When Summerville was incorporated in 1847, its seal proclaimed “Sacra Pinus Esto” — “The Pine is Sacred.” One of the first things the new town did was ensure its motto translated into action by passing an ordinance that prohibited cutting down certain trees. The ethos remains alive — the town recently erected a sign downtown that reads “Let the Pine be Sacred” — as does the regulation, which is still on the books more than 150 years later. “With the growth we experience, we do see trees get cut down,” says Christopher Makowski, public information officer for the city of Summerville. “But we take a lot of pride in the fact that if a tree is going to get cut — even one — there are guidelines that you must follow and things that need to be approved.” Now a suburb of Charleston with 55,000 residents, Summerville embraces its leafy atmosphere with verdant parks and annual festivals. Its strong sense of identity, thriving downtown and comparatively affordable housing contribute to considerable growth in the Lowcountry.
Experience the serene beauty of tall trees and winding waterways throughout Summerville.
Summerville hosts annual festivals with local vendors like the popular Flowertown Festival.
Wescott Park in Summerville has a fun baseball glove climbing activity on the playground.
Summerville is a thriving city with growth in new communities.
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Sweet tea and the Flowertown Festival blooms
Known as the “Flower Town in the Pines,” Summerville hosts plenty of events celebrating its greenery, the most popular being the Flowertown Festival. Held each spring during peak bloom, the festival features entertainment and vendors for over 250,000 visitors. Summerville also claims heritage for a ubiquitous Southern refreshment: sweet tea. While the ownership claim may be debatable, the city embraces the beverage wholeheartedly by flaunting the world’s largest sweet tea container — a jar named “Mason” — and hosting an annual Sweet Tea Festival. The event takes over downtown Summerville, offering food trucks, local artisans and a competition for the best version of the drink.
Flowertown Festival is a popular event in Summerville for families held each spring.
Summerville locals enjoy shopping local vendors at the Flowertown Festival each spring..
Flowertown Festival is the largest arts and crafts events in Summerville..
Mason is the worlds largest jar of sweet tea located in historic downtown Summerville.
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Access to the Ashley River and Azalea Park
Outdoor lovers enjoy Summerville for its lushness on land, but the city also offers water access. The Ashley River flows through town on its way to Charleston Harbor, and the Herbert H. Jessen Public Boat Landing has launches for kayakers and small boats, plus a network of wooded trails and a fishing pier where anglers can catch redfish, black drum, speckled trout and several types of bass. The Colonial Dorchester State Historic Site sits on the bank of the Ashley, commemorating the city's 1697 settlement with original structures and archaeological remains. Azalea Park is especially popular for its sprintime blooms, but residents can stroll wooded garden paths anytime of year or scout for turtles from the pedestrian bridge over the pond. The 6-mile Sawmill Branch Trail follows a canal, with bikers and runners utilizing the paved path.
Herbert H. Jessen Public Boat Landing in Summerville has a dock to launch your kayak.
Herbert H. Jessen Public Boat Landing in Summerville has amazing tree shaded trails.
Herbert H. Jessen Public Boat Landing is a popular place to fish in Summerville.
Summerville residents love to walk their dogs on the garden trails at Azalea Park.
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Downtown Summerville's restaurant and shopping district
Summerville’s downtown area helps to set the city apart from other Charleston suburbs. “We actually have a downtown. A lot of the other cities and towns in the Lowcountry, besides Charleston, don’t really have a downtown,” Makowski says. Residents of the city and nearby towns flock to the district, which includes several blocks of restaurants, shops and other businesses anchored by Hutchinson Square, the epicenter of city events and festivals. Meanwhile, residents can find more traditional suburban shopping centers near the interstate, including Azalea Square and North Main Market.
Historic downtown Summerville has excellent shops, breweries, cafes, and outdoor eateries.
Summerville families love to gather around the fountain for fun at Hutchinson Park.
Summerville residents can shop for all of their shopping needs at Azalea Square.
Belk at North Main Market is a popular department store to shop in Summerville.
