If you're a first-time visitor to the Holy City, there's one iconic experience you can't miss: a real-deal carriage tour. It's not hard to find the old-fashioned open-air carriages as they click and clack their way through the historic districts of the peninsula, starting from City Market. Incredibly knowledgeable tour guides point to the humble, infamous, and famous sights for which Charleston is famous. From soaring church steeples and stunning vistas over the harbor to quaint pocket gardens and four-foot-wide streets, a carriage ride provides a nuanced overview of the complex city we love to call home.
The best tour guides also share tragic, fascinating, and hilarious stories of the men and women who made Charleston the beauty that it is today. And when it comes to the very best carriage tours in Seabrook Island, SC, nobody does it quite as well as Carolina Polo & Carriage Co.
Carolina Polo and Carriage Company, the only carriage company in Charleston owned and operated by Charlestonians since the 1600s, is committed to providing the best experience of the historic "Holy City" to its customers. Our horse-drawn carriages, led by highly trained draft horses, offer a tour of the beauty and history of downtown Charleston, accompanied by rich stories from your guide.
What makes us different from other carriage ride companies is that we are truly passionate about sharing our love for the city of Charleston with anyone who visits. Our carriage tours in Seabrook Island, SC, are sure to leave you smiling with a wealth of knowledge about the South's favorite city, whether it's your first or fifteenth time visiting.
Our amazing horses often steal the show, and are highly trained to provide a fun, safe experience. As the stars of our carriage tours, providing them with care, nutrition, and love is our top priority.
What would a tour of Charleston be without a tour guide who immerses themselves in the history of the Holy City? If you're looking for the perfect mix of accuracy and entertainment, look no further than Carolina Polo& Carriage.
Our carriages are designed for modern times and mix comfort and safety for our horses while maintaining an authentic look. Go ahead, take a seat. You'll love riding around Charleston in style!
Our draft horses are easily recognizable by their tall stature and muscular build, equipped with strong hindquarters that make them perfect for pulling heavy loads. They are capable of effortlessly carrying a carriage full of sightseers, which is comparable to a person casually riding a bicycle. Before becoming carriage horses, most of our horses were working animals on Amish farms.
Our horses are known for their gentle nature and are ideal for pulling carriages. They are trained to ignore the sounds of the city streets and follow the directions given through the reins. We ensure that all of our horses receive the best care and lifestyle possible. They are consistently under the care of equine veterinarians.
To prevent exhaustion, our horses are rotated during the day and are given at least 30 minutes of rest between tours. Moreover, we limit each horse to a maximum of 4 tours per day, 5 days per week. Additionally, we take our horses to the pasture outside of town for two weeks after spending eight weeks downtown. This ensures that they get enough exercise and don't become overweight while also allowing them to roam and relax freely.
While our lineup of horses is subject to change, our currents table includes these superstars:
We treat our horses with love and care, because they are more than just workers to us - they're family.
Our horses are fed low sugar, low starch, high fiber diets of grainless horse feed and high-quality hay. Horses can eat more than 40,000calories, and we're happy to provide them with the feed they need to be active and healthy.
Our horses spend time in their stalls, which are bedded with eco-friendly options that are safe and effective.
We make it a point to keep a close eye on each and every one of our horses from the time we open to the time we close. We take their temperatures, keep them fed, and make sure they're watered well. Every one of our horses gets regular veterinarian appointments, which includes dental care, worming, and other preventative health measures.
Like humans, our horses benefit from shoes that provide traction and cushioning, which keep them comfortable throughout the workday. When their horseshoes need to be replaced, we take them to a farrier for new shoes.
There comes a time in every carriage horse's life when it's time to retire. When our horses are old enough for retirement, we work hard to find horse lovers who are committed to providing loving, exceptional care 24/7.
One of the most popular questions we get at Carolina Polo& Carriage Company is what kind of carriage rides we offer to guests. To satisfy every type of visitor, we offer a range of carriage tours, from group options to private rides. Keep reading to learn more about our itineraries and what you can expect from our sought-after historic horse-drawn tours.
Join us for an unforgettable one-hour group tour through the charming streets of downtown Charleston. Our knowledgeable and passionate guides will bring the history and architecture of Charleston to life before your very eyes. You'll witness stunning gardens and parks, grand mansions, historic churches, and buildings while learning about the people and events that shaped the history of this "Holy City." Don't miss out on this incredible experience!
Our public tours begin at the Historic City Market and cover several possible routes, showing you the most notable and historic sites in Charleston. You will get to witness the Old Exchange building, which is one of the most historic buildings in America and was finished in 1771. It was the last building constructed by the British before the Revolutionary War. The Edmonston Allston House and the historic White Point Gardens, popularly known as "The Battery," are also part of the tour.
