Charleston, SCBest Places To Live in the U.S. in 2023
Charleston embraces Southern charm. Known for its cobblestone streets and culinary scene, the city captivates with its blend of creative culture and coastal living. History comes alive and Southern hospitality thrives here.
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Charleston, SC, Is One of the Best Cities To Live in America
Prepare to be charmed by Charleston, SC, which has a steeple-studded skyline, colorful homes along Rainbow Row, cobblestone streets and a pineapple-shaped fountain at the Historic Waterfront Park. (Welcome to town: Pineapples are a sign of hospitality, btw!)
When you move here, you can slurp oysters by the dozen, sail the harbor and spend Saturdays at nearby beaches — Charleston truly is a place that encourages you to live out your best coastal life.
As one of the best places to live in the U.S., this Southern city has all kinds of career opportunities in fields like life sciences, defense and logistics. Charleston has become known as “Silicon Harbor” because of all of the tech companies expanding and setting up shop here, and this beach town is a haven for entrepreneurs. Some of the region’s largest employers, including Boeing and Mercedes-Benz Vans, are in the manufacturing sector. Charleston is highly educated, too, with the presence of the Citadel and the College of Charleston.
Founded in 1670, Charleston is the oldest city in South Carolina. It’s known as the “Holy City“ due to the prominence of churches and was one of the only cities in the original 13 colonies that promoted religious tolerance. Today, the city is an exciting combination of history, hospitality and culture. Mild winters, beautiful landscapes, great golf and an unmatched culinary scene all further contribute to the good life in Charleston.
Charleston, SC Quality of Life LivScore
Charleston, SC Top Categories
Transportation
Economy
Environment
Charleston ranks highest for transportation, economy and environment.
Weather and Outdoor Activities in Charleston, SC
Summers are hot, winters are mostly mild, the azaleas bloom in spring and autumn ushers in cool, crisp evenings. The average highs and lows are 87°F and 76°F (summer) and 59°F and 45°F (winter).
The average annual snowfall in Charleston is 0 inches. While the city may experience occasional frost or freezing temperatures during the winter months, snowfall is extremely rare.
The average annual rainfall in Charleston is 49 inches, and the wettest month is August.
Charleston averages 211 sunny days a year.
Go parasailing, build sandcastles or just catch a sunset on nearby Folly Beach.
Things To Do in Charleston, SC
Take a leisurely stroll along the tree-lined path at Waterfront Park and head out to the pier to see if you can spot any dolphins.
Visit the Children’s Museum of the Low Country, which has an art room, a pirate ship, a garden and more.
Head to the Historic Elliotborough neighborhood and enjoy a dock-to-table meal at Chubby Fish, where menus depend on what fishermen caught that day.
Happy hour is called tequila and taco hour at Pink Cactus, where you can get $6 margs and Palomas to pair with $5 tacos.
The Local and State Economy in Charleston, SC
Tourism and hospitality, manufacturing and technology are three of the largest industries in Charleston. Joint Base Charleston, Boeing South Carolina and Charleston County School District are significant employers in the area.
In 2023, the sales tax rate in Charleston is 9%.
Yes, South Carolina has a state income tax.
MUSC Health-University Medical Center is a teaching hospital affiliated with the Medical University of South Carolina and is regarded as the best hospital in Charleston. Also, it is nationally ranked in two adult specialties and four children’s specialties. Roper Hospital is also a major provider and is nationally ranked in one specialty, a high performer in 12 procedures and conditions, and regionally ranked as one of the best hospitals in the Low Country.
There are several colleges and universities in Charleston, including the College of Charleston and The Citadel, a public military college.
Quick Facts About Charleston, SC
- Median Household Income
- $78,040
- Median Home Value
- $395,921
- Average State Property Tax
- $1,024
- Total Population
- 156,280
- Median Rent/Mo.
- $1,165
- Average Commute
- 20.84 minutes
Charleston is one of the best places to live in the U.S., thanks partly to its robust local economy and excellent amenities. Learn how to best experience Charleston and discover more about the Holy City’s cost of living. Another good resource as you consider a move: The Ultimate Guide To Finding Your Best Place To Live.
