Budget-Friendly Home Prices, Amenities, Make Charleston Popular Retirement Pick

Editor’s Note: Recently, MoneyWise revealed its list of the 40 most frugal and friendly places to retire. In a bid to provide an idea of what housing inventory is available in these cities and towns, we’re taking a look at listings in each of the cities on the list.

Not everyone can spend $1 million or more on a second home, even if it’s with the idea that eventually you’ll retire there. So when MoneyWise’s list of 40 places to retire that are more budget-friendly came out, we were curious — what kind of homes could you find in these towns?

Last week, we looked at the 28th city on the list — Tampa, Florida. This week, we look at Charleston, South Carolina, and found three great homes — all for less than $500,000.

“You can live comfortably in Charleston on an income of around $55,000, and the median price of homes is about $250,000,” MoneyWise said. “In Charleston, you will have access to beaches, excellent restaurants, and plenty of outdoor fitness activities.”

“The summers can be hot, but winters are relatively tame. The city also boasts two hospitals and eight healthcare centers.”

Want to see examples of what you can find in Charleston? Let’s jump!

Downsizer-Friendly Condo With Pool, Dock Access

Price: $192,000

At 1,100 square feet, but with two bedrooms and two bathrooms, this first option — a condo in the popular Seagate subdivision in Charleston, is right on the Ashley River.

The home has been well-maintained, and has hardwoods throughout, upgraded ceiling fans and light fixtures, and was recently repainted.

The open floor plan provides easy conversation from the kitchen to the dining area and family room, which also offers access to an enclosed porch. Both bedrooms are generously sized, and both bathrooms are bright and white.

Outside, a deep water dock marina, neighborhood pool, and gazebo and grill area provide plenty of opportunity for relaxing fun, too.

The home is listed by Craig Inabinett with Realty One Group Coastal.

Median-Priced Home In Quiet Neighborhood

Price: $249,900

Our second option falls right at the median home price for Charleston — and manages to offer quite a bit for the retiree (or retirees) that still want a bit more room when family visits, but doesn’t want that large family home they currently have.

With three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and about 1,575 square feet of room, this home is also located in a quiet neighborhood. And don’t think that 1,575 square feet will feel claustrophobic, either — gleaming wood floors provide plenty of surface for light to bounce off of, and cathedral ceilings make the home feel spacious.

The kitchen has been completely renovated and boasts solid-surface countertops, new cabinetry, and new stainless steel appliances.

A spacious master has a great en-suite and his-and-hers walk-in closets.

Outside, a privacy-fenced yard has plenty of room (and is a virtual blank slate) for entertaining, and the home is near great shopping and dining options.

It’s listed by Ryan O’Shea with BHHS Carolina Sun Real Estate.

Updated Midcentury Ranch Walking Distance to Plenty of Amenities

Price: $489,900

With 1,458 square feet, our last option — a completely updated Midcentury Ranch built in 1960 — is still incredibly friendly for the downsizing-minded retiree.

But it also has four bedrooms and two-and-a-half baths, making it perfect for folks perhaps easing in to retirement, because there is plenty of room for two offices and a guest room.

There have been intriguing updates to this rancher, too, including a metal roof and bright, white paint on the brick exterior.

Inside, the home has clearly been updated to evoke a more coastal chic vibe, with wood flooring in the common areas, light and bright paint choices, coastal-inspired fixtures and lighting, and more.

Located in the popular Riverland Terrace neighborhood, this home is walkable to a boat landing, restaurants, theater, and a golf course.

The home is listed by David Wertan with Exp Realty Charleston.