Those who live in the Lowcountry claim it to be an incredible place to live and work. But is it really? Actually, yes, it is.
While residents and members of Lowcountry Local might be a bit biased by living in such an enviable area, they aren’t wrong.
A New Adventure
The region is a bit of an enigma. While the Lowcountry is steeped in history, with southern charm for days, beautiful natural wonders, and a healthy dose of mystery, it is also the home to a diverse collection of industry-leading companies ranging from transportation and technology to accommodations and food services.
The Lowcountry has it all, whether you are looking for southern charm or rich nightlife.
When you think of moving to a new city, it can be an exciting time filled with possibility and wonder, but it can also be a bit nerve-wracking.
Seeking a new place to live is typically coupled with finding a new job, which can be stressful, too. The good news is that the Lowcountry has plenty of employment opportunities.
10. Employment Opportunities
The region boasts industry leaders in a vast landscape of important industries, including:
- Transportation
- Energy
- Defense
- Life Sciences
- Aerospace
- Healthcare
- Accommodation and Food Services
- Information Technology
With local and international players in the area, local businesses benefit from local initiatives that help them thrive.
As for aerospace jobs, Boeing remains one of the area’s biggest employers. One of the leaders in aerospace manufacturing, North Charleston boasts one of only three assembly plants worldwide for wide-body aircraft. The South Carolina Aeronautical Training Center is based in Charleston as is Mercedes-Benz Vans. Cummins Turbo Technologies and Behr Heat Transfer Systems also boast employment opportunities.
Charleston is also a massive contributor to the life sciences and healthcare industries, boasting over 30 medical device manufacturers, pharmaceutical laboratories, and 50 research and development labs.
Information technology and defense are two other areas offering employment opportunities. Close to 100 companies are contracted in various capacities in the defense field in the Charleston area. Companies such as Science Application International Corporation and Scientific Research Corporation are involved in developing and manufacturing computer hardware.
The SCE&G Energy Innovation Center works with Clemson University in the ever-changing energy field.
These companies are always hiring—could you be their next rising star?
9. Natural Beauty
With miles of pristine beaches to wander, the allure of the Lowcountry’s white sand calls to everyone. A beach lover’s paradise, there is no shortage of inviting locales to enjoy the surf and sand.
With a wide range of hiking trails and paved bike paths, the area offers residents lush greenspaces and impressive wildlife in resplendent beauty.
At every turn, you’ll be impressed with breathtaking views of the intercoastal waterways, beautiful beaches, and abundant wildlife flourishing in an untouched environment. Taking pride in the local ecosystem, dozens of initiatives protect the greenspaces and lush wildlife in the Lowcountry.
Who wouldn’t love getting off work and heading to the beach to wind down from the work day?
8. The Best Lowcountry Neighborhoods
While there is never a shortage of picturesque places to live in the Lowcountry, we have decided to select two of the best to spotlight.
Sullivans Island
This hidden Lowcountry gem offers a bounty of secluded beaches, a rich history, and a laid-back atmosphere, making it one of the most desirable places to live. With only 2,000 residents, you’ll never have to feel crowded as you traverse all this idyllic treasure has to offer.
With condominiums, townhouses, and single-family homes, there is no shortage of housing options, and with Charleston just a short drive away, every amenity imaginable is at your fingertips.
Why choose Sullivans Island?
- Close proximity to Charleston
- Award-winning schools
- Small town charm
- Stunning beaches
- An outdoor lover’s paradise
- Employment opportunities
Mount Pleasant
Believe it or not, this beautiful neighborhood can trace its roots back to a simple fishing village. It has now become one of the most desirable places in all of the Lowcountry to live.
With numerous housing options and a diverse population, Mount Pleasant is perfect for young couples starting families and retirees looking to settle down.
What makes it so unique?
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- Quality Schools: With access to award-winning schools, your children will be attending schools that score in the top 1% of South Carolina.
- Location: While there is plenty to enjoy outdoors, with proximity to Charleston, residents have access to healthcare facilities, fine dining, and shopping centers.
- Lifestyle and Community: Miles of beaches, coastal waterways, and a close community provide hiking, boating, kayaking, fishing, historical sites, galleries, and breweries.
- Job Opportunities: Jobs are available in various industries such as aerospace, life sciences, accommodation and food services, automotive, energy, defense, and IT.
7. Working In The Lowcountry
You’ll be happy to know that the Lowcountry has received dozens of awards for employment opportunities and economic growth potential.
- Second Best State in the Country for Doing Business: Area Development Magazine ranked South Carolina as number 2 for their commitment to job-training programs, economic development, and the low cost of business operations.
- Number 1 City in America for Economic Opportunity: Yelp ranked Charleston as the top city in America for the potential for economic growth. They cited population growth, the amount of new construction, and the housing boom for Charleston, snagging the number one spot. The local economies are also far outpacing the national average. Because of this, business owners are flocking to the area for the chance to prosper in the burgeoning economic boom.
- Number 16 in High Digital Skill Occupations: Brookings Institute said the regional industries, enhanced wage growth, higher productivity, and pay all greatly benefited workers in the metropolitan area.
