If you’re thinking about moving to James Island, you won’t be disappointed. It provides the perfect mix of laid-back coastal living with the suburban comfort of nearby Charleston.
Littered with beautiful marsh views and popular restaurants, James Island also offers top-rated schools. Full of Lowcountry charm and Southern hospitality, this blog will detail all the things you need to know about your new city.
Local Utilities in James Island
One of the first things you’ll need to do is get the utilities turned on in your new home. Having the water, power, and Internet turned on before you arrive will make moving in a breeze.
Electricity & Gas
This one is easy. There is only one provider on James Island for your electric and natural gas needs. You can start your service either online or over the phone.
Water & Sewer
There are two different companies that provide services for the island. You’ll need to check their website to determine which one will be your provider.
- Charleston Water System: They handle water and sewer services for most of the island. Their service is outstanding, and they are always willing to answer questions you might have. Check their website for more information.
- James Island Public Service District (JIPSD): They also provide water and sewer services for some areas of James Island. This is especially true for solid waste collection. Their website has all the information.
Trash & Recycling
For all James Island neighborhoods, JIPSD Environmental Services takes care of collecting your trash, yard debris, and recycling.
Internet & Cable
There are three main providers on James Island for Internet and Cable services:
- Xfinity
- AT&T Fiber
- Home Telecom
The availability of each of their services is address-dependent. You’ll need to check your address before choosing the appropriate company and plan for your location.
Local Schools in James Island
If you have school-age children, James Island is known for having some of the best-ranked public schools in the Charleston County School District.
Public Schools
- James Island Elementary: A neighborhood favorite with strong parent involvement.
- Harbor View Elementary: Highly rated and located in a picturesque, central part of the island.
- Camp Road Middle School: Serves most of the island and offers a range of academic programs.
- James Island Charter High School: One of the top public high schools in the region, with a wide variety of AP classes and extracurriculars.
Private & Charter Schools
For families looking for private school options, there are several:
- Nativity Catholic School
- Charleston Collegiate School
- Addlestone Hebrew Academy (located across the bridge in West Ashley)
Find out more information on the district website.
Local Neighborhood Groups in James Island
If you’re looking for a place with a small-town vibe, where neighbors help each other and the community rallies together for each other, you’ve found it on James Island. There are a number of local groups to help keep you in the loop and make connections with your neighbors.
Online Groups
There is an active Facebook group called James Island Neighbors that has helpful information on everything from lost pets to restaurants to home service tips.
Another way to stay informed is by using the Nextdoor app. It offers neighborhood insights with groups like Riverland Terrace, White House Plantation, and Seaside Plantation.
HOA and Civic Associations
Many of the James Island subdivisions have their own civic groups and HOAs that handle landscaping and plan community events. A few of the bigger ones:
- Riverland Terrace Neighborhood Association
- Woodward Pointe HOA
- Seaside Plantation Community Association
Things to Do in James Island
One of the most exciting things to do after you move in is to explore your new surroundings. Finding new places to visit and new places to eat is all part of getting settled in your new home.
Outdoor Fun
- James Island County Park: This is a local gem. This massive park boasts hiking trails, playgrounds, kayak rentals, dog parks, and the Holiday Festival of Lights. It’s not to be missed!
- Folly Beach: A beautiful expanse of sandy beach, it has a little bit of everything. If you wanted to surf or just sunbathe, or perhaps you wanted to share a cocktail by the pier, Folly Beach has it all.
- Pinckney Park and Dock Street Park: Great for walking the dog or watching a Lowcountry sunset.
Restaurants & Breweries
- The Lot: Farm-to-table dining with local ingredients.
- Grumpy Goat: Perfect for weekend brunch or casual drinks.
- Zia Taqueria: A local favorite for tacos and margaritas.
- Low Tide Brewing: Craft beers brewed right on the island, often with food trucks and live music.
Local Culture
James Island has the Terrace Theater, which has a wonderful small-town vibe that offers wine, craft beer, and comfy seats. Don’t miss out on Sunday Brunch Farmers Market either. It’s held at the Pour House parking lot and offers food trucks, live music, and fresh local produce.
- Terrace Theater: An indie movie theater with wine, craft beer, and comfy seats.
- Sunday Brunch Farmers Market: Held in the Pour House parking lot, it features local produce, food trucks, and live music.
Settling Into Life on James Island
Whether you’re moving because of a job or life circumstances, James Island has a little bit of everything. Chasing sunsets or the perfect shrimp basket, life on the island can be everything you’d hope it could be.
Providing singular outdoor beauty with lush marshes, pristine beaches, and sunsets to die for, James Island will take your breath away. It’s no wonder so many fall in love with this little slice of Lowcountry.
If you have questions about your move or want to book a trusted company for your moving needs, reach out to Smooth Move.