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We are considering coastal South Carolina for our new home.
Some things that are important to us are
1. jobs - I'm in physical therapy while my husband is a machinist (in plastics)
2. schools - we'll have two in high school when we move. One will definitely need a public school that has a golf team. The other needs a school system with OT services
3. outdoor activities - we like camping, hiking, boating
4. nightlife - we like a little variety in drinking establishments
5. small town feel - we enjoy small town living and would prefer to live in one, but within 20 minute drive of #1, 4, & 5
Any input would be AWESOME so we can plan a trip to check your suggestions out!! Thanks!
I recommend you seriously look into Summerville for the affordability, schools, activities and small town feel. Any kind of night life you could ever want isn't very far away.
Considering the Charleston, SC area for your next move is a good idea given the criteria you indicated.
Charleston has that small time feel that you're looking for, but the locale is easily accessible to and from surburban areas. There are plenty of opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities especially boating as we are surrounded by water.
Hospitals and doctor's offices are plentiful for you the Physical Therapist and there are lots of industries here where a Machinist could find work - notably Boeing which just moved its operations here and is currently building a massive plant. You can also find a diverse nightlife not only in Downtown Charleston, but also in many other surrounding communities.
I would recommend looking into the Summerville, Daniel Island or Mt. Pleasant areas, taking into account all that you mentioned, including your need to keep commuting time to 20 min. or so, as well as needing to find a high school with a golf team. Look up Pinewood Preparatory School (private) in Summerville, Fort Dorchester HS (public - in the touted Dorchester II School District) in Summerville, Bishop England HS (parochial - Charleston County) on Daniel Island and Wando HS (public - Charleston County School District) in Mt. Pleasant.
I hope that this information helps. Let me know if I can be of further assistance.
I think this area would be one stop fun for you with regards to camping, boating, hiking: Buck Hall Recreation Area
Buck Hall is a camping area located on the intracoastal waterway where you can put in your boat, camp, hike, etc. - lots of fun and located only 10-15 min up Hwy 17N from Mount Pleasant!
Sounds like James Island might be a good fit. James Island Charter High School has a great IB program and a golf team. James Island County Park offers camping, nature trails, etc. Boating abounds. About 10-15 minutes to downtown Charleston. Good luck with your move!
Summerville is in the Dorchester II school district. Well most of Summerville is. Make sure you ask that question before taking a home if you intend to send your kids to public school. They have High School golf too.
Best of Luck to you and your family.
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