Charleston, SC, is a beautiful city with a lot to offer. It’s the oldest and most historical city in the South, but it also has one of the youngest populations in America!
If you are thinking of moving to Charleston, SC, or have been dreaming about living in Charleston, SC, this blog post is for you!
There’s a lot of information out there that stresses how it is crucial to research all the things to know before moving to Charleston. And we know it can be a crazy experience, especially when you don’t know where to start.
We’ve put together a list of 11 essential pieces of advice that will help make the transition as smooth as possible. Whether you’re moving from another state or just down the street, these tips will still apply.
1. Top 3 Things To Know Before Moving To Charleston
Getting Around Charleston, South Carolina
One of the essential things to know before moving to Charleston is getting around, and having access to public transportation can be an important part of making your life easier. In some cities, it might make sense to own a car but living in Charleston, SC, you may want to consider using services like Zipcar or Car Share instead! You’ll also save money on maintenance costs and gas and stay environmentally friendly at the same time.
Charleston, SC is also a walkable city, so moving to Charleston means you will use public transit less than other cities. The bus system in Charleston can get pricey if you are not careful with your transportation budget for the month. In addition to public commuting options, there are also ride-hiring services such as Uber and Lyft.
Cost Of Living In Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston, SC, is a lovely city to live in, but moving there can be quite expensive, especially if you are moving from a larger metropolis. The average price for rent in Charleston ranges between $1600-1800, depending on your desired location. If you are thinking about moving here or just taking an extended vacation, you must know what expenses you will encounter while living here.
The cost of living in Charleston, SC, is high in the United States. It has a rating of 111.5, which puts it 11.5% higher than the national average, and housing is the biggest contributing factor in the high cost of living index. And this should certainly factor into your decision-making process when moving.
Jobs Opportunities In Charleston, South Carolina
When moving to a new city, knowing what jobs are available and how much they pay is always good. This way, you can get an idea of whether the cost of living will work for your income or not before moving somewhere that isn’t suitable for where you want to live.
Good news! Job opportunities are plentiful in Charleston, SC. The city boasts a diversified economy with both the private and public sectors, which means there is work for everyone depending on what you want to do moving forward! The unemployment rates within Charleston county have also decreased over the past year, dropping from 5.2% in September 2020 to 3.6% in July 2021.
The job market in Charleston, SC, is thriving with opportunities for people moving to the city. The top industries that are hiring include, but aren’t limited to:
- Manufacturing
- Healthcare and Medicine
- Renewable Energy Resources
- Tourism
- Business Services/Accounting/Legal Firms
In addition, several new businesses are being built or starting up every day, making this an ideal place to live if you love business or entrepreneurship. There has never been a better time than now for moving here from another state because the economy is currently growing at such a strong pace. It’s no wonder why so many people are moving to Charleston, SC!
2. You Must Know About The Education System & Schools In Charleston, SC If You Have Kids
The city is also home to the top two public high schools in South Carolina. Namely, Academic Magnet and Charleston School Of The Arts. And also the nation’s top university for quality education, student life, and affordability, The College of Charleston.
The College Of Charleston is a four-year, public liberal arts college. It’s also the oldest municipal college in America and was founded in 1770 by Henry Laurens, one of the most prominent early American leaders. The school is known for its’ beautiful campus, which is recognized as one of the most attractive in the nation and is located right on Charleston Harbor with a fantastic overview of Fort Sumter and the Ravenel Bridge.
3. Slow Down Your Pace And Take Notice Of The Pleasant Weather. It’s Always Lovely Through The Year
When thinking of moving to Charleston, SC, you’re probably thinking about the weather at least a little bit. The weather in the city is generally mild and pleasant. Summers are hot but not too humid, while winter brings light snowfall and crisp mornings to the city. The mean annual temperature of Charleston, SC, ranges from 53 degrees F (12C) in January to 79 degrees F (26C) in August.
It’s not too far south or west that you’d have blistering hot summers and ice storms in winter where it isn’t easy to drive, but living in coastal South Carolina brings with it milder temperatures compared to other states further north. The average high in summer is 95 degrees, and the average low in winter is 50 degrees.
4. You Can Easily Satisfy Your Hunger Pangs With The Food Scene In Charleston, SC
Charleston, South Carolina, has an amazing food culture. It is the Holy City of Foodies, and it’s not just because of its many restaurants, but also for its freshness and variety in ingredients used to cook up meals. If you are a foodie, then this city will be heaven for you! There is so much good stuff here that it’s hard not to indulge yourself or your taste buds once in a while.
It is also home to some of the most amazing food globally, and it’s no wonder why this city ranks up there with New Orleans, New York City, and San Francisco. From fresh seafood to tasty barbeque, there is a little bit of everything you could ever desire when moving to Charleston, SC.
Here’s a mini list of recommendations from us!
167 Raw
Recommended for its Nantucket-style sandwiches and raw bar oysters, the restaurant also serves the city’s best lobster roll!
