Beaufort, SC
ABOUT THE TOWN
What a coastal delight!
Nestled in the embrace of South Carolina's Lowcountry, Beaufort twinkles like a gem of history, natural splendor, and a community that's vibrantly alive. The town weaves together stories from yesteryears with today's charms, all wrapped up in coastal allure, views over the endless marshes, all with a generous dash of Southern hospitality. Wander down Bay Street, alive with the buzz of boutique shops, art-filled galleries, and cozy cafes, each inviting you to savor a slice of their world, many holding a view of the water. Right on the river, the Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park offers a tranquil retreat with soothing views of the Beaufort River – a perfect haven for soulful relaxation or the meeting of new friends. You are going to love this friendly Lowcountry town.
This town is best for:
Pop. 13,607
+.47% Increase
Low 42° - High 90°
Exceptional
IS THIS YOUR MOXIETOWN?
Does this town check your boxes?
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This town offers a serene getaway with its walkable downtown, rich history, and Southern charm. This Lowcountry gem boasts unique architecture, friendly locals, and a relaxed atmosphere. Enjoy boutique shopping, fresh local seafood, and stunning waterfront views, all while experiencing the warmth of a less-crowded, charming small town in the Lowcountry.
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This town is a thriving hub for entrepreneurs, offering a supportive ecosystem that nurtures innovation and business growth. The Beaufort Digital Corridor provides an incubator for startups, co-working office spaces, and educational programs, fostering a tech-savvy and innovative community. This along with solid broadband and cell service makes it a great choice for entrepreneurs. If retail and hospitality is your niche, there are still so many opportunities in the downtown to offer a growing tourist trade as well as residents.
So many coastal towns are all about the beach, but this town has a vibrant business community, solid internet and great cell service. The town is home to coworking spaces and leadership is encouraging this town as a remote work location. The location between Savannah and Charleston is a plus. And - there is always the beach and the water! -
A coastal town, small enough to feel like you know folks and have a great community - but big enough to give your kids access to all kinds of activities. Water-oriented activities are a big draw for families in this town, with boating, sailing, fishing, and just being outside with nature. County schools are said to be good; check them out at the bottom of this page. There are quite a few private schools as well. Housing ranges from affordable to luxurious, multi-family to large lots - so much to choose from.
The year-round pleasant weather is a big advantage to the town, being a match for those who are single and seeking to establish a community. There is much to do here, and Southern hospitality is not a myth! We think this could be a great location for singles. Whether through water sports, festivals, or simply enjoying the local cuisine, singles will find Beaufort a welcoming and stimulating environment. Plus the larger cities of Savannah and Charleston are a day-drive away.
It is hard to imagine a cozier place along the coast to retire. The town is not quite as bustling as nearby Bluffton, so traffic congestion is negligible, but the town is well established with facilities, parks, and activities to meet many a personality preference. If boating is your thing, this is a great place to land for your retirement years. Golf and tennis are abundant, as well as the wildly popular pickleball. While medical facilities are nearby, some may find big town specialists a longer drive than they expected - as it takes a bit to get back to the interstate. The downside of the coastal geography.
THE UNIQUE MAGIC INGREDIENTS
SPARKS & Vibes
The way we see it, SPARKS are the places, events, activities that you remember about a MoxieTown, the ones that set them apart, the ones they are known for, & make a lasting impression.
Vibes , on the other hand, are that all-over feeling you get from a place, its unique ambiance.
Beaufort exudes a sense of warmth and Southern hospitality. You know it is serious for business, but life feels like vacation everyday. We like to think that it is Real Life Coastal
Riverfront
Historic Architecture | Throughout the Downtown and Residential District
Seafood Culture
Hunting Island Beach
The Downtown Scene
Bay Street runs a block parallel to the waterfront and is the main heart of Beaufort's downtown. But the history of Beaufort extends beyond the main street as the town, with established residential homes that extend in a grid pattern to the north until it meets the marsh on the other side of this town. This flat, walkable, and often shaded neighborhood pattern reflects the authenticity of Beaufort’s original founding. On Bay Street, you will find shops, eateries, and galleries that will keep you entertained and filled to the brim with great food, cocktails, and cool sweets.
BLOGS ABOUT THIS MOXIETOWN
Stories, Tales, & Secrets
Found Around Town
Take a look at our Stories to find more about these treasures in and around town.
Our Quick Takes & Not-To-Miss Highlights.
Whether you’re staying or just stopping by, you don’t want to miss these. There are many adventures to be had and much local flair to experience!
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This town has a fresh culinary scene that reflects its Southern heritage and coastal location. Known for its fresh seafood, the city offers a range of dining experiences, from upscale eateries to casual, family-friendly spots. Signature dishes often include Lowcountry specialties like shrimp and grits, oysters, and crab cakes. Additionally, Beaufort's historic charm adds to the dining experience, with many restaurants set in beautifully restored buildings, providing a unique ambiance that complements the local flavors. If you are looking for a more casual place, there are plenty of treasured “dives” on the water tucked into little corners. Read our stories for restaurants.
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Enjoy the scenic beaches, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. Outdoor enthusiasts can engage in kayaking, fishing, and exploring the local marshlands. For a dose of history and art, visit local museums and theaters. Beaufort's charm extends to its vibrant festivals and events, offering something for every taste and interest.
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This town is a great destination for a getaway or longer vacation. As tourism is a major driver in this economy, visitors can choose from historic inns, cozy bed and breakfasts, and boutique hotels, each offering a unique glimpse into Beaufort's rich history and culture. Additionally, the area is well-serviced with a range of short-term rentals, including Airbnbs, which provide a more personalized and home-like experience.
