Country Living Near Charleston: Discover the Best Rural Areas
Are you dreaming of relocating to the Charleston, SC area but crave more space and a slower pace of life? If so, you’re not alone. Many homebuyers are drawn to Charleston for its historic charm and coastal beauty but find themselves longing for a quieter, more rural lifestyle. Fortunately, the areas surrounding Charleston offer just that—a peaceful retreat with easy access to the vibrant city life.
In this blog, we’ll explore the charming rural communities near Charleston, perfect for those seeking homes with acreage, farmhouses, or simply a bit more peace and privacy. Let’s dive into the hidden gems that make rural Charleston a great place to call home!
Exploring Charleston’s Rural Surroundings: A Guide to the Best Areas
To help you navigate the rural areas around Charleston, we’ve grouped the towns into five distinct regions. While we can’t cover every small town, we’ll highlight the most notable ones that you’re likely to see on the map or hear about in conversation.
1. West of Charleston: Ravenel and Hollywood
Our journey begins just 20 miles west of downtown Charleston, where the towns of Ravenel and Hollywood offer the perfect blend of rural charm and city convenience. With a population of around 5,000 in Hollywood and just over 2,600 in Ravenel, these communities provide a slower pace of life while keeping you close to major roads like Highway 17 and I-526. This makes commuting to Charleston a breeze.
Hollywood and Ravenel are known for their spacious properties, making them ideal for those interested in equestrian living or a home surrounded by nature. If you’re looking for a bit more room without sacrificing proximity to the city and beach, this area is a fantastic option.
2. Further West: Cottageville and Walterboro
Continuing west, we arrive in the towns of Cottageville and Walterboro. Located 48 miles from Charleston, Walterboro is often referred to as the "Front Porch of the Lowcountry" and boasts a population of around 5,300. Its quaint downtown area is known for historic homes and charming antique shops, and with I-95 running along the west side of the city, day trips to Savannah are just a drive away.
Cottageville, with a population of about 800, offers a more rural setting with plenty of space for agriculture and larger properties. Both towns are perfect for those seeking a quiet retreat, while still being within driving distance of Charleston and Savannah.
3. North of Charleston: St. George, Ridgeville, Harleyville, and Holly Hill
Heading north, we find the towns of St. George, Ridgeville, Harleyville, and Holly Hill. These communities are about 45 minutes to an hour from Charleston and offer a true taste of rural South Carolina. St. George, with a population of just over 2,000, is famous for its annual World Grits Festival, while Ridgeville is seeing growth due to its proximity to the Volvo Car plant.
Harleyville and Holly Hill, with populations under 1,000, offer plenty of opportunities for land ownership and farming. This area is ideal for buyers looking for affordable real estate, large plots of land, and a strong sense of community. Plus, with easy access to I-26, you’re never too far from the conveniences of larger cities like Charleston and Summerville. And if you’re ever passing through St. George, don’t miss the chance to dine at Bistro 221, a local favorite that happens to be owned by our neighbors!
4. Lakeside Living: Cross, Pinopolis, and Bonneau
Next, we venture to the communities near Lake Moultrie—Cross, Pinopolis, and Bonneau. These towns, about an hour north of Charleston, offer a unique blend of rural living with access to water activities. Pinopolis, with its historic homes and population of just over 2,000, offers a charming lakeside village feel.
Bonneau, on the east side of the lake, has around 500 residents, while Cross, on the west side, is home to about 7,000. Both towns are havens for fishing, boating, and outdoor enthusiasts, making them ideal for those looking for a serene lifestyle with larger properties. If lakeside living appeals to you, these communities provide a peaceful setting that’s still within reach of Charleston’s amenities.
5. Northeast of Charleston: Awendaw and Huger
Our final stop takes us to the towns of Awendaw and Huger. Situated along the Intracoastal Waterway. Awendaw, with a population of about 1,400, is known for its natural beauty and proximity to the Francis Marion National Forest. Huger, a similarly rural town with large tracts of land, is perfect for those interested in agriculture or simply enjoying a secluded, natural setting.
Both towns are within a 30- to 45-minute drive of Charleston, offering the best of both worlds—coastal living and country charm. With easy access to Highway 17 and I-526, commuting to the city is straightforward, allowing you to retreat to your peaceful rural home at the end of the day.
Why Choose Rural Charleston?
When compared to more urban areas of Charleston, the rural surroundings offer more affordable housing, less development, and a better selection of homes on acreage. If you’re looking to design and build your own home, these areas also provide a larger selection of land to purchase. The biggest drawback might be the longer commute times to larger cities, typically ranging from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. However, for many, this is a worthwhile trade-off for a lower cost of living, less congestion, and a more peaceful way of life.
What’s Next?
If you’re approaching retirement and are intrigued by the idea of living in the Lowcountry but prefer a low-maintenance lifestyle, stay tuned for our next blog! We’ll be covering 55 and up communities in Summerville, which offer the perfect blend of convenience and relaxation. These communities are designed to help you enjoy your retirement to the fullest.
Whether you’re considering a move to the Charleston area or simply exploring your options, we’re here to help. Subscribe to our You Tube Channel, and check out our other blog posts and videos for further insights into Charleston and its surrounding cities. We’re passionate about helping others relocate to this beautiful area and want nothing more than for you to fall in love with Charleston and Summerville, just as we did a decade ago. Feel free to reach out with any questions—we’re here to be your real estate and community experts!
