10 Pros and Cons of Living in Charleston, SC Right Now

Important Things To Know Before Moving To Charleston, South Carolina

Also known as the Holy City, let’s dig into the pros and cons of living in Charleston, South Carolina today.

Whether you are looking for a retirement living option. A good place to find a new job. Or, just want a fresh start in a vibrant city on the Atlantic Coast.

Then, you are going to find a lot to enjoy about Charleston living. But, like any place you choose to settle down, there are several drawbacks.

So, before you start packing, let’s explore the top 10 living in Charleston pros and cons right now…

Pros And Cons Of Living In Charleston, SC

Our pros and cons of moving to Charleston include:

• Strong job market
• Nice neighborhoods
• Fun things to do
• Good local foods
• Mild winters
• High cost of housing
• Excessive consumption taxes
• Risk of extreme weather
• The high price of popularity
• Pesky bugs and critters

We are going to dive deeper into each of these important points about your possible Charleston lifestyle.

But first, allow me to answer the burning question that’s probably on your mind…

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Disclosure: At no cost to you, I may get commissions for purchases made through links in this post.

Is Charleston A Good Place To Live?

For anyone looking for a southern city with a rich history, amazing dining options, and mild winters all nestled on the beautiful Atlantic coastline. Then, yes Charleston is a great place to live.

However, no city is perfect. So, let’s carefully examine each of the pros and cons…

1. Strong Job Market

Unless you just want an answer to the question: is Charleston a good place to retire? Then, you might be interested in knowing a little bit about the job market.

Fortunately, for anyone ready, willing, and able to work. The good news is the unemployment rate is very low. Running consistently below the U.S. national average.

Major Industries

No, it’s not the regional financial center like nearby Charlotte, NC. However, economic diversity is a strength of this city.

For example, employment is supported by businesses in the following industries:

• Aerospace
• Automotive
• Military & Defense
• Health Care
• Tourism & hospitality
• Technology

Nor is it this southern state’s capital, Columbia. Where you will find an abundance of government-related employment opportunities.

So, you ask, where are the jobs? Allow me to show you…

Large Employers For Working In Charleston

Some of the major employers for area residents include:

• Boeing
• Mercedes-Benz
• Roper St. Francis Healthcare
• Trident Health System
• Robert Bosch
• Joint Base Charleston
• Medical University Of South Carolina

So, be sure to get your resume in good shape. To present your qualifications in the best light possible.

For this, I recommend MyPerfectResume.

Okay. We are just getting warmed up.

As a result, our top living in Charleston pros and cons must roll on…

2. Nice Neighborhoods

Like most cities across the country, Charleston is a collection of diverse neighborhoods.

Let’s discuss…

Family-Friendly Small-Town Charm

So, if you are looking for a mid-sized southern city coupled with the feel of a smaller town. Then, I suspect, you will like it here.

Because three things sum up life in Charleston:

First, there is a slow pace to enjoy.

Second, the city oozes southern hospitality.

Third, it’s a safe city with a low crime rate and a great place to raise a family.

Next, for all of you history buffs, here is another advantage of living in Charleston…

Historic Streets And Homes

Because Charleston is like living in a museum. For one reason, it is the oldest city in South Carolina.

The downtown historic district is amazing having preserved a lot of its period architecture. Most noteworthy, some homes date back to the 1700s and 1800s.

You can stroll downtown and around the area to find history on every street corner:

• The city market
• Cobblestone streets
• The French Quarter
• Some of the nation’s oldest churches

Or, check out some of the historical sites dating back to the start of the civil war. Fort Sumter, for example.

So, for anyone that desires a historic home, the Charleston peninsula is full of them.

Why move to Charleston? Here’s another good reason…

Other Neighborhoods For Living In Charleston

Beyond the city’s historical residences, you have other options to consider.

So, you can get settled in your perfect place. And start enjoying life in your new location.

Some of the best areas to live in Charleston include:

• Mount Pleasant: Low country suburbia
• Harleston Village: The College of Charleston’s home
• James Island: Feel the water vibe
• West Ashley: Naturally beautiful area
• Summerville: Known for good schools

Finally, as you look for the perfect place to live. Understand the housing and rental markets are competitive.

So, be sure to keep your credit score in good shape. Since mortgage lenders and landlords will check it.

You can review your score for free using Credit Karma.

Okay. Thus far we have covered working and living in Charleston.

Thus, it seems like it’s time to relax, kick back, and have a little fun.

3. Fun Things To Do

Fortunately, having fun isn’t in short supply. Another one of the advantages of living in Charleston…

Water Sports

If you like being around the water, you are in luck. Because there is water everywhere including:

• The Atlantic Ocean
• Charleston Harbor
• Ashley River
• Waldo River
• Cooper River

With much of it tied together by the east coast’s Intracoastal Waterway. The waterway flows through Isle of Palms, Mount Pleasant, and directly passes through Charleston Harbor.

