Is Beaufort, South Carolina a good place to live? Beaufort has been featured in the New York Times and named BestSmall Southern Town by Southern Living, a Top 25 Small City Arts Destination by American Style, and a Top 50 Adventure Town by National Geographic Adventure. Springtime has beautiful flowers that make it even more appealing. Beaufort has a better average annual temperature than the vast majority of the United States. 2. However, it is crucial to consider the cons before moving, such as the high crime rate, lack of educational opportunities, and the possible feeling of isolation. The cost of living in South Carolina is considerably higher when you compare the cost of your essentials. Top 10 Pros and Cons of Living in Harrisburg, PA. The list goes on. Downtown is a nice area. Shrimp boil, Frogmore Stew, and softshell crabs may become your new favorite foods. The weather is horrid June 1 thru Nov 1. Some private institutions charge exorbitant tuition rates. Mortgage pre-approval and broker services from IntroLend by Home & Money | IntroLend by Home & Money, LLC is a licensed Mortgage Broker. Not available in all states. Data for all 32,900 zip codes in one easy-to-use Excel file. Lets discuss 10 pros and cons of living in Beaufort, SC! Expect to be eating a lot of hot sauce with your food. According to Wallet Hub, South Carolina has the 11th lowest tax burden in the nation. 3790 Brock Street North, Whitby, Ontario, L1R 0H2. However, everyone wants something different in the city or town they call home, so looking at the pros and cons of the place can help you decide if its right for you. Cons- Found lots of racism. With traditional neighborhood-designed communities like Celadon just a few minutes from Beaufort, there is convenient access to beautiful parks, open spaces, neighbors, and amenities within the community. Chartered in 1711, it is the second-oldest city in South Carolina, behind Charleston. Conde Nast magazine ranked Beaufort as one of the 26 most beautiful towns in America. It has maintained its Antebellum architecture as well as its small-town atmosphere over the years. And yes, for every list of pros, there is also a list of cons., Beaufort, SC, is the best place to spend your retirement. Beaufort can feel isolating, as its far from other major cities. It is a slow town, mostly fast food restaurants such as McDonalds, Zaxbys, Dominos etc. Discover the schools, companies, and neighborhoods that are right for you. Roads are not even lit up. Even when the temperatures are hot, the humidity level is lower. Even the food you purchase at a diner comes with a 10.5% tax. Discover the schools, companies, and neighborhoods that are right for you. Mosquitos, roaches, and palmetto bugs also enjoy the warm, humid weather, and theyre frequently spotted throughout several months of the year. People are not the only inhabitants of Beaufort who enjoy the areas temperate weather. pros and cons of living on daufuskie island. You can learn to catch shrimp in the marshes too. Many families and young professionals live in Port Royal and residents tend to have moderate political views. 9. Most of the South Carolina coast is characterized by moss-covered oak trees that are centuries old and have grown moss on their branches for decades. Residents can keep small pets. What are the pros and cons of living there? People in the south love their good food, and it seems that every social function that exists involves some really good food. The median cost of a home is about $100,000 more than the national average, although housing expenses such as rent are slightly lower than the national average. There are several lakes, creeks, and secret swimming holes that will help you to cool off during a warm day. some things I do not like about Beaufort is that the town is more catered to an older generation, as it is a popular place to live out retirement, but it does not have much for kids, teens and young adults to do. Based on employment rates, job and business growth, and cost of living. NMLS Licenses Access Page. The city has a plethora of interesting facts to share about its history and culture. List of the Pros of Living in South Carolina 1. A clubhouse with a spa, gym, and pool provides activities. Renting you can expect no lower than 1,500 a month for a sizable family home. 16 Pros and Cons of Living in South Carolina, 11 Pros and Cons of Living in Bluffton, SC, Cost of Living in South Carolina Cities: These Are the Top 5, 13 Pros and Cons of Living in Charleston, SC, Pros and Cons of Living in Beaufort, SC Summary Table. These ranking calculations consider public-school graduation rates, enrollment rates, teacher-to-student ratios, and student and parent reviews. The only thing left for teens to do is hang out at the beach or in the waterfront park. Yet, the city is rather isolated from major urban centers, and no more than 14,000 people are living in the city. Just wish there was more things for young kids to do. It can dampen the excitement of going outside. Whether you're downtown or out on the barrier island beaches at Hunting Island, it feels