Retiring in Mount Pleasant is less about finding a quiet place to slow down and more about finding a beautiful place to speed up. If you are looking at living in mount pleasant sc, you probably already know this isn’t your typical budget retirement destination. This is the jewel of the Lowcountry, where historic charm meets modern luxury.
Unlike other popular retirement spots in the South that feel like secluded compounds, Mount Pleasant integrates you right into the action. You are minutes from the beaches at Isle of Palms and Sullivan’s Island, and just a quick drive over the Ravenel Bridge to the world-class dining of Downtown Charleston. The crowd here is active—think tennis leagues, deep-water boating, and golf memberships rather than rocking chairs.
However, navigating the real estate market here can be tricky for retirees. There is a distinct lack of inventory when it comes to “traditional” 55+ communities compared to neighboring areas. Let’s break down exactly where you can find your spot in this coastal haven.
Why Retirees Choose Mount Pleasant Over Summerville or West Ashley
You might be asking why so many people choose to pay a premium for Mount Pleasant when nearby areas like Summerville or West Ashley are significantly cheaper. The answer usually comes down to three things: healthcare, lifestyle, and aesthetics.
First, the healthcare access here is phenomenal. You have immediate access to Roper St. Francis Mount Pleasant Hospital and MUSC Health East Cooper without having to cross a bridge or sit in highway traffic. For many buyers, knowing top-tier medical care is a five-minute golf cart ride away provides immense peace of mind.
Second, the “village” feel is real. The Town of Mount Pleasant has strict building codes that preserve the tree canopy and limit unsightly commercial sprawl. You also get incredible walkability in areas like Shem Creek and the Mount Pleasant Towne Centre. It’s a cleaner, more manicured environment than many of the more rural suburbs.
Finally, South Carolina offers a financial hug to retirees that helps offset the higher home prices. As we move into 2026, the state continues to be tax-friendly, offering generous deductions on retirement income—up to $30,000 depending on your age—and boasting no state tax on Social Security benefits.
New for 2026: Del Webb Point Hope
For years, the biggest complaint from retirees was the lack of a large-scale, amenity-rich active adult community in the area. That changes now. The big news for 2026 is Del Webb Point Hope.
It is important to clarify the geography here: while marketed to the Mount Pleasant demographic, this community is technically located on the Cainhoy Peninsula (City of Charleston). However, it is only about a 10-minute drive from the heart of Mount Pleasant’s amenities, making it the primary solution for buyers wanting that “new construction” smell and a massive social scene.
Sales are active as of early 2026, and the community is buzzing. They feature the single-story “GenYou” floor plans designed specifically for active adults who want open entertaining spaces without the hassle of stairs.
- The Lifestyle: A temporary “Lifestyle House” is opening in 2026 to get clubs and social events running while the main clubhouse is built.
- The Cost: Pricing generally starts in the low $500,000s, though lot premiums and upgrades will push that higher.
- The Scale: This will eventually be a massive neighborhood with over 760 homes, meaning you will have plenty of neighbors in the exact same stage of life as you.
Top Active Adult Communities (Homes for Sale)
If you prefer to be properly “inside” Mount Pleasant and want an established neighborhood, your options are more exclusive and limited. Inventory here is tight, so when a listing pops up, you usually have to move fast.
Liberty Cottages at Park West is arguably the premier address for 55+ living in town. It is an intimate, gated enclave of only about 43 homes nestled within the larger Park West development. Residents here get the best of both worlds: a quiet, private neighborhood and access to the extensive amenities of Somerby (the neighboring senior living community) for a fee, including dining. Homes here are luxurious and typically trade in the high $600,000s to $800,000s.
Another fantastic option is Marais at Seaside Farms. While technically “age-targeted” rather than strictly age-restricted, the lifestyle here is effectively 55+. The architecture features luxury townhomes with elevators or primary suites on the ground floor. The biggest draw is walkability; you can easily walk to Harris Teeter, Target, and local boutiques at The Shoppes at Seaside Farms. Resale prices here generally range from the $600,000s to $800,000s.