During your horse-drawn carriage tour, your guide will enlighten you on the significance of several points of interest along Meeting Street, including the Calhoun Mansion, the Historic House Museum (The Nathaniel Russel House), and First Scott's Presbyterian Church. These highlights are just a fraction of all the incredible historic sights you will see on one of our tours around Charleston, depending on which route your tour takes.
Finally, all our tours end in the Historic City Market, where you are free to enjoy your next Charleston adventure. When you ride with our carriage company, you can be confident that you will have an unforgettable experience of Charleston's rich history and heritage.
When planning to take a tour, please note that tours depart from the Historic City Market every half an hour. To join the tour, you will need to check in at the ticket office located at 45 Pinckney St on your preferred day and indicate your preferred departure time. However, please be aware that during peak season and on weekends, wait times may vary.
Once you are cleared for departure and have boarded the carriage, the City of Charleston Tourism Officials require that all guests check in at the gate before departure. Additionally, for traffic flow and tax reasons, the city randomly assigns one of four routes for each carriage to tour through the historic district of Charleston. This assignment is determined by a spin of a bingo ball machine, with the color that comes up indicating the route or "zone" that the carriage is allowed to tour.
What does Vis-A-Vis mean, you might be asking? In French, it means "face-to-face" and pertains to the way guests were seated in their carriages back in the day. During this memorable carriage tour, you will get to see stunning gardens and parks, grand mansions, historic churches, and other significant buildings. Additionally, you'll learn about the individuals and occurrences that have influenced the history of the "Holy City" that we call home.
As you embark on your tour, you'll be pleased to know that it starts near the Historic City Market, a 200-year-old public market that spreads across four blocks. Though routes vary, you'll get to see some of Charleston's most notable sites, including Rainbow Row. A collection of pre-revolutionary buildings, Rainbow Row is an iconic landmark in Charleston that spans an entire block.
During the tour, you'll also hear about the fascinating history behind several historic homes and mansions, like the Villa Marguerite, the William Washington House, and the Famous #2 Meeting Street Inn. The latter overlooks White Point Gardens and is a popular spot for photography in the southeast.
As you pass through Meeting and Broad Street, you'll come across the Four Corners of Law, which Robert Ripley named the Four Corners of Law in his famous Ripley's Believe It or Not. There are many possible routes for your tour, and these are just a few examples of the sights you could see!
Finally, all tours end in the Historic City Market, leaving you free to explore Charleston's many other adventures.
Please note the following information before your tour begins. Once you have boarded the carriage and are ready to depart, it is mandatory that you check in at the gate, as per the City of Charleston Tourism Officials' regulations.
The city has designated four different routes for the carriages to follow through the historic district of Charleston. To ensure fair traffic flow and for tax purposes, the city randomly assigns each carriage one of these routes through a bingo ball machine. The color that comes up on the machine determines the route or "zone" that the carriage will tour.
To get the necessary information and directions, please approach an attendant at the Carolina Polo & Carriage ticket office, located at 45 Pinckney Street, at least 10 minutes before your scheduled tour start time.
There's no better way to experience the sights and sounds of Charleston than with your friends and family on a horse-drawn carriage! This private tour is ideal for large groups and provides you with an unforgettable look into the city.
Your tour will commence close to the Historic City Market, which is over 200 years old and is one of the oldest public markets in the USA. Depending on the zone you are given, some of the tour highlights may include the French Quarter, where your guide will bring the area to life with stories of the Dock Street Theatre, the French Huguenot Church, and St. Philips Church. You can also visit the Miles Brewton House on King Street, which is famous for its Georgian architecture, the Swordgate House, and St. Michael's Episcopal Church, which is the oldest church building in the city.
If your guide takes you through the streets nearest the Battery, you may catch a glimpse of Fort Sumter and hear the captivating history behind the attack on the fort and the beginnings of the "Late Great Unpleasantness." These are just a few of the sights that you may experience on our various detailed routes around beautiful Charleston. All tours will finish in the Historic City Market, where you can explore and enjoy your next Charleston adventure.
Our carriages are capable of accommodating up to 16 adults or a combination of adults and children. Pricing is per carriage and includes a fully narrated hour-long horse-drawn carriage tour of the historic district. If you have any special requests, please feel free to contact us. After the guests have been loaded onto the carriage and cleared for departure, it is mandatory to check in at the gate prior to departure, as per the City of Charleston Tourism Officials.
For tax purposes and traffic management, the city randomly assigns one of four routes to each carriage via a bingo ball machine. The color of the ball decides the zone that the carriage can tour. To begin the tour, please check in with an attendant at the Carolina Polo & Carriage ticket office located at 45 Pinckney Street 10 minutes before your scheduled tour start time.
When visiting Charleston, it's important to wear comfortable footwear, such as sneakers, ankle boots, or dressier flats. The cobblestone streets and uneven sidewalks are not ideal for hard-soled shoes or high heels. Proper planning and packing according to the forecast and dress code will help you make the most of your vacation!
