When Summerville was incorporated in 1847, its seal proclaimed “Sacra Pinus Esto” — “The Pine is Sacred.” One of the first things the new town did was ensure its motto translated into action by passing an ordinance that prohibited cutting down certain trees. The ethos remains alive — the town recently erected a sign downtown that reads “Let the Pine be Sacred” — as does the regulation, which is still on the books more than 150 years later. “With the growth we experience, we do see trees get cut down,” says Christopher Makowski, public information officer for the city of Summerville. “But we take a lot of pride in the fact that if a tree is going to get cut — even one — there are guidelines that you must follow and things that need to be approved.” Now a suburb of Charleston with 55,000 residents, Summerville embraces its leafy atmosphere with verdant parks and annual festivals. Its strong sense of identity, thriving downtown and comparatively affordable housing contribute to considerable growth in the Lowcountry.
Experience the serene beauty of tall trees and winding waterways throughout Summerville.
Summerville hosts annual festivals with local vendors like the popular Flowertown Festival.
Wescott Park in Summerville has a fun baseball glove climbing activity on the playground.
Summerville is a thriving city with growth in new communities.
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Sweet tea and the Flowertown Festival blooms
Known as the “Flower Town in the Pines,” Summerville hosts plenty of events celebrating its greenery, the most popular being the Flowertown Festival. Held each spring during peak bloom, the festival features entertainment and vendors for over 250,000 visitors. Summerville also claims heritage for a ubiquitous Southern refreshment: sweet tea. While the ownership claim may be debatable, the city embraces the beverage wholeheartedly by flaunting the world’s largest sweet tea container — a jar named “Mason” — and hosting an annual Sweet Tea Festival. The event takes over downtown Summerville, offering food trucks, local artisans and a competition for the best version of the drink.
Flowertown Festival is a popular event in Summerville for families held each spring.
Summerville locals enjoy shopping local vendors at the Flowertown Festival each spring..
Flowertown Festival is the largest arts and crafts events in Summerville..
Mason is the worlds largest jar of sweet tea located in historic downtown Summerville.
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Access to the Ashley River and Azalea Park
Outdoor lovers enjoy Summerville for its lushness on land, but the city also offers water access. The Ashley River flows through town on its way to Charleston Harbor, and the Herbert H. Jessen Public Boat Landing has launches for kayakers and small boats, plus a network of wooded trails and a fishing pier where anglers can catch redfish, black drum, speckled trout and several types of bass. The Colonial Dorchester State Historic Site sits on the bank of the Ashley, commemorating the city's 1697 settlement with original structures and archaeological remains. Azalea Park is especially popular for its sprintime blooms, but residents can stroll wooded garden paths anytime of year or scout for turtles from the pedestrian bridge over the pond. The 6-mile Sawmill Branch Trail follows a canal, with bikers and runners utilizing the paved path.
Herbert H. Jessen Public Boat Landing in Summerville has a dock to launch your kayak.
Herbert H. Jessen Public Boat Landing in Summerville has amazing tree shaded trails.
Herbert H. Jessen Public Boat Landing is a popular place to fish in Summerville.
Summerville residents love to walk their dogs on the garden trails at Azalea Park.
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Downtown Summerville's restaurant and shopping district
Summerville’s downtown area helps to set the city apart from other Charleston suburbs. “We actually have a downtown. A lot of the other cities and towns in the Lowcountry, besides Charleston, don’t really have a downtown,” Makowski says. Residents of the city and nearby towns flock to the district, which includes several blocks of restaurants, shops and other businesses anchored by Hutchinson Square, the epicenter of city events and festivals. Meanwhile, residents can find more traditional suburban shopping centers near the interstate, including Azalea Square and North Main Market.
Historic downtown Summerville has excellent shops, breweries, cafes, and outdoor eateries.
Summerville families love to gather around the fountain for fun at Hutchinson Park.
Summerville residents can shop for all of their shopping needs at Azalea Square.
Belk at North Main Market is a popular department store to shop in Summerville.
