Moving to Charleston – Your EZ Guide to Everything Charleston, SC

Not all cities have a look and vibe distinctly their own. Charleston, South Carolina, is one of those cities. Renowned for its rich history and beautifully preserved architecture, Charleston wins people over with its sophisticated yet relaxed pace of life. If you’re looking to live somewhere that’s got personality, friendly people, and lots to do, Charleston, South Carolina, is the best place to go. In this guide, we’ll tell you why people love this city’s charming vibe, cobblestone streets, and wholesome community. Get an idea of what living in Charleston, SC, will be like.

About Charleston, SC

The town’s rich history informs where it is today, which is why it’s helpful to understand how this coastal city evolved.

Founded in 1670 as Charles Town in honor of King Charles II, Charleston’s strategic coastal location shaped its development. Early on, it thrived as a bustling port city with a complex economy driven by agriculture, particularly rice and indigo plantations. A blend of African, European, and Caribbean influences shaped Charleston’s unique culture, from its cuisine to its Gullah traditions.

During the American Revolution, Charleston was a major battleground, enduring a British siege in 1780. It also played a pivotal role in the Civil War as the site where the first shots were fired at Fort Sumter in 1861. Post-war, Charleston faced economic challenges but later revived through industry and tourism. Today, it is celebrated for its preserved historic architecture, enriching arts scene, and warm southern hospitality. The blend of past and present makes it a tourist destination town.

Charleston is on a peninsula formed by the confluence of the Ashley, Cooper, and Wando Rivers. These rivers flow into Charleston Harbor, which empties into the Atlantic Ocean. It affords Charleston some protection from the Atlantic surf, making it connected to the sea and the Lowcountry.

Population Growth

The county seat of Charleston County is South Carolina’s biggest city. As of 2023, U.S. Census estimates, about 156,000 call the port city home. It’s grown 3.9% since the 2020 official Census. It’s part of a greater metro with around 850,000 people. The city’s median age was 34.7, while its households had a median income of $83,891.

The fast growth aligns with what’s happened across South Carolina in the 2020s. In 2023, it was the fastest-growing state by percentage growth in the United States.

Cost of Living

In terms of average cost of living, Charleston does its best to stay competitive in all facets of living. While it may not be the most affordable place to live, residents gain many advantages. The table below shows a side-by-side comparison of living costs against South Carolina and the national average:

COST OF LIVING	Charleston	South Carolina	USA
Overall	112%	89.3%	100%
Grocery	105.6%	95.8%	100%
Health	96.5%	102.7%	100%
Housing	132.5%	76.6%	100%
Median Home Cost	$493,200	$259,900	$338,100
Utilities	101.6%	103.9%	100%
Transportation	94.1%	86.8%	100%
Miscellaneous	93.7%	76.3%	100%

Charleston’s cost of living runs 12% more than the national average. 

Job Market

Residents in Charleston, South Carolina, had a median household income of $79,795 for 2018-2022. This signifies a 5.27% increase from $61,367 recorded from the previous year.

The Charleston economy runs from its three largest industries: Health Care and Social Assistance, Accommodation and Food Services, and Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services. However, the available jobs do span across multiple industries, which lends some diversity in choice and protection from economic swings. For instance, it has six Boeing-related facilities, a Mercedes-Benz plant, a Joint Naval Base, and a busy container port.

Here is a summary of Charleston’s job market per category:

Most Common Jobs

According to the number of persons employed, here are the most common industries for Charleston region residents:

However, it’s reported phenomenal growth in many other well-paying sectors. For instance, over 400 technical companies now operate from the Charleston region, both start-up businesses and satellites or larger companies like Google and Infosys. The Charleston Tech Center opened downtown in 2021 and is part of the local push to support tech careers.

A medical research and manufacturing sector supports the robust local healthcare industry. Charleston has 320 companies researching pharmaceuticals and medical devices.

All this is to say that Charleston’s thriving job market is diversified, adding to its appeal as a place to live.

Sunny Days in Charleston

The warm weather wraps you in year-round comfort, making it one of the best places to live. Charleston averages 48 inches of rain every year, compared to the national average of 38 inches. Heavy rainfall is more prone in the summer months. Snow happens, but it is a rare occurrence; the most the city ever received was six inches in one day in 1989. In most years, it averages zero inches.

