Charleston
Where Southern charm meets coastal beauty in a city steeped in history and brimming with vibrant culture.
Where Southern charm meets coastal beauty in a city steeped in history and brimming with vibrant culture.
To truly experience the essence of Charleston, one must immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of downtown. The walkability, captivating sights, and rich historical and architectural charm of this unique city will allure you from your very first visit. Downtown Charleston stands unparalleled among other small cities, exuding a sense of European allure and an inviting pedestrian-friendly environment that I find absolutely delightful. However, it is crucial to recognize the distinction between being a tourist in downtown Charleston and embracing the life of a resident. Bearing this in mind while exploring the area is essential.
While the grand mansions south of Broad Street may have stolen your heart during your initial stroll, fear not! Numerous charming neighborhoods exist where prices remain reasonable, enabling you to experience the authentic local lifestyle without requiring the bank account of a millionaire. Let's delve into a summary of each borough and subsection that is downtown Charleston.
1. South of Broad (aka SOB) - $520K to $12.5M: Renowned for its opulent homes that have housed the city's elite for nearly 350 years, South of Broad represents the pinnacle of Charleston's elegance. Situated at the southernmost tip of the peninsula, this borough encompasses nearly every street located south of Broad Street. Embark on a horse-drawn carriage ride, and you'll be treated to a comprehensive tour of cobblestone streets, White Point Gardens, the iconic Rainbow Row (a favorite among tourists), and breathtaking views of Charleston Harbor. Pro tip: For an optimal exploration of South of Broad, head to Murray Boulevard, located at the very end of the peninsula. This area offers free parking without time restrictions, but spaces are limited, so arriving early is advisable to secure a spot.
2. French Quarter - As its name suggests, the French Quarter boasts picturesque narrow streets and offers a range of homes from approximately $500K to $5 million. Its proximity to the City Market means that tourists often meander through, admiring the beauty of the residents front doors, gates and gardens. The neighborhood houses numerous art galleries and theaters, making it an ideal location for your pied-à-terre.
3. Ansonborough - One of my personal favorite boroughs, Ansonborough features homes ranging from $350K to $5 million. Its close proximity to East Bay Street provides convenient accessibility to Mt. Pleasant. Notably, Ansonborough showcases some of the finest architecture downtown has to offer. While exclusive and upscale, it manages to maintain a favorable distance from the more tourist-heavy areas, allowing for easy navigation without the constant presence of carriages. If your budget permits, this would undoubtedly be among my top recommendations for downtown living.
4. Harleston Village - Nestled on the lower west side of the peninsula, Harleston Village offers an array of homes priced from approximately $350K to $5 million. This charming neighborhood boasts an abundance of exquisite houses, including architecturally stunning mansions. Furthermore, its advantageous location near MUSC ensures a quieter atmosphere away from the bustling tourist areas. For those who appreciate serene walks during mornings or evenings, Harleston Village's proximity to Colonial Lake proves exceptionally appealing. Additionally, easy access to I-26 and nearby areas like James Island and West Ashley enhances the neighborhood's desirability.
5. Wraggborough – In Wraggborough, you'll discover a charming and quirky neighborhood with homes ranging from approximately $300K to $3 million. The area is notable for its famous William Aiken House and features a mix of large old homes, some of which have undergone renovations. The neighborhood boasts wide, tree-lined streets that create a pleasant atmosphere. Living in Wraggborough places you near esteemed cultural landmarks such as the Gaillard Auditorium, Charleston Museum, Main Library, Marion Square, and the stylish, Dewberry hotel. It's worth mentioning that the City of Charleston Housing Authority has established some low-income housing on the outskirts of this borough, providing diverse housing options as well.
6. Radcliffeborough - Radcliffeborough offers a vibrant residential experience with homes ranging from $300K up to $3 million. Its proximity to the College of Charleston and MUSC ensures a lively and energetic atmosphere. The area has witnessed various renovations, and while it places you close to the action, it also maintains a certain degree of separation from the direct hustle and bustle. If you have a student attending the College of Charleston or MUSC, purchasing a property in Radcliffeborough can serve as a lucrative investment during their college stay.
7. Cannonborough/Elliotborough: Situated just off King Street, Cannonborough/Elliotborough provides a world apart from the chain stores that dominate the thoroughfare. The neighborhood offers an eclectic mix of quirky stores, coffee shops, bakeries, and corner stores that contribute to its unique character. Homes in this area range from approximately $400K up to $3 million. You'll be pleasantly surprised by the surprisingly modern architecture, including recent infill projects that add contemporary flair. Cannonborough/Elliotborough's prime location allows for a short walk to MUSC for most residents. Moreover, the neighborhood permits short-term rentals, making it an attractive option for those seeking a property investment with the potential for high returns.
147,928 people live in Charleston, where the median age is 35.5 and the average individual income is $50,240. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
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Charleston has 63,760 households, with an average household size of 2.23. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Charleston do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 147,928 people call Charleston home. The population density is 1,288.65 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
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