167 Raw is located at 289 East Bay Street, Charleston, SC 29401.
The Early Bird Diner
The diner offers a budget-friendly true Southern experience with its wide selection of menu items available from breakfast till late at night (Up till 4 AM on weekends)! They are famous for Chicken & Waffles and Fried Pork Chop with pepper jelly, hmmm doesn’t it sound delicious?
The Early Bird Diner is located at 1644 Savannah Hwy, Charleston, Sc 29407.
Page’s Okra Grill
Owned and operated by the Page Family, they have been serving local food for the local folks since 2006. The restaurant offers a warm and welcoming vibe with its outdoor seating and delicious southern menu. The locals love their country fried steak and fried chicken livers, so better leave some room in your tummy for them!
Page’s Okra Grill is located at 794 Coleman Blvd, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464.
Lewis Barbeque
Of course, we wouldn’t forget about barbeque. It’s everyone’s favourite. Don’t miss out on the tender turkey slices and mouth drooling fatty briskets at Lewis Barbecue. They are also known for their massive, custom-made smokers by the pitmaster John Lewis himself. Just imagine having their smoked meats along with some ice-cold beer!
Lewis Barbeque is located at 464 N Nassau St, Charleston, SC 29403.
5. Let Loose A Little! Get Wild With The Nightlife In Charleston SC
While moving to Charleston, SC may be your next step, moving here can also mean that it is time for a lifestyle change. With a handful of bars and clubs around, you will find every style of nightlife in Charleston, SC. To experience the nightlife like an expat living overseas while still enjoying all the comforts of home, such as free WiFi and draft beer on demand – look no further than this classic American pub located on Queen Street close to King Street.
If you enjoy local craft beers or cocktails on tap along with live music, then head to The Belmont (pictured above) for the best ambience and drinks downtown.
Charleston, SC, the nightlife is definitely one of the best, with bars and clubs open until late. There are also plenty of restaurants that stay open until midnight or beyond if you want to grab a bite after an evening out on the town! Some popular ones include Mellow Mushroom on East Bay St., The Alley Cat Lounge on Calhoun St., Prohibition Bar & Grill on Broad Street, among many others.
6. You Must Check Out The Gorgeous Beaches Of Charleston During Your Leisure Time
The beaches in Charleston, SC, are a great way to spend the sunny days. There is no better activity than enjoying a nice day at the beach with friends and family or sometimes by yourself! The city has an abundance of beaches with beautiful ocean views, but you will find that some are far more popular than others.
Some of the common ones are Folly Beach, Sullivan’s Island, Isle of Palms, or Kiawah beach, and each has its own unique feel and breathtaking views that make them stand apart.
Folly Beach has lovely white sandy beaches that stretch nearly two miles along the Atlantic Ocean shoreline. There are hotels right on top of this pristine beach that offers easy access to it without moving your car from one parking space to get into another spot all day long. With shops, restaurants, and bars nearby, you can have a great time at the beautiful seaside resort while still being able to explore Charleston when ready or needed.
Sullivan’s Island is a beach community with gorgeous homes and stunning views. The beaches are long, clean, and never crowded and Isle Of Palms is perfect if you are looking for an easily accessible beach with dogs allowed on certain parts.
The Kiawah Beach and Kiawah Island Golf Resort is an upscale residential resort town between Mount Pleasant and Charleston, SC. The beach is 10 miles long, which is great for bicycling, running, or walking along the shoreline. There are opportunities for wildlife viewing, surfing, kayaking, fishing, and shelling as well.
7. Outdoor Adventures In Charleston SC Aren’t Just For Tourists! There Are Many Places To Explore!
Due to the lovely climate, Charleston, SC, is also a popular tourist destination for outdoor adventure! The city offers many opportunities for biking and hiking trails because of its landscapes and geography.
Aside from the gorgeous landscapes and scenery, there are also many water activities from water sports such as boating and kayaking along the coast near Sullivan’s Island (where you can also see dolphins), fishing on Folly Beach (a local favourite), Isle of Palms, or Kiawah Island.
You can fish from a pier at Shem Creek Park located on Johns Island. Or if you’d rather go deep-sea fishing, there are many charters to choose from throughout various areas around the town. Or, if it is during the spring, you may choose to go boating and/or kayaking (as birds that are migrating stop by as well as dolphin sightings) or just good old swimming in the ocean. There are plenty of options available for you!
The area is also rich in history, making it a great place for historical tours and other activities to understand the region.
8. If You’re A History Buff, You’ll Absolutely Fall In Love With The Vibrant Arts & Entertainment Culture!
The arts and entertainment scene in Charleston, SC, is vibrant, diverse, and very much alive! In fact, the city’s creative community has been recognized as one of the best in America by “Budget Travel Magazine” and “American Style Magazine”.
The city is home to an eclectic mix of music venues, museums, and art galleries. It hosts several live performances such as concerts, plays, comedy shows, and musicals throughout the year at local theatres like Dock Street Theatre & Harleston Village Theatre.
