Everything You Should Know Before Moving to James Island, SC
Considering a move to James Island, SC? With a friendly population of about 12,000, this coastal community offers a relaxed lifestyle, above-average educational attainment, and convenient proximity to downtown Charleston. Expect a median home price around $428,000 and typical rent near $1,650. Residents enjoy mild winters, 64% sunny days, and short 23-minute commutes. The area features strong public schools, easy access to healthcare, and relatively low violent crime, making it ideal for families and professionals alike.
Demographics - James Island, SC
Demographics - James Island, SC
James Island is home to approximately 12,000 residents, with a median age of 41 and a predominantly White population alongside a notable Black community. The area features a balanced gender ratio and a density that offers a suburban feel, making it appealing for families and individuals seeking a close-knit environment.
Population:
12,068
Density:
1,900 per sq mi
Median Age:
41.2
Gender Ratio:
92 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
6.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
84.0%
Black:
10.5%
Asian:
1.2%
Others:
4.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in James Island, SC?
Living in James Island comes with a cost of living index slightly above the national average, largely due to a median home value of $428,000 and typical rents around $1,650 per month. While housing costs are higher, utilities and groceries remain moderate, giving residents a comfortable lifestyle balance.
Median House Value:
$428,000
Gross Rent:
$1,650
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$146
Auto Insurance:
$1,520
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,290
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$700
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
7%
Cost Of Living Index:
109.5
Grocery:
104.2
Housing:
118.8
Utilities:
109.0
Transportation:
104.7
Health Care:
100.5
Miscellaneous:
101.3
Crime
Is James Island, SC a safe place to live?
James Island experiences a relatively low violent crime rate, with a 1 in 403 chance of being affected annually, while property crime is more common, at 1 in 54. Overall, the community is considered safe, especially compared to urban centers, making it a favorable choice for families and retirees.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
248
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,850
Crime Index:
2,098
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 403
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 54
Weather
What is the weather like in James Island, SC year-round?
Residents of James Island enjoy a mild coastal climate, with winter temperatures rarely dropping below 41°F and summer highs averaging 89°F. The area receives about 48 inches of rainfall per year and boasts sunshine nearly two-thirds of the year, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
Winter
Min:
41°F
Max:
60°F
Spring
Min:
55°F
Max:
77°F
Summer
Min:
74°F
Max:
89°F
Fall
Min:
60°F
Max:
78°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
48.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
64%
Neighbors
The community features a median household income of $85,900 and a low unemployment rate of 3.4%, reflecting economic stability. Most neighbors are well-educated, with nearly 97% holding at least a high school diploma, and the average commute is a manageable 23 minutes, contributing to a high quality of life.
Median Income:
$41,200
Household Income:
$85,900
Family Income:
$101,300
Per Capita Income:
$44,100
Income Male:
$50,400
Income Female:
$41,900
Poverty Rate:
8.1%
Non English Speakers:
6.2%
Rent:
$1,650
Unemployment Rate:
3.4%
Public Transport Usage:
1.8%
Commute Time:
23.1 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
96.8%
Bachelors or More:
47.5%
Education
How are the schools in James Island, SC?
James Island offers strong educational opportunities with reputable public schools, like James Island Charter High School, and access to private and higher education institutions nearby. Proximity to colleges such as the College of Charleston ensures a range of academic options for students at all levels.
Public Schools
Name:
James Island Charter High School
Street:
1000 Fort Johnson Rd
Phone:
843-762-2754
Students:
1,650
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.5
Name:
James Island Elementary School
Street:
1872 Grimball Rd
Phone:
843-762-8240
Students:
650
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.2
Private Schools
Name:
Nativity School
Street:
1125 Pittsford Cir
Phone:
843-795-3975
Students:
240
Colleges
Name:
College of Charleston
City:
Charleston
State:
SC
Distance:
6 miles
Students:
10,900
Name:
The Citadel
City:
Charleston
State:
SC
Distance:
8 miles
Students:
3,800
Healthcare
James Island residents benefit from access to major hospitals and a strong network of healthcare providers, with over 91% health insurance coverage and 2.1 physicians per 1,000 people. Local facilities offer comprehensive emergency and general care, supporting the well-being of the community.
Major Hospitals
Name:
MUSC Health West Ashley Medical Pavilion
Address:
2060 Sam Rittenberg Blvd, Charleston, SC 29407
Phone:
(843) 852-5000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Roper St. Francis Healthcare
Address:
2095 Henry Tecklenburg Dr, Charleston, SC 29414
Phone:
(843) 402-1000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.7%
Health Care Index:
67.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in James Island, SC?
The housing market on James Island is robust, with a median home price of $428,000 and a homeownership rate of 66%. Home values have appreciated by 7.3% over the past year, reflecting steady demand and a healthy balance between buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$428,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,650
Owner Occupied Rate:
66.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.3%
New Construction Rate:
2.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
James Island residents are served by the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles located nearby in Charleston, providing convenient access to licensing and vehicle services. The DMV offers both in-person and online options for local drivers and new residents.
State:
South Carolina
Department:
South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
10300 Abercorn St, Charleston, SC 29407
Phone:
1-803-896-5000
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.