What you’ll notice most as a new resident living in Charleston, SC, is all the sunshine. Get your Vitamin D with 209 days of sunshine every year, much more than the U.S. average of 205 days.

A few weather highlights for Charleston, SC:

• July is the hottest summer month, with temperatures reaching 90F during summer.
• January is the coldest month, with low temperatures averaging 45F.
• There’s an average of 48 inches of rain in Charleston every year.
• It usually doesn’t snow in Charleston.

Some of the most pleasant months in Charleston are April, May, and October. Lower humidity and moderate temps lead to gorgeous days. The least comfortable months are July and August because of the heat and humidity.

One downside to the climate of living in Charleston, SC, is the threat of tropical storms. Anywhere on the Eastern seaboard can experience impacts from these storms, whose annual season runs from June to November. Hurricane Hugo made landfall on Sullivan’s Island as a category 4 in 1989, damaging over 10,000 homes and flooding the peninsula. Even if a storm doesn’t directly land on Charleston Harbour, heavy rains from inland can cause flooding on the local rivers and streets. It pays to be weather-aware when these storms are churning in the ocean and to have a plan in place for emergencies.

Getting Around Charleston

Public Transportation

Historic Charleston wasn’t necessarily built for the automobile, and that has its ups and downs. With a thriving cultural scene and beautiful historic district homes, the city naturally attracts a lot of people. Luckily, residents have various means to get around the downtown neighborhoods and outlying suburbs.

Pedestrian

For starters, if you’re living on the Charleston peninsula, it’s incredibly pedestrian-friendly. The downtown historic neighborhoods were built for walking around, even if the sidewalks can get a bit uneven in places. You’ll be able to admire the Charleston-style homes at your leisure, as well as Holy City’s beautiful churches, gardens, art galleries, and Rainbow Row. 

Public Transportation

All forms of public transportation available in Charleston are managed by CARTA, which is short for Charleston Regional Transportation Authority.

Dash: The Dash shuttle around downtown moves people for free. The shuttles run throughout the peninsula to major attractions like the Citadel, historic King Street, Waterfront Park, and the shopping district.

Bus: CARTA operates regular and express bus routes throughout the greater Charleston metro. Routes  run through the the center of downtown to North Charleston, James Island, West Ashley, and Mount Pleasant.

Charleston Water Taxi: The Charleston Water Taxi has departure points in the Marina and Charleston Harbor Resort in Mount Pleasant, the Historic Market Street and Waterfront Park, Maritime Center and Aquarium Wharf, and USS Yorktown and Patriots Point.

Charleston Black Cab Company: The Charleston Black Cab Company rents limos, party buses, airport transportation, and corporate travel.

Car Share: Uber aims to provide reliable transportation services no matter where you’re heading. With this great phone app, you can schedule your ride with just the push of a button.

Driving

Like all cities, Charleston experiences a weekday rush hour and traffic jams. The narrow downtown neighborhood streets are not as car-friendly and more prone to back ups. Still, for those who opt to live in the suburbs, the drive from downtown is typically 20-30 minutes. For instance, the drive to Daniel Island averaged about 25 minutes. Overall, that’s a quick commute for city living. There are garage parking decks and metered on-street parking.

Air travel

Need to get somewhere further away? The Charleston International Airport connects you to cities domestically and abroad, with connections to Atlanta, Charlotte, and Washington, DC. Servicing airlines include American, Delta, Frontier, Southwest, and United.

Education: Schools and Colleges

Local Charleston schools rank among the best when it comes to South Carolina education for children and adults alike. Looking at the public schools for K-12 students, the Academic Magnet High School in North Charleston achieved #7 status in the national rankings on US News and World Report. That means families have access to one of the best high schools in the nation in beautiful Charleston! That academic excellence trickles across Charleston County Schools. The Charleston School of the Arts cracked the top 250 nationally, while Palmetto Scholars Academy and Wando High Schools achieved top marks in the SC state evaluation.