If you're looking for the most trusted carriage company in Charleston with deep roots in the Lowcountry, Carolina Polo & Carriage should be on top of your list. We take pride in being the only locally owned carriage operation in town. Our business is not just a business, but a family that is deeply ingrained in the Charleston community. With our unique perspective on the city's rich history and vibrant culture, we promise an authentic and unforgettable journey through the charming streets.
If you're looking for something truly special, we have private carriage tours tailored just for you. Our bespoke tours are crafted to meet your every desire, whether it's a romantic evening, a historical adventure, or a fun family outing.
For those once-in-a-lifetime moments, our elegant wedding carriages are perfect. Imagine arriving at your wedding in a fairy-tale carriage and making your special day even more memorable. Our carriages are also perfect for anniversaries, proposals, or any occasion that calls for a touch of class and romance.
Choose Carolina Polo & Carriage Co. for an experience that's more than just a tour - it's a journey into the heart of Charleston. We look forward to seeing your smile very soon.
|Updated: Apr. 30, 2024 at 9:28 PM EDTSEABROOK ISLAND, S.C. (WCSC) - A potential short-term rental ordinance on Seabrook Island has some residents signing a petition in hopes the town will decide not to cap the number of short-term rentals.David Sweet, a Seabrook Island resident, gathered over 500 signatures on a petition for the town not to put a cap on short-term rentals, but the town says the opinions they’ve gathered are already enough.“I’ve come to the conclusion that caps aren’t needed becau...
|Updated: Apr. 30, 2024 at 9:28 PM EDT
SEABROOK ISLAND, S.C. (WCSC) - A potential short-term rental ordinance on Seabrook Island has some residents signing a petition in hopes the town will decide not to cap the number of short-term rentals.
David Sweet, a Seabrook Island resident, gathered over 500 signatures on a petition for the town not to put a cap on short-term rentals, but the town says the opinions they’ve gathered are already enough.
“I’ve come to the conclusion that caps aren’t needed because the data that the town’s provided to you,” Sweet says. “...Doesn’t bare out the need for caps.”
Sweet says he’s kept his property as a short-term rental since owning it in May 2021. He says that owning comes with a large price tag because it’s mandatory to join the Seabrook Island Club for seven years when first buying property.
Since 2021, the minimum joining fee went from $3,600 to $15,000. The most expensive membership went from $33,000 to $70,000.
Sweet also started a petition to see how many other residents are against any potential cap on STRs.
“What most owners are concerned about is what’s it going to do to property values on the island?” Sweet says. “And what’s it going to do to real estate sales on the island?... Real estate sales help drive that next level of future owners and future club members.”
Darryl May, short-term rental committee chair and town councilperson, says the committee has received over 450 written public comments and about 100 in-person comments.
“No disrespect intended, but I don’t think the petition provides any additional information than what we set out to get and did get ourselves,” May says.
The purpose of this committee is to study short-term rental activities and trends within the town. This could involve limiting the number of short-term rentals, limiting the ownership of multiple short-term rentals, what fees are reasonable, etc.
Seabrook Island is home to 2,345 family homes and villas and 588 of those are short-term rentals, according to the town.
May says, so far, the committee has made mostly unanimous decisions on recommendations they plan to take to council in June. These include setting a noise ordinance at 10 p.m., banning recreational-use drones and enacting a stricter trash removal process for all Seabrook Islanders. Short-term rental owners could see a reduction in occupancy and parking.
He says in the next workshop, they will discuss how they plan to enforce these recommendations. The last two workshops will talk about whether or not they need a short-term rental cap.
“We are not going to do something that we think will deter people from coming here,” May says. “...We want to accommodate everyone but do it in a way that preserves Seabrook’s future growth.
The committee says they plan to bring all recommendations to the town council in June before they make the final call.
Click here for the full schedule of the last short-term rental committee workshops.
Read below for a breakdown of membership fees to the Seabrook Island Club from 2020-2024, or click here.
Copyright 2024 WCSC. All rights reserved.
SEABROOK ISLAND, S.C. (WCSC) - The potential for a new yacht club and several docks on Seabrook Island is concerning Sea Islanders and environmental advocates.Town of Seabrook leaders discussed those plans Wednesday, which would include the annexation of a portion of Charleston County into Seabrook island.The town’s planning commission voted 4-1 to recommend moving forward with the annexation to the town council.The nearly 18-acre site, called the “Andell Tract,” sits between Bohicket Marina and Betsy K...
SEABROOK ISLAND, S.C. (WCSC) - The potential for a new yacht club and several docks on Seabrook Island is concerning Sea Islanders and environmental advocates.
Town of Seabrook leaders discussed those plans Wednesday, which would include the annexation of a portion of Charleston County into Seabrook island.
