Charleston SC

Charleston – A coastal gem steeped in Southern charm, cobblestone streets, and timeless beauty, Charleston invites you to step back in time without losing a beat of modern life. From its pastel antebellum homes and historic battlegrounds to salty sea breezes and Lowcountry cuisine, this city blends history, romance, and a touch of magic. Whether you’re sailing on the harbor, tasting shrimp and grits, or strolling through moss-draped oaks, Charleston is more than a destination—it’s an experience that stays with you.

• Population: ~150,000
• Weather: Warm, humid summers and mild winters (50-90°F); light rainfall year-round.
• Places To Visit: Historic Downtown, Waterfront Park, Fort Sumter, Magnolia Plantation, The Battery.
• Top Activities: Walking tours of old town, boat rides in Charleston Harbor, shopping on King Street, beach trips to Folly Beach, taking in local art and galleries.
• Famous Food: Shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, fried green tomatoes, oysters, and pecan pie.

Charleston, SC is a thriving coastal city with a diverse economy supported by industries such as healthcare, hospitality, aerospace, and technology. The city's mix of historical charm and modern innovation fosters strong job growth, especially in healthcare and tourism-related sectors. Below are some of the most in-demand jobs in Charleston.

Top 5 Jobs in Charleston, SC

Charleston, SC is a vibrant city offering a mix of cultural spots, scenic locations, and fun activities perfect for students looking to unwind and enjoy their free time. Whether you're into history, nature, or a good meal, Charleston has plenty to offer.

Waterfront Park – This picturesque park features beautiful fountains, stunning views of the Cooper River, and plenty of places to sit back and relax. It's a great spot for a walk, a picnic, or even a hammock nap.

King Street – Known for its diverse shopping, dining options, and lively atmosphere, King Street is the place to go if you're looking to explore local boutiques, grab some delicious food, or take in the nightlife.

Folly Beach – Just a short drive from downtown, Folly Beach is perfect for a day of sunbathing, surfing, and beach volleyball. It's a great spot to unwind and enjoy the ocean breeze.

Charleston City Market – Dive into the local culture at this historic market, which offers a variety of unique crafts, souvenirs, and local food products. It's a lively place to stroll through and soak up the local vibe.

The Battery & White Point Garden – This historic area features stately antebellum homes and beautiful gardens. It's a peaceful place for a relaxing walk, offering stunning views of the harbor.

College of Charleston Campus – With its picturesque setting and shaded paths, the campus itself is a wonderful place to relax, study, or meet up with friends. The Cistern Yard is especially known for its serene ambiance.

Charleston, South Carolina, is a historic city known for its rich culture, charming architecture, and strong academic institutions. It offers a mix of top-ranked public and private colleges that support high-quality education in areas such as engineering, liberal arts, healthcare, and hospitality management.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Charleston

College of Charleston – Founded in 1770, the College of Charleston is one of the oldest universities in the country. Known for programs in marine biology, business, education, and the arts, it offers a strong liberal arts education in a beautiful downtown setting.

The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina – A respected public military college, The Citadel offers both military and civilian degrees. Known for its engineering, business, and leadership programs, the institution emphasizes discipline, honor, and academic commitment.

– A comprehensive two-year college that prepares students for the workforce or for transfer to four-year universities. It offers high-quality associate degree programs in nursing, culinary arts, aviation maintenance, and technology.

Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) – While focused solely on graduate education, MUSC is a prestigious public university known for excellence in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, and advanced healthcare research. It plays a crucial role in improving health across South Carolina.

Charleston Southern University (Note: Private but originally funded partially by the SC Baptist Convention) – While technically private, it often partners with state programs and receives regional public support. Known for nursing, business, and criminal justice programs, it offers a faith-based education and small campus environment.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in Charleston

Charleston Southern University – A faith-based private institution offering strong programs in business, education, nursing, and criminal justice. It is known for its small class sizes, supportive faculty, and Christian values.

ECPI University – Charleston Campus – A nationally recognized private university that emphasizes hands-on learning in technology, healthcare, and criminal justice. Known for accelerated degrees tailored to working adults.

Strayer University – North Charleston Campus – Offering flexible degree options in business, IT, and public administration, Strayer serves working adults and career changers. Its online and on-campus formats make education accessible for all.

Virginia College (formerly in Charleston) – Although now closed, Virginia College was once a trusted institution offering programs in medical assisting, business administration, and cosmetology, serving Charleston's career-focused students.

The Art Institute of Charleston (Closed) – Previously a respected private college known for programs in culinary arts, graphic design, and fashion marketing. It was a part of the Art Institutes system and significantly contributed to the city's creative education scene.

Charleston, SC is home to several highly rated high schools that emphasize academic excellence, student leadership, and well-rounded development. Whether you're considering public or private education, Charleston offers a mix of traditional values and innovative learning methods for today’s students.

Top Public High Schools in Charleston, SC

• – Consistently ranked among the top public high schools in the country, this school offers a challenging college-prep curriculum with a strong focus on research and community involvement.