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New construction in subdivisions and Lowcountry-style homes near downtown
A growing city, Summerville has nearly doubled in population since the turn of the century. The growth continues, partially due to lower housing prices compared to other Charleston suburbs. “When I first started in real estate, people used to say, ‘You put someone in the car at the ocean, and you drive inland until they say, This is the one I can afford,’” says Jon Stroud, a Realtor for the Stroud Team of The Boulevard Company who has worked in the Lowcountry for over 20 years. “Summerville is a great place to get a lot more home for the money.” The city’s median sales price is $393,000 compared to the national median of $407,200, though values have been ticking up. Larger homes near downtown in the traditional Lowcountry style, some from as early as the 19th century, can sell for $800,000 to $2 million, while ranch-style homes, townhouses and new construction often go between the mid-$100,000s and $300,000.
In Historic Summerville you can find an older 19th Century home.
Find tree shaded ranch-style homes In the historic section of downtown Summerville.
Find modern style townhomes with off-street parking in Summerville.
Summerville has beautiful new traditional style homes with double porches.
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Highly rated schools in Dorchester School District Two
Small portions of Summerville reside in the Berkeley County School District and the Charleston County School District, but Dorchester School District Two serves most of the city. The system receives an A-minus grade from Niche, which ranks it one of the top five most diverse districts in the state. The area also offers private school options, such as the A-rated Pinewood Preparatory School for prekindergarten through 12th grade.
Summerville Public Elementary School is an option for the little kids.
Fort Dorchester High School is a public option for towns on the outskirts of Summerville.
Summerville High is a public high school option for Summerville families.
Pinewood Preparatory School is an independent, co-educational school in Summerville.
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Commuting toward Charleston via Interstate 26
Interstate 26 runs through Summerville, leading 25 miles to Charleston. Residents often drive toward the city for work, and many employers are downtown or in North Charleston, such as Boeing, the Medical University of South Carolina or the U.S. military at Joint Base Charleston. Volvo also recently opened a manufacturing plant in Ridgeville, South Carolina, roughly 15 miles northwest. The continued growth of the Charleston suburbs has translated to increased commuter traffic, but Summerville is still a car-dependent area with limited access to public transit. The Tri-County Connector links to the Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority’s bus lines, but journeys into Charleston can take over 2 hours. Residents have easier access to Charleston International Airport, though, as it sits 15 miles away and offers nonstop flights to over 40 destinations.
Boeing is a large employer that is easily accessible for Summerville residents.
Many Summerville residents commute downtown for work at MUSC.
Charleston International Airport is a short commute from Summerville.
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Community safety in Summerville
According to FBI data, Summerville has higher than average crime rates. The city’s violent crime rate was 190.8 per 100,000 people per year compared to a state average of 132.4 and a national average of 119.3. The property crime rate is 279.5, compared to the average of 171.6 in South Carolina and 179.6 across the country. “I feel very safe in Summerville,” Makowski says. “We have about 55,000 residents, but over 200,000 people travel through on a daily basis. And if you’re in our town, whether that’s shopping, eating or driving through, our public safety departments are taking care of you. That could be a rise in some crime here or there.” Like much of the Lowcountry, Summerville has someflood risk, though less so than cities closer to the coast. Certain properties within FEMA-designated flood zones are required to be flood-insured. The subtropical climate includes hot, humid summers and mild winters.Hurricanes and tropical systems can affect the area, bringing high winds and heavy rain.
