Featuring breathtaking scenery that includes rivers, marshes, and estuaries, James Island offers its residents a unique mixture of natural beauty and access to bustling downtown Charleston. “It’s a really established area that isn’t too built up or overdeveloped,” says Bill Olson, real estate agent with Real Broker LLC and longtime resident of James Island. “So you have a really laid-back kind of vibe right next to all the things you could want in Charleston.” Serving as a peaceful residential retreat that fuses urban convenience with serene beachside living, James Island is worth looking into for those that want the best of both worlds.
Boaters enjoy riding on their boats on a sunny day in the James Island neighborhood.
Charleston Harbor is accessible from the James Island neighborhood.
Discover coastal living on James Island in Charleston, SC.
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James Island County Park is the place to gather
Even though residents are just a few minutes from Charleston, James Island gives off a serene, lowcountry vibe. “It’s not rural, but it’s got that tucked away feel to it,” says Olson. “And it’s a haven for outdoor activities.” Residents are just a few minutes from the beach, including nearby Folly Beach. James Island also has several parks, the most popular being James Island County Park—a nearly 650-acre park that features miles of trails, an 18-hole disc golf course, and its own waterpark. Melton Peter Demetre Park features a nearly 200-foot fishing pier, allowing for fishing and outstanding sunset views.
James Island County Park boating activities can be enjoyed by families and friends.
James Island County Park has a fun disc golf course with tree shaded fairways.
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Classic styles and vintage charm
Homes in James Island reflect its established nature, with many of the houses being built in the 1940s, 50s, and 60s. And while there is some new development here and there, the overall vibe of the island is decidedly classic. “There isn’t a lot of new construction, and the nature of the island means there really can’t be,” says Olson. “But that’s what so many people enjoy about it—that vintage style.” Homebuyers will find plenty of ranch style homes and split levels, along with classic beach cottages. Additionally, there are plenty of other traditional style homes with a variety of renovations and updates. “Neighborhoods like Riverland Terrace and Harborside show off the different styles of the island,” Olson says. “Every home is different.” Single family homes generally range in price from $500,000 to $2 million—though larger homes on the waterfront can go for as high as $3.5 million. Townhouses and condominiums range from $185,000 to $500,000.
Find beautiful brick ranch style homes with landscaped yards on James Island.
Find character homes like this one
in the James Island neighborhood.
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Folly Road is the place for shopping and dining
Folly Road is where the island’s shopping and dining options are found, with a selection good enough that residents don’t need to leave for Charleston unless they want to. For groceries, residents have numerous options—including Harris Teeter, Publix, and Food Lion. For retail needs, Walmart serves as the go-to spot. Those looking for local flavor can find it at The James, an upscale eatery offering classic American fare. The Pour House serves as a music venue and tavern, offering a great place to meet for drinks after work or a show on the weekends.
The James is an excellent restaurant on James Island to eat with family and friends.
James Island residents love to grocery shop at the local Harris Teeter.
Publix is a great grocery store in Riverland Market on James Island.
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James Island Charter High earns high marks
Students begin their education at James Island Elementary, before moving on to Camp Road Middle and fishing up at James Island Charter School—the latter of which features some of the top Honors, IB, and AP programs in the state of South Carolina. According to Niche, these schools earned scores of B-plus, A-minus, B-plus.
James Island Elementary School in Charleston has covered drop off and pick up areas.
Camp Road Middle is a public school in Charleston.
James Island Charter High School is located on a beautiful campus.
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Charleston is just a bridge away
While much of Charleston is highly walkable, James Island is a more car-dependent area—though commuting to anywhere in Charleston is almost always a simple 15-minute drive away. College of Charleston students simply need to cross the bridge to get to class, as well. “Whether you’re working at the hospital, somewhere downtown, or are a student, commuting is simple,” says Olson. “As tucked away as it is, you can be in Charleston in no time.”
James Island is easily accessible and a short commute by bridges to downtown Charleston.
Charleston Battery and White Point Garden is a short commute from James Island.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
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Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
James Island
US
Homicide
1
4
Sexual Assault
1
4
Assault with Weapon
1
4
Robbery
2
4
Burglary
3
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
3
4
Larceny
1
4
Crime Score
1
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
James Island Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in James Island, Charleston sell after 45 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in James Island, Charleston over the last 12 months is $610,000, consistent with the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
This is not just any condo--it's a rare end-unit penthouse with superior natural light, elevated vantage points, and exceptional privacy rarely found in waterfront living. Two expansive porches invite you to savor sunrises over Wappoo Creek and glowing evening reflections without ever leaving home. Located within the sought-after Riverside community on James Island, this spacious 3-bedroom,
Located in a quiet neighborhood in one of the most central areas in Charleston, sits 18 Hillcreek Blvd. 8 miles from splashing in the ocean on Folly Beach; 4 miles to the excitement of downtown, 3 miles to activities in JI County Park, and less than 2 miles to boat launches, restaurants, tennis center and golf coursesAs you enter the home, you walk into the open living room with vaulted ceilings
Welcome to this charming James Island home where historic character meets modern comfort. Original hardwoods, detailed molding, & expansive windows fill the space with natural light, whilethoughtful updates add everyday ease. Currently set up as two dwellings, the front operates as a successful Airbnb with 2 bedrooms, renovated bath, dining room, & living area--ideal as a guestsuite, in-law
Welcome to a rare James Island gem- a 1 acre property with room to breathe, room to grow, and room to bring the whole crew! Located in one of the island's oldest and most rural areas, this 0.97-acre homesite delivers the kind of space that's getting harder and harder to find, while still keeping you just 3.5 miles from Folly Beach and the Edge of America! Even better, this home is in the
Welcome home to 1103 Clearspring Drive! Nestled on the corner of a quiet cul-de-sac in the desirable Ocean Neighbors community, this renovated home blends thoughtful updates, flexible living spaces, and an open, inviting layout that works for everyone. Step through the grand foyer into the spacious, light-filled main living area. From there, the flow is effortless- step into the vaulted dining
This luxury 2-bedroom, 2-bath condo at Pelican Pointe Villas offers easy coastal elevated condo living in one of the best locations on James Island. 6 minutes from Folly Beach! Close enough to catch an ocean breeze from the pool! Don't like stairs? Access your unit via elevator! . Inside, the unit features hardwood and tile floors throughout, an open layout filled with natural light, and
Riverland Woods offers an unmatched tropical paradise only minutes away from historic Downtown Charleston and Folly Beach. Choose from our 1, 2, and 3-bedroom newly upgraded apartment homes to best suit your needs and enjoy the perks of resort-style living. At your disposal are beautifully maintained amenities including a sparkling pool with cabanas and sundeck, various outdoor trail options and
$2,100 per month
2 Beds
1.5 Baths
1,072 Sq Ft
Freshly painted and ready for occupancy, this 2BR, 1.5BA townhome is raised above the large garage. Possible tandem prking in the garage for 2 small cars. Just off the James Island Connector at Harbor View Rd, this property is a quick trip downtown or to the beach. Owner may consider one (1) well behaved pet under 30 lbs with a separate non-refundable pet deposit and separate pet agreement in
Avalon at James Island is a pet friendly, luxury apartment community located on James Island, surrounded by the natural beauty of Charleston, providing a gorgeous environment. With space ranging from 608 - 1,627 sq. ft. across a wide array of studio, 1, 2, and 3-bedroom apartments, we're sure to have a place you can call home. Residents benefit from various luxury services including a year-round
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Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