Charleston County Schools also have magnets, charter, and special programs focused on the arts, sciences, mathematics, and academics for youth of all ages. If the public schools do not meet your expectations, find multiple private schools including college prep academics and religious education.

Charleston Colleges

For higher education, the largest local option is The College of Charleston, a historic school founded in 1770.  The college enrolls about 10,000 undergraduates a year to study in 150 majors, plus an additional 29 graduate-level tracks. It ranks among the best public universities in the South. 

Another option is The Citadel Military College of South Carolina. The Citadel’s cadet corps is renowned for its disciplined military structure and traditions, which include parades, inspections, and rigorous academic and leadership training. With a focus on character development and leadership, The Citadel’s challenging academic program, alongside its military structure, prepares students for success in both military and civilian careers. The college is deeply integrated into Charleston’s rich history and community, hosting events such as the weekly Friday afternoon dress parades, which are open to the public.

Charleston Southern University (CSU) is a religious-based private college based out of North Charleston.  The undergraduate program focuses on liberal arts education in 60 courses of study, while there are 20 master’s and two doctoral programs for further studies. Around 3,200 undergraduates were enrolled in 2023.

Finally, the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) is one of the oldest medical schools in the South. MUSC is dedicated to educating the next generation of healthcare professionals, conducting cutting-edge research, and providing high-quality patient care. The campus on Charleston’s peninsula features state-of-the-art facilities, including the MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital and the Hollings Cancer Center, a National Cancer Institute-designated center.

Health Care in Charleston

Access to quality and timely medical services is part of having a high quality of life. Charleston’s healthcare scene is both advanced and accessible. Leading the way is the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), a major academic health center known for its innovative treatments, highly specialized care, and research in areas such as cancer, heart health, and pediatrics.

Additionally, Roper St. Francis Healthcare provides a network of hospitals, urgent care facilities, and specialty services that cater to the Lowcountry’s diverse population. Charleston benefits from a growing number of private practices, wellness centers, and rehabilitation facilities, making it easy for residents to access quality, comprehensive healthcare.

Charleston Real Estate Market

Regarding the real estate market, the median property value in Charleston, South Carolina, stands at $562,738 in 2023. This increased 7.4% over the prior year. Persistent year-over-year home price increases prove that the real estate market in Charleston is healthy and thriving. Furthermore, Charleston has a homeownership rate of 55.1% — a lower score than the 63.9% seen in the national average.

Overall, Charleston was the 28th most pricey housing market in 2022. Making homes more attainable in price is one of the city’s goals.

As of September 2024, Charleston County reported a median home sale price of $725,000 for single-family homes and $440,000 for townhomes and condos. For the year-to-date, that stood at $695,000 and $426,450, respectively. 

Actual housing costs vary based on what Charleston neighborhood you buy a home. For instance, those gorgeous antebellum homes in the historic district have a price tag to match. The downtown median home sale price for the YTD ending September 2024 was $1.55 million. Condos and townhomes ran $909,900.

Even island living comes in high demand. Johns Island had single-family homes at $619,324 for the YTD. On the barrier islands, like Sullivan’s Island, condos were at a median $890,000 for the YTD, and single-family homes had a sale price of $4.15 million YTD.

Affordable housing was tough to find in the immediate suburbs. West Ashley homes cost a little less, at $520,000 YTD. But Lower Mount Pleasant had median prices at $1.12 million. 

Neighborhoods in Charleston

Every Charleston neighborhood radiates with character, even if it’s one of the beautiful outlying communities. Some of the most popular neighborhoods for living in Charleston, SC, include:

