Charleston, SC Real Estate Map

The real estate that makes up the Charleston, SC metropolitan area spans three counties: Charleston, Berkeley and Dorchester. Topographically speaking, you'll go from sandy beaches to marshland, across rivers and into wide-open farmland in just miles. From a residential real estate perspective, Charleston is just as diverse. Homes of almost any style, size, age and price can be found in most residential areas of greater Charleston.

Historic Downtown Charleston

Located on the peninsula between the Ashley and Cooper Rivers, Historic Charleston is the most residentially concentrated area in the region. Most homes are older, some dating as far back as the 1700's, and built in the traditional early southern style with expansive porches and lofty columns. There are, however, a multitude of styles and sizes available for the interested homebuyer.

Average cost of single-family home: $586,152

West Ashley

This suburban area just west of downtown is the specialty of Matrix Properties. Noted for its proximity to almost everything in the Charleston area, West Ashley includes wonderful family neighborhoods with homes in all price ranges. While the entirety of West Ashley is a sprawling residential area, each diverse neighborhood has a personality of its own, complete with local schools, restaurants, shopping and recreational areas. Much of the charming diversity can be attributed to the mixed ages of the developments, ranging from the early 1920's just outside of downtown to brand new developments (Ainsdale Park, Middleborough) west of Interstate 526.

Average cost of single-family home: $173,616

Mount Pleasant

The city of Mt. Pleasant has been the most rapidly developing residential area in greater Charleston for more than 5 years. Where once it was a quiet alternative to the suburbs west of downtown, thriving retail and commercial developments have sprouted all over the area in order to keep pace with a town with a population of almost 60,000.

Average cost of single-family home: $271,214

North Charleston

North of the historic Charleston peninsula along Interstate 26 is the incorporated city of North Charleston. Home to the Charleston International Airport, Charleston Air Force Base, Amtrak Station and numerous port facilities, North Charleston has become an important transportation hub for all of South Carolina. Because of the jobs that are created by this type of development, it should be no surprise that North Charleston has become the 3rd largest city in South Carolina (pop. 82,000). The interested buyer will find established suburban neighborhoods, various developments of starter homes, golf course communities and even waterfront homes along the Ashley River.

Average cost of single-family home: $99,289

James Island

James Island is a perfect combination of suburban conveniences and rustic, natural beauty. This island community just west of downtown contains a mixture of residential neighborhoods, and plenty of undeveloped marshland and maritime forest. Whether you're interested in a harbor-front or river-front estate, a brand new development, or even an older home in an established community, you're sure to be surrounded by mossy oak trees and plenty of peace and quiet. You'll also have convenient access to Folly Beach, all types of water sports and activities, and James Island County Park.

Average cost of single-family home: $195,502

Isle of Palms and Sullivan's Island

Isle of Palms and Sullivan's Island are two of the barrier islands of the Charleston area. The Atlantic Ocean borders them on the south, while tidal marshes and the deep water of the Intracoastal Waterway separate them from the mainland. The laid-back atmosphere here is immediately apparent. The architecture, shops and restaurants make IOP and Sullivan's feel more like The Hamptons than South Carolina. Most real estate here has convenient access to white sandy beaches or a deep-water dock, so home prices are among the highest in the Charleston area. Due to the high volume of vacation and resort properties, permanent residents enjoy quiet winters and bustling summers.

Average cost of single-family home: $719,101

Folly Beach

The smallest and most residential of the Charleston barrier islands can be found at the southern end of James Island, just 10 minutes from downtown. Folly Beach, called "The Edge of America," is the quintessential lazy beach town. It's a favorite of local artists, and many others who'd prefer to ride a bike than to drive. Folly offers shady residential streets lined with an interesting combination of palms and moss-covered oak trees. It's also a great place for outdoor activities. Local surfers consider Folly the best place to catch a wave in the Carolinas, and the Folly Beach Fishing Pier is South Carolina's longest, extending more than 2,000 feet into the ocean.

Average cost of single-family home: $404,789

Johns Island

Johns Island contains the most undeveloped land in any of the areas within minutes of downtown Charleston. Much of the island is still rural. SC Rt. 700 (Maybank Highway) is still the only major road through the area, so you won't find many existing large residential developments. Thus, Johns Island is a haven for those looking for the peace and quiet of the country with all the conveniences of the city close by. Don't expect Johns Island to remain as it is today for long, though, as residential developers are moving quickly to satisfy the demand that this beautiful island has created.

Average cost of single-family home: $231,987

Kiawah and Seabrook Islands

These two islands south of Johns Island make up the West Islands. Both are private residential resort communities, and together consist of almost 20,000 acres.

Kiawah's residents enjoy 10 miles of beach and 30 miles of biking and walking trails. Beachwalker County Park is the only place on the island open to the public. This is where you'll find the island's five championship golf courses, including the world famous Ocean Course.

Seabrook Island is completely private, accessible only to its residents and their guests. The island itself is owned by its property owners. Horse lovers will be right at home here, as the Seabrook Equestrian Center offers lessons and access to breathtaking rides, and hosts the annual Charleston Summer Classic Horse Show. Boat owners have access to Bohicket Marina and its 300 slips for boats of all sizes.

Average cost of single-family home: $405,392

Berkeley County

Berkeley County is the fastest growing county in South Carolina. Homebuyers have diverse choices between developments in all styles, price ranges and amenities.

Goose Creek is the largest city in the county, with a population of over 30,000. The single-family residential developments here have proven to be extremely popular, offering residents hike and bike paths, recreational areas, private boat docks and a country club.

Hanahan is the most condensed residential area in Berkeley County. It is a popular location for those working in North Charleston, which it directly borders.

Moncks Corner is the most rural city in the county. It sits on the south side of man-made Lake Moultrie to give residents excellent access to all types of water activities. Boats kept on Lake Moultrie have access to the Intracoastal Waterway and Cooper River.

Daniel Island is a large island located between the Wando and Cooper Rivers, and has been developed to give residents a quaint, small-town atmosphere. Daniel Island is home to the Charleston Battery, our professional men's soccer team, as well as a Women's Tennis Association event, the Family Circle Cup.

Average cost of single-family home: $162,125 (Varies greatly between neighborhoods)

Dorchester County

Northeast of Charleston County and North Charleston along Interstate 26 is Dorchester County. It has seen a population growth of 10% in the last 15 years.

Summerville is the largest city in the county, but manages to maintain its small-town feel. That's an impressive feat, considering that there have been more than 50 subdivisions constructed within the past 15 years that surround the immediate Summerville area. Summerville itself is full of shady, oak-lined streets with Victorian-style homes, antique shops along Main Street, and a dedication to community throughout.

St. George, the county seat, is known as the "Town of Friendly People." A strong sense of family and religion permeate this true southern, small town. Each year families around St. George gather for family reunions known as "Camp Meetings." The area is known as a haven for local hunters and fishermen.

Average cost of single-family home: $158,708