like you are always on vacation. A lot of local businesses to to visit, much more of a older perosn town. It was started in 1711 by wealthy planters. Although the fuel tax in South Carolina is exceptionally low compared to the national standard, the other taxes that you will pay for the items you want are relatively high. Ultimately, when relocating to a new town, what you look for depends on your needs, interests, and budget. (Forbes). The nearest larger city is Charleston, which is 80 miles by highway, but it is much shorter by boat. etc. The historic downtown, as well as marshy areas around the city, make it a natural site for movie making. Beaufort is a city in South Carolina state in USA with a population of 13417. Fishing along the Intracoastal Waterway is always a fun option to consider as well. Summer weather also brings annoying bugs. Report inappropriate content 1-3 of 3 replies You have a 1 in 18 chance of a violent crime happening to you! Pros and Cons of living in Beaufort, South Carolina in reviews from users in their own words: Pros Cons " Small town, southern hospitality, beautiful scenery"" Beautiful scenery, southern hospitality, small town feel but close access to larger areas "" Poor education, summer heat, bugs, no diversity " Many buildings even predate the birth of the United States. The city is filled withsouthern charm and great beaches are nearby. Port Royal is a town in South Carolina with a population of 12,734. The Parris Island Marine Corps Recruit Depot and U.S. Marine Corps Air Station, two major U.S. military bases, are located in the Beaufort area. Designed with Love by n28. It has a rich history involving the Revolutionary War, as well as the Civil War. Beaufort has a lot to do and enjoy and you may never get bored. This data and scores are a weighted average of the areas schools. 4. There are numerous ways for you to enjoy the outdoors when you start calling South Carolina your home. There are ghost chilis in almost every recipe that calls for spice in the state, which means you need to be ready for the unexpected. They are beautiful, inviting, and offer enough variety that boredom is seldom an issue. It has a wide-open suburban feel with many parks, hiking and cycling trails, marshlands to explore, and fascinating wildlife. Beaufort has a strong culture of hospitality, which means that most people you meet in the city will be friendly and welcoming. Exploration of the area began around 1540 when Hernando de Soto fulfilled the obligation of his expedition here. Beaufort County also has the highest cost of living in all of South Carolina. The sky in Beaufort is beyond breathtaking yet, that is the best part about it. Nearby Hilton Head Island is a major resort area with very wealthy retirees and world-class golf courses. The pleasant year-round temperature is a big draw for retirees to Beaufort. It has a unique flavor that originated in the South Carolina lowlands. Ever. Anyone living in the area will be able to enjoy gorgeous ocean views. The caricature of the million-dollar mansions, and falling-down shacks, is not altogether inaccurate. First of all, my top 10 living in South Carolina pros and cons include: Great history and culture Warm southern hospitality Outdoor activities in a beautiful setting Mild winters and nice weather Growing economy plus some tax breaks High income and sales taxes Expensive cost of living Too much heat Risk of severe weather This could contribute to higher energy costs during the summer based on your thermostat setting and preference for a cool indoor climate. However, the history in the area goes back even further, as the city and surrounding area were home to Native Americans long before other settlers came to South Carolina. 4. Automatically get personalized recommendations on where to move. Beaufort County is slightly above the national average, and the rest of the state is well below the national average. Construction is a way of life in South Carolina. Please. There are also limited options for colleges in the Beaufort area, so most students who want to pursue higher education will need to move. Jobs are plentiful enough but often not paying well. Malls are basically empty. There are hardly any murders, but there are more robberies and rapes per capita than the national average. State income taxes and property taxes are both low, and there is also a lower tax on gasoline, so filling up your car often costs much less than in other parts of the country. In North Carolina, your Social Security benefits are not taxable; however, the state taxes most other retirement income at the flat rate of 5.25%. United States / South Carolina / Hilton Head Island-Bluffton-Beaufort Metro Area / Beaufort County . How safe is it? And that is pretty sweet, shugah! Coastal South Carolina; Beaufort; Bluffton; Charleston; Folly Beach; Hilton Head Island; Isle of Palms; Kiawah Island; Private school options are limited and expensive. Very few cultural events. Please share your experience here: Cities Near Beaufort: Port Royal, Burton, Laurel Bay, Sheldon, St. Helena Island Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Hilton Head Island is in Beaufort County and is one of the best places to live in South Carolina. It is a town of clicks of people that stay within their groups. Wherever you go in Beaufort, the atmosphere is warm and relaxed. 