• Downtown Charleston: For those who love historic homes, cobblestone streets, and a lively atmosphere, Downtown is the place to be. Live in beautiful historic district homes, walkable to museums, the cultural scene, and restaurants. It further divides neighborhoods, like South of Broad and the French Quarter.
• Mount Pleasant: Just over the Cooper River, Mount Pleasant is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, great schools, parks, and waterfront views. It has a more suburban living vibe. Popular areas include Old Village and I’On.
• West Ashley: A relaxed suburban area with a mix of historic and new homes, West Ashley has plenty of parks and outdoor activities, including the scenic West Ashley Greenway.
• James Island: A laid-back, nature-focused community with quick access to Folly Beach and the James Island County Park. Sprawling live oak trees, marsh views, and an easygoing vibe stand out.
• Isle of Palms: A beachside coastal town with beautiful waterfront properties, Isle of Palms is ideal for those seeking a coastal town and relaxed pace. Find resort-style living in some of its neighborhoods near the golf courses.
• Sullivan’s Island: With its small-town feel, Sullivan’s Island combines beach life with a strong sense of community and beautiful homes, many with ocean views.
• North Charleston: A more affordable area, North Charleston has seen revitalization with new restaurants, breweries, and businesses, particularly in the trendy Park Circle area. It has more affordable housing than central Charleston and more suburban living.
• Daniel Island: A gated and planned community with a small-town feel, Daniel Island has high-quality amenities, golf courses, parks, and excellent schools, making it popular for families. It is about 14 miles from downtown.
• Johns Island: Known for its lush, Lowcountry landscape, Johns Island living promises more space and privacy. Live surrounded by South Carolina’s natural beauty and the famous Angel Oak tree. The neighborhood is also about 14 miles from Downtown Charleston.
• Harleston Village – The primary advantage is its walkability to the College of Charleston. The historic homes and tree-lined streets lend it an upscale yet relaxed vibe.

Golf

Golf is a big thing in Charleston. With plenty of courses and clubs inside the city and the surrounding areas, choosing the best ones to go to can be challenging. Here are a few of the best fairways to play on the South Carolina coast.

Kiawah Island Golf Resort

Three courses combine at this world-famous golfing destination an hour from downtown Charleston.

According to Golf Digest, the Ocean course topped the 2017 to 2018 ranking in their list of Best Courses in South Carolina. Kiawah Island’s beautiful seaside course was designed to test the greatest players for the 1991 Ryder Cup. The same magazine also ranked it as one of “the toughest courses in America.” This Pete Dye course hosted the PGA Championships. The biggest challenge is its windy conditions off the tees.

Just like the Ocean Course, this resort course gets plenty of attention. It’s a more enjoyable experience for players of all levels. There are run-up areas in most greens. A classic Carolina mix of pines, mossy oaks, palmettos, and magnolias create a gorgeous and natural setting. There’s also water on most holes, but you shouldn’t worry about them unless you’ve had a wayward shot.

The Oak Point Golf Course has become a top contender among Kiawah’s top championship courses. Course architect Clyde Johnston’s “Scottish American design” features a collection of fun par 3s, making it an excellent choice for players of all levels.

Wild Dunes Resort

A premier coastal retreat, Wild Dunes is known for its luxurious amenities and relaxed Lowcountry charm. This beachfront resort offers a wide range of activities for all ages, from two world-class golf courses designed by Tom Fazio to pristine swimming pools and rejuvenating spa services. The Links Course was Fazio’s first design and remains a visitor favorite even at its shorter 6,500 yards of play. Who could blame them with the final three holes delivering dramatic Atlantic Ocean views? The Harbor Course, considered slightly more challenging, is even more majestic, with natural lagoons, Lowcountry marshes, and waterway backdrops. Pair it with resort-style living on the Isle of Palms.

The Links at Stono Ferry

Not every golf course can claim to be historic, but Stono Ferry takes it to a new level. The undulating greens are on a revolutionary battle site. A unique layout runs from the Carolina pine forest to the Intracoastal Waterway. Hole 13 requires a shot over a creek and a former river crossing. The course is about a 30-minute drive from Downtown Charleston and is in a semi-private golf club.

Dunes West Golf & River Club

This golf club earned accolades from Golf Magazine and Golf Digest as among the best resort courses. Arthur Hills designed its championship golf course in Mount Pleasant, about 20 minutes from Charleston. It plays 6,871 yards and par-72 through marsh and water views. It feels classically Lowcountry, down to the sweeping porch on its clubhouse. 

Water Sports

Charleston may not be directly beachfront, but the maritime culture is very much a part of local culture. Two rivers form the peninsula overlooking the beautiful Charleston Harbor, where containerships and sailboats pry the waters together. Plus, there’s all the creeks and marshes that make up the surrounding Lowcountry on James Island and Daniel Island.

