City of Charleston - Downtown Charleston

There’s a reason why thousands of people flock to Charleston every year — and why thousands more call it home. The city and its surrounding areas offer something for everyone, from the hustle and bustle of city life to serene, natural island living. Downtown Charleston is home to stunning architecture, world-class fine dining, and extensive shopping — and it continues to grow. Around the peninsula you’ll find laid-back beach towns, modern sustainable housing options, and picturesque neighborhoods that you thought existed only in your imagination. Endless events and activities — from parks to museums to recreational options — ensure a packed calendar. But it’s just as easy to fall into a lifestyle as slow-paced and relaxed as the tides that set the rhythm of our city.

Renowned for its world-class restaurants, shopping districts, and friendly residents, Charleston is regularly voted one of the best cities in the country. Charleston’s beautifully preserved, postcard-perfect historic district features homes dating back to the 17th century that have survived everything from war to earthquakes to hurricanes. Water is never far from view downtown, with the Cooper and Ashley rivers and Charleston Harbor surrounding the city. The well-maintained parks — including the Battery, Waterfront Park, and Brittlebank Park — make full use of the stunning views.

Charleston draws thousands of visitors every year and entertains locals with its array of museums, attractions, and events. The Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon, the Gibbes Museum of Art, the South Carolina Aquarium, and the Charleston Museum are all popular stops. Events like the Cooper River Bridge Run, Charleston Fashion Week, and the Charleston Wine + Food Festival also draw crowds.

Marion Square is a well-known gathering spot for residents, playing host to regular events like the Saturday Charleston Farmers Market. Students from the nearby College of Charleston gather on the green to sunbathe and play sports. King Street, boasting everything from antiques to interior design shops to clothing boutiques, is the city’s main shopping artery, and the historic City Market is well known for its exciting nightlife.

The buildings in Downtown Charleston date back to the mid-1700s. The single houses are treasured pieces of the city’s past with double porches, iron gates, and courtyard gardens. Since 1947, the Charleston Historic Foundation has worked tirelessly to protect and preserve the houses, buildings, and neighborhoods that make Charleston such a unique city. As exclusive as Downtown Charleston seems, home prices vary. Living south of Broad Street (or as the locals call it, South of Broad) is luxurious living at its best, with homes ranging from $1 million to more than $13 million. Multiple-family buildings renovated into condominiums are gaining popularity. Downtown Charleston is a pedestrian community. Not only are commercial offices near many residential areas, but residents can also walk, bike, or rickshaw to dine at world-class restaurants, shop for designer wear on King Street, browse the French Quarter art galleries, and visit the numerous historic attractions. This convenience, combined with historic beauty and close proximity to area beaches, makes downtown Charleston one of the most desired areas in which to live. The median price for a home is on the Charleston Peninsula is $457,000.

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(all data current as of 12/16/2018)

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