The town’s planning commission voted 4-1 to recommend moving forward with the annexation to the town council.
The nearly 18-acre site, called the “Andell Tract,” sits between Bohicket Marina and Betsy Kerrison Parkway on Johns Island.
the plan includes a private Yacht Club and amenities such as a boat house, pool house and detached hotel containing 10 two-story cottages, according to town documents.
It also has public spaces including a boardwalk, pathways and a community crabbing dock.
Dana Beach, the founder of the Coastal Conservation League, said his two main concerns about the proposal are the environmental impacts on the water, and the crossing of Charleston County’s Urban Growth Boundary.
He said if The Town of Seabrook annexes this portion of Charleston County into their town for development, it could set a precedent for other local municipalities to do the same.
“The town may say ‘this is only a 20-acre parcel that in itself isn’t a big deal,” Beach said. “That’s what Charleston could say if it wanted to coming down from the north, that’s what Kiawah could say as it comes in from the East, even Folly Beach could say that.”
Robby Maynor, the Communities and Transportation Program Director for Coastal Conservation League echoed Beach’s point while addressing the planning commission at Wednesday’s meeting.
“There is an ongoing effort for collaboration between the municipalities on the sea islands to reaffirm that growth boundary to help strike a balance between development and preservation, this annexation would be a step in the wrong direction,” Maynor said.
The majority of the 544 written comments and 10 in person comments were against the development, although some community members spoke in its’ favor.
“I believe a Yacht Club is an amenity that fits perfectly within our diverse group of people,” Seabrook resident, Jackie Helline, said.
Mike Shuler, the Owner and Managing Partner for Bohicket Marina Investors, said he respectfully disagrees with the fear that this annexation may set a precedent for other municipalities to cross Charleston County’s Urban Growth boundary.
“What we are annexing is part of Seabrook’s comprehensive plan. Whether it crosses an Urban Growth Boundary, in my opinion, isn’t relevant here,” Shuler said. “Not to mention, further expansion beyond the property we are contemplating here is not possible because of conservation easements that are in place.”
Copyright 2023 WCSC. All rights reserved.
There are plenty of good reasons to make the trip to Charleston, South Carolina: Historic homes make for colorful photo ops, the restaurant scene is fresh and inventive, and locally owned stores and boutiques make for unparalleled shopping. Some of the Holy City's greatest assets, though, aren't actually within the city limits...
There are plenty of good reasons to make the trip to Charleston, South Carolina: Historic homes make for colorful photo ops, the restaurant scene is fresh and inventive, and locally owned stores and boutiques make for unparalleled shopping. Some of the Holy City's greatest assets, though, aren't actually within the city limits. Pack the sunscreen and load the car because the scenic beaches near Charleston are a gem. You won't find ultra-crowded beaches, just a quiet spot to relax and soak up the sunshine. The smooth sand, cool water, and near-perfect weather will make you think you've found pure bliss. Here, find our guide to the sun-drenched beaches that are just a quick drive from the Charleston Peninsula. They're worth the detour.
While the 23-mile drive from the peninsula out to Kiawah Island takes about 40 minutes on a good day, the pristine stretch of sand at Kiawah's public Beachwalker Park is well worth it. It's quiet, especially for a public park, fronts the ocean, and also offers views of the Kiawah River. Beach chair and umbrella rentals are available seasonally, and dogs are welcome, as long as they're on a leash. Explore Kiawah Island's private beaches by renting a house or villa on the island or booking a stay at the Sanctuary, the island's luxurious oceanfront hotel.
Just 12 miles from downtown, the "Edge of America" is the grooviest of Charleston's nearby beaches. It's a popular hangout for surfers, who frequent "The Washout," a stretch of coast known for having the area's best waves. Center Street, the bohemian beach town's colorful main thoroughfare, is lined with surf and souvenir shops and good eats, like Taco Boy and Rita's Seaside Grille, and is just steps away from Folly's 1,045-foot fishing pier.
The oceanfront county park on this barrier island has picnic tables, a sand volleyball court, and a playground for the littlest beach bums, making it a great place to take the whole family. Venture a little farther down the beach, beyond the park, to discover a number of fun beachfront bars and eateries, like family-friendly Coconut Joe's Beach Grill and The Windjammer, a classic dive bar and music venue that's as salty as they come. Paddle the intercoastal waterway from Isle of Palms where you may encounter dolphins and get up close to coves and marshes.
Though the island's nearly 4 miles of unspoiled beaches are private to residents and rental guests only (book your stay here), Seabrook is still worth a stop if you're already making the trip out to Kiawah's Beachwalker Park, which is just a few miles away. An Audubon International Cooperative Sanctuary, Seabrook is home to a variety of wildlife, including foxes, bobcats, deer, sea turtles, and bottlenose dolphins. Head to Bohicket Marina for a sunset stroll by the river, then plop down at an outdoor table at the Salty Dog Cafe for water views, East Coast peel-and-eat shrimp, and a cold beer or two.
