South Carolina’s largest city is one of the most gorgeous communities in the United States. Charleston is a thriving coastal city whose history can be traced back hundreds of years. This picturesque city boasts preserved architecture, gorgeous natural scenery, and plenty of charming surrounding towns. Let’s look at some aspects of Charleston that make it an ideal option for those seeking a beautiful place to live.
History, Architecture, and Culture
The city’s reputation as a popular historical, cultural, and architectural destination in the U.S. brings many to Charleston every year. Charleston was founded as a port city in 1670, and its history is preserved in its cobblestone streets and colorful Victorian-era homes. The Georgian, Federal, and Greek Revival buildings throughout Charleston create a beautiful aesthetic.
To learn more about the town’s history, visit Fort Sumter, where the first shot of the Civil War was fired, and the Charleston Museum, the oldest museum in the country. Or, enjoy Charleston’s world-class food scene. Some standout Charleston classics include she-crab soup, shrimps and grits, and Frogmore stew.
Outdoor Appeal
Charleston has immaculate weather throughout the year and is located along Charleston Harbor, a destination for boating and fishing. The gorgeous Charleston Waterfront Park combines the city’s architecture with its outdoor beauty, offering scenic sites along the harbor.
Charleston also has excellent beaches close by, including Folly Beach, Sullivan’s Island Beach, and Kiawah Island. Visitors can explore plenty of natural areas, such as Middleton Place, a stunning 17th-century garden, and Shem Creek Park, a boardwalk area along the water with nearby restaurants and bars.
Economy and Pleasant Surrounding Communities
Charleston is a thriving city with a massive economy, and the city’s tourism plays a significant role. More than seven million tourists visited the city in 2018, according to Post and Courier. But the city’s economy extends beyond tourism. Charleston has several thriving sectors, including healthcare, engineering, and defense industries. The massive Charleston Air Force Base is the city’s biggest employer, and its other major employers include Robert Bosch LLC, an engineering firm, and Boeing, the aerospace engineering titan.
Charleston is surrounded by appealing suburbs for those who don’t want to live in the heart of the bustling city. Isle of Palms is a tiny beachfront community with gorgeous homes along the water and excellent safety ratings. Mount Pleasant is a wealthy suburb along the Cooper River with pristine beaches, historical attractions, and busy commercial areas. And Hanahan is an affordable alternative in the Charleston area with plenty of beautiful outdoor sites and appealing real estate options.