Naturally, you can find water sports and boating access from around Charleston.

Hydrofly Watersports

As the premier watersports company, Hydrofly and its staff provide an unforgettable water adventure. From kayaking, paddle boarding, flyboarding, private boat charters, fishing charters, or even jet ski tours, Hydrofly has activity you’ll enjoy.

Speed Boat Adventures

At Speed Boat Adventures, you are the captain. Take a 13-mile, fully narrated tour through the Charleston Harbor, where you will have a once-in-a-lifetime view of the USS Yorktown Aircraft Carrier, Battery, Arthur Ravenel Jr Bridge, Waterfront Park, the downtown Charleston skyline, South Carolina Aquarium, and more.

Charleston Charter Fishing

Book fishing charters throughout the year and fish in the various bodies of water surrounding the low country. These include Folly Beach, Kiawah Island, and Isle of Palms. When you decide to hire from them, all equipment, fishing licenses, bait, snacks, and soft drinks will be provided.

Private Boat Launches

Charleston County has 19 public boat ramps throughout its many waterways, including several in the Charleston metro. West Ashley has three ramps of varying sizes, with kayaks and canoes recommended for PierPoint. North Charleston has a ramp on the Ashley River, while Mount Pleasant has boat ramps on the Wando River, Shem Creek, and Copahee Sound.

Beach Days

The great Charleston metro has beautiful beaches within a 30-minute drive or less, depending on where you live. The four main beaches are Isle of Palms, Sullivan’s Island, Folly Beach, and Kiawah Island.

Folly Beach attracts surfers. “The Washout” is a top surfing destination to test the skills of amateurs and professionals alike. Check out the surfing schools and learn to ride the waves.

Sullivan’s Island beaches are the closest for Mount Pleasant area residents and remain incredibly pristine. The historic fishing village has delicious restaurants serving excellent seafood and boutique shops for its beach visitors. The scenery includes the Charleston Light, a lighthouse that guides ships into the harbor. Sandbars turn the Atlantic Ocean into gentle waves, making it a favorite beach for families.

Most of Kiawah Island is private, but there is a stretch of public beach at Beachwalker County Park. The drive is further, but it is one of the loveliest beach destinations, typically with a quieter environment. Those who live there describe it as a peaceful coastal town.

The World-Class Dining Scene

Renowned for its fresh, locally sourced ingredients, Charleston is home to award-winning dining and chefs who elevate Lowcountry cuisine with creative twists. Historic cobblestone streets lead to cozy, character-filled restaurants, some in converted historic homes or mansions. Diners savor dishes like shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, and perfectly seasoned oysters. Beyond the traditional Southern fare and fresh seafood dishes, Charleston restaurants tap into its many cultures to deliver diverse flavors, from refined French cuisine to innovative farm-to-table eateries. With each bite at the breakfast or dinner table, Charleston’s culinary scene tells a story of tradition and ingenuity, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts. The quality and variety of the dining options often rank the city on lists of the top foodie destinations in the United States.

Dog-Friendly Charleston

You can be sure that Charleston loves dogs as much as you do! Take your pup to multiple dog-friendly places in this city.

Twisted Cypress Brewing Company

The Twisted Cypress Brewing Company allows leashed dogs to join their beloved humans inside so they can appreciate the great ambiance while you sip on your craft beer. Dogs are also allowed to roam around off-leash in their fenced-in backyard, provided that he/she is a good boy/girl. Remember to clean up after your canine companion so everyone can enjoy a great time.

James Island County Park

If you have an energetic pup, visit James Island County Park. Many people have said that this is the best dog park in the city with its beautiful open grass area, dog beach, waste stations, cleaning station, and a fenced play area for your fur baby.

Magnolia Plantation & Gardens

The Magnolia Plantation is one of the most beautiful gardens you and your canine sidekick can explore in Charleston. Your well-behaved dog can go on the tram tour. If your dog can be carried, they will be allowed inside the plantation house. Apart from the garden, several trails are inside the property for a lovely springtime walk. It’s an important place in the cultural history of Charleston.