When it comes to old-school cottages, small town charm, and a spotless beach to boot, you won't find a dreamier destination than Sullivan's Island. While neighboring Isle of Palms has a lively resort feel, 3.3-square-mile Sullivan's tends to fly under the radar–and the locals like it that way. Be sure to stop by Poe's Tavern on Middle Street for a killer burger before you head back toward town. Flip-flops and salty hair are always welcome on the front porch.
Accessible only by ferry, this barrier island is 45 minutes away from downtown Charleston and feels far away from the comforts of civilization. A good way to see the birds of this untouched island, and perhaps a playful dolphin if you're lucky, is on a guided paddling tour. Comb the beach for shells, walk Boneyard Beach where a forest is being recalled by the sea, or track foxes, bobcat, and deer.
About 60 miles from Charleston, Edisto Beach's unspoiled coastline makes it worth the drive. Stay beachside for a dreamy vacation, or take a day trip from Charleston. One of four oceanfront state parks in South Carolina, palmetto-lined Edisto Beach State Park provides the picture-perfect backdrop for swimming, hunting for shells and sharks' teeth, fishing, or strolling. After a day on the island's trails, savor some seafood at the Waterfront Restaurant or the tacos at McConkey's Jungle Shack.
Hunt for shells and fossils near the candy cane–striped lighthouse on this uninhabited island just minutes from Charleston. Accessible only by boat, visitors can opt for several tour options, including riding out on a 55-foot power catamaran that's for the more adventurous traveler. For photography buffs, view the lighthouse from the shores of Folly Beach.
It takes a bit longer to reach from Charleston than some of the other beaches, but the slower pace on Pawleys Island is instantly soothing. This barrier island packs a lot into its four-mile stretch. Set off in a canoe or kayak to explore the salt marsh that separates this island from the mainland, or settle in for a day at the beach. There's shelling, fishing, and crabbing to be done. Sign up for surfing lessons—some of the best waves are near Pawleys Island Pier.
Similar to Bulls Island, Capers Island has its own forest of forgotten sea-bleached trees covering the shoreline. At low tide, you may see feeding dolphins and water birds like egrets and herons searching for a meal. Discover tide pools as you walk the beach, hike the island to see gators and deer in their natural habitat, or paddle along the shores and see jellyfish and crabs. Reach this undeveloped island by chartered boat, or take a kayak tour to learn about the area's ecosystem.
Curious to know where the rich live in South Carolina? South Carolina is home to some of the richest people in America including billionaires Anita Zucker and Robert Faith. Here is a list of the richest towns in South Carolina.Richest Towns in South CarolinaKiawah Island is the richest town in South Carolina with a mean household income of $366,392 and a median home value of $1,302,596.Kiawah Island is a luxury beach town in South Carolina where residents enjoy resort living and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean...
Curious to know where the rich live in South Carolina? South Carolina is home to some of the richest people in America including billionaires Anita Zucker and Robert Faith. Here is a list of the richest towns in South Carolina.
Kiawah Island is the richest town in South Carolina with a mean household income of $366,392 and a median home value of $1,302,596.
Kiawah Island is a luxury beach town in South Carolina where residents enjoy resort living and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. It is located in South Carolina’s Charleston County, just 25 miles from downtown Charleston.
Kiawah Island is famous for its world-class golf courses, pristine beaches, and luxurious resorts.
Kiawah Island residents are wealthy, and the poverty rate of Kiawah Island is very low at 3.3% (compare this to the 14.6% poverty rate in the state of South Carolina).
Most of the homes in Kiawah Island are primarily owner-occupied with only 1.4% rentals and 98.6% owner-occupied.
Kiawah Island has a population of 2,013. Its affluent residents are well educated with 87.4% of residents graduating with a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Over half of Kiawah Island residents are senior citizens over 65 years old (58%). The average commute to work for Kiawah Island’s residents is 33.5 minutes.
Sullivan’s Island is the second wealthiest town in South Carolina with a mean household income of $259,204 and an eye-popping median home price of $4,420,000. It’s the most expensive place to buy a house in South Carolina!
Sullivan’s Island is an affluent beach town where residents enjoy stunning sunsets and the conveniences of being a few miles from downtown Charleston. It’s a popular town for the wealthy seeking a luxurious coastal lifestyle.
Located in South Carolina’s Charleston County, most of the homes in Sullivan’s Island are primarily owner-occupied with only 17.3% rentals and 82.7% owner-occupied.
Sullivan’s Island has a small population of 1,891 with 18.3% being children under 18 years old and 23.2% being seniors.