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New construction in subdivisions and Lowcountry-style homes near downtown
A growing city, Summerville has nearly doubled in population since the turn of the century. The growth continues, partially due to lower housing prices compared to other Charleston suburbs. “When I first started in real estate, people used to say, ‘You put someone in the car at the ocean, and you drive inland until they say, This is the one I can afford,’” says Jon Stroud, a Realtor for the Stroud Team of The Boulevard Company who has worked in the Lowcountry for over 20 years. “Summerville is a great place to get a lot more home for the money.” The city’s median sales price is $393,000 compared to the national median of $407,200, though values have been ticking up. Larger homes near downtown in the traditional Lowcountry style, some from as early as the 19th century, can sell for $800,000 to $2 million, while ranch-style homes, townhouses and new construction often go between the mid-$100,000s and $300,000.
In Historic Summerville you can find an older 19th Century home.
Find tree shaded ranch-style homes In the historic section of downtown Summerville.
Find modern style townhomes with off-street parking in Summerville.
Summerville has beautiful new traditional style homes with double porches.
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Highly rated schools in Dorchester School District Two
Small portions of Summerville reside in the Berkeley County School District and the Charleston County School District, but Dorchester School District Two serves most of the city. The system receives an A-minus grade from Niche, which ranks it one of the top five most diverse districts in the state. The area also offers private school options, such as the A-rated Pinewood Preparatory School for prekindergarten through 12th grade.
Summerville Public Elementary School is an option for the little kids.
Fort Dorchester High School is a public option for towns on the outskirts of Summerville.
Summerville High is a public high school option for Summerville families.
Pinewood Preparatory School is an independent, co-educational school in Summerville.
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Commuting toward Charleston via Interstate 26
Interstate 26 runs through Summerville, leading 25 miles to Charleston. Residents often drive toward the city for work, and many employers are downtown or in North Charleston, such as Boeing, the Medical University of South Carolina or the U.S. military at Joint Base Charleston. Volvo also recently opened a manufacturing plant in Ridgeville, South Carolina, roughly 15 miles northwest. The continued growth of the Charleston suburbs has translated to increased commuter traffic, but Summerville is still a car-dependent area with limited access to public transit. The Tri-County Connector links to the Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority’s bus lines, but journeys into Charleston can take over 2 hours. Residents have easier access to Charleston International Airport, though, as it sits 15 miles away and offers nonstop flights to over 40 destinations.
Boeing is a large employer that is easily accessible for Summerville residents.
Many Summerville residents commute downtown for work at MUSC.
Charleston International Airport is a short commute from Summerville.
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Community safety in Summerville
According to FBI data, Summerville has higher than average crime rates. The city’s violent crime rate was 190.8 per 100,000 people per year compared to a state average of 132.4 and a national average of 119.3. The property crime rate is 279.5, compared to the average of 171.6 in South Carolina and 179.6 across the country. “I feel very safe in Summerville,” Makowski says. “We have about 55,000 residents, but over 200,000 people travel through on a daily basis. And if you’re in our town, whether that’s shopping, eating or driving through, our public safety departments are taking care of you. That could be a rise in some crime here or there.” Like much of the Lowcountry, Summerville has someflood risk, though less so than cities closer to the coast. Certain properties within FEMA-designated flood zones are required to be flood-insured. The subtropical climate includes hot, humid summers and mild winters.Hurricanes and tropical systems can affect the area, bringing high winds and heavy rain.
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Photography Contributed By
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Video By
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Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
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On average, homes in Summerville, SC sell after 56 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Summerville, SC over the last 12 months is $390,000, down 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
This beautifully designed Charleston-style home features an open floor plan, abundant natural light, and a bedroom on the first floor, perfect for guests or multi-generational living. The backyard is a true oasis with extended patio pavers, low-maintenance turf, and a tranquil fountain, creating the ideal space for entertaining. Upstairs, the spacious primary suite offers a private balcony,
Move-In Ready | 4BR + FROG | 4 Full Baths |Welcome to The Ponds! This spacious residence features 4 beds/4 full baths, a dedicated home office, and a large Finished Room Over Garage (FROG)--perfect for today's modern lifestyle. The open and functional floor plan provides generous living and entertaining spaces, while four full bathrooms ensure comfort and convenience for family and guests alike.
