News Summary
Charleston, South Carolina, has been ranked No. 322 on the list of ‘Best Places to Live’ in the U.S. by U.S. News and World Report. Key factors contributing to this ranking include a strong job market, a median household income exceeding the national average, and a vibrant lifestyle with diverse entertainment and dining options. Despite rising housing costs and a dependence on cars for transportation, the city’s favorable climate and amenities continue to attract residents, securing its place among the top 40% of cities evaluated.
Charleston Ranks No. 322 in U.S. News and World Report’s “Best Places to Live” for 2025-2026
Charleston, South Carolina, has been ranked No. 322 on the list of “Best Places to Live in the U.S. in 2025-2026″ by U.S. News and World Report. This annual ranking assessed over 850 cities across the nation, placing Charleston within the top 40%. The city’s favorable job market was one of the key highlights contributing to its status.
Economic Strength and Job Opportunities
Charleston’s economy boasts a median household income of $90,050, which exceeds the national average by over $10,000. This economic advantage is complemented by a below-average unemployment rate, largely driven by thriving sectors including tourism, technology, and healthcare. These industries not only provide employment but also attract individuals seeking new opportunities in a vibrant economy.
Demographics and Lifestyle
Among the population, only 42% of residents are married, indicating that Charleston appeals particularly to singles. Additionally, the city offers a diverse array of food options, entertainment choices, and access to beaches, creating an engaging lifestyle for residents. The favorable outdoor conditions, with comfortable falls and winters, contribute to Charleston’s desirability, despite the hot and humid summers typical of the region.
Housing Market Insights
The average housing cost in Charleston stands at $463,644, significantly higher than the national average by over $90,000. This rising cost reflects the demand for housing in the city, which continues to attract new residents. Potential homebuyers and renters looking to relocate should consider this financial aspect when making their decisions.
Transportation and Traffic Conditions
Charleston has a high dependency on cars, with approximately 92% of residents relying on their vehicles for daily transportation. However, traffic conditions are relatively manageable; the average commute time is about 1.5 minutes shorter than the national average, making travel within the city less stressful. For residents, this can translate into more leisure time outside of work hours.
Weather and Environmental Considerations
Residents of Charleston enjoy a moderate climate, particularly during fall and winter months. However, summers can become hot and humid. Another environmental factor to bear in mind is the potential for hurricanes and tropical storms during the summer, which can pose risks to the area.
Comparative Ranking in South Carolina
In the broader scope of South Carolina, Charleston ranks as the No. 4 best place to live, following Mount Pleasant, Greenville, and Florence. The city also fared well in a separate ranking, coming in at No. 13 in U.S. News and World Report’s “Best Places to Retire in the U.S. in 2025-2026″ list. Methodology for this particular ranking focused more on factors like happiness and opportunities tailored specifically for retirees.
Conclusion and Local Sentiment
The news of Charleston’s ranking has piqued the interest of local residents, as the city generally enjoys a favorable reputation among its inhabitants. The combination of economic strength, lifestyle offerings, and a thoughtful community environment contributes to Charleston’s attraction as both a place to live and retire. As trends in migration and urban living continue to evolve, Charleston will likely remain a notable city in future rankings.
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Additional Resources
- Charleston Today
- Greenville Online
- Charleston City Paper
- Southern Living
- World Atlas
- Wikipedia: Charleston, South Carolina
- Google Search: Best places to live in the U.S.
- Google Scholar: Charleston best places to live
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Charleston
- Google News: Charleston South Carolina news
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
The HERE Charleston Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Charleston community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Charleston : Our team includes lifelong Charleston residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Charleston's equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., Charleston Technical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Charleston Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