Its affluent residents are well educated with 84% of residents graduating with a bachelor’s degree or higher. The average commute to work for Sullivan’s Island’s residents is 19.9 minutes.
Isle of Palms is one of the richest cities in South Carolina with a mean income of $228,977 and a median home price of $1,463,750.
Isles of Palms is an affluent beach town in South Carolina where residents enjoy a resort lifestyle while still within minutes of downtown Charleston.
Located in Charleston County, Isle of Palms is renowned for its stunning beaches and upscale vacation homes.
Isle of Palms is the richest city in SC with a low poverty rate of 2.5%. It has a population of 4,347 with 17.6% being children under 18 years old and 28.2% being seniors.
Most of the homes in Isle of Palms are primarily owner-occupied with 12.4% rentals and 87.6% owner-occupied.
Its affluent residents are well educated with 74.2% of residents graduating with a bachelor’s degree or higher. The average commute to work for Isle of Palms’s residents is 27.9 minutes.
Briarcliffe Acres is one of the wealthiest towns in South Carolina with a mean income of $216,648 and a median home price of $1,014,136.
Located in Horry County, it is an exclusive enclave with a private beach that is near the shops and restaurants of Myrtle Beach.
Most of the homes in Briarcliffe Acres are primarily owner-occupied with only 6.5% rentals and 93.5% owner-occupied.
Briarcliffe Acres is a small residential community with a population of only 479 where almost half of the residents at Briarcliffe Acres are senior citizens over 65 years old (40.6%) while only 9.3% are children under 18 years old.
The average commute to work for Briarcliffe Acres’s residents is 23.6 minutes.
Seabrook Island is one of the richest beach towns in South Carolina with a mean income of $169,389 and a median home price of $841,197.
Located in Charleston County, Seabrook Island is an affluent beach town in South Carolina where residents live a resort lifestyle while still within 30 minutes of downtown Charleston. It is known for its beautiful beaches and golf courses.
Most of the homes on Seabrook Island are primarily owner-occupied with only 6.3% rentals and 93.7% owner-occupied.
Seabrook Island has a population of 2,050. A majority of the residents are senior citizens with 59.1% seniors and only 0.9% of the residents are children under 18 years old.
Its affluent residents are well educated with 80% of residents graduating with a bachelor’s degree or higher. The average commute to work for Seabrook Island’s residents is 26.8 minutes.
Mount Pleasant is one of the richest towns in SC with a mean income of $160,809 and a median home price of $742,065.
Mount Pleasant is an affluent suburb of Charleston with a charming downtown, waterfront lifestyle, a vibrant food scene and is within minutes of downtown Charleston (in fact you can walk or bike the 2.5-mile pedestrian bridge to Charleston!)
Most of the homes in Mount Pleasant are primarily owner-occupied with only 27.7% rentals and 72.3% owner-occupied. The average rent is $1,747.
Mount Pleasant has a population of 90,801. Lots of families with children live in Mount Pleasant with 23.5% of residents being children under 18 years old while only 17.8% are senior citizens.
Its affluent residents are well educated with 65.3% of residents graduating with a bachelor’s degree or higher. The average commute to work for Mount Pleasant residents is 24.6 minutes.
Tega Cay is one of the richest cities in South Carolina with a mean income of $159,616, a median home price of $490,399, and a very low poverty rate of 0.5%.
Tega Cay is an affluent residential community located in South Carolina’s York County. Tega Cay residents enjoy lakeside living and the conveniences of being just a few minutes away from downtown Charlotte.
Most of the homes in Tega Cay are primarily owner-occupied with only 15.2% rentals and 84.8% owner-occupied. The average rent at Tega Cay is $1,304.
Tega Cay has a population of 12,832. Lots of families with children live in Tega Cay with 26.7% of Tega Cay residents under 18 years old and only 15.8% of residents are senior citizens.
Rockville is one of the richest towns in South Carolina. It’s a very small town with a population of only 141 residents where a majority, 52% of the residents are senior citizens.
The wealthy town is located in Charleston County known for its scenic waterfront views. The median home price in Rockville is $812,000, with residents earning a mean income of $156,225.
An impressive 90% of the homes in Rockville are owner-occupied.
Hilton Head Island, renowned for its beautiful beaches, golf courses, and upscale resorts, is one of the richest towns in South Carolina.
The median home price on Hilton Head Island is $666,885, with residents earning a mean income of $133,967.
The town has a substantial population of 37,661. Many retirees live in Hilton Head Island, 38.4% of the residents are senior citizens while only 12.5% of residents are children under 18 years old.
Approximately 78.9% of the homes in Hilton Head Island are owner-occupied, and the average rent is $1,380.
Fort Mill is one of the richest suburbs of Charlotte with a mean income of $132,405 and a median home price of $511,650. The poverty rate of Fort Mill is low at 3.6%.