13310 S Ridge Dr. Ste. 6. It is considered a way of being polite in the local culture. Weather storms every other day. If the community offers a clubhouse, social activities with other retirees are popular. You can also move inland to find numerous boutique farms, stables, and other areas where the agricultural influences are strong. It was the first southern city conquered by Union Forces near the beginning of the war in November of 1861. All kinds of water sports can be enjoyed year around. Temperatures often reach into the low 90s, and rain is most frequent during July and August. We have a rich cultural history, beautiful scenery, and great restaurants. Retirees can pursue an active lifestyle in the company of other adults of similar ages and interests. The culture and history in Beaufort are incredibly rich with many historical landmarks residing in and around the city and the constant festivities celebrating the many diverse cultures. Everything is a lot cheaper here, especially when it comes to housing. Quality schools. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'howthingscompare_com-box-2','ezslot_3',126,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-howthingscompare_com-box-2-0');With beautiful weather and picturesque scenery, Beaufort, South Carolina, seems like a wonderful place to live. There are a lot of deductions for your state income tax, so you may not have to pay much there either. You will love the friendly and welcoming southern hospitality. A hot summer is usually followed by cooler temperatures during the winter months when heating expenses may be low. Enter your email to get connected and notified about our services. It was the only one from South Carolina on the list. You just have to get used to the fact that insects are always around, whether youre inside or out. Tools 8. The city employs around 5.43K people; however, this is a decrease of 6.06% from the previous year's 5.78K employees. There are some great museums, but the city itself is also a museum of American history. Statewide and locally, property taxes in Beaufort are among the lowest in the country. The cost of living, in general, is not much higher than average, but the cost of housing makes it seem worse. But, of course, as with all choices we make, there are pros and cons. The city has a welcoming atmosphere, but the crime rate is high. Chartered in 1711, it is the second-oldest city in South Carolina, behind Charleston. South Carolina is one of the most beautiful states in the country. The sounds of lapping waves and the feeling of soft sand beneath your feet are enough to put even the busiest of minds at ease. The beaches around Beaufort are not overcrowded like some tourist destinations. It feels comfortable, especially when the sun is shining. Most were wealthy planters and their slaves that were currently living in Barbados. All u hear is that Beaufort voted best for small town, what they dont tell you is about the crime, food options here SUCK, there is no good Mexican food, red lights are just a recommendation to stop your car, the list could go on. Note: We would be transplanting from the NY Metropolitan area. If you are thinking about living here, then these are the pros and cons that you will want to consider. The natural beauty of Beaufort is breathtaking. For less rugged activities, many people living in Beaufort enjoy playing tennis, pickleball, or golf. If you like to fish, run and drive then this place is for you. And we like it that way. Its a relatively small city, with only about 14,000 people. The beaches in the area are some of the best you'll ever see. The oldest preserved plantation house is located in the city, as well as numerous large mansions that have stood tall and proud for more than a century. Many families and young professionals live in Beaufort, and its residents tend to have moderate political views. Living at Celadon places you in one of the Southeast's most desirable cities Beaufort, South Carolina which Coastal Living labeled "America's Happiest Seaside Town.". Dwellics instantly analyzes thousands of relevant data points and your selected preferences like lifestyle, weather, community and more to find the perfect place for you to live, Analytics team at Dwellics grouped locations into 5 ranges for each metric: Lowest, Low, Moderate, High, Highest, The average cost of a single-family home compared to USA, The average cost of a single-family home compared to. I don't understand how people love this place. The sales tax rate in Beaufort, South Carolina is 6.0%. Theft and other property crimes are the most common, but there are also some instances of violence. Murder rates are very low, but the rate of robberies and rapes is slightly higher than the national average. There is the threat of hurricanes in the fall, and if one is within 300 miles there will