Thus, providing many opportunities for water lovers to get out and enjoy:

• Surfing
• Kiteboarding
• Fishing
• Boating
• Crabbing

On the other hand, this is not a big college sports town. And, unfortunately, there are no pro teams from the 4 major sports leagues.

So, instead, put your mind at ease and just take in the beautiful water views at…

• The Battery
• White Point Garden
• Waterfront Park

…to name just a few prime locations. Or, you can relax and stick your toes in the sand…

Beaches

Because Charleston is surrounded by barrier islands. So, there are multiple beaches in this area.

To the north, there are beaches on Sullivan’s Island and Isle of Palms. While heading south, there are beaches on Folly Beach and Kiawah Island. Plus several more.

Parks

The Charleston County Park System operates over 11,000 acres of property. Its assets include regional parks, beach parks, a historic plantation site, fishing piers, waterparks, and boat landings.

James Island County Park and Palmetto Islands County Park are a couple of favorites. You may want to explore them.

So, there is no excuse for staying inside. Because you will want to get out to enjoy the natural beauty after moving to Charleston.

Arts And Culture

For a different side to life in Charleston, Here are just a few options to get your creative juices flowing in this city.

From art galleries to museums, and live music, so many options, such as…

• Charleston Museum
• Dock Street Theatre
• Charleston Wine + Food Festival
• Charleston Symphony Orchestra
• North Charleston POPS
• Summerville Orchestra
• MOJA Arts Festival
• Gibbes Museum of Art
• Charleston Performing Arts Center

And if all of this recreation is making you hungry, do not worry. Because good food is another one of the many reasons to live in Charleston…

4. Good Local Foods

First, because of the nature of the city, its residents, and the tourists that come to take it all in. This southern city has a great restaurant scene.

However, so do most popular cities in the U.S.

Thus, I always like to focus the local food favorites. You know what I mean. The best eats that make one place unique from another.

Just think about enjoying some of these southern food specialties that Charleston is known for…

• Shrimp and grits
• Cornbread
• She crab soup
• Benne wafers
• Hush puppies
• Fried chicken
• Barbeque
• Crabs
• Oysters

Then, wash it all down with a sweet tea. Or, better yet, a Planters Punch cocktail.

Finally, here’s the last of our good reasons to move to Charleston…

5. Mild Winters

If you are ready to start packing, know that you can leave your parka and snow shovels behind. Because you won’t need them when living in Charleston.

Since the average high winter temperatures routinely rise into the 60s.

It rarely snows. And if it does, it’s gone the next day.

Furthermore, the spring and fall seasons are warm and pleasant. Couple them with the winter season and you have 9-10 months every year to get outside and enjoy the beauty of the area.

Okay. That’s all the best things about Charleston.

However, I promised you both the pros and the cons. So next, let’s cover the tops reason not to move to Charleston…

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6. High Cost Of Housing

Coastal communities with mild winters are attracting more and more residents. Because people tire of living in cold, snowy climates much farther to the north.

So, with that increased demand for housing, come higher prices.

According to BestPlaces.net, the median home value here is more than 30% greater than the national average. Apartment rents are quite costly too.

And since the expense of housing is the biggest factor in most families’ budgets. It translates to a higher cost of living versus the national average.

You should also consider flood insurance for your property. Thus, adding to your housing costs. More on flood risks a little later.

Otherwise, you will find some pluses in minuses in your other budget categories.

But overall, costs like food, utilities, and transportation won’t be too much different. Versus other mid-size cities, you may be considering.

Of course, you can always save a little more by making your online purchases with Rakuten. The best cash-back app out there.

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However, there’s another consideration when it comes to your budget…

7. Excessive Consumption Taxes

Your living costs don’t start and end with food and shelter. Especially not when moving to Charleston.

Since taxes of various kinds are going to take a bite out of your budget too. Here’s why…

Income Taxes

This state has a progressive income tax system. Which just means the more you make. The higher your state tax rate.

And once your income exceeds about $15,000. The state will take 6-7% of every extra dollar you earn.

This is a very high tax rate. When compared to most other states in the country.

However, everyone’s tax situation is different. So, if this extra cost is a concern, I strongly suggest you consult with a professional tax advisor.

Furthermore, if South Carolina’s income tax prevents you from moving here. Don’t worry, because their other great southern states to live in.

Continuing with the topic of taxes…

Sales Taxes Are High For Those Living In Charleston

Next, plan on paying a hefty 9% in sales tax on top of the cost of your everyday purchases.

What’s worse, when dining out, there is a hospitality tax of a couple more percent on top of it. And yet another percentage point is applied to alcoholic beverages.

