Daniel Island ?'s (Charleston: fit in, how much, homes)

[andilm]

We are entertaining the idea of relocation to the Charleston area and are intrigued by Daniel Island. Am wondering...

1. Are bugs, snakes, alligators a problem for homes on the marsh/water? We have Jack Russel terriors that think snakes are really fun toys.
2. Would Republican Methodists from the south "fit in"? Be a vast minority?
3. Are there any thriving Methodist or Presbyterian churches with great children's programs near DI?
4. Is there any plan for a public high school in the works?
5. Are goods and services "on island" such as groceries, restaurants, dry cleaning etc... priced at a premium that makes you grit your teeth or feel like you have to go to MtP instead?

Thanks so much for any information!! It is such a beautiful, beautiful area!

[guttata]

Originally Posted by andilm

We are entertaining the idea of relocation to the Charleston area and are intrigued by Daniel Island. Am wondering...

1. Are bugs, snakes, alligators a problem for homes on the marsh/water? We have Jack Russel terriors that think snakes are really fun toys.
2. Would Republican Methodists from the south "fit in"? Be a vast minority?
3. Are there any thriving Methodist or Presbyterian churches with great children's programs near DI?
4. Is there any plan for a public high school in the works?
5. Are goods and services "on island" such as groceries, restaurants, dry cleaning etc... priced at a premium that makes you grit your teeth or feel like you have to go to MtP instead?

Thanks so much for any information!! It is such a beautiful, beautiful area!

1. Yes, it can be a problem if your dog gets too close to the water edge. We have seen gators (sunning) by most of the 'ponds' on the island. Bugs are hit or miss and seem to be worse in the spring. Have not seen many snakes but I am sure they are out there.

2-3. Not sure.

4. Yes. Still in the planning stages - not sure if they have even secured land yet. There will be demand given the growth of the island and area.

5. Groceries (Publix) seem to be the same price as in Mt Pleasant. Publix will not be as cheap as Bi-Lo or Food Lion but not as expensive as Harris Teeter or Whole Foods. I think Publix prices are higher than national average. Not sure what area you are coming from, but it is more expensive than Kroger, even some Wegmans. It is a small Publix - I occasionally go to the Harris Teeter on Long Point for more selection.

Restaurants - depends. There are some overpriced restaurants on the island. And some more fairly priced. I'd say 50:50 ratio.

Dry cleaners - comparable to slightly higher than Mt Pleasant. I find dry cleaners to be more expensive here overall.

There are a bunch of shops/restaurant/groceries one exit south/east (about 2 miles) on 526 (Long Point Road) so it's not like we are completely isolated.

[andilm]

Thank you so much for the info. We'll make sure to keep the dogs away from the gators and hopefully the snakes too! Good to know that choices in grocery etc... are so close by. I read on GreatSchools - Public and Private School Ratings, Reviews and Parent Community that the schools in the area a good also. Sounds like paradise. Can't wait to come spend some time and see for myself !

[aetcas]

Anyone know if Daniel Island in a flood prone area? Sure seems like it would be quick to flood if a hurricane came in our direction.

[guttata]

Originally Posted by aetcas

Anyone know if Daniel Island in a flood prone area? Sure seems like it would be quick to flood if a hurricane came in our direction.

Most, if not all, of Daniel Island is in a flood zone. DI is not a barrier island, but most scenarios show much of DI underwater with a moderate-strong hurricane.

[kathyfk]

we're looking at Daniel Island as a possible retirement. am wondering if anyone has any thoughts. Heard it was mostly young families. Are there any places around Charleston that might be better for retirees? Appreciate any feedback.

[DJShymansky]

Actually, DI would be a fantastic place for retirees. Amenities are nearby, golf, walkable neighborhoods, etc. There are young professional families on Daniel Island, of course, but retirees are a good portion of the population as well. Mt. Pleasant, as well, would have areas and neighborhoods that I'd recommend. It all depends upon the specific lifestyle you're looking for.

[kathyfk]

Thanks for your reply. What portion of the DI population are retirees? Also wondering if the island is divided by the country club? Are social memberships restricted to one side of the island? Thanks.

[kathyfk]

Originally Posted by DJShymansky

Actually, DI would be a fantastic place for retirees. Amenities are nearby, golf, walkable neighborhoods, etc. There are young professional families on Daniel Island, of course, but retirees are a good portion of the population as well. Mt. Pleasant, as well, would have areas and neighborhoods that I'd recommend. It all depends upon the specific lifestyle you're looking for.

What areas in Mt Pleasant would you recommend? We'd like to try a variety of activities--golf, kayaking, meeting other retirees. Thanks.

[DJShymansky]

Well price as well would dictate neighborhoods, but areas like Seaside Farms, Marais, I'on, Wild Dunes, etc., would all be social locations, with a good deal of retirees, and amenities either inside the neighborhood, or extremely close by.