City Profile
Mount Pleasant, South Carolina
USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Mount Pleasant is a thriving, affluent coastal town located in Charleston County, South Carolina, just across the Cooper River from historic Charleston via the iconic Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge. Originally settled in 1680, the town has evolved from a collection of quiet summer villages into one of South Carolina's premier residential and commercial destinations. Characterized by its oak-lined streets, extensive marshlands, and proximity to Sullivan's Island and Isle of Palms, Mount Pleasant attracts professionals, families, and retirees looking for a blend of coastal charm and modern suburban amenities.
South Carolina, known for its Southern charm and hospitality, offers a diverse landscape from the Appalachian Mountains to its Atlantic coastline. The state's economy is driven by advanced manufacturing, particularly automotive and aerospace, and a robust tourism industry centered around its coastal areas. Living in South Carolina is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living lower than the national average, especially for housing. The climate is humid subtropical, characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters, with coastal areas experiencing warmer winters than inland regions. Residents enjoy a relaxed lifestyle with abundant outdoor activities, including beaches, lakes, and golf courses.
How this 64/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
| Component | Readings used | Points | Weight | Contributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | Safety score: 82 / 100 | 82.0 | 30% | 24.6 |
| Affordability | Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 122.0 | 16.3 | 25% | 4.1 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: $124,755 Income needed to live here: $62,000 Unemployment rate: 2.9% | 94.4 | 20% | 18.9 |
| Growth | Population growth rate: 1.2% Job growth rate: 2.4% | 61.5 | 15% | 9.2 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 75 / 100 | 75.0 | 10% | 7.5 |
| Overall score | 64.3 | |||
Provenance.
These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as
Gemini (Tier 2 (reasoned), q=77), last refreshed
11 October 2026.
They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.
Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.
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Cost of Living
The cost of living in Mount Pleasant is notably higher than the national average and significantly above the rest of South Carolina, largely driven by soaring housing demand and high-end coastal real estate. Everyday goods, services, and dining out also trend above average due to the affluent demographics and booming tourism surrounding the Charleston metropolitan area. While property taxes remain relatively moderate compared to other states, overall household expenditures are elevated by high shelter and transportation costs.
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Mount Pleasant boasts a robust and diversified economy anchored by healthcare, professional services, retail, and hospitality. Major employers include regional health systems like Roper St. Francis and East Cooper Medical Center, alongside a thriving network of small businesses, financial firms, and tech startups. The remote work scene has also expanded rapidly, drawing professionals who appreciate the high quality of life while maintaining careers tied to national markets.
The average salary in Mount Pleasant is $68,000 per year. You would need approximately $62,000 to live comfortably.
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Transportation in Mount Pleasant is heavily car-dependent, though select neighborhoods like the Old Village and I'On offer localized walkability. U.S. Highway 17 serves as the primary artery connecting the town to Charleston and northern coastal areas, frequently experiencing heavy commuter congestion. Public transit is limited primarily to regional CARTA bus routes, making personal vehicle ownership standard for most residents.
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