Tucked away amidst scenic beauty known only to the Lowcountry, Mount Pleasant is known for its vibrant community, historical significance, and coastal charm.
From its humble origins as a small fishing village, it has evolved into a sought-after residential area with Southern roots and plenty of modern amenities.
As a homeowner in South Carolina, you may be wondering if a move to Mount Pleasant is the right fit for you and your loved ones.
By carefully examining the location, housing, education, community, employment, safety, and recreation of Mount Pleasant, we hope to help you make the best decision for you and yours.
Location and Accessibility
Just east of the Cooper River, Mount Pleasant is situated right on the Atlantic Ocean. This placement makes travel to Charleston incredibly easy, as well as access to the rest of the state and country via US-17 or I-526. Though neighboring Charleston features its own bus system, a car or other personal mode of transportation is generally required in order to get around Mount Pleasant.
Its location on the coast in the Lowcountry means that residents can expect to wear flip-flops and enjoy outdoor leisure year-round.
Beyond geographical location, the ease of access to essential amenities and services, including shopping centers, schools, and healthcare facilities, sets Mount Pleasant apart from other neighboring towns.
Quality of Schools
For families with children, education is one of the top considerations when choosing where to buy a home. Mount Pleasant has 17 public schools and 12 private schools available for children in the community. Oceanside Collegiate Academy, Wando High School, and Mt. Pleasant Academy are the top three public schools in town.
Mount Pleasant’s public schools have an average math proficiency score of 75% and reading proficiency score of 77%, leaps and bounds above the state averages.
The average ranking of schools in Mount Pleasant is 10/10, placing them in the top 1% of South Carolina’s schools in regard to academics & extracurriculars available.
Community and Lifestyle
Mount Pleasant’s community atmosphere can be best described as family-friendly. The frequency of community events and local gatherings allows residents to feel a part of a tightly woven extended family founded on Southern hospitality and camaraderie.
The cultural and recreational activities in Mount Pleasant cater to a diverse range of interests. With its proximity to the coast, residents can enjoy water-centric activities like boating, fishing, and kayaking. The town features a handful of parks and other green spaces, making family picnics and trips to the playground the norm.
Culture and art enthusiasts can explore historical sites, galleries, breweries, and fine dining without ever leaving Mount Pleasant. With a move to Mount Pleasant, residents can balance relaxation with intentional, meaningful recreation.
Employment Opportunities
A short drive from Charleston, employment opportunities in and around Mount Pleasant are abundant.
Given its coastal location and historical attractions, the hospitality and tourism sector plays a significant role. Jobs in hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues contribute to the local economy.
Jobs in healthcare are also common, with the presence of the Medical University of South Carolina being a major employer for medical professionals and support staff.
Mount Pleasant has a thriving retail sector, including shopping centers and local businesses. The town’s growth has led to increased demand for various services, creating jobs in retail, customer service, and small businesses.
As previously discussed, Mount Pleasant is ahead of the state in education. There are employment opportunities in schools, both in teaching and administrative roles.
The Charleston area, including Mount Pleasant, has seen growth in the technology sector. Tech companies and startups are emerging, attracting professionals in IT, software development, and related fields.
Although Boeing’s main facility is in North Charleston, its presence contributes to the broader economic landscape, including job opportunities in manufacturing and aerospace.
Safety and Crime Rates
While there’s always some element of crime in any area, safety for yourself and your loved ones is a top concern when choosing where to settle.
If Mount Pleasant has already begun to win your heart, you’ll be pleased to know that Mount Pleasant’s overall crime rate is 34% below the national average. Violent crime in Mount Pleasant is lower than the national average by 65.8%. Of the total crimes reported in Mount Pleasant in 2022, the vast majority were theft or property crimes.
In addition to its close proximity to the largest police force in South Carolina, Mount Pleasant also has its own police force. Overall, Mount Pleasant is considered one of the safest cities in South Carolina.
Make Mount Pleasant Home
Offering a perfect blend of historical charm, coastal beauty, and community that is like family, Mount Pleasant is an ideal place to call home. Its proximity to Charleston and diverse housing options, from historic homes to modern developments, cater to varying preferences and budgets.
The town’s commitment to education is highly appealing to families, while its many recreational and cultural amenities help make memories that last a lifetime.
With a commitment to safety, a consistent job market, and a flourishing natural environment, Mount Pleasant encapsulates Southern living in a way other towns fall short.