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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Summerville, SC sell after 55 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Summerville, SC over the last 12 months is $392,500, consistent with the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Rare find in Waterside Landing and located in the highly sought-after DD2 school district! This spacious 4BR cul-de-sac home features multiple living areas, a large loft, and a fenced yard backed up to protected woods. With brand new carpet upstairs and all appliances included, this home is ready to move in and enjoy! Welcome to 3036 Ellington Drive--where space, comfort, and opportunity come
Welcome Home to 492 Rowley Lane! Can't wait for you to see this gem! This Craftsman/Cottage style home is ready for you. Are you looking for an open concept home that has all of your needs for one story living with an extra bonus suite upstairs? This is it! As you walk up the path to the home you will see the current owner's green thumb at work. She added landscaping around the entire home. When
MOVE-IN READY. Luxury Upgrades. Income-Producing FROG. Multi-Generational Living. BETTER THAN NEW !This exceptional property offers 4,161 sq ft of beautifully finished living space, including a private apartment above the detached garage. (Main home: 3,551 sq ft + Detached FROG/Guest Suite: 610 sq ft.) Whether you need a spacious primary residence, a true in-law suite, or built-in rental income,
Live the Resort Life Every Day in The Four Seasons at Cane Bay!Welcome to your next chapter in this beautifully designed, single-story home nestled in one of the Lowcountry's premier 55+ resort communities. The Four Seasons at Cane Bay offers unmatched amenities including a 24,000 sq. ft. clubhouse, three sparkling pools, state-of-the-art fitness center, lighted tennis and pickleball courts, a
Fully renovated on a premier corner homesite, this home offers a rare blend of privacy, space, and modern comfort. At just under half an acre in the established, tree-lined community of Ashborough East, this rare find awaits you. Inside, a cohesive renovation elevates every detail--from a new kitchen and renovated bathrooms to new flooring, refined trim, fresh paint and designer lighting,
Turnkey One Owner Home, just 2 years new! This decked out Hazel floorplan by Beazer Homes has been gently lived in and treasured. Situated on a premium lot you have wooded berms across the street, an oversized open space on the left and the backyard overlooks a tranquil pond & protected woods. Energy efficient - Zero Energy READY home rating that is Energy Star certified & Indoor airPLUS
Seller is offering a $10,000 rate buydown--lowering your monthly payment by approximately $200/month compared to similar homes!2 Laundry Rooms!! 4 BR, 4.5 BA home with a primary suite (including own laundry) on the main level and approximately 2,977 square feet of well-planned living space.The main level offers a functional layout with comfortable living and dining areas that connect naturally
Welcome to this beautiful 4-bedroom, 3-bath home located in the highly desirable McKewn subdivision! This spacious and thoughtfully designed home offers an open floor plan perfect for both everyday living and entertaining.The main living area flows seamlessly into the kitchen and dining space, featuring ample cabinetry, modern finishes, and plenty of natural light. A guest bedroom and full bath
Step into this beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath home where comfort and style come together effortlessly. From the moment you arrive, the attractive landscaping and inviting curb appeal set the tone for what awaits inside. The open and functional floor plan features warm wood flooring throughout the main living areas, creating a seamless and welcoming atmosphere for both everyday living
Welcome home to timeless Summerville charm in Newington. They just don't build them like this anymore. Nestled in one of Summerville's most sought-after neighborhoods, this spacious and nostalgic home blends classic craftsmanship with thoughtful modern updates. Inside, you'll find four large bedrooms upstairs, including a primary suite big enough for a full bedroom set and cozy sitting area. The
Country Living at its Finest! Welcome to ''The House on the Block'' where you can pick fresh blueberries from your own front yard & enjoy your evenings swinging in a hammock from the grand oak out back. This 4 bedroom 2 bathroom custom built gem is located in the heart of Knightsville, just minutes to historic downtown Summerville. Step inside to handcrafted archways leading to the family and
Enjoy an active, resort-inspired lifestyle at 477 Eastern Isle Avenue, located within the premier 55+ community of Del Webb at Cane Bay. This vibrant neighborhood offers easy living and fun for everyone, where the monthly HOA includes gated access, high-speed internet, lawn maintenance, and world-class amenities--including a grand clubhouse, fitness center, indoor and outdoor pools, tennis,
