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I've lived in all three major metros in the state. Both have a lot to offer. I find both areas geographically gorgeous. However, the type of person that prefers to be by the beach only once a year. I think you would be happy with either city. I would visit Columbia before making any decisions though.
I wouldnt go by this forum much. No disrespect to anyone's opinions, but some I just cant make sense of. Ive seen posts criticize Columbia for being too conservative, yet praise Greenville and criticize Columbia's crime rate, yet praise Charleston.
I understand city pride. I understand the members in G'ville and Columbia who irritate each other. Here's my thoughts on the rude comments and personal attacks: it is a good way to quickly accrue a lot of infraction points. If this is what you want I am more than happy to oblige. And I will.
when we relocated to SC, we spent a good week here not only checking out the cities but doing things we would do if we lived there (zoo, parks, lake, beach, etc). For what we wanted (esp the lake) the Columbia area won out. We love it here, not only for what it offers us but the fact that we are centrally located is huge. Both Charleston and the beach are an easy day trip for us, one that we make at least once every month or two. And in the other direction Greenville (and the mountains, waterfalls, etc) are also a good day trip for us. Coming from WI, you dont get either in a 2 hr drive lol.
I'd suggest to list out the things you enjoy doing, & what is needed for work; and visit the couple cities with those thoughts in mind. This forum was quite helpful for us, but you at times may have to weed thru negative comments about areas to get the info you want. Use it for what it's worth, a mix of good recommendations and suggestions along with some very strong opinions that you may or may not agree with.
I lived in Charleston (Mount Pleasant) from 2002 until 2010 when I moved to Columbia (Lexington). I moved for family reasons more so then via choice.
Given a choice, I say live and work in Charleston. You will find Charleston is like a vacation, resort, a geared toward fun area. As such, it can be a bit more expensive then Columbia but I say well worth it.
I have also lived in Northern VA (Crystal City) and you will find the traffic in Columbia/Charleston is sissy traffic compared to Northern VA.
$45K per year will go a lot further in SC then it does in the DC area.
I was reading an article the other day that indicated Columbia is a wine town at a discount price compared to more touristy places. Charleston was mentioned as one of the more touristy places. This is one example of Columbia having a lot to offer without robbing the bank.
I was reading an article the other day that indicated Columbia is a wine town at a discount price compared to more touristy places. Charleston was mentioned as one of the more touristy places. This is one example of Columbia having a lot to offer without robbing the bank.
Charleston is more exciting than Columbia. The city itself is much more elegant and fun filled. There is no other place like it in South Carolina.
The oldest and most beautiful city.
It depends on what excites you. First-hand experience that can be gained only with time spent in each city, coupled with whatever it is that floats your boat, is the best way to make a decision on which of the two cities will better suit one's desires overall.
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