About Assisted LivingAssisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.Complete guide to assisted livingBest of 2024 Assisted Living Winners
About Memory CareMemory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering. Complete guide to memory careBest of 2024 Memory Care Winners
About Independent LivingIndependent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.Complete guide to independent livingBest of 2024 Independent Living Winners
About Senior LivingSenior living is a term used to describe various housing and care options for older adults from maintenance-free, 55+ facilities for active seniors, to secure, fully staffed facilities for seniors with Alzheimer's or dementia. Complete guide to senior livingFind senior living facilities near you
About Nursing HomesNursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.Complete guide to Nursing Homes
About Senior ApartmentsSenior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.Complete guide to Senior Apartments
About Care HomesResidential care homes are shared neighborhood homes for seniors who need a live-in caregiver to assist with activities of daily living, like dressing and bathing.Complete guide to care homes
Veteran ResourcesVA benefits for long-term care, such as Aid and Attendance benefits, can help eligible veterans and their surviving spouses pay for senior care.Guide to VA benefits for long-term care
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10 Best Assisted Living Facilities in Charleston, SC

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From grand Southern-style architecture to buildings situated on Charleston’s scenic coastline, assisted living facilities in the Palmetto state have a welcoming feel. There’s plenty to see and do with Charleston boasting a mix of relaxing ocean-side vibes and big-city bustle.

If you’re ready to slow down and have things like laundry, cooking, and housekeeping taken off your plate — or need a little help with daily activities — assisted living is the perfect option for you.

In this guide, we’ll look at our 10 assisted living facility partners within a 10-mile radius of the center of Charleston. We’ll also provide information about ways to pay for assisted living,  laws and regulations you can expect facilities to follow, as well as health care, transportation, and local activity options.

Charleston Assisted Living Facilities | 380 Reviews
Showing 27 communities
Last Updated: 3/16/24
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Best of Senior Living

The top senior living communities stand out for their exceptional care and support of seniors in independent living, assisted living, memory care, and in-home care. Our Best of Senior Living Award winners represent the top 1-2% of senior care providers nationwide based on reviews from those who matter most: residents and families.

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Amenities
Providers
Types of care available in Charleston, SC
Assisted Living
Assisted Living
Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Nursing Homes
Nursing Homes
Nursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Memory Care
Memory Care
Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Independent Living
Independent Living
Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Residential Care Home
Residential Care Home
Residential care homes are shared neighborhood homes for seniors who need a live-in caregiver to assist with activities of daily living, like dressing and bathing.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Senior Apartments
Senior Apartments
Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Home Care
Home Care
Home care relies on trained aides to provide companionship and non-medical care for seniors living at home.
Recent reviews of Assisted Living in Charleston, SC
4.4 / 5.0

The caregivers at Dayspring were one of the reasons we chose this community. They are wonderful and very good with the residents. This is a smaller community so the ratio of caregivers to residents is higher. They could use a few more activities. The food is good and they keep the community very cle...

4.9 / 5.0

Nice place where the owners are on site and know every residents names.

5 / 5.0

We will be moving my mom into this facility this month. We have been impressed with their attentiveness and willingness to help and ease this process. They arranged for my mom to have lunch in the dining room with the other residents, which went a long way to making her feel welcomed and a part of t...

