Moving to Charleston, South Carolina

Quick insights

• Charleston is a historic port city that blends old-world charm with modern metropolitan features.
• Charleston’s cost of living is approximately the same as the national average, making it a relatively affordable place to live.ec-payscale-charleston
• Those moving to Charleston should keep in mind natural hazards, such as flooding or hurricanes.

Are you considering moving to Charleston, South Carolina? There are many things to love about this historic port city. In this article, we’ll cover the basics of moving to Charleston, including activities and entertainment, popular neighborhoods and programs that can help make buying your first home easier.

Living in Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston is located on the southeast shore of the U.S., wrapped around a watery inlet which has been used as a port since the early 1700s. It has a warm, subtropical climate that experiences four mild seasons, with tolerable highs and lows throughout summer and winter. Because of the comfortable climate and ocean-facing location, residents have year-round outdoor activities, including boating, fishing and beach-going.

Entertainment and activities in Charleston

One of Charleston’s main landmarks is the Fort Sumpter National Monument, which marks where the first shots of the American Civil War were fired. This historic fort and its museum sit on a small island in Charleston Harbor, accessible by boat. On the city shore, history fans may also want to visit the Charleston City Market, a 4-block vending space which has been operating for more than 200 years, and the Charleston Museum.

The city typically hosts the annual Spoleto Festival, an arts festival held in the late spring. Charleston is also home to a popular 10k race called the Cooper Bridge Run, which attracts global runners. Sports fans can root for the Charleston Battery (a major league soccer team) and the Charleston RiverDogs (a minor league baseball team).

Average cost of living and Charleston’s job market

The cost of living in Charleston is level with the national average, which may feel like a significant drop when moving to Charleston from a more expensive metropolitan city.ec-payscale-charleston Charleston’s job market is strong for those in management, health, business, sales and education occupations.ec-datausa-charleston The county school district alone has more than 6,400 employees, making it the county’s third-largest employer.ec-ccsd-schools-2025 The port, still active today, also employs many people, driving local commerce.

Transportation options in Charleston

While a majority of residents have cars for daily commuting and errands, some people do without, taking advantage of alternate transportation options. Transportation in the city includes:

• Walking: Charleston is one of the more pedestrian-friendly southern cities, especially downtown and in the city’s historic district.
• Driving: As with any major city, traffic can be heavy during rush hours. Key highways in the city include Interstate 26, which enters the city from the northwest, and Route 17, which crosses the Cooper River to connect Charleston to Mt. Pleasant.
• Public transit: The Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) offers bus services throughout the city and surrounding areas.
• Biking in Charleston: The city has limited bike lanes and many narrow historic streets with cobblestone surfaces that may make for a bumpy ride. However, the area is mostly flat, and many dedicated cyclists still ride in the city for commuting and recreation.
• Catching a flight: Charleston International Airport is the major airport serving the city, located in North Charleston.

Things to know before moving to Charleston, South Carolina

Before you buy a home in Charleston, the city’s layout and climate may affect your choice.

• Weather and climate: Winters in Charleston tend to be on the milder side; however, high temperatures in the summer may stress air conditioning and emphasize the need for home insulation.
• Natural hazards: Hurricanes and flooding sometimes plague Charleston. Getting to know procedures for both, and how to protect your home, is essential for residents.
• Proximity to work centers: Major employment centers are located downtown, in North Charleston, near the airport and at the port.
• Hospitals: Notable hospitals include the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), located downtown, and Roper St. Francis in the city’s west side.

Researching popular neighborhoods in Charleston

Every neighborhood in Charleston has something different to offer its residents. Before making your pick, you may want to investigate these popular areas.

Radcliffe borough

This charming residential neighborhood near downtown has historic buildings, palmetto trees, ample dining options, boutiques and nearby hospitals. With narrow roads (relics from the days of horse-drawn carriages), one-way streets and limited parking, the area is slightly more geared toward foot traffic. Many homes in this area are in a classic “Charleston Single House” style, and the neighborhood’s location offers convenient access to downtown festivities.

Hampton Park Terrace

This near-North neighborhood is nestled along its massive namesake, Hampton Park. Homes in this area are often in the Charleston Single House, bungalow and Foursquare style. As a designated historic district, there have been many efforts made to preserve the unique appearance of buildings in this neighborhood. An active neighborhood association is responsible for planning many community events, promoting a convivial atmosphere.

Johns Island

For homebuyers who appreciate the great outdoors, Johns Island may be worth investigating. This suburban neighborhood on South Carolina’s largest barrier island offers a rural experience that’s not fully removed from the work centers, shopping and dining that make city life appealing. Homes in this area can be found in new traditional, craftsman and ranch styles. Homebuyers may want to investigate zoning rules protecting nature in this area, as certain kinds of modifications may be restricted.

Housing resources in Charleston, South Carolina

If you’re moving to Charleston soon and planning to buy a home, you may want to examine some of these assistive programs (eligibility and availability subject to change):

• SC Housing Homebuyer Program: The South Carolina State Housing Finance and Development Authority offers affordable mortgages and down payment assistance for first-time buyers. Eligibility is dependent on the applicant meeting both income and home price limits, which vary depending on the county.
• Palmetto Home Advantage Program: Also operated by the SC State Housing authority, this program may offer conventional, FHA and VA loan options for first-time, move-up and repeat buyers throughout South Carolina. In addition to affordable loan options, the Palmetto Home Advantage program also provides forgivable down payment assistance.
• City of Charleston’s Homeownership Initiative: This Charleston-specific program provides a combination of newly constructed and rehabilitated homes for sale to low- and moderate-income families in specific city neighborhoods. Down payment and closing cost assistance may also be available to certain first-time buyers.

In conclusion

If you’re planning a big move, it’s important to investigate the potential pros and cons of living in Charleston. For many, Charleston is a good place to live; however, there are several important considerations which must be made on the path to homeownership. Working with an experienced real estate professional or Home Lending Advisor can help make the process of buying a home in Charleston smoother.