You should come here for college
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C of C, CSU, Trident, are all great schools. Even being from out of state, Trident is probably still in your budget because it's a community college so your out of state tuition there is probably still cheaper than in-state tuition at a state 4-year school... so if you're set on living here, that's the way to do it. If you go off for college or grad school, you can always return home after college (or transfer) if you don't like it. There's a lot less risk. No one says you have to stay in your college town forever, but if one of the schools here is notable for a major you really like, it's a great opportunity.
But here are my answers. Just FYI, I'm 27, married, female, no kiddos
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1. What is the best area to live in with 3-4 roommates? Would you recommend the downtown area or farther from the city?
On a college campus. I was there once (not at college here, though). Having roomies in college can be fun, but even living with your friends... they may not be your friends much longer once you live with them. I lived with my best friend for my freshman year and it was great. We were still friends after that year. But we stopped living together. 2 years later, we were no longer in touch (we're still not). She was my best friend all through middle and high school. At least in college, if you have a roommate issue you can take that up with residence life.
2. What is the nightlife like in the downtown area?
Not really into nightlife, but the college kids love it there. There's a lot of bars and places to go, once you're old enough to drink of course
. I think there are a few where you can get in under 21 though just to dance, but be careful with it. Always go with a group of friends, that sort of thing. Geez, I sound like a mom here... but really, I have known people to have bad experiences when partying and it's sad to see it happen to girls.
3. I'm a big history buff and I like the paranormal, so what are some great group activities to go see? (Loved my tour of fort Sumter btw)
Lots of plantations up Hwy 61. Charles Towne Landing too... those are away from downtown but still nice. Also we have the Yorktown Aircraft Carrier and Patriot's Point Museum here.
4. Would you recommend renting or buying a house?
Rent until you're sure you want to stay here and you have a steady job. Even moving here at 26, we rented for a year before buying. Buying and owning a home is fun. Having to sell a home because you're broke or you're having to move away for a job (or because things just didn't work out) isn't fun.
5. What is some of the advice you can give to an out of stater? (Tips, best shops, favorite beach, ect.)
You pretty much have to have a car unless you live downtown. As far as favorite beach, I like Isle of Palms. Favorite shops... Tanger Outlet Mall.
6. What are the top 5 things to see or do in Charleston?
For me... downtown restaurants are great. I also like the beach, running over the Ravenel Bridge (you can walk it too). The Battery is another great place to walk or run. There are outdoor concerts in the summer that are fun.
Last question, I promise!!!
7. What do love and or dislike about Charleston?
I love most things... it's a great city. I don't love that people seem a bit biased toward some areas and neighborhoods. There's a lot of hate for North Charleston, and I don't think it's that bad. Also I mainly wish more restaurants, shops, etc would come back to West Ashley.
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