Charleston : South Carolina
Living a College Town Lifestyle in Charleston, South_Carolina
Charleston is an absolutely lovely college town. The College of Charleston and The Citadel are just two of the institutions of higher education that are located here, offering a rich college culture.
“The Holy City" is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in the U.S. as well a one of its top tourist locations. Located on the coast of South Carolina, this city of many prominent churches was founded in 1670. Until 1800 it was the 5th largest city in North America. Today the city has a population of just over 112,000, with 600,000 people living in the Charleston Metropolitan Statistical Area.
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. Additionally, there are many beautiful parks and beaches.
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. The National Association of Realtors reported the median sale price of a home in the Charleston-North Charleston area was $416,700 during the 4th quarter of 2022.
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. Summers are hot and humid, and winters aren't nearly as warm as Florida's.
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 7 hospitals in Charleston.
Transportation
Charleston AFB/ International
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