston, SC offer an array of real estate options for every stage of life. Even students can check out affordable apartments in neighborhoods close to better schools.
Accessibility
Charleston’s greater land area is around 120 square miles, while the peninsula spans only eight square miles. The city is fairly walkable, with some neighborhoods accessible by car or bike. If you get tired of walking, pedicabs are also a thing in Charleston.
Commute times are reasonable too, where you can get to work in an average of 23 minutes. The international airport is only a 20-minute drive from downtown Charleston, attracting global and domestic visitors year round.
The CARTA bus service, meanwhile, serves a variety of routes throughout the city, including Park and Ride locations. Meanwhile, the Downtown Area Shuttle (DASH) offers free rides to routes on the peninsula.
Charleston is bike-friendly, too. Dedicated bike lanes can be found on major roads, highways, and bridges. While bikes are obviously cost-effective and eco-friendly, they’re also a good way to enjoy the city’s scenic routes. Charleston also has a bike share program to make it easy to ride bicycles even if you don’t own one.
Economic outlook
Although the pandemic curtailed Charleston’s economic activity in 2020 and 2021 by 12%, the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce predicts retail sales to grow by 3% in 2022. It expects population growth and the return of tourists to fuel spending.
The real estate sector soared, however. Renters took advantage of low interest rates and became homeowners. Demand was so strong, inventory could not keep pace. In fact, the city has one month’s supply of homes, down from the typical supply of four to six months.
Therefore, dampened by low supply, local home sales are expected to increase by only 1.5% in 2022, with median prices exceeding $300,000 and home prices averaging $400,000.
Despite the odds, The National Association of Realtors (NAR) cited the Charleston Metro Area as one of the Top 10 Metro Markets During and In a Post-COVID Environment in 2021-2022.
The volume of online transactions was another bright spot, driving economic forecasters to predict an increase in retail sales from 2.5 to 3% in 2022.
With the unemployment rate consistently below that of the national average, Charleston offers job opportunities in hospitality and service, manufacturing, education, technology, advertising, marketing, and the arts.
In January 2022, Glassdoor.com posted 14,259 job openings, from security officers to an operations director for an investment firm, community organizers to client associates for a luxury brand, as well as positions requiring a wide range of skills. Leading economic drivers in Charleston also include IT and cybersecurity, healthcare, life sciences, defense, logistics, and engineering.
Some of the major employers in Charleston include the government, Waltermart,
Booz Allen Hamilton, Volvo, Knight’s Companies, the Medical University of South Carolina, Bosch, Mercedes-Benz, and Google.
Shopping and dining
The historic Charleston City Market is a great source of flea market finds
Charleston is best known not only for its breathtaking architecture and coastal beauty but also for its superb dining options.
In January, the city celebrates Charleston Restaurant Week, an 11-day festivity featuring hundreds of participating restaurants, from casual to fine dining, showcasing special menu items, promotional offers, and discounts.
In March, the Charleston Food and Wine Festival continues to highlight the city’s diverse culinary scene.
By spring, the Charleston Farmers’ Market reopens in Marion Square, which Travel+Leisure ranked as one of the 10 best farmers markets in the US. The market is open every Saturday from April to November, with additional markets on Sundays during the Piccolo Spoleto Festival in May and June. It also opens during the Holiday Market in December. The Charleston Farmers’ Market sells products from Lowcountry farmers, growers, artisans, and crafters and features live performances and activities from community groups.
The historic Charleston City Market houses the famous flea market that’s open year round. Here you can find almost anything and everything, from handmade pottery to beautiful paintings, jewelry to Charleston’s popular sweetgrass basket.
For a mix of big brand stores and small boutiques, head to King Street. The world-famous shopping district features a swathe of selections including name brands like Kate Spade and Vineyard Vines and local shops selling quirky finds and beautifully curated collections.
Schools
There are excellent public and private schools, neighborhood schools, and magnet and charter schools in Charleston.
