Whether you've always wanted to live on the beach or you’re searching for coastal South Carolina real estate, Charleston is the place to be. From genuine Southern hospitality to storybook landscapes, the Holy City is one of the best coastal towns in South Carolina for buying a home. Explore historic Charleston neighborhoods draped in Spanish moss-lined streets and find your perfect home today.
Are you moving from the Northeast and looking to simplify your home-buying experience? Let us know exactly what you’re looking for, and we’ll send exclusive real estate alerts to your inbox. Finding the perfect coastal SC town with your dream home has never been easier. You may find these South Carolina beach towns more affordable than you think!
What are the best Coastal Towns in South Carolina for Buying a Home?
With so many wonderful places to reside, it can be challenging to find the perfect coastal SC real estate for your family. Some communities boast historical significance or breathtaking landscapes. Others feature opulent resort amenities and championship golf courses. To get you started, we have narrowed the list to these three of our favorite coastal South Carolina towns for prospective homeowners new to the Lowcountry.
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Charleston
While downtown Charleston, SC, is not always the most affordable place to live in South Carolina, residents will tell you that it is one of the best. Recently named the #1 City in the World, Charleston has it all. There are friendly faces, a beautifully preserved history, spectacular scenery, a booming culinary scene, and so much more.
Waterfront Real Estate in Historic Charleston
Charleston, SC, uniquely blends American history, architectural charm, and coastal beauty. Charleston waterfront living is genuinely exceptional. Imagine waking up to stunning sunrises over the Ashley River, enjoying strolls along the beach, and indulging in fresh seafood at world-class restaurants such as FIG and Husk. With its picturesque architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and easy access to pristine waterways, Charleston's waterfront real estate provides an unparalleled lifestyle for those seeking a coastal paradise.
Low Battery Seawall Repair Project
The Low Battery is an iconic stretch along the Ashley River and Charleston harbor. The original historic seawall in Charleston, SC, was built in two phases between 1909 and 1919. The initial phase extended from Tradd Street to King Street, and a second phase reached East Battery Street.
In the early 2000s, Cummings and McCrady concluded an assessment, recommending repairs to the seawall. In 2015, Johnson, Mirmiran, and Thompson (JMT) conducted a more detailed survey to gather data for the design phase.
Due to a new City initiative requiring projects to account for a 2.5-foot sea level rise over 50 years and the need to comply with ADA accessibility standards, the design approach for the seawall repair has evolved. The "Turn" section below the US Coast Guard station has already been completed, marking the first phase of the overall project.
The new seawall offers more protection to the homes along the historic battery in Charleston, SC.
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Kiawah Island
If you’re looking for the charm of the Lowcountry paired with the stillness of the coast, Kiawah Island is the place for you. Just 25 miles from Downtown Charleston, this private island community is a luxurious option.
Five-star amenities are endless on Kiawah. Residents have access to world-class golf courses and tennis, a nature center, a marina, restaurants, spas, fitness centers, and more.
Complete with 10 miles of pristine beach, 30 miles of paved walking and biking trails, effortless access to the inter-coastal waterway for boating, a neighborly shopping district, and unmatched views of the Atlantic, Kiawah Island is one of the best Southern beach towns to move to today.
New Construction Opportunities on Kiawah Island
- The Cape on Kiawah West Beach includes ~14 acres of oceanfront property on Kiawah Island to be developed as a luxury condominium complex. Phase 1 is 95% sold out, Phase 2 is taking refundable deposits through September 16, 2021.This "best in class" community will offer high end oceanfront living in West Beach. A private beach club will offer exclusive resort style amenities. Learn More
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Seabrook Island
If your dream home includes views of the wide-open South Carolina beach or the picturesque marsh, Seabrook Island has the protected natural landscape you desire.
Seabrook Island, located right next to Kiawah Island, is one of the more private coastal towns in South Carolina. It has a slightly more residential feel than its immediate neighbor. However, this does not mean that it lacks in extravagance.
Seabrook Island also features exclusive resort facilities for residents and guests.
These include an equestrian center, golf courses, oceanfront terrace with dining and brand new pools (Summer 2020). It’s a popular option for snowbirds off-season, but one visit to Seabrook Island will have you hooked for a lifetime.
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South Carolina Property Taxes
South Carolina coastal towns offer more than just a relaxed pace. With the average property tax rate at a mere 0.57%, it stomps the Northeast, which is 79% higher than the rest of the country.
Moreover, should you decide to become a permanent resident of South Carolina and are over the age of 65, you qualify for a property tax exemption known as The Homestead Tax Exemption.
Medical Services in Charleston SC
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MUSC Hospital
The Medical University of South Carolina is an academic health science and services center (MUSC). MUSC Health is the heart of medical research and teaching in South Carolina. Located in downtown Charleston, this university hospital operates a 700-bed medical center in the heart of downtown Charleston.
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Roper Hospital in Charleston, SC
Roper Hospital and Healthcare is a highly regarded healthcare system with expanding services throughout the Lowcountry. Bon Secours St. Francis Hospital and Charleston Roper merged in 1998 to form the Roper St. Francis Hospital Healthcare System.
Roper Hospital's main campus offers a 24-hour emergency room, a heart and vascular center, cancer care, inpatient and outpatient surgery, and more. There are over 350 beds at the main location in downtown Charleston.
Medical Care for Residents of Kiawah, Seabrook Island & Johns Island
Roper Healthcare offers 2 locations for medical care for residents on Johns Island, Seabrook Island, or Kiawah Island. Primary care options offer residents local medical care options without driving into the city of Charleston. Roper Hospital offers two locations.
Roper's newest medical services location is at the Crowne Commons complex on Maybank Highway. This Johns Island location combines family medicine and non-emergency care.
Roper's flagship medical office location is at Freshfields Village between Kiawah Island and Seabrook Island. Residents of the Sea Islands benefit from the convenience of internal medicine, family care, and nonemergency medical services. Plus, Vincents Drug Store and Soda Fountain are right next door!
MUSC Coming Soon
MUSC Health Kiawah Partners Pavillion will bring emergency care, clinical services, and specialty care to the islands' doorsteps. A helipad, diagnostic testing, and triage care will significantly enhance healthcare options.
This highly anticipated medical care facility will enhance the quality of life for Kiawah and Seabrook Islands residents. Residents will no longer have to travel into the city of Charleston for emergency services, rehabilitative services, and specialty care. Stay tuned for more on this highly regarded, state-of-the-art medical pavilion opening.
Find Your Dream Home in the Lowcountry With Pam Harrington Exclusives
Kiawah Island, Seabrook Island, and Charleston are three of the best coastal towns in South Carolina for newcomers and area natives alike. Once you have decided on a location, let Pam Harrington Exclusives guide you to a Lowcountry home that you’ll love.
Representing a wide variety of real estate for sale on Kiawah Island, Seabrook Island, Johns Island, Wadmalaw Island, and the Charleston area, we will find the perfect fit for your family. Browse our available properties online today. Then, schedule a showing with one of our professional and knowledgeable agents. We look forward to introducing you to the joys of Lowcountry living!