Photo of Ashley Gardens Transitional Assisted Living and Memory Care
99 Photos available
11 Floor plan available
9.9
Review score
24 reviews
9.9
Review score
24 reviews
5 star
79%
4 star
21%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
My family member has been at Ashley Gardens for a year and a half, and I have been very pleased with the care he has received. Everyone from the director to the chef knows the residents by name and always...
Provides: Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Here at Ashley Gardens, we are more than a memory care facility, we are a memory care community. Located close to Bon Secours St. Francis Hospital, we offer a warm and welcoming senior community for those in need of all-inclusive assisted living, transitional assisted living, or memory care in...
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Photo of Oaks at Charleston
1919 Photos available
66 Floor plans available
9.0
Review score
34 reviews
9.0
Review score
34 reviews
5 star
50%
4 star
26%
3 star
9%
2 star
6%
1 star
9%
See all reviews
My stepfather was a difficult resident and his adjustment to the move made him a challenge. The staff regularly reassured us that they were prepared and able to help him. I say 4 only because it is an older...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Choice of companion or private studio, one-and two- bedroom accommodations Weekly housekeeping and laundry All utilities except for telephone Delicious, well balanced meals, three times per day Snacks available around the clock Care staff on duty 24 hours per day Emergency Call System Assistance...
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Photo of Brookdale West Ashley
1515 Photos available
22 Floor plans available
8.7
Review score
79 reviews
8.7
Review score
79 reviews
5 star
48%
4 star
24%
3 star
14%
2 star
8%
1 star
6%
See all reviews
She always complains about the food. Breakfast usually is the meal she likes the least. I know she would sometimes like cereal with milk. I don't think she lets the staff know that she doesn't like the...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Brookdale Charleston is an assisted living and memory care community in the historical and thriving city of Charleston, South Carolina. Charleston is an elegant city with warm and welcoming people that exude Southern charm and hospitality, offering its residents a unique combination of historical...
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Explore Assisted Living in Charleston
Photo of Harmony at West Ashley
1111 Photos available
2222 Floor plans available
8.5
Review score
27 reviews
8.5
Review score
27 reviews
5 star
42%
4 star
33%
3 star
7%
2 star
7%
1 star
11%
See all reviews
We picked this community because of, references from local people, one a nurse who knew families that had members there. I would recommend to others.
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Welcome to Harmony at West AshleyIndependent Living | Assisted Living | Memory CareIn our continued effort to meet the demand of seniors in Charleston, South Carolina, we are offering Virtual Tours, an enhanced screening procedure for new residents, along with the security, support, services...
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Photo of Wellmore of Daniel Island
1818 Photos available
8.0
Review score
26 reviews
8.0
Review score
26 reviews
5 star
84%
4 star
12%
3 star
4%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
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All of the interactions we had with the staff were very positive, they know all the residents by name and they were very caring towards our loved one. Even though our loved one did not participate in the...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Adjacent to the Daniel Island Club, nestled amongst the trees and overlooking Beresford Creek, Wellmore of Daniel Island is the premier retirement community in Charleston’s vibrant island town. Members enjoy luxurious accommodations, restaurant-style fine dining, an award-winning wellness...
Photo of The Palms of Mt. Pleasant
1414 Photos available
55 Floor plans available
9.7
Review score
42 reviews
9.7
Review score
42 reviews
5 star
57%
4 star
38%
3 star
5%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
The staff is caring with the residents, as I see so far. The housekeeping is up to par. Every time I go there, the place is clean and orderly. So far, they have kept me informed of my mom's status and how...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
The Palms of Mount Pleasant The Palms of Mount Pleasant is an assisted living community located in the heart of Mt. Pleasant, Charleston County, South Carolina. Our community is just minutes away from dozens of notable locations, including numerous public parks and beaches, local festivals, East...
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Photo of Atria Mount Pleasant
2222 Photos available
3030 Floor plans available
9.2
Review score
31 reviews
9.2
Review score
31 reviews
5 star
62%
4 star
19%
3 star
10%
2 star
3%
1 star
6%
See all reviews
[Name removed], the driver and piano player and man about town, went above and beyond in accommodating my dad. My parents really came to rely on him for navigating my dad's transports while he was still...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Set among the natural coastal beauty of the Lowcountry, Atria Mount Pleasant is a vibrant community designed to help older people enjoy the benefits of an active lifestyle – and experience greater well-being.This inviting residence features spacious apartments and villas, each with a flexible...
