What to Know Before Moving to Charleston, SC

The lure of Charleston, SC, lies in its energy. It balances excitement–world-class dining, events, and beaches–with laid-back southern vibes. Moving to Charleston opens the door to a lifestyle opulent in advantages but lean in the price tag. Gain access to perks like a diverse job market, a year-round mild climate, waterfront living, and countless entertainment choices. For much of the year, the city shines under a relatively mild climate so that you can enjoy outdoor activities all year.  The advantages go on, so here’s a brief overview of what you need to know about moving to Charleston, SC.

Weather and Climate

Summers in Charleston can be very hot and muggy. The heat and humidity move in starting from the end of May and last until sometime in September. There’s also the risk of tropical weather from June to November, as the city is on a waterfront harbor. On the flip side, residents enjoy mild winters with temperatures consistently in the 50F and 60F. Winter temperatures rarely drop below 30 degrees Fahrenheit (-1.11 °C).

The best times of year to visit and live in Charleston are in spring and fall when the air temperature is moderate and comfortable. Humidity is less during these times of year, too.

Job Opportunities and Economy

Charleston is a growing city with a low unemployment rate and a diversifying economy. October 2023 had an unemployment rate of 2.6%, below the US rate of 3.7% for the same time.

People who live in Charleston make an income that is just above average for the country, with a 2021 median household income of $71,755 for Charleston County.  Projected job growth is also higher than the average for the country as a whole. Major local industries include defense, aerospace, technical services, life sciences, healthcare, and hospitality. There’s a lot of energy in Charleston, as it is attracting a young crowd of people to live and work in the area. As the area continues to grow, job opportunities will likely also grow.

Public Transportation

Charleston’s public transportation service mainly consists of buses that run throughout the metro area. People who want to take public transportation to get around town can find out more by exploring the CARTA website, where rider alerts and bus maps are available.

The peninsula neighborhoods can be highly walkable and bikeable for another option.

History

Many people know about Charleston, SC’s rich colonial-era history, which dates to the late 1600s. Throughout the history of the United States, Charleston has been a hub of southern culture and arts. It was a commerce hub starting early in its history and continuing through the modern era. The seaport brought wealth and affluence to the peninsula. Much of this history can be seen in the older neighborhoods, where cobblestone streets and elaborate old buildings are common. Visitors to Charleston marvel at the city’s rich history and architecture by walking the streets and visiting historic museums.

It also brought conflict, as evidenced in the war battle sites and historic forts scattered across the region.

Things to Do

Charleston is rich with entertainment and activities! Whether you’re a visitor or you live in the metro, here’s what you might enjoy:

Charleston Walking Tours

Charleston Walking Tours covers various historic parts of town, including the old city hall, old churches, haunted sites, and more. If you’re new to Charleston, this is an excellent way to become acquainted with the area’s history. Don’t want to walk? Carriage rides are available as well.

Museums

Charleston is rich with museums about its history and various other topics. Want to know more about Charleston? Check out the Charleston Museum or the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon. If you’re a fan of the arts, check out the Gibbes Museum of Art, with its exhibits showing the influence of local artisans through the ages.

Dining

Don’t miss trying out any of Charleston’s delicious restaurants and breweries. Charleston ranked the nation’s no. 2 best food destination in the US for 2023. Take your pick from classic Lowcountry fare, southern cuisine with a modern take, or global flavors. Delight in oyster roasts dockside or ice cream spun from locally sourced dairy. The selection and quality are second only to one.

Golf

Charleston may not be the famous “Grand Strand,” but the golfing resorts are still classic and top-notch. These championship courses have hosted PGA tour events, tournaments, and more. Locals have 17 excellent Charleston golf courses to choose from for a round of play.

Watersports

Why look at the water when you can be on it? Charleston has multiple marinas and outfitters for the perfect day on the surf. Try sailing from a Yacht Club, booking a deep sea charter, or taking a kayak for a journey through the Lowcountry wetlands. Folly’s Beach is a known surfing hotspot, but you can also try windsurfing or relax in the sands.s

Athletics

Cheer for the hometown team in hockey and USL soccer. Charleston also hosts a Minor League Baseball team. That’s in addition to the NCAA Division I sports played by The Citadel, Charleston Southern University, and the College of Charleston. Charleston also plays home to national tennis tournaments, NCAA basketball tournaments, and running events.

Contact Your Real Estate Professional

Contact a real estate professional today if you’re moving to Charleston, SC. Working with a real estate professional makes moving to a new community easier, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area and the cost of living in Charleston. Choose a real estate agent who knows the neighborhoods and can help you decide which area and type of home is right for you. A good real estate professional can also guide you throughout the home-buying process as you navigate this town.

Updated December 2023