Experience the quintessential Lowcountry lifestyle in this stunning 3-story Charleston Single home featuring iconic double front porches and a detached 2-car garage. This 3-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom residence is designed for modern living with an open-concept main floor, highlighted by a cozy shiplap fireplace, dark hardwoods, and a gourmet kitchen equipped with a gorgeous stone-topped island, gas
Welcome to 651 Sienna Way, a beautifully upgraded 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom ranch-style home located in the sought-after Hammocks at Cane Bay. From the moment you enter, you're greeted by a formal dining space, along with a dedicated office featuring glass French doors--perfect for working from home or a quiet flex space--all flowing seamlessly into a light-filled, open-concept living area designed
A beautifully maintained five bedrooms, three bath home that feels practically brand new and has been lightly lived in. A charming rocking chair front porch welcomes you. There is a versatile flex space off the entry, offering the perfect setting for a home office, formal living room, or study. This home offers an abundance of natural light and storage.The main level also features a full bedroom
Owner desires to lease/purchase only. Okay to occupy prior to closing if there is also a purchase contract in place. This home is on 2.59 Acres of high land with the ability to build another home on the property (Accessory Dwelling Unit) and the house next to this is also for sale with 1.83 additional acres (298 Summerset). This property is just 15 minutes to downtown historic Summerville and
Your new home awaits! 4 beds, and close to everything. The 1st floor has owners suite w/ double bowl vanity & WIC. The kitchen is well appointed with stainless steel appliances complete w/ fridge. Washer & dryer included. Fully enclose fenced in yard. Upstairs is simply beautiful. 3 secondary beds w/ huge closets and a loft space. The neighborhood has: 3 pools w/ 2 story waterslide, play park,
Welcome to 110 Crimson St in Midtown Nexton! Discover timeless style and everyday convenience in this beautiful 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home located in the heart of Summerville, SC. Designed with Southern grace and modern practicality, this home features double front porches, an open-concept floor plan, and a screened-in back porch ideal for relaxing or entertaining.Interior Highlights:Step into a
Located within the highly sought-after Del Webb Cane Bay, a premier 55+ gated community, this well-maintained single-story residence at 168 Sea Lavender Ln delivers a streamlined, low-maintenance lifestyle with premium surroundings.This 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offers approximately 1,385 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space, featuring an open-concept floorplan that supports both
Beautiful 4-bedroom, 3-bath home available for rent in the highly desirable McKewn community! This spacious home offers an open-concept floor plan designed for comfortable living and easy entertaining. The main living area flows seamlessly into a bright kitchen and dining space featuring ample cabinetry, modern finishes, and plenty of natural light.The first floor includes a guest bedroom and
Summerville Apartments is located in the fast-growing city of Summerville, South Carolina. Known as the Flower Town in the Pines, Summerville is a family-friendly community in the heart of the Lowcountry. As a resident of Summerville Apartments, you'll be a part of this welcoming community and experience its historic charm.
Located in Nexton's premier master-planned community, this brand-new home blends modern elegance with a highly functional layout. The main level features a chef-inspired kitchen with quartz countertops and white cabinetry, complemented by durable luxury vinyl plank flooring and a versatile flex space perfect for an office or formal dining. A dedicated main-level guest suite provides an ideal
It’s time you loved everything about the place you call home. Inside and out, The Isaac’s brand-new luxury apartments near Goose Creek offer all the elements you're looking for in your next apartment. Here, everything you desire is within easy reach, from opulent resort-style amenities to unbeatable city and scenery access. Choose from our selection of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments in
Discover this beautiful 4-bedroom home nestled on a quiet cul-de-sac in the highly sought-after Ashborough community, located within the DD2 School District. From the moment you enter, you're welcomed by a grand two-story foyer and an elegant staircase that sets the tone for the rest of the home. The bright and airy living room features vaulted ceilings and abundant natural light, creating an
The Residences at Sawmill offers modern apartment living with the charm of historic Summerville, SC. Choose from spacious studio to three-bedroom layouts featuring chef-style kitchens, walk-in closets, and private outdoor areas. Enjoy resort-style amenities like a pool, fitness center, and cozy lounges perfect for socializing. With easy access to downtown Charleston, parks, and local favorites,
Available May 15th! 4 BR, 3 BA HOME For Rent in Weatherstone! Features: 2-Car Garage, Screen Porch, Guest Bedroom on Main Floor, Double Front Porches, Neighborhood Pool & Playground. Schedule a showing today!