The Charleston County School District (CCSD) is the second-largest school system in South Carolina, representing urban, suburban, and rural schools. Downtown Charleston is home to the College of Charleston and The Citadel, one of the most prestigious military colleges in the US, along with great colleges and universities like Trident Technical College and Charleston Southern.
Some of the known elementary schools in the district are Ashley River Creative Arts Elementary School, Orange Grove Elementary School, and Montessori Community School. Middle and high school options in Charleston are just as plentiful, with Wando High School and West Ashley High being the top-ranked schools in the area.
Attractions and activities
Rainbow Row in Charleston, SC
In February, Charleston throws a Southeastern Wildlife Exhibition (SEWE), a weekend celebration of all things outdoors. Communities schedule their own art and sports exhibitions in every community, plus the most-awaited dock dog competition, where pet dogs compete for the longest jump across a pool to retrieve a toy.
During summer, there’s more in store aside from water sports and beach activities alone. Outdoor concerts and live entertainment at the historic Dock Street Theatre are a must-see. Art galleries, brewery tastings, and barbecues are also popular summer activities. If lazy days on the beach is your favorite summer pastime, then Sullivan’s Island, Isle of Palms, and Folly Beach are just 15 to 30 minutes away from downtown.
October is one of many good months to look around the neighborhoods and find your new home in Charleston. This is when the Preservation Society of Charleston’s Fall Tours begin, allowing you to choose from among guided tours to private homes or self-guided walks through the most beautiful gardens in the city. Virtual tours, meanwhile, allow the housebound to appreciate Southern architecture and design inspiration via screens.
December is magical in Charleston. Homes in the historic neighborhoods are decorated in magnolia garlands and wreaths. Enjoy the annual Holiday Festival of Lights and a three-mile driving tour through James Island County Park, which the whole family will enjoy.
And, whatever time of year, don’t miss Rainbow Row, one of the most beautiful and historic neighborhoods in the city. The stretch of 14 charming houses along South of Broad Street is famous for their bright pastel exteriors.
Charleston residents are well-rounded sporting enthusiasts, enjoying fishing, golf, and tennis. The city is home to Riverdogs Baseball, the Stingrays hockey team, Battery Soccer team, College of Charleston Cougars, and The Citadel sports teams.
What are the best neighborhoods in Charleston, SC?
Explore this exquisite waterfront estate in the Charleston neighborhood of West Ashley
Each community in Charleston has its unique appeal and charm. Here’s a guide to the best neighborhoods in Charleston, SC to help you decide which neighborhood is the best fit for you.
MOUNT PLEASANT: Coastal suburban living with direct access to the city
The suburban town of Mount Pleasant is home to young professionals and families. Even if it’s small, Mount Pleasant is imbued with the Charleston magic, with a one-of-a-kind food-and-nightlife scene and Lowcountry vibe. You’ll find fresh and local produce everywhere. And it’s got the best schools in Charleston and all of South Carolina.
Creekside Park is one of Mount Pleasant’s best neighborhoods, offering exclusive country club living and easy access to nearby dining, shopping, and recreational options.
Whether you’re buying or renting, you can find real estate that’s right for you in Mount Pleasant. Most of the people who move here like the convenient coastal suburban lifestyle while having direct access to the city proper. It’s the best of both worlds in Mount Pleasant.
Browse homes for sale in Mount Pleasant
JAMES ISLAND: A mix of historic and state-of-the-art homes
For friendlier real estate prices, James Island is your best bet. This area was once farmland, offering marsh and harbor views and iconic trees. It is also the closest suburb to Charleston, allowing you to enjoy a peaceful escape but still live close to the city and the beach.
Check out Stiles Point, a 200-acre neighborhood with over 200 homes located on James Island. The former cotton plantation dates back to 1741. While you’ll find historic houses, Stiles Point also boasts state-of-the-art homes with in-ground pools and wraparound porches.