Spoleto Festival USA, a highly anticipated annual performing arts festival that celebrates music and dance with an impressive lineup of events, is held in Charleston every year. The event brings together over 100 artists from all over the world to perform at more than 20 venues across downtown Charleston for two weeks beginning late May/early June each year.
For enthusiasts interested in the arts scene, a visit to the Gibbes Museum of Art is a must where they can view a collection of over 200 paintings and sculptures from local artists throughout history. In addition to its permanent exhibits, this museum also hosts special exhibitions on loan from other museums. At the same time, worldwide, its next-door neighbour, Poogan’s Porch restaurant, provides visitors with some amazing views across the Charleston harbour during dinner service.
Other popular spots include The Charleston Museum, which features an extensive collection of Civil War artefacts & weapons, plus Hampton Park Miniature Train which offers scenic tours through the downtown park along tracks winding behind trees around ponds and lagoons every Saturday year-round (weather permitting).
9. People Living In Charleston, SC, Often Get Their Daily Dose Of Relaxation By Strolling In The Parks! You Should Try It Too!
Charleston has many parks, so moving to this city will be great for you or your family if you like to be outdoors and enjoy nature. Some neighbourhoods have more extensive and impressive park systems than others. These larger, well-maintained areas are often safer for walking or moving about on foot during the daytime hours when there isn’t much traffic around, and you can enjoy nature and its surroundings while getting your exercise in. Some of the common parks you should know while living in Charleston, SC:
Hampton Park
It is the oldest park located in the downtown area of Charleston, and it holds a lot of historical value. It also boasts an extensive floral display among any park in the city. It is planted by the staff of volunteers who take care of the park. There is also an audio walking tour called Layers of the Landscape.
Washington Square
Located in the heart of downtown, this park is surrounded by gorgeous community offices and buildings such as the South Carolina Historical Society and Charleston City Hall. It has a lot of open space to spread out and play. There are also a few vendors that sell snacks, drinks, souvenirs, etc.
White Point Gardens
This park is perfect if you love to watch bypassers or if you’re a history buff. You can sit in the shade of one of the beautiful old trees and enjoy seeing all the historical displays of Civil War Cannons, monuments, statues, and buildings around you. It also provides beautiful views of Fort Sumter and Charleston Harbor.
Waterfront Park
This park is definitely one of Charleston’s gems. It has a beautiful view of Charleston Harbor and Cooper River. Many outdoor events occur here, so moving to this area will allow you to meet lots of people and experience a true sense of community. It also packs romantic and engaging scenery, making any visitor fall in love with the southern city.
10. Get Ready For A Shopping Spree In Charleston SC
Take advantage of all the wonderful shopping opportunities while living in Charleston, SC! There are many interesting stores in the city, including several local boutiques that sell unique jewelry, books, flowers, etc. There are also a variety of stores selling art, including paintings and ceramics.
Check out King Street, filled with upscale stores, boutiques, and local artisans selling everything from furniture to clothing or shoes. Several antique shops are available if you want something more quaint and unique than big chain department stores.
Clothing stores in Charleston, SC include Forever 21, H&M, and Rue21; these three companies offer several fashions to the general public. You can also find several high-end designers and retail outlets offering luxury clothing items.
Conclusion About Moving To Charleston
If you are still thinking of moving to Charleston SC, stop! Read The 10 Essential Things To Know About Relocation And Start Packing Today.
So, now you know the essential advice for moving to Charleston, SC. While this may not be an exhaustive list, it should give you a good idea of what to expect when making a move here! If you are still unsure, the following resources might be able to help you:
- 5 Telltale Signs that it’s Definitely Time to Relocate to a New City
- 5 Precautions To Take When Relocating
- Top 10 Mistakes To Avoid When Moving Internationally
On the other hand, if this has been on your mind or thinking about moving to Charleston soon, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Sanelo today!
We would love to help make your transition as smooth and easy as possible. Whether you need assistance finding new housing options or want some pointers for navigating local customs, or simply just moving, Sanelo got your back!
Contact us today to find out more about how we can make moving easier for you!
Find out more about moving to other nearby cities:
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving To Charleston SC
Why Are People Thinking Of Moving To Charleston, SC?
Charleston, South Carolina, is known for having a unique culture that provides residents with abundant opportunities. With tons of incredible restaurants, historic sites, and beautiful beaches, along with an affordable cost of living and mild weather year-round, moving to Charleston, SC, is an attractive option.
Is It Safe To Walk Around Charleston At Night?
Downtown Charleston is generally safe to commute around. However, as with any other busy city that is packed with visitors and locals. One should always be wary about their surroundings when exploring at night. The general rule is to avoid walking alone at night, especially along dark alleyways, and always keep an eye on your valuables.
What Is The Best Time Of Year To Visit Charleston, SC?
The optimal time to visit the city is from March to May or from September to November. During this period, the temperatures are mild. However, hotel rates might be high as it is during the easter.
What Is The Rainiest Month In Charleston, SC?
According to RSSWeather, the rainiest month in Charleston, SC, will be in August, with 6.91 inches of precipitation.