Charleston, SC suburbs

[Anonymous]

Is anyone familiar with the Charleston SC suburbs? DH just received a job offer and we’re seriously considering it. Summerville was suggested as a suburb with good schools. We have two early elementary aged children. Would love to hear opinion and thoughts on schools and the area. We’ve visited Charleston before but only on vacation.

[Anonymous]

Please don’t move. The last thing we need is more transplants.

[Anonymous]

I grew up there in the 80s/90s and still have lots of friends and family there. My views are definitely not current though. Also, much of this depends on whether and to where there will be a commute.

When I was growing up there, Summerville was sort of redneck and mostly run down, and the main high school (Summerville High) was not that great (although really, really good in football). That may have changed as the area has attracted so much money and so many professional jobs.

The "best" suburb in terms of schools and housing is Mount Pleasant. It has gotten shockingly expensive, but there are still plenty of deals to be had, especially compared with this area.

Downtown Charleston isn't great for public school. Beautiful housing stock. Expensive.

West Ashley is not so great for schools, but convenient to downtown. Some nice neighborhoods.

James Island seems to have gotten better schools since I lived down there.

Daniel Island is like the Truman Show. Good elementary schools, but don't think the high school is great.

North Charleston is pretty rough in most parts.

If you are doing private school, then obviously the public schools don't matter too much.

[Anonymous]

I'm so envious! I swear I lived in Charleston in a past life.