Only One South Carolina City Ranked As One Of The Most Livable Cities In The Country

There is a lot to love about South Carolina, which is why so many people love living here. So I was a little shocked when I came across a list of the best places to live in the country. Why? Well, only one South Carolina city was included on the list which rated the most livable cities. Can you guess which one it was? It's a city that gets lots and lots of love (for good reason). Charleston! And while I love Charleston, adore visiting, and even follow several influencers who live there and almost convince me it would be a great place to move- I'd say the humidity in the summer might categorize it as "unlivable". At least for my hair!

The list was created by a company called "Livability". They do their list a little differently and only include cities with a population between 75,000 and 500,000 people. So the major cities are nowhere to be found on this list. They curated the cities "based on nearly 100 data points and an algorithm taking into account measures of a city’s economy, housing and cost of living, amenities, transportation, environment, safety, education, and health." To learn more check out the Livability Top 100 Methodology.

So back to Charleston. This southern historic gem received a LivScore of 720 (out of a possible 1000). Its highest scores came in the areas of transportation, economy, and environment. There aren't too many cities that are as gorgeous as Charleston is, especially in the historic district. Cobblestone streets, palmetto trees, pastel-colored homes, and water views. It's truly stunning. Those homes will cost you a pretty penny though!

While South Carolina only scored one city, Charleston, on the most livable cities list the other Carolina faired better. North Carolina had five cities receive the honor. This included Cary, Concord, Durham, Asheville, and Winston-Salem. You can read more about the cities on this list and see the full list from Livability here.

Call me a simp, but I may or may not miss home from time to time. I was born and raised in Charleston, South Carolina and as much as I was ready to get out of there, it still holds a special place in my heart. Growing up, I use to think there was never much of anything to do. Don't get me wrong, some things are questionable but it's still home for me.

I don't go home often, but whenever people tell me they're going to Charleston I love telling them places to go and things to do. It's no fun being simple and going to the same old boring spots that everyone knows about. Sometimes being a local gives me the upper hand to know what places to recommend. So, I decided to put a list together of 5 spots that most people don't tell you about whenever you're visiting. I'm not saying these aren't places you may have not heard of, but it's places and things that hold a special place in my heart. So, let's take a crack at it!

If it's one thing I am going to do, it's eat some GREAT seafood when I am home. Everyone knows all of the popular sit-down, fancy restaurants around Downtown and Mt. Pleasant, but I know more local hole in the wall spots. My grandma has been in the same house since she was born in Downtown Charleston and this seafood spots is right around the corner. Dave's is my favorite place to eat whenever I am home. The small corner spot is serving hot, fresh seafood that will make you melt. I always enjoy the shrimp platter and it's nothing like it. The hours are a bit weird, but it's so worth it if you can catch them when they're open.

Nexton is a new area in the Summerville area, but it's well worth the visit. In Nexton, you will find plenty of food places and shopping, and homes to sightsee. From Viscous Biscuit having a line out the door during brunch, Bad Daddy's Burger Bar, Halls Chophouse, Ever Creamery, and so much more. If you want to just relax and enjoy a good day out in the sun, Nexton is a great spot to check out.

Check out Sullivan's Island if you are wanting the beach feels, but not to much of the crowd. Sullivan's Island is perfect spot to enjoy the beach and relax but not the complete chaos that Folly Beach and Isle of Palms may have. Trust me when I say, there is a difference. Either way, you're on the beach and can grab a bite to eat when you're free.

If you're looking for something cute and new to do, then head to the North Charleston Farmer's Market. Enjoy so many fresh things from bread, fruit, vegetables, and so much more. There will also be tons of local baked goods from Charleston's famous chewies to so much more! Sounds like a good time, doesn't it?

Oddly enough, many people don't know that Charleston has a water park. Yes, a water park. There are water slides, a lazy river, a wave pool, and more to enjoy. Head to Whirlin' Waters in North Charleston if you want to enjoy a good time with water not at the beach. There is plenty to do and you can grab some good food while you're there. Fun fact, I used to work there in the food services department.