Charleston SC is known for being one of America’s hot spots for retirees seeking to enjoy the “Golden Years” as it were. South Carolina in general is quickly becoming the go-to place to retire for boomers looking for an active lifestyle, affordability, nice weather, and convenience. “Embracing the Golden Years: A Guide to Living and Owning Real Estate in a 55+ Active Adult Community in SC”.

As individuals embark on their golden years, many find solace and fulfillment in the vibrant lifestyle offered by 55+ active adult communities of South Carolina, specifically Charleston. These carefully curated environments, also known as senior living communities or retirement communities, provide an age-appropriate haven for those seeking a tailored living experience. Below we will share not only the great aspects of living in one of these neighborhoods but also provide a list of all the 55+ friendly communities in the Charleston, Summerville area, as well as others in South Carolina should the coast not be for you.

MLS Listings Data


Total Listings:	200
Average Price:	$729,774
Highest Listing Price:	$4,186,200
Average Days On Market:	79

There are 200 homes for sale in Charleston SC in 55+ Neighborhoods. Adult active real estate property listings have an average sales price of $729,774, ranging in price from $262,500 to $4,186,200. The average sq ft home is approximately 1,914 square feet for a house in 55+ communities. The largest property for sale is 3,771 sqft and the smallest 0 sqft. View property listings for sale by price, street, subdivision, age, property type, location, features, size, listing date, and time on MLS with an average of seventy-eight days on the market.

If you need a consultation and marketing analysis about selling & listing your property for sale OR need an agent to assist in the purchase of a home, condo, or any real estate transaction please contact our team or call at 843.473.8061. For anyone just looking to visit SC and need a place to stay try HERE for your convenience.

Discovering the Essence of 55+ Communities:

At the heart of 55+ communities is the concept of active adult living, emphasizing a lifestyle that promotes engagement, wellness, and social connections. These age-restricted communities offer senior-friendly homes designed to meet the unique needs of residents, often featuring single-level living options, wider doorways, and thoughtful accessibility considerations. These communities will be most certainly recognized by having only one-story, ground-level patio homes, with an occasional finished room over the garage (A.k.a FROG) for visiting family.

Maintenance-Free Living for Peace of Mind:

One of the hallmarks of owning real estate in a 55+ community is the promise of maintenance-free living. Residents can bid farewell to the hassles of exterior upkeep and landscaping, allowing them to focus on what truly matters – enjoying their leisure time, pursuing hobbies, and building lasting connections with neighbors. As far as Charleston SC is concerned almost all the 55+ communities are in Summerville, and built by Pulte Homes’s active adult line of communities called Del Webb. Del Webb is known as the premier 55+ home builder in the United States, pioneering the concept. In Summerville, there are two Del Webb communities: Nexton & Cane Bay Del Webb, two very large developments where Pulte/Del Webb purchased the land to specifically fill this need in the Charleston area. The other popular option in Cane Bay that was not developed by Del Webb is called Four Seasons. Which has all the same or similar amenities and lifestyle options as Del Webb.

LIST OF 55+ COMMUNITIES IN CHARLESTON Tri-County Area

Recreational Amenities Designed for Active Seniors:

These communities boast an array of recreational amenities specifically tailored for seniors. Fitness centers, golf courses, walking trails, and social clubs are just a few of the offerings that contribute to an active and vibrant lifestyle. Such amenities not only promote physical well-being but also provide ample opportunities for residents to engage in activities that bring them joy. Summerville SC also has two other 55+ neighborhoods: The Horizons at Summer’s Corner, and The Ponds at Cresswind.

Fostering Social Connections through Community Events:

A key aspect of life in a 55+ community is the sense of belonging fostered through community events for seniors. These gatherings, whether social, educational, or cultural, create an age-appropriate atmosphere that encourages socialization, friendship-building, and the shared enjoyment of common interests.

The upstate and Midlands also provide some good options. Some communities for retirees in South Carolina like Hulon Green in Columbia SC, Swansgate Village in Greenville, and Rolling Green Village in Greenville SC, just to name a few will have medical personnel on-site, daily meal delivery, linen cleaning, and housekeeping depending on the development.

Exploring Diverse Senior Housing Options:

Prospective residents can choose from a variety of senior housing options, ranging from cozy single-family homes to spacious condominiums such as The Peninsula of Charleston, which is an exclusive luxury highend $2Million+ condominium concept 55+ development for those who relish urban living downtown. This diversity ensures that individuals can find a residence that suits their preferences and accommodates their changing needs over time. There is another condominium 55+ development in the Myrtle Beach areas called Covenant Towers, and in Grande Dunes luxury community of Myrtle Beach, there are townhomes (see below for a list).

Amenities Tailored for Retirees:

Beyond recreational facilities, 55+ communities often provide amenities specifically tailored for retirees. These may include on-site healthcare services, community centers, and various wellness programs, further enhancing the overall quality of life for residents. There is one community in Mount Pleasant SC (of Charleston County) called The Restore if being closer to the beach is what you are looking for.

Building Lasting Connections in a Close-Knit Senior Community:

The close-knit nature of these communities is a hallmark feature. Residents often find a supportive network of like-minded individuals, fostering a sense of community and shared experiences that make the golden years truly golden.

In conclusion, living in and owning real estate in a 55+ active adult community is a deliberate choice for those seeking a fulfilling and age-appropriate lifestyle. From senior-friendly homes to maintenance-free living and a rich tapestry of recreational and social opportunities, these communities offer a holistic approach to embracing the golden years.

The Myrtle Beach South Carolina region is also very active with 55+ communities & active adult developments, such as Grande Dunes Living Dunes, Del Webb Myrtle Beach, and Covenant Towers for those who would prefer an attached home instead. Below are all the patio home 55+ neighborhoods in the Myrtle Beach region.