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This is OnCharleston.com

OnCharleston.com is a local guide to Charleston, South Carolina — the businesses that serve it, the events on this week, and the stories worth reading.

  • 35,000+ businesses listed
  • 2 events coming up
  • 125 stories published

What you will find here

  • The directory

    Businesses across Charleston, with hours, phone numbers and directions that we check.

  • Reading

    Guides, round-ups and local news — written about here, not syndicated from anywhere.

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About Charleston, South Carolina

Charming Charleston: Where history meets Southern hospitality and coastal beauty.

Charleston, South Carolina, is a city with a rich history and a vibrant blend of culture, industry, and southern hospitality. Founded in 1670, it boasts a remarkable past reflected in its well-preserved architecture and storied landmarks. Charleston played a pivotal role in the American Civil War, with Fort Sumter standing as a lasting symbol of the city's historical significance. Today, Charleston is often celebrated for its charming cobblestone streets, pastel antebellum houses, and the iconic Pineapple Fountain at Waterfront Park. Culturally, Charleston is a hub that seamlessly marries its historical roots with contemporary Southern culture. The city hosts a range of festivals throughout the year such as Spoleto Festival USA, which celebrates performing arts with a diverse international lineup. The culinary scene is also notable, blending traditional Southern dishes with modern innovation, earning Charleston a reputation as a significant culinary destination. Additionally, the city is surrounded by stunning coastlines and warm sandy beaches, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The economy in Charleston is diverse, with a strong presence in tourism, manufacturing, technology, and the burgeoning aerospace sector. The Charleston Port is one of the most active in the U.S., supporting trade and business initiatives. The combination of a thriving economy, rich cultural experiences, and charming character makes Charleston a special place to live and visit.

The basics

Population
156K
Median age
33.5 years
Area
127.5 sq mi
Elevation
20 ft
County
Charleston County
Metro area
Charleston-North Charleston, SC Metro Area

Work and housing

Median household income
$64,500
Median home price
$414,000
Cost of living (US = 100)
111
Unemployment
3.4%
Job growth
2.9%
Households renting
53.2%

Schools and colleges

Bachelor's degree or higher
47.3%
High school graduation
86.4%
Going on to college
68.1%
Schools
58
Colleges and universities
5
Students per teacher
15.7:1
Public libraries
16

Getting around

Average commute
25 minutes
Highways
I-26, US-17, SC-171
Public transit
CARTA
Airports
CHS - Charleston International Airport

Sport

Minor league
AAA Baseball: Charleston RiverDogs (Low-A affiliate), USL League One: Charleston Battery
Venues
Riley Park (6,000), Credit One Stadium (11,000)
College conference
CAA, Southern Conference, Big South Conference

Living here

Climate
Humid Subtropical
Time zone
America/New_York
Area code
843
ZIP codes
29401, 29403, 29407, 29412, 29414

Industries

  • Tourism
  • Aerospace
  • Manufacturing
  • Technology
  • Port and Logistics

Landmarks

  • Fort Sumter
  • Battery and White Point Garden
  • Historic Charleston City Market
  • Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge
  • St. Michael's Church

Attractions

Museums

Parks

Hospitals

Colleges