Greater Charleston Area Overview
The greater Charleston region is comprised of three counties: Berkeley (area 1,098 square miles), Charleston (area 916 square miles), and Dorchester (area 573 square miles). These counties offer a diverse array of communities, cities, towns, and places to call home.
The Charleston area is home to approximately 830,000 people, based on
2022 Census estimates. The city of Charleston itself had an estimated population of 153,040 in 2023. It is the largest city in South Carolina and the 171st largest city in the United States. The region's population is growing at a rate three times faster than the U.S. average. Aeronautics, automobiles, life sciences, logistics, and technology sectors are attracting
global manufacturers and businesses to relocate to the region.
Charleston County abuts the Atlantic Ocean with
Berkeley and
Dorchester lying inland. Berkeley and Dorchester are both threaded with rivers and wetlands, lakes and ponds which make them attractive to those who enjoy outdoor living year-round. The mild, semi-tropical climate of the Tri-county area encourages us to get out and enjoy the amazing natural resources in our area parks and preserved lands.
The Lowcountry, as this area is called, is part of a vast coastal plain, which in ancient, geological times, was the bottom of the ocean floor. This is the reason for the Lowcountry’s mostly flat lands and sandy soils today. The further away from the coast you move inland, the more elevation changes you will experience. Dorchester County’s highest elevation is 167 feet above sea level in the Reevesville area, which beats Berkeley’s highest elevation of 82 feet above sea level. Charleston is primarily flat with elevation peaks at 20 feet above sea level.
The legacy of historic Charleston home design influences home plans being built in Charleston today. As you look for your new home, be on the lookout for houses that seem narrow with a porch on the long side of the house. These
Charleston single houses allow for light and air-flow throughout the home and are emulated by homebuilders today because of their compact footprint, which allows economical use of lot square footage land and encourages community-friendly streetscapes.
As the Tri-county population has surged, demand for homes has increased causing home builders to construct new homes further away from the historic business district of downtown Charleston. Suburban growth around
Johns Island,
Mount Pleasant,
Summerville, and
Moncks Corner leads the way with new communities being announced in each of these areas.
Discover Your Favorite Lowcountry Area
Whether you are seeking peaceful waterfront living, a bustling cityscape, or a tight-knit community to call home, Charleston's got a new home community to meet your needs.
The Coastal Elegance of Mount Pleasant
Mount Pleasant, a coastal community tucked between the Cooper River and the Atlantic Ocean, epitomizes charm and beauty. From exquisite new homes with sprawling porches perfect for a morning coffee to the vibrant town center bustling with unique shops and gourmet restaurants, Mount Pleasant is where southern hospitality meets coastal living.
Family Living in Summerville
If you are seeking a family-friendly neighborhood, look no further than Summerville. With its top-rated schools, spacious parks, and community-focused amenities, this town has become a favorite for families looking for new homes in Charleston.
Southern Charm of Charleston
The city of Charleston incorporates an Old and Historic District on the peninsula, early 20th century homes and bungalows, as well as new planned unit development neighborhoods at the town’s suburban fringes. New homes in Charleston include condo conversions and in-fill development in the older city and contemporary homes designed in a range of contemporary styles off the peninsula.
Vibrant Hub of North Charleston
North Charleston, known for its thriving arts scene and commercial hub, offers new homes nestled in a vibrant, cultural landscape. Enjoy access to galleries, theaters, and some of the city's best dining spots right at your doorstep.
Relaxed Island Life: Discover James Island
Choose James Island if you want a suburban neighborhood that offers a true Lowcountry experience with proximity to rivers, creeks, and marshes as well as a short commute to downtown Charleston.
Living Close to Nature on Johns Island
Living close to nature is second nature on Johns Island where grand trees, local produce and waterways are top draws. Homes on Johns Island may be in the City of Charleston or may be in unincorporated Charleston County. New home communities under construction on Johns Island are tucked down picturesque country lanes, overhung with live oak tree branches, Spanish moss and dappled with sunlight.
Echoing Architectural Diversity in Goose Creek
Charleston's new homes are a testament to architectural finesse. From the Antebellum and Victorian styles echoing the city's rich history to the contemporary designs catered to modern tastes, these homes are the perfect embodiment of Charleston's architectural diversity.
Expansive Lots and Small-Town Life: Explore Moncks Corner
The new home communities in Charleston offer a wealth of amenities, including state-of-the-art fitness centers, sprawling golf courses, marinas for boating enthusiasts, and trails for those who enjoy a peaceful walk-in nature.
Where Past & Present Come Together: Awendaw
The scenic town of Awendaw enjoys a convenient location near Mount Pleasant, providing residents and visitors alike with easy access to the vibrant amenities, picturesque landscapes, and coastal charm of Mount Pleasant, which lies just a short drive away.
Homebuyer Toolkit
Use our
Area Orientation Map for quick links to area cities. Click on the city link to access our extensive database of new home neighborhoods, available homes, city overview and map.
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Thank you for reading and sharing our articles from The Greater Charleston New Homes Guide. Our business is to know Charleston, SC's new home construction, home builders, neighborhoods, and homes so we may assist you as you take your new construction home journey. Please take the time to explore our site. The Greater Charleston New Homes Guide is considered the best and most reliable ‘local’ resource to new home construction, builders, neighborhoods, and homes throughout the Lowcountry since 2004.
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