be days of torrential rainfall. pros and cons of living on daufuskie island. Your sweet-talk vocabulary will become as sweet as sweet tea. It was the site for parts of Forrest Gump, the Prince of Tides, and most of the Big Chill was filmed in Beaufort. City: Port Royal. The city is home to the Technical College of the Lowcountry and a satellite campus of the University of South Carolina. The shopping scene is dull and boring. . I would never move here thinking I would want my children educated in the local public schools. Please. Many people who move to South Carolina can also qualify for state income tax deductions, further reducing their tax rate. The median home cost in Beaufort is $363,000, while the median cost in the state is $223,000. When calculating the cost of living in Beaufort, South Carolina we factor in state income tax rates, average housing rental prices, average property values, cost of living index, and more. Perhaps because of the poverty, the overall crime rate in Beaufort is 41 crimes per 1000 people, which is one of the highest in the nation for cities of its size. Beaufort is on a barrier island, and there is only one road out to the Interstate. There are not many towns anywhere more visually appealing than Beaufort. Summer can get hot since it is just a bit inland, but in general, the weather is great. Continue with Recommended Cookies. One thing I'd like to see change is how many activities there are to do here because there is not much for kids or young adults to do here. Even so, it is a bit isolated from larger metropolitan areas. This open attitude can make it much easier to get to know your neighbors, make friends, and integrate into the city, and many people feel at home in Beaufort right away. There are Native American cultures as well that have an influence. The weather in South Carolina is typically pleasant, but there is also an unpredictability factor that you will want to consider. Active retirement communities in Beaufort, SC, focus on the needs and interests of adults age 55 and up. Coastal resort area - On a barrier island on the Atlantic Coast, 20 miles northeast of Savannah GA. State: South Carolina. Floyd, Irma, and Matthew both created problems for residents as well, with evacuations creating transportation issues that were concerns then and still are. History comes alive for you when you live in Beaufort, the second oldest city in South Carolina. 9. Cotton and sugar were the first modern cash crops that were grown in the state because of this labor. I love the scenary. Charleston is one of the safest urban areas in the nation, with only 2,691 crimes of all types reported per 100,000 residents. Almost every street has a story to tell. Although you will have an income tax to pay when living in South Carolina, your property taxes are typically lower because of its presence. There are also plenty of places to hike or ride a bike, and the ocean makes for an excellent place to swim, take out a boat, or fish. I feel like we should make a change in our police system as far as who we select as our school superintendent etc. The pace of life is relaxed and quiet. South Carolina has a state income tax with excellent tax deductions for resident retirees. Most people can get used to the fact that South Carolinians like to put mustard in their barbecue sauce. Former Resident July 8 2020 Overall Experience Theres just about nothing to do here (besides going to the beach), almost everywhere you go (restaurants, local businesses) the service is horribly slow, and dont get me started on the amount of terrible drivers. What movies have been filmed in Beaufort? It is a place where almost every day feels like a vacation if that is a priority, making it an ideal place to find a home and raise a family. Hilton Head Island is a town in South Carolina with a population of 38,068. Equal Housing Lender. 7. Add to that the coastal low-country culture, and you have a cuisine that is unique to the area along the coast. Theres also the problem of roaches and palmetto bugs, so youll have to get used to fighting them off. That has created a higher level of diversity in the state, but it is also causing significant construction issues that can be interruptive in numerous ways. There is a local little beach which is great in the summer. Beautiful place, wonderful scenery. The waterfront has amazing restaurants and bars where families can spend some quality time together. There is also a gas tax credit for which you might qualify that is based on the information supplied from your income tax return. There are some sticky days during the height of summer that can be challenging for some, but that is also when a trip to the beach becomes the perfect opportunity to find some relief. Showing 80 homes around 20 miles. If you enjoy concerts or prefer more options for nightlife entertainment, you may not find them in Beaufort. Gas taxes are low, which means the costs of transportation are also lower (the lowest in the US). The city is extremely beautiful The natural beauty of Beaufort is breathtaking. I believe things are changing for the