Cost of Living in Summerville vs. Mount Pleasant…Which Fits Your Lifestyle?

If you’re considering a move to the Charleston area, two names likely top your list: Summerville and Mount Pleasant. Both offer great schools, strong communities, and Lowcountry charm, but their cost of living and lifestyle appeal to different types of homeowners.

Let’s compare the two side-by-side so you can decide which one feels like home.

🏡 Home Prices and Housing Market

Summerville: Known as the “Flower Town in the Pines,” Summerville delivers value without sacrificing comfort. The median home price hovers around the mid-$300s, with new construction options in communities like Nexton and Cane Bay starting even lower. You’ll find larger lots, newer homes, and more square footage for your money.
Mount Pleasant: One of Charleston’s most desirable suburbs, Mount Pleasant carries premium pricing, expect median home prices in the mid-$700s and up. Proximity to beaches, shopping, and downtown Charleston drives demand, and newer construction often includes upscale finishes and smaller lot sizes.

Bottom line: If you want space and value, Summerville stretches your dollar further. If you want convenience and prestige, Mount Pleasant delivers.

🚗 Commute and Convenience

Summerville sits roughly 25 to 35 minutes from downtown Charleston depending on traffic, while Mount Pleasant is about 15 to 20 minutes away.

Summerville’s location along I-26 makes it ideal for those commuting to North Charleston or the growing employment hubs in Nexton and Volvo’s Ridgeville plant. Mount Pleasant shines for easy access to beaches, hospitals, and tech offices on Daniel Island.

Trade-off: Summerville gives you distance from city congestion, while Mount Pleasant keeps you close to Charleston’s coast and nightlife.

🏫 Schools and Community

Both towns have strong reputations for schools.

Summerville: Served by Dorchester District 2 known for award-winning schools like Ashley Ridge High and Rollings Middle School of the Arts.
Mount Pleasant: Falls under Charleston County School District, home to Lucy Beckham High, Wando High, and several ranked elementary schools.

Community culture differs, too. Summerville has a small-town, local vibe with parades, farmers markets, and affordability that draws first time buyers. Mount Pleasant blends suburban comfort with resort style living perfect for professionals or those who love coastal convenience.

☕ Lifestyle and Amenities

Summerville: Local coffee shops, boutiques, and historic charm define the downtown area. Nexton’s live-work-play community offers restaurants, fitness studios, and neighborhood events that create connection without the commute.
Mount Pleasant: You’ll find endless dining, shopping, and entertainment, from Towne Centre to Shem Creek. Outdoor lovers enjoy water access, trails, and close proximity to Sullivan’s Island and Isle of Palms.

In short: Summerville leans toward laid-back comfort and affordability, while Mount Pleasant offers coastal luxury and convenience.

💡 Which Fits Your Lifestyle?

If you crave space, affordability, and community feel, Summerville is the smart choice. If you want quick coastal access, upscale amenities, and a beach-adjacent address, Mount Pleasant is worth the premium.

At Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Palmetto, we help buyers explore both, matching lifestyle and budget to the perfect Lowcountry location. Whether you’re ready to build in Nexton or invest near Shem Creek, our agents can guide you every step of the way.