Life flows a little easier here. Picture morning rides along tree-lined trails, an effortless pedal to pick up groceries, and afternoons that drift between sun-soaked swims and playful sprints at the dog park. Inside, one-, two-, and three-bedroom homes offer the space to recharge, while the fitness center keeps your energy moving. Blending Summerville’s natural beauty with everyday convenience,
The quiet suburban community of Sangaree lies deep within historic Summerville, the birthplace of sweet tea. Surrounded by parks, beloved neighborhood restaurants, and a variety of retail, residents have many areas to explore. The community is served by the Berkeley County School District, and many buyers seek the highly rated school system. One of the biggest draws to Sangaree is its privacy. “There’s no HOA here,” says Realtor and Sangaree resident Danielle Morgain with Agent-Owned Realty Co. “I love it here because I can have my property exactly how I want without the constraints and fees of an HOA system.” In addition to being a resident, Morgain is Sangaree’s highest-selling agent.
Surrounding the Sangaree Duck Pond is an array of late 20th-century homes that occupy quarter- and half-acre lots. The pine-wooded enclaves of the community offer shading on hot summer days, where residents can walk to the serene pond. Buyers will find brick and paneled ranch-style homes, as well as two-story Colonial Revivals. Split-level homes are also available, as well as townhomes. Many homes have comfortable porches, backyards and private yards to relax or entertain. Prices in the community range from $250,000 to $300,000. “The housing prices are another perk of living here,” Morgain adds. “It’s challenging to find a home in the area for under $300,000.”
Students in pre-kindergarten through second grade attend Sangaree Elementary School, which has an overall score of B-plus on Niche. Students in third through fifth grade attend Sangaree Intermediate School, which scored a C-plus on Niche. Sangaree Middle School serves grades six through eight and has an overall B-minus. Students in grades nine through 12 attend Stratford High School, which has an A-minus on Niche. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities that reflect well on college applications, including coding club, student council and orchestra.
Sangaree's namesake duck pond is the star of the community. It is enclosed by a large green space, and residents can stroll on the walking path or enjoy the peaceful waters from a bench. Just over 3 miles away is the popular Azalea Park. This 12-acre garden showcases why Summerville is deemed the “Flower Town in the Pines.” With lush florals, long walking paths and eye-catching bronze statues, visitors get an eyeful in this shaded park. Gahagan Park is a favorite for athletic activities. The sports-oriented site features a large playground with a climbing castle, as well as baseball and football fields.
Residents are just minutes from historic Downtown Summerville — which claims to be where sweet tea got its start. “The downtown area is on the smaller side, but it’s a great place to spend a summer afternoon, take kids trick or treating in October or go look at Christmas lights in December,” says Morgain. Sangaree residents can walk the area to explore local boutiques and popular restaurants like Laura, a favorite for upscale Italian, or Shuckin’ Shack, an oyster bar. The annual Sweet Tea Festival downtown features endless pours, sweet tea merchandise, and a tea of the year contest. The area also hosts a Sweet Tea Cocktail Contest and Hold My Tea Bar Crawl. Residents can take Main Street to Summerville’s modern main drag. There are retail big box stores like Target, World Market and T.J. Maxx. Groceries can be picked up at Walmart, Food Lion or Piggly Wiggly. On weekends, residents can be found at the Regal Azalea Square cinema.
“We’re close to the interstate, which is great for commuters and those who want to get to retail quickly,” Morgain says. Interstate 26 makes it easy to get around the Summerville and Charleston areas. Residents are just about 20 miles from downtown Charleston and West Ashley, 30 miles from Mount Pleasant and 35 miles from the barrier islands. There are also CARTA bus stops that will connect residents to various areas around the peninsula. When residents need to access air travel, I-26 will take residents to Charleston International Airport. Medical necessities are also convenient, with Trident Medical Center just 5 miles away. The community is close to major local employers like Joint Base Charleston, many buyers choose Sangaree for its convenience.
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Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
