Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston, South Carolina, is a historic and charming city located on the southeastern coast of the United States. Here are some key details about Charleston:

General Information

• Location: Charleston County, southeastern South Carolina
• Population: Approximately 150,000 (as of the 2020 census)
• Founded: 1670
• Nicknames: “The Holy City” (due to its many churches)

Education

• Major Universities:
  • College of Charleston
  • The Citadel (The Military College of South Carolina)
  • Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC)
  • Charleston Southern University

Economy

• Major Industries:
  • Tourism
  • Healthcare
  • Manufacturing
  • Technology
• Major Employers:
  • Boeing
  • Roper St. Francis Healthcare
  • Medical University of South Carolina
  • Joint Base Charleston

Attractions

• Historic Sites:
  • Fort Sumter National Monument
  • The Battery and White Point Garden
  • Historic Charleston City Market
  • Rainbow Row
• Museums and Cultural Sites:
  • Charleston Museum
  • Gibbes Museum of Art
  • Old Slave Mart Museum
  • Nathaniel Russell House
• Parks and Recreation:
  • Waterfront Park
  • Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
  • Middleton Place
  • Angel Oak Tree

Climate

• Climate Type: Humid subtropical
• Average Temperatures:
  • Summer: Highs in the upper 80s to low 90s °F (31-34 °C)
  • Winter: Highs in the mid-50s to low 60s °F (13-16 °C)
  • Precipitation: Fairly evenly distributed, with a wetter season from June to September

Transportation

• Major Highways: I-26, I-526, U.S. Route 17
• Public Transit: Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA)
• Airport: Charleston International Airport (CHS)

Culture and Events

• Annual Events:
  • Spoleto Festival USA (performing arts festival)
  • Charleston Wine + Food Festival
  • Charleston Fashion Week
  • Southeastern Wildlife Exposition
• Music and Theaters:
  • Charleston Symphony Orchestra
  • Dock Street Theatre
  • Charleston Music Hall

Government

• City Government: Mayor-council government
• Mayor: John Tecklenburg (as of 2024)

Charleston is renowned for its well-preserved architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and significant role in American history. The city’s blend of historic charm and modern amenities, coupled with its Southern hospitality, makes it a popular destination for tourists and a desirable place to live.