Charleston, South Carolina
What It Is Like to Retire in Charleston
Charleston. “The Holy City”, is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in the U.S. as well as being one of its top tourist attractions. Located on the coast of South Carolina this city of many prominent churches was founded in 1670. Until the mid 1800's it was one of the 10 largest cities in North America. Today the city has a population of just over 137,566, with over 400,000 people living in the county.The College of Charleston and The Citadel are just two of the institutions of higher education that are located here.
Charleston’s popularity as a tourist destination is based on its long and colorful history as well as its streets lined with majestic and Spanish moss draped live oaks. Historic pastel-colored homes look out over the waterfront. The city is also an important port, boasting the second largest container seaport on the East Coast. Here is more information about how to retire in South Carolina. Use this link to find out why baby boomers are increasingly retiring to SC's "Low Country".
Where to Retire in Charleston and Home Prices
The city and the surrounding area up to Hilton Head is a popular area retirement. The area is developing rapidly with many upscale communities aimed at retiring baby boomers and others looking for vacation homes. Most of these new planned communities are heavily oriented towards golf, but retirees can also choose to live in the city in apartments, condos, or restored historic homes. The 55+ housing choices are as ample as anywhere in the country. Zillow reported the median sale price of a home was $588,916, in early 2025.
What Is Special about Charleston
Charming old city with central squares. The Old Exchange and Customs House. Many plantations are open to the public. Fort Moultrie and Fort Sumter. Milder winters. 5 downtown squares and a number of parks.
What Is Not Special about Charleston
Some northerners might find the southern atmosphere too much, hot, humid summers, winters aren't nearly as warm as Florida's.
Who Will Like Retirement in Charleston
Charleston attracts a community of people who either want to live in a charming and historic old city, or nearby in the many new developments springing up for retirees. Many people from the Northeast are moving to Charleston. It has been designated as the “most polite” city in the nation.
Local Economy Is Driven by
The economy is very strong due to tourism and its nearby military bases. It is also becoming a prime location for technology jobs and corporations.
Climate and Physical Environment
The city of Charleston is located at the mid-point of South Carolina's coastline near the Ashley and Cooper Rivers. The area has many harbors, wetlands and rivers. Charleston Harbor leads to the Atlantic Ocean. The average July high is 89 and the average January low is 42. August is the rainiest month.
Restaurants & Cultural Scene
The Gibbes Museum of Art is one of the country’s oldest art institutions. The Charleston Museum was the first Museum in the Americas. The Spoleto Festival USA is a 17-day art festival. The College of Charleston and the Citadel are located in Charleston.
Crime
The crime rate in Charleston is below the U.S. average.
Medical facilities
There are several hospitals in Charleston.
Transportation
Charleston AFB/ International
Valuable Links
Charleston, SC Wikipedia page on Charleston has many photos, facts, and figures College of Charleston
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