Step into this beautifully designed home located in The Woodwinds at Cane Bay Plantation, where modern style meets thoughtful functionality. The stunning chef's kitchen features crisp white cabinetry, gray quartz countertops, matte black hardware, a wall oven, and an open-concept layout perfect for entertaining. The spacious living area is anchored by a gas fireplace with a striking wood accent
Beautifully upgraded two-story home offering features you can't replicate by waiting on new construction. Enjoy LVP flooring downstairs, 10' ceilings, recessed lighting, 5-panel doors, oak tread staircase, and a chef's kitchen with gas cooktop, hood, wall-oven/microwave combo, large island seating four, and ceramic tile backsplash. The owner's suite features dual vanities, a standalone soaking
Absolutely breathtaking one-level home backing to serene, protected wooded wetlands with a stunning new (2024) 10' x 18' four-seasons room, freshly painted cement siding exterior (2024), and 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths. This home truly shines from every angle. From the moment you step inside, you are welcomed by soaring ceilings, elegant tile flooring, 3' plantation shutters, and walls of natural
Motivated Seller! Situated on a roomy lot in Summers Corner, this sprawling and charming home offers beautiful upgrades and thoughtful details throughout, including dual primary suites--one on each floor. The inviting exterior, lovely landscaping, and welcoming front porch set the tone before you even step inside. Once in the foyer, you'll immediately notice the white oak LVP flooring, updated
***Ask about the possibility of receiving 1% reduction in interest rate and free refi.***Located in the desirable Wentworth Hall community of Summerville, this spacious home offers a functional and inviting layout. A charming exterior welcomes you into a bright two-story foyer with warm wood flooring that flows throughout the main living areas. The open concept design connects the dining and
MOTIVATED SELLER! INCOME PRODUCING PROPERTY in the Heart of Downtown Summerville.Welcome to 1014 South Main Street, a rare opportunity to own a beautifully updated historic home with a fully furnished income-producing cottage in the highly sought-after Summerville Historic District. Just steps away from downtown shops, dining, parks, and events, this property offers exceptional walkability with
Lock-n-Leave! Stunning! Like-new! Discover this nearly new, immaculate 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath home located just one block from the award-winning Cresswind Community Center in the highly sought-after 55+ neighborhood of The Ponds! This home offers beautiful curb appeal, a fenced backyard, and a floor plan designed for both comfort and entertaining. Step inside to find gorgeous hardwood floors,
Discover this immaculate 2023-built home offering exceptional craftsmanship, thoughtful upgrades, and an unbeatable location--just a golf cart ride to all your favorite spots. Situated on one of the largest and most private lots in the area, this 3-bedroom, 2-bath home stands apart for buyers who value quality over square footage. While larger homes may exist, few offer this level of detail,
This home is on 1.83 acres of high land with the ability to build another home on the property (Accessory Dwelling Unit) and the house next to this is also for sale with 2.83 additional acres (302 Summerset) This property is just 15 minutes to downtown historic Summerville and also the I-26 at Jedberg Road. The home sits back off the paved road and you will feel like you are in a park-like
Welcome to 151 Osprey Lane in Limehouse Village!Taylor floor plan offers a rare 2+1 tandem garage and a private next-gen/in-law suite featuring its own kitchenette, full bath with walk-in shower, bedroom, and separate entrance--plus interior access to the main foyer. The main home boasts a formal dining room, and an open-concept layout. The kitchen is beautifully appointed with white cabinetry,
Welcome home to this move-in ready 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom residence in the heart of Summerville. Set on a generous lot with a large front yard, this home blends comfort, functionality, and long-term value. Inside, you'll find wood floors throughout much of the home, complemented by tile in select areas, creating a warm and inviting feel.The thoughtfully designed floor plan includes a family room,
Welcome to 205 Country Gate Lane, a beautifully appointed home that perfectly balances elegance, comfort, and Lowcountry charm. Set on one of the largest lots in Summers Corner, this property enjoys peaceful green space in front and a private pond with wooded views in back--an ideal setting for morning coffee or evening sunsets. Step inside to find custom barn doors leading to a warm and inviting
Live the Resort Life Every Day in The Four Seasons at Cane Bay!Welcome to your next chapter in this beautifully designed, single-story home nestled in one of the Lowcountry's premier 55+ resort communities. The Four Seasons at Cane Bay offers unmatched amenities including a 24,000 sq. ft. clubhouse, three sparkling pools, state-of-the-art fitness center, lighted tennis and pickleball courts, a