Fort Mill is known for its top-rated schools, bustling main street, beautiful parks, and family-friendly community.
With a population of 24,521, lots of families with children live in Fort Mill with 31% of Fort Mill residents under 18 years old. While only 9.8% of the population are senior citizens.
Most of the homes in Fort Mill are primarily owner-occupied with only 14.8% rentals and 85.2% owner-occupied. The average rent at Fort Mill is $1,179.
Meggett is an affluent town in South Carolina with a median home price of $1,038,000, and residents earning a mean income of $117,687.
Meggett is known for its rural vibe and waterfront properties.
The town has a small population of 1,390 people, with 20.7% children under 18 years old and 27.8% seniors.
An overwhelming 97.1% of the homes in Meggett are owner-occupied, and the average rent is $1,125.
Bluffton is one of the richest towns in Beaufort County. It is known for its picturesque Old Town area, golf communities, and proximity to Hilton Head Island.
The median home price in Bluffton is $513,010, with residents earning a mean income of $127,522.
The town has a population of 27,716 people, with 26.7% children under 18 years old and 18.8% seniors.
Approximately 81.4% of the homes are owner-occupied, and the average rent is $1,896.
Charleston, the largest city on your list, is one of the richest cities in South Carolina. It’s a beautiful city known for its historic charm and architecture.
The median home price in Charleston is $516,817, with residents earning a mean income of $122,836.
The city has a substantial population of 150,227 people, with 16.3% children under 18 years old and 16.2% seniors.
There are many rentals in Charleston, approximately 56.7% of the homes are owner-occupied, and the average rent is $1,636.
Sharing is caring!
The more than 20,000 square foot facility will be located at 1884 Seabrook Island Road, near Bohicket Marina. The Sea Islands community is expected to undergo significant population growth over the next few years, especially those residents 65 and older. The Sea Islands are also geographically isolated, situated more than 20 miles from the nearest hospital. The area also accommodates a large seasonal population of tourists, many of whom have trouble navigating local health care services.“It can take up to 45 minutes to get to th...
The more than 20,000 square foot facility will be located at 1884 Seabrook Island Road, near Bohicket Marina. The Sea Islands community is expected to undergo significant population growth over the next few years, especially those residents 65 and older. The Sea Islands are also geographically isolated, situated more than 20 miles from the nearest hospital. The area also accommodates a large seasonal population of tourists, many of whom have trouble navigating local health care services.
“It can take up to 45 minutes to get to the nearest hospital from the Sea Islands. That’s too long for an emergency situation such as a stroke, where every minute counts. As the state’s only comprehensive academic health system, we are committed to delivering the best possible care, closest to home,” said David J. Cole, M.D., FACS, MUSC president. “This new medical pavilion will provide rapid access to outstanding care for the entire Sea Islands community.”
As part of the MUSC Health system’s overarching strategy, the MUSC Health Charleston Division has worked to provide better community access and local care in the greater Tri-County region, as well as coastal communities to the north and south of Charleston. This enables better capacity at the flagship facilities, which offer specialized and complex care downtown while enhancing overall accessibility and continuity of care for patients and families, especially in underserved communities. Since 2019, four new multispecialty ambulatory care platforms have opened in West Ashley, North Charleston and Mount Pleasant.
In addition to 24/7 emergency care, the facility will offer two trauma rooms, a rooftop helicopter pad, and a medical office building that will provide primary and specialty care, including imaging and lab services, cardiology and physical therapy. A telemedicine network will connect the entire facility to some of the nation’s top providers at MUSC Health in downtown Charleston. The Town of Kiawah Island donated $1 million to create a healing, restful green space and garden adjacent to the new facility.
“Accessibility to the wonderful health system and hospitals we have here has been a concern, so it was exciting to hear about this project,” said Town of Kiawah Mayor John Labriola. “My hat’s off to the MUSC Board of Trustees and the institution’s leadership, because getting a certificate of need is not easy… personally, I look forward to the ribbon cutting and seeing our garden that will be named for the Town of Kiawah.”
The project was made possible in part by Kiawah Partners, which was acquired by South Street Partners in 2013, who donated 6 acres of land to the Medical University Hospital Authority (MUSC Health), valued at $4.85 million.
"This project was initiated to meet the huge need for medical services on Kiawah Island, Seabrook, and Johns Island. With no convenient emergency healthcare options currently available, we have been working for seven-plus years to figure out a way to bring accessible healthcare to the Sea Islands,” said Chris Randolph, South Street Partners. “Thanks to MUSC, we will soon have a world-class medical facility that provides so much more than what we had originally envisioned. We couldn’t be more pleased to have been able to donate the land for this project and feel very grateful to partner with such an excellent health care system.”
Of the estimated $30 million needed to fund the project, MUSC is committed to raising $17 million in private support. To date, it has received more than $9.5 million in confirmed gifts, with many coming from local residents.