better but, it is time that our younger generation step up and be a voice in the community as well. People in this area tend to be welcoming to strangers, as well as old friends. Beaufort is in Carteret County. Learn The Best Way to Visit South Carolina, Copyright 2019. When it comes to living near the sea, there are immediate benefits for your mental health. About. While North Carolina's overall cost of living is still lower compared to the national average of 100%, it's still slightly above South Carolina's cost of living. Find a loan that's right for you. Because the weather is consistently nice when living here, you will discover that owning a bicycle is almost mandatory since it is such an easy way to make it to your destination. In terms of beauty, the city of Beaufort is unparalleled. Beautiful military town. Even after achieving a. South Carolina Is tax-friendlier to Retirees Than North Carolina. The area is also known for its fresh seafood, so there are many dining options. Zip Codes: 29902 29907 29940 29904 29941. It is just far enough inland that you do not get the benefit of ocean breezes. The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour while South Carolina's state law sets the minimum wage rate at $7.25 per hour in 2023. Aggressive drivers are mindless. Water is brown as my poop, restaurants are dirty and food aren't as good. The median home price in Myrtle Beach is $216,000, and rent also . I like the friendliness of the people. Many coastal areas have become a bit more upscale, and have lost some of that charm, but not Beaufort. The Gullah people, who had been emancipated from slavery after the Civil War, settled on the barrier islands off the coast and gave rise to the citys unique culture. This means that there are plenty of historic sites and museums to explore. 1. Sometimes dangerously hot. It is a great place to experience the art of several cultures in one place. Beaufort is the states second-oldest city, having been established in 1711. In sum, here's a quick roundup of the pros and cons of living in Charleston. Beaufort is sometimes described as a smaller version of the historic big cities, Savannah and Charleston. I get rejected services just by entering the store. Beauforts close-knit community, small-town charm, and deep-rooted history have earned it the nickname Queen of the Sea Islands. Beaufort is the setting for a number of famous movies, including Forrest Gump, The Great Santini, and the breakout success on Netflix, Outer Banks. Beaufort is one of the most beautiful towns in the country. Beautiful landscapes provide lovely views and make for many outdoor activity options. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. Beaufort is surrounded by wild natural areas, so there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy outdoor recreational activities. Beaufort is much smaller than Charleston and is often listed as one of the best places to live in the state or even the nation. pros and cons of living on daufuskie island. Beauforts school systems are not highly ranked. The state is known as the birthplace of sweet tea, which contains about 23 grams of sugar for every 8-=ounce serving when you average what is available. How is Beaufort ranked against other cities its size? And traffic can be pretty bad at some times. There are some private schools that are expensive. Beaufort has been popular as an area for movie making at various times. When making a big move. Beauforts beautiful scenery is paired with a mild climate. Lets look at some of the best reasons the pros for relocating to Beaufort, SC. City: Beaufort. Overall, the average housing prices, utilities, groceries, transportation, health care, and miscellaneous goods and services are less expensive in Beaufort. The Beaufort areas schools are poorly ranked statewide and nationally. Shoppers can then walk up and down trying any sales and specials they have going on. Daily access to the beach. Local residents are nice as well. No professional theater. People will say hello on the street, and stop to talk and enjoy each others company. Beaufort residents think Beaufort is a nice town and apparently, so does the rest of the country. Rental rates. As for diversity it is black and white. Email agent. Many of the old buildings were converted into hospitals for wounded Union soldiers. There are a lot of festivals and celebrations of various cultures, as well as expressions in art throughout the area. You can claim a credit for up to two private passenger vehicles or motorcycles, and it is a refundable credit if you do not have any liabilities to pay. Other than all this it is a great place. This temperate climate invites outdoor recreation twelve months of the year. Watch out for 10 months of biting insects, big snakes and gators. As many as eight percent of the people in Beaufort are below the poverty level. Congress would shut down the civilian government in 1867, place the state in Reconstruction for the next decade, and then the structure of the laws shifted back toward pre-war tendencies for white preference and land ownership for voting.