All destinations
Charleston, South Carolina
Historic Southern coastal elegance.
Beach LivingArts & CultureHealthcareLuxury
At a glance
155,000
Population
35
Median age
$79,000
Median income
$545,000
Median home price
0.53%/yr
Property tax
$4,300
Monthly budget
110 (100=avg)
Cost of living
230/yr
Sunny days
40/100
Walk score
CHS — Charleston (20 min)
Airport
5/5
Healthcare
60/100
Safety
Climate: Humid subtropical, mild winters · State tax: Retirement income largely deductible for seniors
Why retire in Charleston?
Charleston charms with cobblestone streets, Lowcountry cuisine, nearby barrier-island beaches, and MUSC's top-tier academic medicine.
Pros
- Historic beauty & walkable core
- Beaches minutes away
- Low property taxes
- Excellent academic medicine
Consider
- Rising home prices
- Summer heat & humidity
- Coastal flood risk in spots
Lifestyle
Fine dining, festivals (Spoleto), gardens, and island beach escapes to Kiawah, Isle of Palms, and Sullivan's.
Housing options
Historic homes downtown, island luxury, and 55+ communities on Daniel Island and in Mount Pleasant/Summerville.
Healthcare
MUSC Health is a nationally ranked academic medical center; Roper St. Francis adds capacity.
Senior living resources
Del Webb & other 55+ communities
Lowcountry senior centers
Lifelong learning at CofC
Robust volunteer & faith networks
Local housing market
$545,000
Median sale price
44
Avg days on market
+4% yr/yr
Appreciation