James Island

Renowned for its rich heritage in farming, fishing, and shrimping, James Island is steeped in tradition.

Welcome to James Island

James Island, a captivating sea island nestled between Wappoo Creek, Charleston Harbor, Morris Island, Folly Beach, Stono River, and Johns Island, boasts a scenic triangular shape that sets the stage for its abundant natural beauty. Affectionately known as "Jim Isle," this charming locale is adorned with meandering creeks and sounds, cultivating a picturesque backdrop for its residents.

Renowned for its rich heritage in farming, fishing, and shrimping, James Island is steeped in tradition. The island's ancient live oaks stand as majestic sentinels, adding a touch of timeless elegance to the landscape. A recent addition to its repertoire is the much-celebrated Holiday Festival of Lights, which illuminates the island during the festive season, captivating visitors with its enchanting displays.

One of James Island's alluring qualities is its laid-back atmosphere, perfectly complemented by its close proximity to downtown Charleston. This coveted location has made it a sought-after destination for homebuyers in search of the best of both worlds—peaceful island living and easy access to the vibrant city center.

Residents of James Island revel in the abundance of recreational opportunities offered by James Island County Park. This beloved park features a 50-foot climbing wall, an exhilarating challenge course, an 18-hole disc golf course, pedal boats, and the popular Splash Zone water park. The community also cherishes annual events such as the Reggae Nights summer concert series and the Lowcountry Cajun Festival, which showcase the island's vibrant cultural scene.

James Island has a storied past, with a notable historical event etched into its narrative. The Civil War began on the island's northern shore on the morning of April 12, 1861, when Confederate forces at Fort Johnson fired upon the Union-occupied Fort Sumter. This significant moment in history resonates with residents and visitors alike, adding a layer of depth to the island's heritage.

As an insider real estate tip, it's worth noting that while James Island offers an idyllic living experience, it may not be the go-to destination for those seeking a neighborhood with a community pool. With only two neighborhoods (single-family) featuring a community pool on the entire island, prospective homebuyers might explore other options if a neighborhood pool is a priority.

From affordable homes starting at $119,000 to luxurious estates reaching up to $6 million, James Island offers a diverse range of real estate opportunities. With its captivating natural surroundings, vibrant community events, and a blend of historical significance and modern amenities, James Island stands as a captivating neighborhood within the larger Charleston area, attracting discerning homebuyers seeking a slice of paradise to call their own.

Overview for James Island, SC

11,738 people live in James Island, where the median age is 41.3 and the average individual income is $44,971. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

11,738

Total Population

41.3 years

Median Age

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

$44,971

Average individual Income

Demographics and Employment Data for James Island, SC

Population Households Employment

James Island has 4,398 households, with an average household size of 2.67. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in James Island do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 11,738 people call James Island home. The population density is 2,474.52 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

11,738

Total Population

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

41.3

Median Age

49.76 / 50.24%

Men vs Women

Population by Age Group

0-9:

0-9 Years

10-17:

10-17 Years

18-24:

18-24 Years

25-64:

25-64 Years

65-74:

65-74 Years

75+:

75+ Years

Education Level

Less Than 9th Grade
High School Degree
Associate Degree
Bachelor Degree
Graduate Degree

4,398

Total Households

2.67

Average Household Size

$44,971

Average individual Income

Households with Children

With Children:

Without Children:

Marital Status

Married

Single

Divorced

Separated

Blue vs White Collar Workers

Blue Collar:

White Collar:

Commute Time

0 to 14 Minutes

15 to 29 Minutes

30 to 59 Minutes

60+ Minutes

Schools in James Island, SC

All ()

Primary Schools ()

Middle Schools ()

High Schools ()

Mixed Schools ()

The following schools are within or nearby James Island. The rating and statistics can serve as a starting point to make baseline comparisons on the right schools for your family. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

Type

Name