Townhome Unit! Apply within 7 days of touring to receive four months of half off rent (applicable towards the second, third, fourth and fifth months). Prices, promotions, and availability are subject to change. At Marlowe Summerville, our elevated community amenities and thoughtful details provide you with a truly unparalleled living experience. Take a dive in our half Olympic-sized swimming pool
Apply within 7 days of touring to receive four months of half off rent (applicable towards the second, third, fourth and fifth months). Prices, promotions, and availability are subject to change. At Marlowe Summerville, our elevated community amenities and thoughtful details provide you with a truly unparalleled living experience. Take a dive in our half Olympic-sized swimming pool or challenge
Apply within 7 days of touring to receive four months of half off rent (applicable towards the second, third, fourth and fifth months). Prices, promotions, and availability are subject to change. At Marlowe Summerville, our elevated community amenities and thoughtful details provide you with a truly unparalleled living experience. Take a dive in our half Olympic-sized swimming pool or challenge
Apply within 7 days of touring to receive four months of half off rent (applicable towards the second, third, fourth and fifth months). Prices, promotions, and availability are subject to change. At Marlowe Summerville, our elevated community amenities and thoughtful details provide you with a truly unparalleled living experience. Take a dive in our half Olympic-sized swimming pool or challenge
Apply within 7 days of touring to receive four months of half off rent (applicable towards the second, third, fourth and fifth months). Prices, promotions, and availability are subject to change. At Marlowe Summerville, our elevated community amenities and thoughtful details provide you with a truly unparalleled living experience. Take a dive in our half Olympic-sized swimming pool or challenge
Brand New Charming Charleston single-style home that offers all the right spaces without the high maintenance. From the moment you arrive, you'll love the standout curb appeal and inviting full front porch -- the perfect spot to relax and unwind.Inside, the thoughtfully designed layout features a main-level bedroom and full bathroom, ideal for guests, a home office, or added privacy. The
Contact the Leasing Team for Move in Specials! Prices, promotions, and availability are subject to change. Home is more than a place. It's a chance to gather. Get to know your neighbors. And feel like you belong. It's also what we're all about. At Covey Homes Wescott, located in Summerville, South Carolina, we go out of our way to create spaces that are warm, welcoming, and bring people
Contact the Leasing Team for Move in Specials! Prices, promotions, and availability are subject to change. Home is more than a place. It's a chance to gather. Get to know your neighbors. And feel like you belong. It's also what we're all about. At Covey Homes Wescott, located in Summerville, South Carolina, we go out of our way to create spaces that are warm, welcoming, and bring people
Contact the Leasing Team for Move in Specials! Prices, promotions, and availability are subject to change. Home is more than a place. It's a chance to gather. Get to know your neighbors. And feel like you belong. It's also what we're all about. At Covey Homes Wescott, located in Summerville, South Carolina, we go out of our way to create spaces that are warm, welcoming, and bring people
Owner desires to lease/purchase only. This property has 1.8 Acres and can have another home built on the property (ADU) or simply convert to detached garage into a small rental or family living unit. The land has no restrictions and it's okay to have a horse, chickens other animals or an RV or camperThis home has been updated one year agi and upgaded in every way. New paint, New Luxury Vinyl
Your new home awaits! 4 beds, and close to everything. The 1st floor has owners suite w/ double bowl vanity & WIC. The kitchen is well appointed with stainless steel appliances complete w/ fridge. Washer & dryer included. Fully enclose fenced in yard. Upstairs is simply beautiful. 3 secondary beds w/ huge closets and a loft space. The neighborhood has: 3 pools w/ 2 story waterslide, play park,
Welcome to 110 Crimson St in Midtown Nexton! Discover timeless style and everyday convenience in this beautiful 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home located in the heart of Summerville, SC. Designed with Southern grace and modern practicality, this home features double front porches, an open-concept floor plan, and a screened-in back porch ideal for relaxing or entertaining.Interior Highlights:Step into a
The quiet suburban community of Sangaree lies deep within historic Summerville, the birthplace of sweet tea. Surrounded by parks, beloved neighborhood restaurants, and a variety of retail, residents have many areas to explore. The community is served by the Berkeley County School District, and many buyers seek the highly rated school system. One of the biggest draws to Sangaree is its privacy. “There’s no HOA here,” says Realtor and Sangaree resident Danielle Morgain with Agent-Owned Realty Co. “I love it here because I can have my property exactly how I want without the constraints and fees of an HOA system.” In addition to being a resident, Morgain is Sangaree’s highest-selling agent.
