Top 5 Charleston Areas for Young Professionals

Charleston is a highly desirable place to live in South Carolina due to its numerous opportunities for work, nightlife, arts and culture, outdoor recreation, beaches, shopping, and so on. Its status as one of the fastest-growing metro areas in the US also adds to its appeal. So it's not surprising that many young professionals, adventurous individuals, and those looking to establish roots are attracted to this beautiful city. If you are considering relocating to Charleston, it may be overwhelming to decide on the best neighborhood for young professionals. That's why we've consulted Charleston's top real estate experts, and with their help, we have compiled a list of Charleston neighborhoods for young professionals. But first, let's find out what makes this city attractive to this demographic group.

Why are young professionals coming to Charleston?

You might be wondering what makes Charleston so attractive to young professionals.

Charleston has the energy of multiple cities, from the touristy downtown to the less crowded but lively suburbs.

Well, we did a little research and found seven factors:

• Diversity in employment: Charleston County is home to major employers such as Joint Base Charleston, Medical University of South Carolina, Boeing, Roper St. Francis Healthcare, and the Charleston County School District, providing a diverse range of job opportunities.
• Constant and steady population growth: The Charleston County Economic Development Department reports that 33 new residents move to the Charleston metro region daily, indicating a consistent increase in the population.
• Tech start-ups: Charleston is home to many tech companies, including Blackbaud, BenefitFocus, and Catalytic.
• Commute times are short: Most morning commuters in Charleston have a drive time between 20 and 24 minutes, making it a convenient location for those working there.
• Restaurant and nightlife scene is fantastic: The city has a vibrant restaurant and nightlife scene, offering a variety of options for dining and entertainment year-round.
• Mild climate and access to gorgeous beaches: Charleston boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the Southeast. The climate is generally mild, making it an attractive location for those who enjoy the outdoors.

Now let's see what the best Charleston neighborhoods for young professionals are. Who knows, maybe you'll choose one of them to start looking for your new Charleston home.

What are the best Charleston neighborhoods for young professionals?

Moving to Charleston is undoubtedly exciting, but it also has plenty of challenges. From looking for a place and organizing your move to the moving day, the whole process can be overwhelming. Plus, having in mind all the scams out there, it's only natural to feel apprehensive. Therefore, being careful is key to a successful move. So thoroughly research moving companies and ensure you know how to read a moving contract with caution.

As soon as you step foot into this vibrant and charming city, you'll fall in love with it.

But before you start planning and organizing your relocation, you first need to decide where in Charleston you want to settle. Lucky for you, this vibrant city with a fantastic climate offers plenty of great neighborhoods for young professionals. So continue reading as we've selected the top five for you. 

#1 Summerville, Dorchester County

If you want to boost your career or start a new one, Summerville could be your ideal location in the Charleston area. Many large businesses, such as Boeing, Google, and Volvo, have offices or facilities in Summerville and the nearby regions. Additionally, smaller companies based in Summerville often seek out talented young professionals.

With an average home price of around $382,500, Summerville is also a great place to purchase your first home. Furthermore, the area is well-suited for families with children, offering beautiful neighborhoods with rich history and opportunities for outdoor recreation.

#2 Goose Creek, Berkley County

Located in Berkley County, Goose Creek is a peaceful town just a 30-minute drive from Downtown Charleston. It is also one of the most budget-friendly neighborhoods on our list, with average home prices hovering just below $299,800. While the area is rapidly developing, it's not as crowded as other parts of Charleston.

Employment opportunities are plentiful, and many businesses are looking to hire young professionals. Goose Creek also has excellent schools, making it an attractive location for those planning to start a family. The only downside is that the nightlife is somewhat limited, but Goose Creek is an excellent choice if you seek peaceful and affordable living.

#3 North Charleston, Charleston County

North Charleston can pretty much be considered a city on its own. It's too good to ignore because it offers all the benefits of Charleston at a lower cost, making it a desirable location for young professionals, singles, and families.

There is a wide range of job opportunities available, with the most prominent job markets in the health sector and many companies focused on software and tech development. If you are in these fields, you will likely find a dream job in North Charleston quickly.

#4 Hanahan, Berkeley County

Hanahan, located in Berkeley County, is a great neighborhood just a 20-minute drive from downtown Charleston. It offers lower rent and house prices than other parts of the city and has various outdoor recreational options, thanks to its proximity to the Goose Creek Reservoir.

If you enjoy water-based activities such as boating, kayaking, or bird watching, Hanahan could be the perfect place for you. While the nightlife may not be as robust as in some other areas, Hanahan has plenty of bars and restaurants that provide opportunities to socialize and meet new people.

#5 West Ashley, Charleston County

West Ashley is the oldest suburb in Charleston and one of the most affordable neighborhoods, with home and condo prices starting at as low as $125,000. However, the real estate market in West Ashley is rapidly expanding, so these low prices may not last long.

West Ashely is among the best Charleston neighborhoods for young professionals.

West Ashley covers a large area and has many amenities, such as large malls, spas, bars, and restaurants. If you can't find what you are looking for within West Ashley, it is no problem, as the suburb directly borders downtown Charleston, allowing easy access to the city center.

The bottom line

Charleston is a vibrant and diverse city that offers many appealing neighborhoods for young professionals. There is something for everyone, from the bustling downtown area to the charming and historic neighborhoods. Who knows, maybe you will find that one of the Charleston neighborhoods for young professionals from this article is the perfect one for you. However, you'll have to rely on more than internet research when it comes to finding the perfect home in a great Charleston neighborhood. Therefore, reach out to an experienced real estate team in Charleston. They can provide valuable insights and assistance in navigating the local real estate market.