Looking for a new home in the Charleston SC area? You've come to the right place. Whether you are new to the area or a local Charlestonian, Charleston New Homes Guide can help. Directly below our Orientation Map are quick links to area cities. Click on the city link to access our extensive database of new home neighborhoods, available homes, city overview & map.
Charleston Orientation Map
Greater Charleston Area Overview
The greater Charleston region, located in South Carolina, boasts a captivating landscape comprised of three counties: Berkeley, Charleston, and Dorchester. Covering a vast expanse of over 2,500 miles collectively, these counties offer a diverse array of communities, cities, towns, and idyllic places to call home.
Home to approximately 830,000 people, according to 2022 Census estimates, the Charleston area has experienced remarkable growth, emerging as one of the fastest-growing regions in the United States. Fueled by a thriving economy, the area has become a magnet for global manufacturers and businesses, particularly in sectors such as aeronautics, automobiles, life sciences, logistics, and technology, which are now choosing to relocate to this dynamic region.
The geographical layout of the three counties is fascinating. While Charleston County sits along the Atlantic Ocean, Berkeley and Dorchester lie inland. Both Berkeley and Dorchester boast picturesque rivers, wetlands, lakes, and ponds, creating an enticing environment for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy year-round outdoor living. The mild, semi-tropical climate of the Tri-county area further encourages residents to explore and revel in the incredible natural resources offered by the region's numerous parks and preserved lands.
Affectionately known as the Lowcountry, this area is a part of a vast coastal plain that, in ancient geological times, was once the bottom of the ocean floor. As a result, the Lowcountry's terrain predominantly consists of flat lands and sandy soils. However, as one moves inland, the landscape gradually changes, with an increase in elevation. The Reevesville area in Dorchester County holds the record for the highest elevation, standing at 167 feet above sea level, surpassing Berkeley's highest point, which reaches 82 feet above sea level. Charleston, on the other hand, maintains a primarily flat topography, with its elevation peaking at 20 feet above sea level.
The history of the Carolinas is rich and deeply ingrained in the region, with 29 Native American tribes having originally inhabited the area. Throughout the years, the Carolinas have been settled by successive waves of Spanish, French, and British colonists. In 1670, Charles Towne was established by British colonists at the behest of The Lords Proprietors, eventually evolving into modern-day Charleston. As one explores the streets and new home developments in the area, they will find a legacy of historic place names, serving as a constant reminder that "the past is present" in the Lowcountry.
This historical heritage has also left a profound impact on Charleston's home design, influencing the construction of houses in the area to this day. Home plans are often inspired by the traditional Charleston single houses, characterized by their narrow structure with a porch running along the long side of the house. These designs allow for ample light and excellent air-flow throughout the home, and modern homebuilders continue to emulate this style, allowing for efficient use of square footage and creating community-friendly streetscapes.
As the Tri-county population continues to surge, the demand for homes has risen, prompting homebuilders to expand further away from the historic business district of downtown Charleston. Suburban growth is thriving in areas like Johns Island, Mount Pleasant, Summerville, and Moncks Corner, with new communities sprouting up in each of these regions to accommodate the influx of new residents. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or seasoned real estate investor, Charleston offers a myriad of opportunities to suit all needs and preferences.
The greater Charleston region stands as a remarkable testament to the perfect harmony between a rich historical legacy and a vibrant, growing economy. With its diverse communities, captivating natural beauty, and an endless array of opportunities, it remains an enticing place to call home for people from all walks of life.
Use our Area Orientation Map above for quick links to area cities and counties and access our extensive database of new home neighborhoods, available homes, city overviews and more.