Surrounding the Sangaree Duck Pond is an array of late 20th-century homes that occupy quarter- and half-acre lots. The pine-wooded enclaves of the community offer shading on hot summer days, where residents can walk to the serene pond. Buyers will find brick and paneled ranch-style homes, as well as two-story Colonial Revivals. Split-level homes are also available, as well as townhomes. Many homes have comfortable porches, backyards and private yards to relax or entertain. Prices in the community range from $250,000 to $300,000. “The housing prices are another perk of living here,” Morgain adds. “It’s challenging to find a home in the area for under $300,000.”
Students in pre-kindergarten through second grade attend Sangaree Elementary School, which has an overall score of B-plus on Niche. Students in third through fifth grade attend Sangaree Intermediate School, which scored a C-plus on Niche. Sangaree Middle School serves grades six through eight and has an overall B-minus. Students in grades nine through 12 attend Stratford High School, which has an A-minus on Niche. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities that reflect well on college applications, including coding club, student council and orchestra.
Sangaree's namesake duck pond is the star of the community. It is enclosed by a large green space, and residents can stroll on the walking path or enjoy the peaceful waters from a bench. Just over 3 miles away is the popular Azalea Park. This 12-acre garden showcases why Summerville is deemed the “Flower Town in the Pines.” With lush florals, long walking paths and eye-catching bronze statues, visitors get an eyeful in this shaded park. Gahagan Park is a favorite for athletic activities. The sports-oriented site features a large playground with a climbing castle, as well as baseball and football fields.
Residents are just minutes from historic Downtown Summerville — which claims to be where sweet tea got its start. “The downtown area is on the smaller side, but it’s a great place to spend a summer afternoon, take kids trick or treating in October or go look at Christmas lights in December,” says Morgain. Sangaree residents can walk the area to explore local boutiques and popular restaurants like Laura, a favorite for upscale Italian, or Shuckin’ Shack, an oyster bar. The annual Sweet Tea Festival downtown features endless pours, sweet tea merchandise, and a tea of the year contest. The area also hosts a Sweet Tea Cocktail Contest and Hold My Tea Bar Crawl. Residents can take Main Street to Summerville’s modern main drag. There are retail big box stores like Target, World Market and T.J. Maxx. Groceries can be picked up at Walmart, Food Lion or Piggly Wiggly. On weekends, residents can be found at the Regal Azalea Square cinema.
“We’re close to the interstate, which is great for commuters and those who want to get to retail quickly,” Morgain says. Interstate 26 makes it easy to get around the Summerville and Charleston areas. Residents are just about 20 miles from downtown Charleston and West Ashley, 30 miles from Mount Pleasant and 35 miles from the barrier islands. There are also CARTA bus stops that will connect residents to various areas around the peninsula. When residents need to access air travel, I-26 will take residents to Charleston International Airport. Medical necessities are also convenient, with Trident Medical Center just 5 miles away. The community is close to major local employers like Joint Base Charleston, many buyers choose Sangaree for its convenience.
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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.
