Charleston, SC has a range of things to offer young professionals – from outdoor activities to shopping, movie theaters, nightlife, and some of the best restaurants in the country. Although many of these entertainment options are in Downtown Charleston, the real estate is generally too expensive for young professionals and first time home buyers. The nearest suburbs of Charleston (James Island, Mt. Pleasant, and West Ashley) offer more affordable homes without sacrificing a great location.
James Island’s laid back atmosphere and local eateries make it a prominent suburb to live. And, its prime location makes it easy to commute to Downtown Charleston (10 minutes or less, usually) for work or entertainment. Folly Beach is also just a 10 minute drive away. (North Charleston is a little bit farther, about 30 minutes, so be sure to talk with us about where you’ll be working so that we can recommend communities for you.) If you are a fitness fanatic, you may enjoy a workout at Gold’s Gym, biking along the roadways, swimming in one of the neighborhood pools, kayaking in the many marshes surrounding the island, or jogging or wall climbing at the James Island County Park. If you have a dog, the dog park at the James Island County Park may be a place you will frequent. James Island has two movie theaters, a Super Wal-Mart, Lowes, and a variety of local grocery stores. On Sundays, there is a local farmer’s market in the Riverland Terrace area with plenty of fresh produce and arts and crafts for the community. Everything you need is right on the island, so you don’t have to leave unless you want to explore the rest of Charleston. More on James Island homes for sale…
Mount Pleasant is another great suburb that’s known for its upscale feel. The commute to downtown is usually 5-25 minutes, and to North Charleston it is about 25 minutes. It takes less than 15 minutes to reach Isle of Palms or Sullivan’s Island beaches. Whatever you need, Mount Pleasant has it! There are plenty of grocery stores including a Whole Foods and Trader Joe’s, large retail stores, specialty shops, and boutiques. Mount Pleasant Towne Centre and The Shoppes at Seaside Farms are just two of the outdoor shopping complexes Mount Pleasant has to offer. There are two movie theaters, as well. The restaurants range from fast food to sit down cafés to delicious nationally recognized fine dining. Boating is a very popular activity amongst young professionals. Most put their boat in the water at a public boat ramp, and head out for the day to Morris Island or Capers Island with a few friends. You can also rent jet skis at the Isle of Palms Marina for an hour or two. Mount Pleasant has its own farmer’s market, where local farmers and artists display their masterpieces for residents to purchase. Search Mount Pleasant home listings…
West Ashley offers young professionals a little more home for the money since it’s one of the most affordable suburbs in Charleston County. The trendy South Windermere Shopping Center offers an Earthfare grocery, Starbucks, Urban Nirvana, Half Moon Outfitters, Phillip’s Shoes, and Holy Cow Yoga. You’ll find several more shopping centers in West Ashley including the Citadel Mall (which has an IMAX movie theater). Like James Island, West Ashley also has a great selection of locally owned restaurants like Sesame Burgers, Red Orchid (Chinese cuisine), and Home Team BBQ. The West Ashley Greenway is perhaps the best place to run, bike, or walk the dog – but you’ll find several other parks throughout the area. West Ashley real estate is about 5-25 minutes from Downtown Charleston and 15-30 minutes from Folly Beach.
If you’re a young professional looking to purchase a home in the Charleston area, contact us to get started! We’d be happy to talk with you about everything that Charleston has to offer. We can also guide you through the home buying process, recommend areas and neighborhoods based on your needs and wants, and also answer any questions you might have. Learn more about Charleston real estate!