Relocating to Summerville SC? Here Are 10 Things You Should Know Before You Buy

Hey there! I’m Carl Polk, and I’ve been helping families find their perfect home in Summerville for years now. But here’s the thing, I’m not just another real estate agent who moved here last year. I actually grew up in Summerville, so I know this town like the back of my hand.

After spending 30 years solving complex technical problems in my previous career, I bring that same problem-solving mindset to Summerville SC real estate. Whether you’re relocating from out of state or just moving from Charleston, I want to make sure you have all the information you need before making one of the biggest decisions of your life.

So let’s dive into the 10 things you absolutely need to know about relocating to Summerville SC.

1. Welcome to “Flowertown in the Pines”

First things first, Summerville isn’t just any suburb. We’re officially known as “Flowertown in the Pines,” and trust me, it’s not just a cute nickname. Every spring, the azaleas bloom like crazy, and the whole town transforms into something out of a postcard. The tree-lined streets and Southern charm aren’t just for show, they’re part of our everyday life here.

2. The Housing Market Is Competitive (But Not Crazy)

Let’s talk numbers because I know that’s what you’re really wondering about. The Summerville SC housing market has a median home price sitting around $375,000 right now. That said, you’ll find homes for sale in Summerville SC ranging from the mid-$300s all the way up past $700,000 depending on what neighborhood you’re looking at and what amenities you want.

Here’s my advice: use good tools to search smart. I recommend the ONE App to all my clients, it lets you search for homes in real-time (not those outdated listings from three days ago), and you can even check commute times to your new workplace right from the app. It’s been a game-changer for folks who are relocating and trying to figure out logistics.

3. The Best Neighborhoods in Summerville SC? There’s Something for Everyone

This is where my local knowledge really comes in handy. Summerville has more than 25 different subsections and neighborhoods, each with its own personality:

Nexton is the hot new kid on the block, a massive 5,000-acre walkable community with shops, restaurants, and trails. Perfect if you want that modern, everything-at-your-fingertips lifestyle.

Cane Bay Plantation is all about resort-style living with golf cart pathways everywhere. (Yes, golf cart culture is real here, and it’s awesome.)

Carnes Crossroads is South Carolina’s first “agrihood” with community farms and agriculture built right into the neighborhood design.

Summers Corner is great for nature lovers with tons of outdoor space and trails.

And if you’re looking for something more affordable without HOA restrictions, established neighborhoods like Sangaree and Ashborough might be your sweet spot.

4. HOA Fees and Property Taxes Won’t Break the Bank

Most neighborhoods charge HOA fees between $600 and $1,000 annually, not the crazy $300-a-month fees you might see in some other states. Property taxes here are pretty reasonable too, sitting around 0.5-0.7% of your home’s assessed value. Sales tax is 9%, which is something to keep in mind for your budgeting.

5. The Schools Are Legit

If you’ve got kids (or planning to), you’ll be happy to know Summerville is served by Dorchester County District 2 and Berkeley County schools, both of which are highly rated. Several of the newer neighborhoods even have brand-new middle schools opening, which is a huge plus for education-focused families.

6. Your Charleston Commute: Let’s Be Real About It

Summerville is about 25 miles northwest of Charleston. On a good day, you’re looking at a 30-minute commute. On a bad day during rush hour? Yeah, it could push 60 minutes. Interstate 26 and Highway 178 are your main routes, and I-26 is generally faster when traffic is light.

This is exactly why I tell clients to use the ONE App: you can plug in your work address and see real commute times from different neighborhoods. No guessing games.

7. Golf Cart Living Is Actually a Thing

I know it sounds quirky, but neighborhoods like Nexton and Cane Bay have dedicated golf cart trails, and people actually use them for short trips around the neighborhood. It’s safe, it’s practical, and honestly? It’s pretty fun. The town is working on becoming more walkable overall, though you’ll still need a car for most daily activities.

8. You’re Close to Everything (Including the Beach)

One of my favorite things about Summerville is the location. You’re about 30-40 minutes from the beach, close enough for weekend trips but far enough away to avoid the tourist chaos and higher coastal prices. Plus, you’ve got easy access to Charleston, North Charleston, and Goose Creek thanks to Interstate 26, Highway 17A, and Highway 78.

9. The Community Feel Is Real

Summerville isn’t just a place where people sleep between work shifts. There’s actual community here: block parties, farmers markets, community events, parks everywhere. We’ve got the second-largest YMCA on the entire East Coast in Cane Bay, multiple pools, and miles of trails. People here are friendly, and folks actually wave at each other.

Growing up here, I remember when Summerville was much smaller. The growth has been incredible, but we’ve managed to keep that small-town feel even as we’ve expanded.

10. The Job Market Is Growing

Summerville’s economy is thriving right now. New businesses are setting up shop, and with Charleston so close, you’ve got plenty of professional opportunities across various industries. The growth is real, and it’s attracting people from all over the country who want that perfect balance of career opportunity and quality of life.

Ready to Make Your Move?

Look, relocating to Summerville SC is a big decision, and I get it. After 30 years of solving complex problems professionally, I approach every home search the same way: methodically, thoroughly, and with your best interests in mind.

Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Summerville SC or you want to understand what different neighborhoods in Summerville SC have to offer, I’m here to help. I know which streets flood, which neighborhoods have the best school zones, and which builders actually show up when there’s a problem.

Want to get started? Check out real-time listings on my website and download the ONE App to start searching with all the tools you need. If you already own a home elsewhere and want to know its value before making your move, I can help with that too.

Summerville isn’t perfect, but it’s pretty darn close for a lot of families. Let’s talk and figure out if it’s the right fit for you.