“Private support is critical to the long-term success of the MUSC Health Sea Islands Medical Pavilion because of the many financial challenges that come with operating a medical facility in this community,” said Kate Azizi, vice president for Institutional Advancement. “One challenge is the low population density of the Sea Islands. While this is an aging population that needs timely access to medical care – there aren’t enough people living in these communities full time to sustain our operations. Philanthropic support helps fill those gaps, allowing us to deliver the best care possible where and when it’s needed.”
Donors Chris and DeeDee Gibson are giving $2 million to the project. In recognition of their generosity, the physical therapy space will be named in their honor. “My family has been coming to Kiawah for close to 40 years,” Chris Gibson said. “When my wife DeeDee and I built a home here, she had one request: that there was a hospital nearby in case of an emergency. All these years later, we are excited to contribute to the new MUSC Health Sea Islands Medical Pavilion and to help make these vital medical services available to our neighbors on Kiawah, Seabrook and Johns islands.”
“The construction of a full-fledged medical facility with emergency services is a dream come true for all Johns, Kiawah and Seabrook Islands,” said local resident Pam Harrington, who donated $2 million and will name the emergency department after the Harrington family. “As our population continues to grow and more folks are retiring to our area, the demand for medical services grows with it! Being a Kiawah/Cassique resident for many years, the addition of a medical pavilion fills a real need that has existed over several decades. Prior to my 40-plus years in real estate on the islands I was a practicing ICU nurse. This medical center is near and dear to my heart! As a thank you and show of appreciation to all who have been so supportive of my success, here, on the Sea Islands, it seems befitting to take this opportunity to give back in a meaningful way.”
Construction is expected to conclude in late 2023.
Quote bank:
Seabrook Mayor John Gregg – “It is indeed my pleasure to welcome MUSC to Seabrook Island, as our local community will be well served by the capabilities of this facility and the practitioners who will staff it. We look forward to having better availability of care, ranging from emergency room treatment, to advanced diagnostics for the ailments, bumps, pains, scrapes, stings, and strains that come with having an active and diverse population.”
MUSC Board of Trustees Vice Chairman Charles Schulze – “On behalf of the board, I want to acknowledge, commend, and deeply, deeply thank you for your dedication hard work and the public private collaboration that is taking place to get us to where we are today. As an air force veteran of the Vietnam war, I know the importance and necessity of teamwork. When you have a complex mission ahead of you in those situations, your unity as a team is your biggest strength… And it didn't matter where you live, where you were from or what your background was in our military. You learned that persistence, perseverance, collaboration, and expertise are critical to the success of a mission. And it's been no different in this case. When the board began to discuss the feasibility of this project, we knew it wasn't going to happen without teamwork and vision. Not only from everybody at MUSC, but also from the community here in the sea islands.”
MUSC Health System CEO and Executive Vice President of Health Affairs Dr. Pat Cawley – “What makes this project challenging is that it doesn’t fit into normal health constructs. We spent a lot of time with the community, trying to gauge what was needed and it was clear that there was tremendous community support for this project and it was the engagement with the concept of neighbors caring for neighbors and the work of the community to reach out to state officials and regulators that helped make this project a reality. MUSC Health is proud to be a part of this community and its health care provider of choice, and we are humbled by the level of support we are receiving to bring this shared vision to reality.”
###
Founded in 1824 in Charleston, MUSC is the state’s only comprehensive academic health system, with a unique mission to preserve and optimize human life in South Carolina through education, research and patient care. Each year, MUSC educates more than 3,000 students in six colleges – Dental Medicine, Graduate Studies, Health Professions, Medicine, Nursing and Pharmacy – and trains more than 850 residents and fellows in its health system. MUSC brought in more than $327.6 million in research funds in fiscal year 2021, leading the state overall in research funding. MUSC also leads the state in federal and National Institutes of Health funding, with more than $220 million. For information on academic programs, visit web.musc.edu
As the health care system of the Medical University of South Carolina, MUSC Health is dedicated to delivering the highest quality and safest patient care while educating and training generations of outstanding health care providers and leaders to serve the people of South Carolina and beyond. Patient care is provided at 14 hospitals with approximately 2,500 beds and five additional hospital locations in development; more than 350 telehealth sites, with connectivity to patients’ homes; and nearly 750 care locations situated in all regions of South Carolina. In 2022, for the eighth consecutive year, U.S. News & World Report named MUSC Health the No. 1 hospital in South Carolina. To learn more about clinical patient services, visit muschealth.org.
MUSC and its affiliates have collective annual budgets totaling $5.1 billion. The nearly 25,000 MUSC team members include world-class faculty, physicians, specialty providers, scientists, students, affiliates and care team members who deliver and support groundbreaking education, research, and patient care.