If you’re considering moving to Summerville, South Carolina, you’re in for a treat. It has all the charm you expect from a southern town, including a family-friendly atmosphere and tree-lined streets chock full of historic sites.
But Summerville is more than just a beautiful place to live. It’s a thriving community offering a mix of southern hospitality and modern conveniences.
Whether you’re preparing for your move or are new to the area, settling into a new community can feel overwhelming. To help, we’ve put together a guide to some of the resources every Summerville resident should be aware of.
Local Utilities in Summerville
One of the first things on your to-do list will likely be setting up your utilities. Below are key utilities and their providers:
Electricity
Dominion Energy supplies the central parts of Summerville, while Berkeley Electric supplies the surrounding areas.
Water and Sewer
As with electrical providers, water and sewer providers are location dependent. Summerville Commissioners of Public Works (CPW) provide services inside the town limits. Residents outside the town limits have the Dorchester County Water Authority as their provider.
Trash and Recycling
The Town of Summerville Public Works provides trash and recycling services for those residents inside town limits. They offer trash and yard debris pickup as well as recycling services.
Natural Gas
Dominion Energy provides natural gas services for almost the entire Lowcountry region.
Internet and Cable
There are a few different options for high-speed internet, including Comcast Xfinity, AT&T Fiber, and Home Telecom.
It’s a good idea to contact the providers in advance so services are activated before your arrival.
Local Schools in Summerville
You’ll be excited to know that Dorchester School District Two is one of the top-ranked districts in the state. They focus on academic achievement, athletics, and art.
The most notable schools are listed below:
- Summerville High School: Known for its strong athletics program and academic excellence.
- Rollings Middle School of the Arts: This magnet school offers advanced arts education.
- Beech Hill Elementary: Known for outstanding student and community involvement.
- Ashley Ridge High School: Students are noted for their academic achievements and their community involvement.
There are also several private and charter school options, including:
- Summerville Catholic School
- Trident Academy
- Coastal Montessori Charter School
Families new to the area should visit www.ddtwo.org to learn more about school zones, enrollment requirements, and programs.
Local Neighborhood Groups in Summerville
The best way to learn about your community is to get involved in activities and events. There are a lot of ways to stay informed about what’s happening in your new home. The most popular ways to stay involved are listed below:
- Nextdoor is a social platform that allows residents to post updates, events, safety alerts, and recommendations.
- Facebook Groups provide a great way to connect. The most popular groups are Summerville Moms, Lowcountry Buy, and Summerville Community Chat.
- Some of the larger subdivisions, like Cane Bay Plantation, Nexton, and The Ponds, provide their own HOA websites and Facebook pages with helpful information for residents.
Becoming involved in the community is a great way to make new friends, build relationships, and stay informed about your new home.
Local Things to Do in Summerville
Summerville has a rich history of local attractions and activities for residents to explore. Listed below are some of the most popular:
- Historic Downtown Summerville: This area is full of farmers’ markets, art galleries, cafes, and locally owned and operated shops.
- Azalea Park: This beautiful park is located in the heart of town and offers sculptures, walking trails, and tennis courts.
- Summerville Farmers Market: This market is held every Saturday between April and November and offers baked goods, crafts, and fresh produce.
- Magnolia Plantation: Offering a glimpse into the area’s rich history, this historic plantation boasts walking tours and gorgeous gardens.
- Local Breweries and Dining: Be sure to imbibe local cuisine and brews at Homegrown
- Brewhouse, Swig & Swine, and Oscar’s of Summerville.
There are several places to check out for family fun, including Summerville Skate Park, Gahagan Park, and Ashley River, which can be explored by kayak or paddleboard.
Additional Summerville Resources (City/Local Websites)
There are several official sources that provide information for residents. Those sites are listed below:
- Town of Summerville Official Website: www.summervillesc.gov
Find information on town services, permits, public works, parks, and upcoming events. - Dorchester County Government: www.dorchestercountysc.gov
Information about property taxes, emergency services, and planning and zoning. - Greater Summerville/Dorchester County Chamber of Commerce: www.greatersummerville.org
You can find information about local businesses, economic development, and networking events.
Embrace Your New Neighborhood
Yes, moving can be stressful, and starting over in a new location can be stressful, but with the local hospitality of the town and its residents, you’ll soon feel welcome!
One way to lower your stress and become part of Summerville is to embrace the historic features and relish the local charm by joining groups and building relationships.
Another way to lower stress is by hiring professional movers to take care of all of your moving needs. We offer free quotes and can schedule your move today.