Charleston, SC Best Places for Retirement | Ideal-LIVING

Charleston, South Carolina</h2

Consistently named among Condé Nast Traveler’s top 10 U.S. destinations, Charleston boasts a world-class array of recreational and cultural amenities rarely found in a mid-size market. Charleston’s rich history dates back to 1670, when settlers established Charles Towne Landing. The 300-year-old streets are narrow and often filled with horse-drawn carriages full of visitors. This beautifully preserved city, surrounded by Lowcountry ocean marshes, is teeming with history and plenty of things to do—perfect as a retirement location. Strolling through downtown Charleston is like taking a step back in time. Historic buildings and famous landmarks can be found on nearly every corner, and numerous 18th century plantations are just a short drive away.

Charleston is a culturally rich city, filled with art galleries and museums and home to the popular Spoleto Festival USA each spring. The city provides a wide selection of dining options. Choose from quaint bistros, lively pubs and elegant restaurants—and don’t forget to sample the celebrated Lowcountry cuisine. Shopping opportunities abound in Charleston, from the famed King Street boutiques to shopping centers and malls in nearby Mt. Pleasant.

Miles and miles of stunning beaches are located nearby. The resort barrier islands of Seabrook, Kiawah, Isle of Palms and Folly Beach are all less than 30 minutes away from the city. Be prepared to spend plenty of time in the water—Charleston has a warm climate.

Lifelong Learning Opportunities

South Carolina law provides tuition exemption for residents 60 and older to take classes at state colleges (nominal fees may apply). Seniors can generally take any class offered, but many colleges also have specialized senior learning programs. The pursuit of higher education pervades the city’s rich culture. The historic downtown area alone is home to six institutions of higher learning: the College of Charleston, The Citadel, the downtown campus of Trident Technical College, the Charleston School of Law, the Medical University of South Carolina; and the Art Institute of Charleston.

Medical Facilities

With more than 2,000 physicians and a strong commitment to medical research, the Charleston region offers a vital health and wellness community. Several nationally recognized hospital systems, including Medical University of South Carolina and Roper St Francis Healthcare, serve the region, as well as numerous medical centers considered among the best in the United States. In all, more than 30,000 people are employed by the local healthcare industry.

Green Initiatives & Energy

Charleston was recently one of five communities selected to initiate a Green Business Challenge (GBC). The GBC is a voluntary program designed for a broad group of businesses and institutions to consider ways to make their own businesses more environmentally sustainable. Charleston is one of five cities across the country selected by the International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives (ICLEI) to establish a GBC.

Dataw Island - Golf Communities in South Carolina

There is a place off the South Carolina coast, near the charming town of Beaufort, where nature and luxury share center stage. Shaped by the Intracoastal Waterway and a rich Southern history, the gated golf community of Dataw Island is a pristine parcel of 870 acres waiting to be discovered. Read More...

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Pinckney Retreat - South Carolina Gated Communities

Pinckney Retreat is a gated community nestled along the banks of Battery Creek in Beaufort, SC-voted the "Happiest Seaside Town In America" by Coastal Living Magazine-offers elegant grounds and breathtaking waterfront views. Read More...

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Celadon - South Carolina Coastal Communities

Located in SC's Lowcountry, a mere three miles from downtown Beaufort, this beautiful master-planned community allows you to focus on a simpler, happier, healthier life. Read More...

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City Walk at Beaufort - South Carolina Retirement Communities

City Walk is historic downtown Beaufort, SC's only new home address. This coastal community is a walk or bike ride to everything downtown has to offer. Just steps away from City Walk is the Spanish Moss trail (Beaufort's old rail system for walking and biking) that runs over 13 miles and connects residents to Port Royal as well as the newly developing uptown area for more shopping and restaurants. City Walk's amenities include a waterfront park with swings, hammocks, and a fire-pit for watching coastal sunsets, but its walkable location is what sets it apart from every other new home community in Beaufort. Read More...

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Logan Homes - Home Builders in South Carolina

At Logan Homes, they strive to turn your dream home into a reality. From traditional to contemporary, grand to cozy, Logan Homes offers personalized floor plans, quality craftsmanship, superior designs and decades of building experience. Whether you want to live close to town or in the country, near the beach or on a golf course, the Builder Specialists at Logan Homes can help you find the ideal community or home site to suit your lifestyle perfectly. Read More...

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Sweetwater

Sweetwater is a short drive from historic downtown Charleston, but it feels a world away. Situated along the marsh of Nowell Creek, Sweetwater is where your day starts with a breath of fresh air. The community is a merging of natural elements with modern comforts and conveniences. Natural landscapes have been woven into the overall design of the community. The apartment homes at Sweetwater have granite countertops, wood inspired plank flooring, stainless steel appliances, and spacious screened porches. You'll find a variety of floorplans and picturesque views--including stunning views of Nowell Creek--making Sweetwater a desirable place to live. Read More...

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Long Cove Club

Long Cove Club is the hidden jewel of Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. A private residential club filled with spectacular homes and warm and friendly people. The world renowned private Pete Dye Golf course is just one of many amenities and experiences that make life at the Club so engaging. Behind the gate, you'll find a rich palette of lifestyle options to suit every taste. Read More...

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