Luxury 55+ Rentals & Apartments
Not everyone wants to tie up their cash in a mortgage or deal with property maintenance. The trend of “active adult rentals” has exploded in Mount Pleasant, offering a resort-style life without the property taxes or hurricane repairs.
Restore at Carolina Park is the standout here. It feels less like an apartment complex and more like a permanent vacation. The social calendar is packed, and the amenities include everything from pickleball courts to game rooms and a resort-style pool. You get the community vibe of a Del Webb without the 30-year commitment. Rents typically run between $2,000 and $3,100 per month depending on the unit size.
If you are open to being just next door, Overture Daniel Island offers a similar luxury apartment product. It serves the same market and offers high-end finishes, though it is technically just across the river. The main pro for choosing a rental route is freedom—no HOA assessments and no worry about replacing a roof.
Continuum of Care (CCRC) & Luxury Senior Living
For those looking to secure a plan for the next 20 years, including potential transitions from independent living to assisted care, Mount Pleasant has some of the best Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) in the state.
Franke at Seaside is widely considered the gold standard. It is a faith-based, non-profit community set on stunning grounds with lagoons and walking trails. They offer everything from independent cottages and apartments to skilled nursing. It usually requires an entrance fee plus monthly fees, and because of its reputation, waitlists are common.
Somerby of Mount Pleasant operates on a high-end rental model, which appeals to those who want to avoid large upfront entrance fees. It is known for exceptional dining and a very active social director. Costs here generally start around $4,000 per month for independent living and increase as you add levels of care.
Alternative: Senior-Popular “Standard” Neighborhoods
Because the inventory for official 55+ communities is so low, many retirees simply buy into standard luxury neighborhoods. If you are moving to charleston sc and can’t find an age-restricted home, don’t worry—you won’t be the only retiree on the block.
Carolina Park and Park West are master-planned communities with specific subsections that feature “master-down” floor plans and lawn maintenance included in the HOA fees. You get the benefit of a multi-generational neighborhood while still maintaining a low-maintenance lifestyle.
Golfers often gravitate toward Charleston National or Rivertowne Country Club. While these aren’t age-restricted, the demographics skew heavily toward active retirees who want dock access and a tee time in their backyard.
Cost of Retiring in Mount Pleasant (2026 Update)
We need to have an honest conversation about the cost of living in mount pleasant sc. It is significantly more expensive here than in Summerville, Goose Creek, or Moncks Corner.
Housing is your biggest line item. You should expect to pay 20% to 40% more for a home here than you would for a comparable property inland. For a move-in ready luxury home suitable for retirement, $600,000 is a safe starting benchmark, though deals can be found.
HOA Fees vary wildly. A standard neighborhood might be $150 a month, but gated communities or those with extensive amenities (like elevators or private clubs) can easily exceed $500 a month.
Insurance is the other major factor to watch. Because we are coastal, wind, hail, and flood insurance are necessities. Being in a flood zone can drastically change your monthly budget, so always check the flood maps before falling in love with a house.
While the “sticker shock” on housing is real, the day-to-day taxes help balance the scales. Property taxes are relatively low compared to the Northeast, and the income tax breaks for seniors help keep your monthly cash flow healthy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Mount Pleasant have a Del Webb community?
Yes, sort of. The new Del Webb Point Hope opened sales in 2026. While it is technically located on the Cainhoy Peninsula (City of Charleston), it is just a few miles from the Mount Pleasant border and serves as the primary Del Webb option for the area.
Is Mount Pleasant SC tax-friendly for retirees?
Yes. South Carolina is very tax-friendly for retirees. There is no state income tax on Social Security benefits, and residents over 65 can claim a deduction of up to $30,000 on other retirement income.
What is the average cost of a retirement home in Mount Pleasant?
To get into a desirable, safe, and updated home in Mount Pleasant, you should budget between $500,000 and $800,000. While you can find older condos for less, the luxury active adult inventory generally sits in that higher bracket.
How far are the retirement communities from the beach?
One of the biggest perks of Mount Pleasant is the location. Most neighborhoods, including Park West, Seaside Farms, and Carolina Park, are just a 10 to 20-minute drive from the beaches at Isle of Palms or Sullivan’s Island.
