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Charleston, with its rich history and untouched nature, is a city that invites exploration. For renters who prefer to navigate their surroundings on foot, certain neighborhoods stand out for their walkability. Rentals are very afordable as well, with one-bedroom apartments in Charleston costing an average of $699.
In this ApartmentGuide article, we’ll uncover the most walkable neighborhoods in Charleston, from the lively streets of Downtown to the charming avenues of East End. Join us as we journey through the city, one step at a time.
All data sourced March 2024.
1. Downtown
Walk Score: 78
Downtown is the most walkable neighborhood in Charleston, with a Walk Score of 78. Known for its laid-back city life, residents and visitors alike can explore the area and take advantage of its walkable layout. Notable attractions include the Charleston Town Center and Haddad Riverfront Park.
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2. East End
Walk Score: 67
East End has a Walk Score of 67, making it the second most walkable neighborhood in Charleston. There’s a lot to love about the area, from its historic architecture to its lively arts scene. While you’re walking around the neighborhood, check out the Clay Center for the Arts & Sciences.
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3. West Side
Walk Score: 65
West Side is the third most walkable neighborhood in the city. There are numerous walkable areas and attractions throughout West Side, like the West Side Farmers Market and tMagic Island Park. And if you’re in the mood for an adventure, you’re not far from Cato Park.
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4. Kanawha City
Walk Score: 61
Kanawha City has plenty of amenities a resident might need within walking distance. From the Kanawha Plaza to the Rio De Grill Brazillian Steakhouse, you’re sure to find something to love. A notable amenity is the Kanawha State Forest, which is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
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5. Edgewood
Walk Score: 39
As the fifth most walkable neighborhood in the city, Edgewood is known for its residential charm. Consider exploring the Edgewood Country Club or getting a bite to eat at the Edgewood Summit with friends. There are plenty of other amenities in this suburban community as well, like the Edgewood Tennis Club and Cato Park.
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6. South Hills
Walk Score: 39
South Hills has a Walk Score of 39, making it the sixth most walkable neighborhood in Charleston. Known for its scenic hilly views, residents and visitors can choose from walkable amenities such as the South Hills Market and Cafe and the Bridge Road Shops. While you’re out, check out the Little Creek Park.
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7. South Ruffner
Walk Score: 21
South Ruffner is the seventh most walkable neighborhood in the city. This quiet community has quite a few hotspots for residents to visit on foot, including the Ruffner Memorial Park and the Kanawha City Community Center.
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8. North Charleston
Walk Score: 20
North Charleston has a Walk Score of 20, making it the eighth most walkable neighborhood in the city. There’s a lot to love about the area, from grabbing a bite to eat at nearby restaurants, to walking to the North Charleston Recreation Center. However, with a Walk Score of 20, it may be a challenge to complete errands on foot.
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9. Oakwood
Walk Score: 18
The ninth most walkable neighborhood in Charleston is Oakwood. Pedestrians can enjoy the variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops, like the Oakwood Road Plaza. It’s also easy to walk over to the Oakwood Park for a great day out. With a Walk Score of just 18, though, cars are almost a necessity for most errands.
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10. Fort Hill
Walk Score: 6
Fort Hill is the tenth most walkable neighborhood in the city. Local attractions here include Danner Meadow Park and Joe Suppa Field, providing residents a spot to get together and enjoy their suburban community. However, with a Walk Score of just 6, the neighborhood is car-dependent and inconvenient for pedestrians.
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Methodology: Walk Score, a Redfin company, helps people find walkable, bikeable, and transit-friendly places to live, rating areas on a scale from 0-100. To calculate a Walk Score for a given point, Walk Score analyzes thousands of walking routes to nearby amenities, population density, and metrics such as block length and intersection density. Points are awarded based on the distance to amenities in each category.