10 Things You Must Know Before Moving to Charleston

if you're thinking about moving to charleston, let me save you some time. i moved here last year thinking it was all pastel houses and porch swings. spoiler: it's also traffic, humidity, and people who still wear pearls to brunch.

first off, rent is wild. a one-bedroom in downtown will cost you around $1,800/month, and that's if you're okay with a place that sounds like it was built by ghosts with a hammer. west ashley is cheaper, but you'll be driving everywhere. and i mean everywhere. traffic here moves like a sunday afternoon stroll, even on weekdays.

here's a quick breakdown:

and the weather? it's like living in a steam room that occasionally floods. hurricane season is real, and so is the mold. bring good boots and a dehumidifier.

but here's the thing: the food slaps. i'm talking about lowcountry boil, shrimp and grits, and biscuits that could make you cry. check out husk or lewis barbecue if you want to eat like a local who knows what's up.

now, let's talk about the people. charlestonians are polite to a fault. you'll hear "bless your heart" more than you'll hear actual criticism. but don't be fooled-it's rarely a blessing. i overheard someone at a coffee shop say, "she's sweet, but bless her heart, she wore white after labor day." savage.

if you're into history, you're in the right place. but be ready for some heavy stuff. the city's past is complicated, and not everyone talks about it openly. the international african american museum is a must-visit if you want to understand the real story.

nightlife? it's either dive bars with dollar bills stapled to the ceiling or rooftop cocktails that cost more than your streaming subscriptions. the recovery room is where you go when you want to feel like a local. the watch rooftop is where you go to impress someone you met on a dating app.

and let's not forget the gnats. those little bastards will fly into your mouth while you're trying to enjoy a sunset. it's like they have a personal vendetta against anyone who dares to live here.

if you're moving here for work, know that the job market is tight. hospitality and tourism are huge, but if you're in tech or creative fields, it's a bit of a hustle. i've seen more than one friend leave after a year because they couldn't find stable work.

but honestly, despite all the chaos, i get it. there's something about this place. maybe it's the spanish moss hanging from the trees or the way the sun sets over the battery. it's not perfect, but it's got soul.

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