Attractions

As if there aren’t enough places to get lost in Charleston, here are just a few places of interest in the Holy City. The entertainment scene includes iconic parks, nightlife options, and historic sites. As you settle into your new Charleston home, add these as sites to see on those beautiful weather days. 

Waterfront Park

Locals and tourists come to enjoy the views of Charleston Harbor along the 12-acre Waterfront Park. The green space in the city center stretches over 1,000 feet of waterfront. During beautiful weather days, the park stays busy. Old-fashioned double swings and benches face the water. Watch as large ships and sailboats come and go across the harbor waters. The iconic Pineapple Fountain is lighted at night, while seasonal flowers and gardens add a splash of color. Waterfront Park is near the city’s historic antebellum homes and City Market. With its free Wi-Fi, it has become more popular.

Marion Square

Marion Square is a historic public green space in the heart of downtown Charleston. Spanning six acres, some of Charleston’s most iconic landmarks surround this park, including the College of Charleston, the Charleston Museum, and the stately buildings along King and Meeting Streets. Originally a parade ground, Marion Square is a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors. The greens host their fair share of events like the Charleston Farmers Market, the Spoleto Festival, and the annual Charleston Wine + Food Festival.

Battery Park

Not officially a park, this is the southern part of the peninsula where a fortified seawall and promenade date back to the Civil War era. The Battery and its White Point Garden are popular places to walk the pup, view Fort Sumter, Castle Pinckney, and USS Yorktown, admire the antebellum homes, and other sites across the harbor.

Fort Sumter National Monument 

Visit the site where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. Fort Sumter is only accessible by boat from downtown Charleston. The fort exhibits provide a fascinating look into a pivotal time in American history. You can combine a trip to the fort with a visit to the USS Yorktown, part of the local Naval Marine Museum.

South Carolina Aquarium

This is one of the most popular places to go in Charleston. Despite its name, it’s not just home to underwater animals. Land-dwelling mammals, birds, reptiles, and plants join the sea inhabitants in this Charleston attraction that’s a hit with kids. Its 385,000-gallon aquarium tank extends two stories. See interactive shows daily and experience their Shark Shallows adventure, where you can touch rays and sharks.

Shopping

Part of exploring the historic district is finding your favorite unique small businesses and shops. Charleston has plenty of options to find something special and unique. Start your shopping spree at these great places.

Mount Pleasant Towne Centre

One of the premier mixed-use destinations, this 500,000 square foot open-air shopping center covers 51 acres. Keep coming back, as it has over 60 restaurants, stores, and a 16-screen movie theater. Local, regional, and national retailers draw visitors and residents alike. They have an extensive collection of stores, such as:

Charleston City Market

Spanning four city blocks, this bustling market has been a gathering place for locals and visitors since 1807. Here, local artisans and vendors sell a delightful array of goods, from handmade jewelry and art to sweetgrass baskets—an iconic Gullah tradition. Browse local spices, preserves, and treats, or savor fresh bites at nearby eateries. Open day and night, the City Market is a great place to shop and an immersive way to experience Charleston’s rich culture and southern hospitality. For many, visiting the boutique shops is part of daily life.

King Street

Have a premier shopping experience in this prized historic part of Charleston. The avenue divides into three distinct shopping districts. Browse vintage goods and antiques on Lower King Street. The middle section will appeal to those with an eye for fashion and trends with its upscale boutique shopping and dining. The Upper King Street has more restaurants and eclectic design shops. Either way, it’s a fun and dynamic shopping destination. King Street also has some nightlife options, like the Charleston Music Hall and the Prohibition Bar.

Citadel Mall

A traditional shopping mall where you’ll find national brands like Dillard’s and Target. It has space for over 100 stores and dining vendors. Plans call for it to be revitalized in the coming years. Find it off Sam Rittenburg Boulevard in West Ashley.

House of Sage

Created in 2009 by the husband and wife team of Chris and Erin Abagnale, this chic boho store sits right in downtown Charleston, with a branch in West Ashley and Daniel Island, too. This shop has something for everyone, and will always have the latest trends and styles to fit any occasion. Customers are invited to share the owners’ love for shopping local and fashion through their affordable prices and unique pieces.