- Number 13 in US Metropolitan Areas for Inc 5000 Businesses: Boasting diverse firms of all kinds, Charleston continues to add jobs and revenue to local economies across various businesses at a faster-than-average pace.
6. Rich History
The Lowcountry was one of the earliest areas to be settled in the new America. It had plenty of fertile farmland and easy-to-navigate waterways. With abundant fish and other natural wildlife, sustaining settlements in the area was easy.
Playing a significant role in both the Revolutionary and Civil Wars, several historical sites remain open to the public, including:
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- Fort Sumter: Site where the first shots were fired in the Civil War.
- Charleston Museum: The museum features a Lowcountry History Hall full of materials related to the region’s first settlers. It features an impressive collection of items from Native Americans, African Americans, and Europeans who initially inhabited and developed the area.
There are many other points of interest to visit and enjoy, too. Some of the most noteworthy are:
- Morris Island Lighthouse
- Sullivans Island Lighthouse
- Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
5. The Restaurants
We hope you’ve brought your appetite because there are dozens of five-star dining options in the Lowcountry, including:
- Alexander’s Restaurant and Wine Bar
- Black Marlin
- Frankie Bones Restaurant and Lounge
- Lowland
- Babas on Cannon
Whether you are looking for casual or fine dining options, the Lowcountry has it all. Every imaginable cuisine is at your fingertips.
4. Amenities
There is no shortage of amenities when it comes to the Lowcountry. Break out your golf clubs and enjoy the award-winning golf courses sprinkled throughout the area. Professionally maintained, the courses are playable year-round. Tennis courts are also in abundance and available year-round.
There is also no shortage of shopping options. Whether you are looking for eclectic artwork, groceries, electronics, or other home goods, various options are available, ranging from national chains to local businesses.
3. Sportsman Paradise
With abundance and diverse wildlife, it’s no wonder it’s a popular hunting destination. And with an immense system of intercoastal waterways, there is no shortage of areas to fish.
Some of the most common fresh fish in the Lowcountry region are:
- Tilefish
- Catfish
- Sheepshead
- King Mackerel
- Redfish
- Spotted Seatrout
- Largemouth Bass
- Black Seabass
- Black Drum
- Flounder
2. Investment In Local Businesses for Economic Stability
If you’re a business owner looking to open up shop in the Lowcountry, you’ll be pleased to know there is a concerted effort to help local businesses flourish. Lowcountry Local First utilizes innovative and inclusive initiatives to advance local business ownership and economic prosperity.
With a lasting commitment to economic development and incentives to help businesses, the Lowcountry is a great place to start a business.
The four core principles of Lowcountry Local First are designed to help businesses succeed.
- Champion and Equip Locally Owned Businesses: Advocate for programs and tools that help cultivate local business sustainability. Provide financial and information capital to reduce barriers for entrepreneurs.
- Drive an Inclusive Local Economy that Works for All: Ensure initiatives promote marginalized and underrepresented communities to participate in building the local economy. Improve access to education, resources, and mentorship for women-owned and minority-owned businesses. Protect small businesses with anti-displacement practices and policies.
- Nurture a Resilient, Self-Reliant Economy: Drive collaboration between local businesses and the communities they serve. Launch public awareness campaigns to drive spending to local businesses.
- Advocate for a Level Playing Field at Local Levels: Create state and local policies to favor local businesses over large conglomerates with tax incentives and beneficial zoning regulations.
1. Living In The Lowcountry
It always feels great to be with a winning team, doesn’t it? Of course, it does. You’ll be happy to know that the Lowcountry has appeared on various ‘best of’ lists in recent years. Just look at some of the accolades the region has received.
Reasons to live in the Lowcountry:
- Charleston Is One of the 15 Most Dynamic Cities in America: According to Worth Magazine, Charleston provides incredible culture and lifestyle with its beautiful blend of modern design and historic architecture, making it a perfect place to live.
- Charleston Ranks 25th for “Where the Most Educated Millennials Live”: Brookings Institute found that 40% of millennials living in Charleston had college degrees. If you’re an educated millennial, this is the place for you.
- Charleston Is Among 15 Places in the United States Where Young People Are Happy: Business Insider cited the bountiful work opportunities, great weather, community activities, affordable housing, and impressive nightlife as to why Charleston landed at the number 6 spot on the list.
- Summerville Among the Top 25 Best Places to Retire: For those looking for a divine place to retire, look no further than Summerville. Forbes Magazine placed them among the top 25 best locales. They cited the lower cost of living, stable economies, easy access to medical care, and mild winters as why this is a picture-perfect locale to retire.
Have you grown tired of the daily grind and need a change? If you’re considering a move, look no further than the Lowcountry.
Filled with lush green spaces, miles of pristine beaches, enviable housing options with incredible views, and burgeoning economic opportunities, the Lowcountry of South Carolina has it all, and it should top your list of places to consider.
When you’re ready to start your next chapter in the wonderful coastal communities of the Lowcountry, make the call.
Reach out and find out why the Lowcountry trusts Smooth Move for all of their moving needs. We’re here to answer all your questions and make your next move a breeze.