The 10 Best Cities Near Charleston SC

Ready to discover the best cities near Charleston SC?

Well, you’re in for a ride. We’ve got ten cities, each brimming with personality, all within a quick drive from Charleston. These places offer the perfect mix of being close enough to the action but far enough away to catch your breath.

From riverfront gems to spots that feel like they stepped out of another time, this list of the best cities near Charleston SC takes you on a journey you won’t expect.

Table of Contents

Methodology

We chose these cities carefully—no guessing involved.

Each location had to meet three critical criteria: a population of at least 50,000 (because we want some action, right?), proximity to Charleston within a 2 hour drive (no one’s got time for long road trips), and top-tier livability.

That means dining, parks, shopping, and, let’s face it, fun stuff to do. We wanted places that don’t just exist—they thrive. And all without crossing that crucial one-hour driving limit.

The 10 Best Cities Near Charleston South Carolina

10. Georgetown

Minutes from Charleston SC: 60 minutes
Population: 58,000
Location: Check on Google Maps

Georgetown, where history whispers through the trees and the waterfront calls your name. It’s a town with a story—cobblestone streets, centuries-old houses, and a port that’s seen more than its share of maritime tales. The Kaminski House Museum serves up history with a side of elegance.

And don’t miss the nearby plantations—they take you back to a time you didn’t even know you were missing. Georgetown isn’t just an hour from Charleston, it’s a world away.

9. Walterboro

Minutes from Charleston SC: 50 minutes
Population: 56,000
Location: Check on Google Maps

Walterboro, where life slows down, but your curiosity speeds up. Known as the “Front Porch of the Lowcountry,” this town oozes Southern charm like sweet tea on a hot day.

Antique shops line its quaint streets, and the Colleton Museum? Well, it’s got the goods on all things local history. Walterboro is a step back into yesteryear, just 50 minutes from Charleston, offering that perfect mix of chill and cultural intrigue.

8. North Charleston

Minutes from Charleston SC: 10 minutes
Population: 115,000
Location: Check on Google Maps

North Charleston, a city that dances to its own beat. It’s all about energy here—whether you’re catching a concert at the North Charleston Coliseum or strolling through Park Circle, a neighborhood that feels like a small town with big-city flair.

This place doesn’t sit still, and with art, culture, and a growing dining scene, you’ll find North Charleston is a place that pulls you in and never lets go.

It’s also the closest city on this list of the best cities near Charleston South Carolina, so it’s perfect for those who want Charleston vibes but is a bit more affordable for those looking to relocate or visit.

7. Orangeburg

Minutes from Charleston SC: 90 minutes
Population: 67,000
Location: Check on Google Maps

Orangeburg, known as “The Garden City,” brings its own flavor with a rich cultural scene and events like the Orangeburg Festival of Roses. Its proximity to the Edisto Memorial Gardens makes it a dream for anyone looking to immerse themselves in natural beauty.

And with quick access to Charleston, it’s a prime spot for those who want to balance urban life with tranquil getaways.

It’s also quite affordable these days, making it one of the best cities near Charleston South Carolina for those who want to stick to a budget.

6. Hanahan

Minutes from Charleston SC: 20 minutes
Population: 55,000
Location: Check on Google Maps

Hanahan, where rivers weave through a peaceful landscape, and life is laid-back yet full. The waterfront views along the Cooper River make this city stand out, and its parks provide plenty of green space to soak in the sun or throw a frisbee.

Family-friendly and serene, Hanahan is where Charleston’s charm stretches just a bit further inland but never loses its coastal cool. We think it’s a great option for families looking for the best city close to Charleston SC.

5. James Island

Minutes from Charleston SC: 15 minutes
Population: 52,000
Location: Check on Google Maps

James Island, the unofficial gateway to Folly Beach. This laid-back island vibe comes with outdoor adventure at every turn, from kayaking in marshes to hanging at the beach.

James Island County Park, with its renowned Festival of Lights, is a must-visit during the holiday season. Seafood shacks and relaxed nightlife round out a town that’s both carefree and close to the action in Charleston, making it one of the best cities near Charleston SC for those who really wanna stick close by.

4. Ladson

Minutes from Charleston SC: 25 minutes
Population: 77,000
Location: Check on Google Maps

Ladson, where quiet suburban streets meet the occasional festival at the local fairgrounds. This town offers a slower pace but doesn’t lack excitement when the Ladson Fair rolls through.

It’s a perfect place to call home for those who want to be close to Charleston but without the bustle. Peaceful, pleasant, and with just the right touch of fun, Ladson is a low-key spot with plenty to offer.

3. Summerville

Minutes from Charleston SC: 30 minutes
Population: 54,000
Location: Check on Google Maps

“The Flower Town in the Pines” lives up to its name—Summerville is all about the blooms. If you’re here in the spring, the Flowertown Festival is the big draw, with streets lined by bright blossoms and even brighter faces, making it a top spot for best cities close to Charleston SC.

Historic homes and boutique shops make this place a magnet for those who want a dash of history with their everyday life. Summerville is the place where slowing down feels like moving forward.

2. Bluffton

Minutes from Charleston SC: 120 minutes
Population: 70,000
Location: Check on Google Maps

Bluffton, a town where the May River flows as creatively as the artistic souls who call this place home. Old Town Bluffton is the star of the show, filled with galleries, quirky shops, and eateries where the food is as colorful as the murals that line the streets.

Kayak down the river, and don’t forget to catch the sunset—it’s the kind of natural art you won’t find anywhere else. Bluffton is where you can slow down and let your inner artist roam free.

The the farthest city on this list of the best cities near Charleston South Carolina, but we think it is totally worth it.

1. Beaufort

Minutes from Charleston SC: 90 minutes
Population: 52,000
Location: Check on Google Maps

Beaufort, the crown jewel of South Carolina’s Lowcountry, is our top pick for the best city near Charleston SC.

Antebellum homes, waterfront views, and charming streets define this historic town.

Take a horse-drawn carriage through the streets or explore nearby islands like Hunting Island, where wildlife and natural beauty reign. Beaufort’s mix of history and natural wonders make it a top destination, just a quick drive from Charleston.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the closest city to Charleston SC?
North Charleston is the closest major city, just 10 minutes from Charleston.

What’s the largest city near Charleston SC?
North Charleston is the largest city near Charleston, with a population of over 115,000.