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We are delighted at the focus that the county and town of Beaufort maintain on growing business and industry. There is excellent internet and cell service just about everywhere. The Beaufort Digitial Corridor focuses specifically on tech entrepreneurs and remote tech workers, offering resources, education, and support for those in the tech industry. The USCB Small Business development and the county’s economic development team support new and growing businesses. With such a desirable lifestyle market, drawing new employees becomes easier.
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From captivating performing arts and theater productions at the USCB Center for the Arts to entertainment inspired by historical events and Gullah traditions, Beaufort's cultural landscape is both dynamic and engaging. Whether you are drawn to live shows, talented performers, or unique artistic expressions, Beaufort's art scene continues to shine brightly, showcasing the town's commitment to fostering creativity and celebrating its rich heritage.
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The housing market in Beaufort caters to a diverse range of preferences, from historic homes with character to modern waterfront properties. With a welcoming vibe that resonates throughout the town, newcomers will find themselves embraced by a tight-knit community that values connection and inclusive environment. Whether you are a family seeking safe neighborhoods and abundant activities for children, a remote worker in search of affordable housing and a supportive environment, or a retiree looking for a place where your dollar goes further, Beaufort promises a welcoming atmosphere where you can truly feel at home.
Uncover the treasures around town
Because, sometimes you just need to know how close it is
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Charleston, SC - 70 miles
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Charleston International Airport - 68 miles
Hilton Head Airport 40 miles
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The University of South Carolina Beaufort (USCB) - intown
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Beaufort Memorial Hospital - intown
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Truist Park, Atlanta 280 miles
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Lake Moultrie - 82 miles
Hunting Island State Park - 17 miles
Beaufort River - intown
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Tanger Outlets HIlton Head - 32 miles
Find Your Way Around Clarkesville, Georgia.
Sometimes you just need to know how close it is.
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Charleston, SC - 70 miles
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Charleston International Airport - 68 miles
Hilton Head Airport 40 miles
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Beaufort Memorial Hospital - intown
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The University of South Carolina Beaufort (USCB) - intown
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Truist Park, Atlanta 280 miles
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Lake Moultrie - 82 miles
Hunting Island State Park - 17 miles
Beaufort River - intown
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Tanger Outlets HIlton Head - 32 miles
SIT BACK AND SCROLL THROUGH THIS PICTURESQUE MOXIETOWN
Follow along for some MoxieTown magic.
A sweet slice of life in Beaufort.
Exterior view of a white wooden ice cream shop with signs advertising Yups Ice Cream, ice, Nathans hot dogs, and a loading notice. The shop has a small porch with a railing and stairs, with trees and a parking lot visible in the background.
A seaside park with a walking path, benches, palm trees, and a view of the water with boats and people enjoying a sunny day.
Exterior view of a small ice cream shop with signs for ice cream, Nathan's hot dogs, and other items, surrounded by trees and bright sunlight.
Facade of a building with large window, green vines climbing, a palm tree on the right, and a sign hanging from the wall, against a bright blue sky.
People dressed in humorous costumes, including a man wearing a white top hat and a tan vest, and a woman wearing a black top hat and sunglasses, at an outdoor gathering under a tent with trees in the background.
Concrete pier with three black chain railings and water in the background with a distant shoreline and bridge under a clear sky.
Street scene with parked and moving cars, palm trees, and storefronts on a sunny day with a clear sky in an urban area.
Sidewalk scene in a shopping district with stores and parked cars, palm trees, and pedestrians walking along the sidewalk.
Night view of a building with a sign that says 'FISHCAMP' above the entrance, cars parked in front, and plants partially obscuring the view.
Front porch of a house with white siding, black shutters, and a red metal roof. A wooden door has a small wreath, and a hanging lantern light is beside it. An American flag hangs from a post, and two potted plants are on the porch steps. The house number 302 is on the bottom step. There are trees and bushes in front of the house.
Interior of a bright restaurant with high ceilings, large arched windows, ceiling fans, and a coffee bar with a green bottom and marble top. Customers are seated at tables and the counter, with artwork and shelves on the walls.
A wire basket containing individually wrapped lemon and German chocolate cake bars on a marble countertop.
Find Your Tribe
Location is everything when you’re moving somewhere new, but so are the people! While of course, these stats can’t begin to represent these unique individuals and their social dynamics, they can provide you with a snapshot of the remarkable tapestry of personalities.
Education
This is a great place to get an overview of the educational offerings of a community. We know each family is unique and each child has their own perfect fit - so check out the many options in this town here.
How we look at demographics, other than education choices
We are looking at small towns everywhere and, so that our fellow small-town fans can really compare “apples to apples” as closely as possible, we use a 3-mile radius for most all of our demographics, 1 mile if we are talking specifically about what is within walking distance to the heart of town. Because when you are talking about who lives in a town - you don’t really care about who provides their water or where they pay their taxes.
Household Income & Median Home Value
$65,475
2023 Median Household Income
90
2023 USA Index
$362,467
2023 Median Home Value
117
2023 USA Index
Indexes
An index is a way to measure and compare different values using a common standard. Think of it as a scale or a ruler that helps you understand how different things measure up against a standard or average of what is found in the US.
Median Age - 98
Wealth - 98
Diversity - 56.2
Total Crime - 146
The indexes indicate that Beaufort's median age and wealth are both very close to the national median, with scores of 98 on a scale where 100 represents the national median. This suggests that the town's population is nearly as old as the average American and possesses a similar level of wealth. The diversity index of 56.2, on a scale where 100 represents complete diversity, shows that Beaufort is moderately diverse. The total crime index of 146, where 100 represents the national median, indicates that the crime rate is higher than the national average, which could be a consideration for those looking to move to the area.