• Wando High School, Mount Pleasant – Known for its large and diverse campus, Wando promotes academic rigor with a range of Advanced Placement (AP) courses and strong arts and athletic programs.

• James Island Charter High School, Charleston – A public charter school offering a broad array of programs including International Baccalaureate (IB), AP, and Career and Technology Education pathways.

• Charleston County School of the Arts, North Charleston – This magnet school serves artistically gifted students in writing, music, and theater while also delivering competitive academic programs.

• West Ashley High School, Charleston – Offers solid academic programs with a growing focus on STEM and partnerships with local colleges to support dual credit options.

Top Private High Schools in Charleston, SC

• Porter-Gaud School, Charleston – An Episcopal college-prep school known for high academic standards, supportive faculty, and a strong honor code. It offers outstanding STEM and liberal arts programs.

• Pinewood Preparatory School, Summerville – Offers a challenging academic environment along with diverse extracurricular options. The school emphasizes leadership, integrity, and critical thinking.

• Bishop England High School, Charleston – A Catholic high school with strong academic performance, spiritual development, and a rich sports culture. It’s one of the largest private schools in South Carolina.

• Charleston Collegiate School, Johns Island – A progressive K–12 independent school where project-based learning is emphasized. The school supports innovation, entrepreneurship, and outdoor education.

• First Baptist School of Charleston – A Christ-centered private school offering a safe and inspiring environment. It offers honors and AP courses, as well as athletics and community service.

Charleston, South Carolina, may not have major league professional sports teams like some larger cities, but it boasts a passionate sports culture and thriving minor league and semi-professional teams. These teams provide high-level competition and great entertainment for local fans.

⚾ Baseball – Charleston RiverDogs (MiLB)

• Charleston RiverDogs – The RiverDogs are a minor league baseball team that plays in the Low-A East league and is affiliated with the Tampa Bay Rays. They play at Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park, nicknamed “The Joe,” which offers scenic views and family-friendly fun. The team has won multiple divisional championships and is known for its quirky promotions and strong community involvement.

⚽ Soccer – Charleston Battery (USL Championship)

• Charleston Battery – One of the oldest continuously operating professional soccer clubs in the United States, the Battery compete in the USL Championship, the second tier of American soccer. Founded in 1993, the club has secured multiple league titles and boasts a dedicated fan base. Their home matches are played at Patriots Point Soccer Complex, and the team is known for its rich tradition and player development.

🏀 Basketball – Charleston United (ABA)

• Charleston United – Competing in the American Basketball Association (ABA), Charleston United offers exciting semi-professional basketball featuring local and national talent. Though not as widely known as the NBA, ABA teams are known for their fast-paced games and community outreach programs, helping to grow the sport at the grassroots level in the region.

🏈 Football – Charleston Pirates (Semi-Pro)

• Charleston Pirates – A semi-professional football team, the Pirates are part of the Elite American Football League (EAFL). They play competitive games against other teams in the Southeast, offering opportunities for players to showcase their talent and gain experience. While not affiliated with the NFL or college football, the Pirates contribute significantly to Charleston’s football culture.

🎾 Tennis – Credit One Charleston Open (WTA)

• Credit One Charleston Open – While not a team sport, this professional women’s tennis tournament is a major event held annually in Charleston. Part of the WTA Tour, it attracts some of the top female tennis players in the world. Hosted at Credit One Stadium on Daniel Island, it's the oldest women-only professional tennis tournament in the U.S. and a beloved tradition in the community.

Charleston, South Carolina, is one of America’s oldest and most charming cities. With cobblestone streets, pastel-colored homes, and history around every corner, it’s no wonder Charleston draws visitors from all over the world. Here are ten fun facts about this Southern gem:

1. America’s Oldest Museum – The city is home to the Charleston Museum, founded in 1773, making it the oldest museum in the United States.
2. First Shots of the Civil War – The first shots of the American Civil War were fired at Fort Sumter in Charleston Harbor on April 12, 1861.
3. Rainbow Row – Charleston is famous for Rainbow Row, a stretch of historic Georgian houses painted in bright pastel colors. It’s one of the most photographed spots in the city.
4. City by the Sea – Charleston sits on a peninsula and is surrounded by five rivers and the Atlantic Ocean, giving it great views and plenty of waterways for boating and kayaking.
5. Sweet Tea Capital – Just outside of Charleston is Summerville, considered the “Birthplace of Sweet Tea,” a Southern classic drink.
6. Historic Churches Everywhere – Known as the “Holy City,” Charleston has over 400 churches and religious places, and its skyline is filled with steeples instead of skyscrapers.
7. Home to Gullah Culture – Charleston is a center for Gullah culture, the unique language, food, and traditions of the descendants of West African enslaved people.
8. Oldest Public Garden – Middleton Place, just outside Charleston, is home to America’s oldest landscaped gardens, dating back to 1741.
9. A Port of Pirates – In the 1700s, Charleston was often visited by pirates, including the notorious Blackbeard, who actually blockaded the city in 1718.
10. Charleston Food Is Famous – The city is a top destination for food lovers, especially for its shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, and other Lowcountry cuisine favorites.