Moving to Charleston? Here’s What Living Here is Like

Charleston, aka the Holy City, is a place you'll not regret moving to. From the beautiful year-round weather, friendly people, incredible cuisine, affordable homes, access to high-quality education, and an ever-growing economy, the city can accommodate an expansive range of people.

However, you'll want to do some background checks on what living in Charleston is like. Not only will it save you time (read money), but it'll help you settle down with a lot more ease. Here's an overview of what life in Holy City looks like.

Neighborhoods in Charleston

If you're scared that there might be a shortage of incredible places to live in, you couldn't be further from the truth. Being the largest in South Carolina, you're spoilt for options. Following are the city's fantastic neighborhoods you could move to.

Downtown Charleston: It's among the most sought-after affluent places you can live in. Given the high demand, the home price is pretty high (about $750K.) Downtown can be a great option for you if you like walking or biking, thanks to the organized alleys and cobblestone streets. Most of your neighbors will be young professionals and retirees.

Mount Pleasant: Aside from historic houses and live oaks, Mount Pleasant is the home of Wando High School, known to have one of the best marching bands in Charleston and offers high-quality education. If you love beaches, Mount Pleasant will be the ideal neighborhood for you--Sullivan's Island and the Isle of Palms and beaches will be waiting for you.

West Ashley: This vibrant neighborhood is also known as West of Ashley. It's located across Ashley River, about 8 miles to downtown Charleston. Although there have been reports of violence, most places in West Ashley are relatively safe. By the way, there are several military bases in Charleston, South Carolina. Besides, you can buy a modern home with as little as $300,000

Summerville: This neighborhood boasts of having the best district schools in South Carolina. So, you'll find a more considerable percentage of Charleston parents living here. Rich history like the museum grounds plus its proximity to the beaches will make you fall in love with Summerville. Further, Summerville is an affordable hood--$235,000 is the average home price.

Charleston Islands: Nothing really compares to Charleston's Sea Islands. First, you could choose to live in James Island, where stylish and comfortable rental properties are readily available. This Island is located 8 miles from downtown Charleston. Second, you can relocate to Folly Beach, where finding a beach rental is not only fast, but it's also free. If you plan to buy a home, the average middle-tier home price is about $900,000.

Moncks Corner: Lastly, you can opt to live in this small town with many big-city amenities. With uncountable water-living alternatives, this neighborhood offers you ready access to fishing. Low traffic and high-quality education are the other benefits to enjoy if you choose to move to Moncks Corner.

What's the Weather in Charleston Like?

Since Charleston is a peninsula, expect to see lots of water. In fact, you'll be surrounded by water and beaches, a perk that locals enjoy, especially during the high summer temperatures and sometimes during mild winter days.

So, how many sandals, bathing suits, shorts, and sunglasses do you have? If you don't have enough, consider shopping for some more. You'll need those more than you may need gloves and scarfs. In other words, Charleston's weather is pretty warm, and light clothing is the order of the day.

However, a few warm clothes will be essential. Sometimes, the Southern snowstorm blows through the city. It leaves everyone battling with cold temperatures that can be as low as -50 degrees. So, it's best to prepare, although it's pretty rare.

In addition, be wary of floods. Remember, Charleston is surrounded by water and is home to several rivers. As a result, the city is prone to floods and tides. You may want to avoid flood-prone regions like FEMA areas when relocating. A flood insurance is also a noble idea, and so is having a safe storage space since you can't construct a basement in Charleston, SC.

You'll also have a variety of activities to enjoy throughout the year. Thanks to the beautiful weather and the surrounding water plus beaches. If you don't want to lie in the sand, then you can try out the following:

• Paddle boarding
• Kayaking
• Surfing
• Boating
• Fishing
• Golfing
• Biking

Best Places to Visit in Charleston

Aside from the above list of outdoor activities, living in Charleston offers you an opportunity to visit some world-renowned tourist destinations.

• Quiet Places: Whenever you'll feel like strolling in a calm place, consider the Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park. The lawn in the park provides a perfect environment for picnics. Your other option is a series of pastel-colored historic homes commonly known as the Rainbow Row, or you could visit Fort Sumter and reminisce about the events leading to World War II. Additionally, you've got the Battery countless courtyards, hidden gardens, cemeteries and graveyards, churches, plus the Old City Market to explore too.

• Parks in Charleston: The Holy City is the home of more than 13 beautiful parks. You can visit James Island Park and explore the world of nature. Alternatively, you can see the White Point Gardens or Cypress Gardens, the home of over 150 roses. Other options include the vast Folly Beach County Park, North Charleston Riverfront Park, Waterfront Park, and Marion Square, where locals converge for the annual Charleston Wine + Food Festival.

How's the Job Market in Charleston, South Carolina?

The booming economy is another reason why many people are relocating to this South Carolina City. If you didn't know, Charleston is one of the fastest-growing cities in the US. In fact, the unemployment rate in Charleston is about 2.6%, which is lower than the national average of 17.6%. Therefore, you stand a higher chance of finding work in Charleston than in other cities.

If not the prestigious Mercedes Benz or the recently opened Louis Vuitton store on King Street, other key employers are the giant Boeing, the Medical University of South Carolina, Publix Supermarkets, Joint Base Charleston, City of North Charleston, Walmart Inc., Trident Health System among others.

What about the cost of living? Considering the national average, living in the Holy City is pricey, though manageable. Here's a breakdown:

• Groceries: +2% of the national average
• Housing: -2% of the national average
• Transportation: -6% of the national average
• Utilities: +24% of the national average
• Healthcare costs: -5.6% of the national average

The Easiest Way to Move to Charleston

Moving to Charleston is easy if you have a reliable moving partner like Allied Van Lines. With over 80 years experience, we're a reliable interstate and international moving company. For one, we ensure your belongings are packed safely and help you to unpack as well. We also offer storage services for you if the need be. Also, if you want customized services, we'll be happy to help.

In addition, we're there for you whenever you need us—our customer service crew is available on a 24/7 basis. So, no time-zone restrictions, and lastly, you can quickly get a free quote here anytime you want.