Summerville

Overview

Summerville, South Carolina is a small town in Dorchester County, where residents enjoy the quiet culture grounded in its rich history that goes back hundreds of years. Residents can spend time shopping for antiques or visiting museums. 

Climate & Geography

The climate in Summerville is both humid and subtropical with summer weather reaching over 100 degrees and cold winters that can range in the high 30s.  

Summerville is located in South Carolina's Lowcountry, which is home to many rivers that spill into the Atlantic Ocean.

Recreation, Culture, & Entertainment

Summerville’s rich history dating back to the Revolutionary War is a large part of the culture. Exploring what this town has to offer is easy with so many museums, galleries, and antique stores, like the Colonial Dorchester State Historic Site, Summerville Dorchester Museum, or Summerville Antique Gallery. For active lifestyles, the Summerville Farmers Market, Azalea Park and Sculpture Garden are great options. 

Cost of Living & Taxes

The cost of living for Summerville is higher than South Carolina and the national average. 

South Carolina residents pay sales, income, vehicle, and property taxes. Social Security income is not taxed and there are exemptions for other retirement income like 401(k)s, IRAs, and Pensions. Further exemption programs exist for retired military personnel and surviving spouses.  

Health Care

Health care options for Summerville residents include one nationally ranked hospital, MUSC Health-University Medical Center in neighboring Charleston, and other high performing hospitals like East Cooper Medical Center, Trident Medical Center, and Roper St. Francis Hospital.