So, if you leave an average tip of 20% when you dine out. Know that tax and tip will add more than 30% to your restaurant bill.

To be fair, the gasoline taxes in South Carolina are some of the lowest in the nation. Keeping prices at the pump a little more manageable.

While property taxes are very reasonable here too. Since the state has one of the lowest real estate tax rates of all states in the country.

If you are getting the idea that there are a lot of puts and takes when it comes to the cost of living in Charleston. Then, you would be right.

So, make sure your financial house is in order before moving. For this, I recommend the online app from Personal Capital.

Okay. Enough about your money.

Next, let’s move on to another one of the reasons not to live in Charleston…

8. Risk Of Extreme Weather

Because there are a variety of not-so-pleasant weather conditions to understand before moving…

Living In Charleston Means Hurricanes

Hurricanes are an annual threat. Evacuation orders are common each season. Although, some people choose to say.

2022’s devastating Hurricane Ian passed just 20 miles from the city. Sparing it the damage incurred in Florida.

Next time, this city may not be so lucky.

Tornados

Tornado watches and warnings are also common.

And unlike a typical state in a tornado-prone area. Most houses here do not have a basement for shelter.

Rain And Flooding

Charleston is part of the South Carolina Lowcountry. Appropriately named because the city is located below sea level and has a long history of flooding.

Both because of heavy rains. Which are sometimes combined with high tides. Making for a dangerous combination.

So, do your research when buying a home. Ask about the area’s worst flood zones. Also, seriously consider investing in flood insurance.

Or, if the threat of hurricanes and flooding turn you off. Consider other South Carolina relocation options.  Specifically, in higher elevations and away from the Atlantic coastline.

Next, if you don’t like the heat. Then I have another one of the disadvantages of living in Charleston for you…

Summer Heat And Humidity

July and August weather is uncomfortable here. Temperatures in the 90s combined with 100% humidity are par for the course.

Thus, many residents choose to spend most of their time indoors during the peak summer season. Or, just head out to one of the beautiful beaches to soak in the ocean breezes.

Here is the next one of our reasons not to move to Charleston…

9. The High Price Of Popularity

Okay. So we know that Charleston is an attractive place to live. Also, a great area to explore on vacation.

But popularity always has a price. Such as…

Beware Of Tourists When Living In Charleston

I’ve seen a variety of estimates of how many tourists descend on Charleston each year. Let’s just say it’s well more than 5 million.

To put it in perspective the city’s population is roughly 150,000. While the greater metropolitan area has about 800,000 people.

So, during peak travel season, tourists can overwhelm residents here. Along with the area’s resources.

This makes for crowding at the beach. Or, long waits at popular restaurants.

Moving To Charleston Means Lots Of  Construction

Next, the growing population has put a strain on this historic city’s infrastructure. To keep up, there always seems to be more and more construction.

Thus, you will see plenty of road repairs, expanding residential communities, and new shopping areas and buildings in the works after moving to Charleston.

Cars And Traffic

Most residents need to own a car to get where they need to go. And arrive when they need to get there in this city.

So, unless you plan on living, working, and playing in a confined area. You will probably need a car too.

This creates heavy rush hour traffic in and around downtown. Throw in the lost tourists trying to find their way around and it can make for some aggravating commutes.

Last but not least, another one of the worst things about Charleston…

10. Pesky Bugs And Critters

Unfortunately, we humans aren’t the only ones that like the Charleston lifestyle.

Because bugs love the warm, wet, and humid environment here. As a result, there are plenty of mosquitos here. Also, cockroaches, and palmetto bugs to deal with.

Also, it’s common to see alligators. Since they hang out in and around neighborhood ponds.

They are generally small. And it’s rare for one to attack a human.

However, on occasion, large, aggressive, nuisance gators have to be relocated. If you encounter one after moving to Charleston, call your local authorities and let them handle it.

Okay. That’s all I have. Let’s wrap it up…

Pros And Cons Of Living In Charleston: Wrap Up

As I go back and review this article, I find there are so many things to know before moving to Charleston.

So, allow me to summarize the major points for you in table form…

Table Of All Living In Charleston Pros and Cons

Furthermore, I hope this article has helped you think about the following important questions:

Is Charleston a nice place to live?

And…

Should I move to Charleston?

Finally…

More Reading In Casing Moving To Charleston Isn’t Right For You

Thanks for reading! And if The Holy City doesn’t seem like your perfect place.

Then check out…

Our Other City and State Lifestyle Reviews

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Author Bio: Tom Scott founded the consulting and coaching firm Dividends Diversify, LLC. He leverages his expertise and decades of experience in goal setting, relocation assistance, and investing for long-term wealth to help clients reach their full potential.

The Pros And Cons Of Living In Charleston Explained