Senior Living in Charleston, SC
Charleston is home to over 24,000 seniors who enjoy the city's rich history, coastal beauty, and growing senior care options.
4 Senior Living Communities in Charleston
4 communities
Ashley Park by Barclay House
1451 Tobias Gadson Boulevard
Harmony at West Ashley
1925 Essex Farms Drive
Summit Place
530 Meeting Street
Wellmore of Daniel Island
580 Robert Daniel Drive
Charleston, South Carolina, offers a distinctive blend of Southern charm, coastal living, and historical significance that attracts seniors from across the country. With a senior population of 24,498 residents aged 65 and older—representing 16.1% of the city's 152,014 residents—Charleston provides a welcoming environment for older adults seeking quality care and an active lifestyle. The city's median household income of $90,038 reflects a stable economy that supports robust healthcare infrastructure and senior services.
Charleston's temperate coastal climate, walkable historic neighborhoods, and access to world-class medical facilities make it an appealing retirement destination. The city currently features 3 senior living communities listed on our directory, offering various levels of care from independent living to assisted living and memory care. While Charleston's popularity as a retirement destination has driven demand for senior housing, families can find options that balance quality care with the city's unique cultural amenities, from waterfront parks to renowned culinary experiences and vibrant arts scenes that keep seniors socially engaged and active.
Cost of Senior Living in Charleston
Senior living costs in Charleston are notably more affordable than national averages, making the city an attractive option for retirees. Assisted living in Charleston averages approximately $5,015 per month, compared to the national average of $5,900—offering families significant savings of nearly $900 monthly. Nursing home care averages $7,885 per month for a semi-private room, well below the national average of $9,277. These costs can vary considerably based on the level of care required, community location, room type, and amenities offered. Charleston's competitive pricing, combined with its quality of life and healthcare access, provides excellent value for families seeking senior care options.
Neighborhoods in Charleston for Seniors
Downtown Charleston Historic District
The heart of Charleston's cultural life, this highly walkable neighborhood features cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and easy access to medical facilities like MUSC Health. Seniors enjoy proximity to Waterfront Park, farmers markets, and countless restaurants within walking distance. The neighborhood's flat terrain and shaded sidewalks make it accessible for those with mobility considerations. While parking can be challenging, many amenities are within a few blocks, reducing the need for frequent driving. The area's active community life and cultural events provide excellent social engagement opportunities for older adults.
West Ashley
Located across the Ashley River, West Ashley offers a more suburban setting with excellent senior living options and easier parking than downtown. The neighborhood provides convenient access to major healthcare facilities and shopping centers along Sam Rittenberg Boulevard and Savannah Highway. Seniors appreciate the area's established residential streets, numerous churches, and community centers. West Ashley's proximity to both downtown Charleston and coastal beaches offers flexibility for recreation. The neighborhood features several parks including the scenic Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site, providing peaceful walking trails and outdoor spaces ideal for active seniors seeking a quieter environment.
Mount Pleasant
Situated just across the Cooper River, Mount Pleasant combines coastal living with modern conveniences and a strong sense of community. This family-friendly area features excellent walkability in its town center, numerous medical facilities, and easy access to beaches and waterfront parks. Seniors benefit from the area's well-maintained sidewalks, shopping centers, and restaurants along Coleman Boulevard and Johnnie Dodds Boulevard. The East Cooper Medical Center provides quality healthcare nearby. Mount Pleasant's active senior center, library programs, and waterfront access to the Charleston Harbor make it particularly appealing for retirees seeking both amenities and natural beauty.
James Island
James Island offers a relaxed, island lifestyle while remaining close to downtown Charleston and medical services. This neighborhood appeals to seniors who appreciate a more laid-back coastal atmosphere with access to Folly Beach and numerous parks including James Island County Park with its scenic trails. The area features a mix of residential communities, local shopping, and restaurants along Folly Road and Maybank Highway. While somewhat car-dependent, the neighborhood's slower pace and proximity to recreational opportunities make it attractive for active seniors. The community maintains a strong local identity with farmers markets and neighborhood events that foster social connections.
Senior Care Options in Charleston
Charleston's senior living communities offer a comprehensive range of care options to meet diverse needs. Available services include independent living for active seniors seeking maintenance-free lifestyles, assisted living for those requiring help with daily activities, memory care programs specifically designed for residents with Alzheimer's and dementia, and skilled nursing for those with complex medical needs. Many communities provide tiered care models, allowing residents to age in place as their needs evolve over time.
Healthcare & Transportation
Charleston boasts exceptional healthcare infrastructure, anchored by the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) Health, one of the Southeast's premier academic medical centers offering specialized geriatric care. Roper Hospital, Bon Secours St. Francis Hospital, and East Cooper Medical Center provide comprehensive services throughout the region. Transportation options include CARTA (Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority) buses with discounted senior fares, though service is more limited than in larger metropolitan areas. Many senior living communities provide scheduled transportation to medical appointments and shopping. The city's relatively compact size and flat terrain in many neighborhoods make portions walkable, though most seniors benefit from having access to a vehicle or community transportation services.
Activities & Recreation Near Charleston
Charleston offers abundant recreational and cultural activities tailored to senior interests. Waterfront Park, Hampton Park, and the scenic Battery provide beautiful settings for walks and relaxation. Seniors enjoy world-class museums including the Charleston Museum and Gibbes Museum of Art, historic home tours, and performances at the Gaillard Center. The city's renowned culinary scene, weekly farmers markets, and harbor cruises offer social engagement opportunities. Many communities organize group outings to Spoleto Festival USA, botanical gardens, and nearby beaches, ensuring active lifestyles for residents.
Weather & Climate in Charleston
Charleston enjoys a mild subtropical climate that appeals to many seniors, with average winter temperatures in the 40s-60s and summer highs in the upper 80s to low 90s. The temperate winters are especially attractive for those seeking relief from harsh northern cold, though the hot, humid summers may require air-conditioned indoor activities during peak afternoon heat. The area's coastal location moderates temperature extremes and allows for year-round outdoor activities, though residents should be mindful of hurricane season from June through November.
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