The island itself is accessible to Folly Beach and boasts its own amazing amenities, including a five-acre recreation area with a tennis court, ball fields, and a children’s playground. The 643-acre James Island County Park promises endless fun for all ages, with walking and biking trails, an off-leash dog park, and boat rentals.
If you have school-age children, it’s great to know that South Carolina’s first and largest charter school, James Island Charter High School, is on this island.
SULLIVAN’S ISLAND: Luxury homes in a beachy area
This 4-bed, 4-bath, 2,784-square-foot beach home has a private walkway over sand dunes to the Atlantic Ocean. More property details here
.
This two-and-a-half-mile-long barrier island is more than just a beach town. Sullivan’s Island is a 20-minute drive from downtown and home to amazing restaurants, scenic bike paths, and gorgeous beach houses. If you’re looking for a luxury home in an affluent and beachy area, then Sullivan’s Island is for you.
Vacation and retirement homes are ideal in this neighborhood because of the area’s peaceful and relatively quiet location away from the hustle and bustle of the city. It’s also a perfect place for raising a family, with access to some of the best schools in South Carolina. And despite being a quiet escape from the city, it is not too far away so that commuting is easy.
Aside from being a popular summer destination, you can also enjoy quiet winters on Sullivan’s Island. Its timeless charm and natural beauty make it a desirable address for luxury homebuyers. Its location at the confluence of the Charleston Harbor and the Atlantic Ocean provides breathtaking views of the historic city where you can enjoy the sight of passing ships, shorebirds, and dolphins.
Browse homes for sale on Sullivan’s Island
FOLLY BEACH: One of South Carolina’s most popular destinations
For active adults looking for a laidback neighborhood but with great options for water activities, Folly Beach is the surf town for you. This sleepy beach town gets lively every summer, as both Charleston locals and tourists flock to this area for its paradise feel, the pier, and great surf opportunities.
The Folly Beach population is made up of college students, young professionals, families, and retirees. This neighborhood offers something for everyone, and its beachfront property price point is one of the most affordable in Charleston.
As a popular and picturesque South Carolina destination, Folly Beach offers entertainment options for all ages and lifestyles. It has beach bars and cafes, souvenir shops, fresh seafood markets, taco shacks, and golf rentals. This town has everything!
Browse homes for sale in Folly Beach
WEST ASHLEY: A wide range of housing options
Great water views of the Ashley River just west of the Charleston peninsula are not the only thing West Ashley is known for. This mostly residential area has a wide range of housing options, from single-family homes and beachfront bargains to luxury mansions and sprawling estates.
West Ashley is Charleston’s largest suburb and one of the most affordable neighborhoods that’s close to downtown. Its dining and nightlife scene is a great after-work and weekend respite for young professionals and families.
School-aged children in West Ashley can attend West Ashley High School, the Carolina Voyager Charter School, or West Ashley Advanced Studies Magnet. There are many more private schools here.
Browse homes for sale in West Ashley
View more neighborhoods in Charleston, SC
Start living the good life in Charleston, SC now
Living in Charleston, South Carolina, is what dreams are made of. The towns and suburbs here are not only the best neighborhoods in Charleston SC but also the best places to live in the country.
Are you ready to fall in love with the friendliest city in the US? Experience southern hospitality at its best in Charleston, and let me help you find your new dream home!
Connect with me, Carmilla Rená Brown, a Certified Luxury Agent with Keller Williams Realty-Charleston and a Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist™. Whether you are a first-time homebuyer, a vacation homebuyer, or looking for the perfect retirement home, you’ve come to the right person. Personalized and world-class service is my priority, and as a Charleston native, I use my in-depth knowledge of the Charleston neighborhoods to help you find your perfect home.
Get in touch with me at 843.926.2007 or crena(at)charlestonpropertyqueen(dotted)com. You can also contact me here to get started.
