Best Places to Live in South Carolina for Families in 2024

Family picnic in park.

Best Places to Live in South Carolina for Families in 2024

If your family is thinking about a relocation within or into South Carolina in 2024, you’re in the right place. We’ve rounded up what we consider the prominent family-friendly locations in the state – Charleston, Hilton Head Island, and Mount Pleasant.

Charleston: Historical Charm and Top-Rated Schools

Charleston is a city that beautifully combines historical charm and modern comforts. Known for its cobblestone streets, historic homes, and preserved architecture, it offers a distinctive and engaging environment for families. But it’s not just about beautiful buildings; Charleston also boasts an excellent network of schools. Institutions such as Academic Magnet High School, Charles Pinckney Elementary, and James Island Charter High School are consistently high performers, offering your children top-notch education.

Charleston also offers abundant outdoor activities, thanks to its mild climate and scenic beauty. Families can enjoy beach days at Sullivan’s Island or Folly Beach, hiking and bicycling along various trails, or even visiting the Francis Marion National Forest. Family-friendly neighborhoods like West Ashley, Daniel Island, and Avondale offer welcoming communities and a variety of amenities such as parks, playgrounds, and local shops.

Hilton Head Island: Pristine Beaches and Strong Community

Hilton Head Island offers families 12 miles of beautiful Atlantic Ocean beaches, refreshing turquoise waters, and all-year-round sunsets. The island’s public beach access points, beach parks, and private beach clubs make it easy for family days out at the seaside. Additionally, parents moving to Hilton Head Island will be comforted to know the island offers excellent schools, with institutions like Hilton Head Island High School, Hilton Head Island School for the Creative Arts, and Sea Pines Montessori Academy.

Moreover, Hilton Head Island is home to a peaceful community known for its low crime rates and a strong sense of unity, making it an ideal place for raising children. If you’re a golfing enthusiast, you’d be thrilled to know the island is home to numerous world-class golf courses designed by legendary architects such as Robert Trent Jones Sr., Pete Dye, and Jack Nicklaus.

Mount Pleasant: Strong Job Market and Close Proximity to Charleston

Mount Pleasant offers a strong job market, making it an attractive place for families looking for robust employment opportunities. The city is home to several industries, namely healthcare, education, and manufacturing, offering diverse job options for residents. Furthermore, Mount Pleasant is known for its high-quality education system, with schools such as Wando High School, Buist Academy, and Palmetto Christian Academy offering top-tier academics and extracurriculars.

Mount Pleasant is also a safe environment for raising children, with its low crime rates and community-centric approach. It offers numerous parks and playgrounds, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Moreover, its close proximity to Charleston provides families the benefits of both cities, while enjoying the quieter and more suburban lifestyle of Mount Pleasant.

Whether you move to Charleston with its historical charm, Hilton Head Island with its stunning beaches, or Mount Pleasant with its ample job opportunities, you’re sure to find an excellent destination for putting down roots in the South Carolina area.