Is Charleston, SC a good place to retire? Many retirees think so! This charming waterfront city blends historic beauty with modern convenience, making it a top contender for anyone exploring retirement destinations. With its mild year-round climate, vibrant culture, and a relatively reasonable cost of living, Charleston offers an attractive lifestyle for those looking to enjoy their golden years.
Keep reading to find out what makes Charleston, South Carolina such a desirable place to retire—and whether it’s the right fit for you.
Cost of Living in Retirement: How Charleston Compares
The cost of living is top-of-mind for many people in their retirement years. Charleston is a relatively affordable city, with some expenses lower than the national average and some higher.
Housing costs in this South Carolina city are about on par with the national average. The median home price is in the high $400ks, but there are plenty of options on either side of that price point.
Groceries and utilities are both more expensive than the national average. They are 1% higher and 20% higher, respectively, according to Payscale. But getting around can be less expensive, with transportation costs 9% lower than the national average. You could also save a lot on health care costs, which are 14% lower than the national average in Charleston.
You may find tax savings in Charleston as well. Annual property taxes are some of the lowest in the country, with the average effective property tax rate in South Carolina just 0.53%, according to SmartAsset. Income taxes in South Carolina range from 0% to 7%. The state does not have an inheritance or estate tax. Also, it does not tax Social Security benefits.
Retiring in Charleston’s Climate: Mild Seasons and Coastal Comfort
Charleston’s climate is considered subtropical. You still get four distinct seasons in this South Carolina city. You can expect humid summers and manageable winters with the mild transitions of spring and autumn.
Summer temperatures tend to be in the 70s and 80s, making it easy to get outside and enjoy outdoor activities. In the fall, temperatures dip down into the 50s and 60s. In the winter, you can expect the temperature to stay in the 40s. It’s rare for it to snow here. As the weather starts to warm up, expect to enjoy spring temperatures in the 60s.
While you can expect to say farewell to snow in Charleston, the city does still get about 50 inches of rain each year. It’s also possible that you’ll experience tropical storms while living in Charleston.
Outdoor Recreation for Retirees in Charleston
Charleston’s warm weather makes spending time outdoors a breeze. The city has plenty of ways to enjoy the fresh air both on the water and on land.
The Atlantic coastline of the Charleston area is dotted with idyllic beaches for those who love the sand and water. Soak up the sun at spots like Folly Beach, Sullivan’s Island Beach, and Isle of Palms. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can catch a charter out to one of the scenic islands off the South Carolina coast. If you’re lucky, you might spot whales and dolphins.
Charleston is also home to many parks. Relax in Waterfront Park to enjoy the views, or take advantage of the walking and jogging trail at Hampton Park. For avid hikers and birdwatchers, the two-hour drive to Congaree National Park will be well worth it. This national park has a soaring forest canopy that’s home to an array of plant and animal species. Visitors can explore the park on foot or via canoe and kayak. Congaree also has campgrounds and spots for fishing.
Cultural Life and Entertainment for Active Retirees
Dining Scene
Charleston is a foodie city. It has snagged a top spot on lists of the best food destinations in the US. But where should you start if you’re new to the city’s culinary scene? Given its oceanfront location, you can take a deep dive into fresh seafood in Charleston. Eat fresh oysters at The Ordinary. Feast on the massive array of fresh seafood on offer at Hyman’s.
Like any foodie city worth its salt, Charleston isn’t limited to one type of cuisine. If seafood isn’t your dish, you can discover mouthwatering barbeque, soul food, tacos, pizza, and globally-inspired dishes. Those with a sweet tooth will be delighted to explore the city’s delectable bakeries and ice cream shops. If you want to get to know a little bit about everything, you can sign up for a local food tour.
Local Attractions
In addition to its beaches and parks, Charleston is home to plenty of local attractions to keep you busy. You can get to know the history of the city by visiting spots like Fort Sumter National Monument, the South Carolina Historical Society, and the USS Yorktown.
Charleston also has a thriving museum scene. The Charleston Museum dates back to 1773. Over the years, it has curated an impressive collection of cultural and historical artifacts and research. The International African American Museum features exhibitions about the impact that Africans and African Americans have had on the world. The Gibbes Museum of Art has been standing since 1905. Today, it features a permanent collection that spans centuries of work. Charleston is also home to the South Carolina Aquarium.