Art and Culture

The Holy City pulses with artistic energy. Galleries are filled with stunning Lowcountry landscapes, while their works celebrate classic Southern artistity to bold, modern expression. Add in lively street performances and colorful festivals, and you’ve got a place where every street corner has something unique to discover. Experience these cultural icons when living in Charleston, SC.

The Charleston Museum

The Charleston Museum is “America’s First Museum,” founded in 1773 as the Charleston Library Society. It carries a vast collection of permanent exhibits, beginning with early settlers and Native Americans in its Lowcountry History Hall. See the early tools used to grow rice and rare slave badges.

Their Early Days gallery shows collections from 19th-century travelers, including Greek and Roman antiquities and an Egyptian mummy and case. Other exhibits include life during the Revolution, early weaponry, and Charleston’s role during the Civil War.

The Loeblein Gallery of Charleston Silver

This fascinating museum has a collection of southern-made silver from the Victorian era. One of the most valuable pieces in their collection is George Washington’s christening cup. The Historic Textiles Gallery highlights samples from the museum’s collection of historic costumes, needlework, and textiles. Their Kidstory exhibits bring Charleston’s history to life while the Lowcountry exhibit offers hands-on pieces.

Gibbes Museum of Art

Tour an important cultural institution featuring Southern art and rotating exhibitions, showcasing Charleston’s artistic heritage. The galleries span four centuries of artistic expression. Some exhibits capture the traditions of the local art scene, like sweetgrass baskets and 1920s Charleston watercolors.

Dock Street Theatre

Known as America’s first theater, this historic venue presents excellent productions of plays, musicals, and community performances. Today it’s home to some of the best annual cultural events, like the MOJA festival and Spoleto Festival. It has a residential performance theater with over 100 shows a season.

Spoleto Festival USA

This internationally renowned festival is a highlight event in Charleston. The multi-day festival celebrates performing arts with opera, theater, dance, and music performances throughout the city each spring. 

Redux Contemporary Art Center

This non-profit studio and gallery hosts exhibitions, workshops, and events that support local artists and showcase bold, experimental art. It presents new artists with artist-in-residency programs, art exhibitions, and outreach programs.

Libraries

Charleston libraries are repositories of history and knowledge. They run community programs for all ages, from summer reading programs for kids to art workshops for adults. The local branches fall under the Charleston County system.

Sports and Sports Teams

Charleston hosts many amateur, minor, and professional sports teams. Here are the names that you can cheer for:

• ● The Charleston Battery is a professional soccer team competing in the USL Championship. They play at the Patriots Point Soccer Complex. The Battery are the oldest continuously operating professional soccer club in the US.
• ● The Charleston RiverDogs is a Minor League Baseball team that plays in the South Atlantic League. They’re an affiliate of the Tampa Bay Rays and play at Joseph P. Riley Jr. Park.
• ● A minor league professional hockey team, the South Carolina Stingrays play in the ECHL. You’ll find them playing at the North Charleston Coliseum in North Charleston. They’re also an affiliate of the Hershey Bears and the Washington Capitals.
• ● A rugby union club, the Charleston Outlaws RFC plays in the USA Rugby, USA Rugby South, and Palmetto Rugby Union. It competes in the Men’s Division II up against Columbia, Cape Fear, Charlotte “B” and Greenville clubs.
• ● As a major Women’s Tennis Association Event, The Volvo Car Open is hosted by the Family Circle Tennis Center, which is on Daniel Island.

Enjoy Living in Charleston, SC!

Does all this sound appealing? Then come to the South Carolina coast. Charleston is much more than a tourist-destination town. Sure, soak up historic sites, got lost on cobblestone walkway or miles of gorgeous beaches, and fill up on great eats. But also fall in love with its southern hospitality, warm weather, and best-rated schools.

Even with a slightly higher cost of living, hundreds of people are relocating to Charleston every year. After Travel & Leisure called it the best city in the country for years, Charleston just keeps gaining attention. Who knows? You could be the latest in this city’s list of people who fell in love at first sight, never to leave this enchanting city that you will soon call your home.

November 2024