Moving to Charleston from Another State? Your MUST Know Guide.
Are you considering a move to Charleston, South Carolina? Maybe you've heard about its undeniable charm, its rich history, or its vibrant culture. Whatever the reason may be, making the decision to relocate is a big step, and understanding the area you're moving to is crucial. In this guide, we'll provide you with an in-depth overview of Charleston and its surrounding cities and counties, helping you navigate through the diverse neighborhoods and unique qualities of each.
Why Charleston?
People move to the Charleston area for a myriad of reasons. Some are drawn to its warmer climate, while others seek a change in politics or job opportunities. Whether you're relocating for work, family, or simply craving a new adventure, Charleston offers a blend of southern charm, modern amenities, and coastal beauty that's hard to resist. The Charleston area is pretty big so we will break it down to get you more familiar with the details.
The Tri-County Area: Charleston, Dorchester, and Berkley Counties
Charleston's metropolitan area primarily encompasses three counties: Charleston, Dorchester, and Berkeley. Often referred to as the "Tri-County" area, each county offers its own unique neighborhoods and communities.
Charleston - The City
What’s considered “Charleston” by address is a large area. Charleston City, located within Charleston County, serves as the heart of the region. When people think of Charleston, this is the area that usually comes to mind. Centrally it starts near the harbor where you’ll find historic homes and streets and most of the tourist areas. While this area encompasses the essence of southern charm and is convenient to all Charleston has to offer, it is expensive and often comes with limitations of living in the city such as restricted parking, narrow roads, and flooding potential.
West Ashley - Suburban Charleston
Also considered Charleston is the area west of the harbor. Even though address-wise it IS Charleston, you’ll rarely hear it referred to as “Charleston” but rather just “West Ashley”. This is a fitting name since it is west of the Ashley River. This area more of a suburb of the actual city instead of a continuation of the city itself. Here you will find a lot of established neighborhoods, mature trees, and local businesses speckled with coastal views and marshes. Residents love West Ashley for the proximity to the water and the city.
James Island & Folly Beach
From West Ashley, If you venture toward the water, in about 10-15 minutes you’ll end up on James Island. It is one of Charleston’s barrier islands and it is a bustling community. Here you’ll find a good mix of established residential neighborhoods and commercial businesses. And best of all, it’s home to the wonderful Folly Beach.
North Charleston and Beyond
Heading north from Charleston, you'll encounter North Charleston, a separate municipality known for its diverse mix of neighborhoods, shopping centers, attractions and major employers like Boeing. With regards to real estate and housing, you will find a mixture of well established neighborhoods, neighborhoods undergoing revitalization, and even newer neighborhoods. Adjacent to North Charleston, Goose Creek and Hanahan offer more residential settings, perfect for those seeking a quieter lifestyle.
Mount Pleasant and Eastward
East of the harbor and over the Ravenel Bridge lies Berkeley County, home to the picturesque city of Mount Pleasant. It is a fairly large area that has continued to grow and expand eastward. With its proximity to the water and a variety of commercial amenities, Mount Pleasant is a highly desirable area that attracts residents seeking both coastal living and modern conveniences.
Exploring Further: Ladson & Moncks Corner
Beyond the immediate Charleston area, Ladson offers central residential living with easy access to neighboring Summerville, North Charleston and Goose Creek. Moncks Corner, known for its scenic swamps and waterways, is experiencing rapid growth, making it an attractive option for both residential and commercial development.
Summerville
And finally, Summerville, a sprawling area spanning Dorchester and Berkeley Counties, boasts diverse neighborhoods, booming commercial activity, and a unique small-town charm. Visitors or new residents are usually surprised about how large Summerville is. To drive from one end of Summerville to the other end would take about 45 minutes…and that’s without traffic. Due to its size, the areas of Summerville are all very diverse. Both residential and commercial new construction is booming here. Somehow, despite its size and recent growth, it still has maintained a small town feeling which people love. One of the reasons people fall in love with Summerville is its central town square area. Residents love parking downtown and taking a stroll through the local shops and restaurants and participating in the local events and festivals held here.
Conclusion: Finding Your Place in Charleston
In summary, Charleston and its surrounding areas offer something for everyone, from historic charm to modern amenities, coastal living to suburban tranquility. Whether you're drawn to the bustling historic streets of downtown Charleston or the laid-back lifestyle of Summerville, there's a neighborhood waiting to welcome you home.
As you embark on your journey to Charleston, remember that proximity to the water often comes with a higher price tag. However, venturing further inland can offer more affordable home options without sacrificing the area's distinctive charm.
We hope this guide provides you with valuable insights as you explore the vibrant communities of Charleston and its surrounding areas. Welcome to the Lowcountry – we can't wait to see you here!
