Let the numbers do the talking.
Charleston, SC vs Pawleys Island, SC
Charleston, SC vs Pawleys Island, SC: What the data shows
Charleston, SC is in Charleston, SC while Pawleys Island, SC is in Pawleys Island, SC — both in the same state. On home prices, Charleston, SC is the more affordable option at $615,300 median — $104,700 less than Pawleys Island, SC's $720,000. WYLT rates Charleston, SC as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Pawleys Island, SC as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots.
Pawleys Island, SC has the stronger safety profile of the two. Charleston, SC has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Pawleys Island, SC has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Charleston, SC has Low flood risk and Pawleys Island, SC has Low flood risk.
Charleston, SC is the more walkable neighborhood. Charleston, SC scores 49/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Pawleys Island, SC's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, Pawleys Island, SC has the higher school rating — Charleston, SC rates 8.3/10 and Pawleys Island, SC rates 8.9/10.
| Category | Charleston, SC | Pawleys Island, SC |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Settle here |
| Median Price | $615K ✓ Lower price | $720K |
| Median Rent | $2K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $62K | $80K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 49/100 ✓ More walkable | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | 17/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 20 min | N/A |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | A ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8.3/10 | 8.9/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | FamiliesProfessionalsRemote workers | familiesbeach loversnature enthusiasts |
Bottom line
Both neighborhoods have distinct trade-offs — review the data above to find your best fit.
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