Big City Entertainment
Jazz fans will find they gravitate toward the live performances held at Charleston Jazz or the Forte Jazz Lounge. The city also has a symphony orchestra and opera theater. Charleston Music Hall hosts live music across nearly any genre. Also, keep an eye on the music festival schedule for events like Riverfront Revival and High Water.
You can catch Broadway shows in Charleston at theaters like Gaillard Center or North Charleston Coliseum and Performing Arts Center. You can also discover original theater through local theater companies like 34 West Theater Company and Charleston Stage. Charleston also has plenty of comedy clubs, like Theatre 99.
Sports fans can cheer on the hometown Minor League baseball team, the Charleston RiverDogs. The city also has a soccer team (the Charleston Battery) and hockey teams (the South Carolina Sting Rays).
Healthy Living in Retirement: Wellness Options in Charleston
Healthy Eating
While you can eat dishes fried and drowned in butter day and night in Charleston, you’ll find plenty of options for healthy eating too. The city has plenty of options to accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free diets and other dietary restrictions.
Beech specializes in acai bowls, poke, and cold-pressed juices, and it has several locations within the city. Gourmet cafe Caviar & Bananas features fresh, local ingredients that you can mix and match to build easy meals that are delicious and healthy. Basic Kitchen is another spot that uses local ingredients to build its lunch, brunch, and dinner menus.
When you aren’t dining out, you can grocery shop at big stores like Whole Foods, or discover local health food stores like Local Jo’s Natural Foods.
Health Care
You’ll find several major health systems in Charleston, which makes it easy to get the health care you need. MUSC Health-University Medical Center is the top-ranked hospital in the city, and it’s highly ranked in several different specialties. Roper Hospital and Trident Hospital Medical Center are also highly ranked options, according to U.S News & World Report.
55+ Communities in Charleston: Finding the Right Fit
Charleston and the surrounding area are home to several different 55+ communities, each with plenty of amenities and a variety of price points for homebuyers. Get to know a few of these active adult communities.
The Elms of Charleston
High $200ks – Mid $300ks
The Elms of Charleston is a 55+ community that embraces resort-style living. It has a clubhouse with a gym, lounge, and game room. Outside, you’ll find an outdoor pool, tennis courts, and a spot for shuffleboard.
With just over 300 homes, this community gives you the chance to get to know your neighbors. The Elms features single-family and attached home styles, all of which have single-story floor plans. When you aren’t enjoying life in the community, The Elms of Charleston is conveniently located near the downtown heart of Charleston and some of its best beaches.
Overture West Ashley
Rent Starting At: $1,960
If you’re looking for low-maintenance coastal living, Overture West Ashely is beckoning. This gated 55+ community features 198 apartments with a mix of one- and two-bedroom floor plans.
This community features a plethora of activities to cater to the active adult lifestyle. You can dive into the heated swimming pool. Take a yoga class at the community’s studio. Spend hours fishing from the dock. Learn something new at one of the professional and creative development events. Overture West Ashley is located within Charleston, which means residents can enjoy all of the amenities and connections of their community as well all that the city has to offer.
Overture Daniel Island
Rent Starting At: $1,770
Overture Daniel Island is a riverfront 55+ community. Take in scenic views of the nearby Wando and Cooper Rivers. And if you’re in the mood for some time on the ocean, beaches are just 13 miles away. Overture Daniel Island is another apartment-style 55+ community. It has both one- and two-bedroom apartments.
When residents aren’t exploring Charleston, they can take advantage of their community’s plentiful amenities. Overture Daniel Island has a clubroom, lounge, movie theater, coffee bar, and outdoor pool.
Life in Charleston
If you’re wondering whether Charleston, SC is a good place to retire, the answer might just be a resounding yes. With its blend of natural beauty, coastal charm, and active lifestyle options, it’s no surprise that so many 55+ adults are choosing to call this city home.
Ready to take the next step? Contact 55places.com to connect with a local real estate expert who understands the unique needs of active adults. They’ll help you find the perfect home in the right 55+ community—so you can start enjoying everything Charleston has to offer.