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Photo of Oaks at Mt. Pleasant
1111 Photos available
33 Floor plans available
8.2
Review score
14 reviews
8.2
Review score
14 reviews
5 star
51%
4 star
21%
3 star
7%
2 star
0%
1 star
21%
See all reviews
All facilities need to see family involvement. I would tell others to speak up kindly when you're concerned. Advocacy is important anywhere. I do think they could improve on the food. They could provide...
Provides: Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Welcome Home to Sweetgrass Court! We are dedicated to providing activity focused care in a supportive environment by well trained associates. We strive to focus on what our residents can achieve as opposed to what they can no longer achieve on their own. We offer assistance with all activities of...
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Photo of Mount Pleasant Gardens Alzheimer's Special Care Center
1111 Photos available
33 Floor plans available
8.2
Review score
12 reviews
8.2
Review score
12 reviews
5 star
92%
4 star
0%
3 star
0%
2 star
8%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
When I was looking around for a place two years ago, this was the cleanest one that I came across. It is still clean and organized. The staff keeps me well informed of happenings and/or issues. They use...
Provides: Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
At Mount Pleasant Gardens Alzheimer’s Special Care Center, you will find our distinctive "Meaningful Moments®" brand of memory care, where we take memories and routines from your loved ones life prior to Alzheimer's and weave them into customized daily routines allowing us to create a supportive...
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Photo of Shem Creek Health Center at South Bay
33 Photos available
8.0
Review score
2 reviews
8.0
Review score
2 reviews
5 star
50%
4 star
50%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
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My father was previously a resident at Shem Creek Health Center at South Bay and everything about his experience at this facility was great. They took excellent care of my daddy for the few months that he...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Shem Creek Health Center, located on the twenty-four-acre campus of South Bay at Mt. Pleasant, offers a full range of health care services to meet the needs of the individual. Offering in-patient and out-patient rehabilitation, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing care, the staff of...
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Photo of Benton House of West Ashley
1010 Photos available
44 Floor plans available
7.8
Review score
15 reviews
7.8
Review score
15 reviews
5 star
53%
4 star
33%
3 star
7%
2 star
7%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
We picked this community because of the atmosphere, cost of placement, and caring, supportive staff. I would recommend to others.
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
We. Are. Family. Award Winning Senior Living! National Winner-Top 50 in Aging Services by Fortune magazine. A Great Place to Work certified 3 consecutive years. Multiple Pinnacle Customer Service Awards. Call or drop by to see what makes Benton House of West Ashley the most desired in the...
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Photo of Oaks at Daniel Island
1818 Photos available
55 Floor plans available
6.8
Review score
11 reviews
6.8
Review score
11 reviews
5 star
37%
4 star
27%
3 star
18%
2 star
18%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
My mother was struggling in a senior independent living community in FL. I needed to find a place locally near my home in Daniel Island South Carolina. I called aplaceformom.com. [name removed] was truly...
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Welcome to the warm, inviting atmosphere of the Oaks of Daniel Island, a place for senior adults to call home. Just moments from historic downtown Charleston, SC on beautiful Daniel Island, you can enjoy all the simple pleasures you deserve. As you learn more about our community, services,...
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Photo of The Palmettos of Charleston
2020 Photos available
5 star
62%
4 star
15%
3 star
15%
2 star
8%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
The staff is amazing they are so kind and caring and take wonderful care of my 97-year-old aunt. Through out the pandemic they have done everything they can to keep the residences safe, healthy and happy. I...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
The Palmettos of Charleston is owned and operated by NHC (National HealthCare Corporation). Since 1972, NHC has been committed to excellence by providing quality care that exceeds the standards of other assisted living communities. The Palmettos offers its residents an unrivaled amount of...
Photo of Sweetgrass Village
55 Photos available
5 star
50%
4 star
20%
3 star
20%
2 star
10%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
Sweetgrass has been wonderful home for my father! The size is what first attracted me to Sweetgrass and it has met all my expectations! Being small your loved one will get the individual attention they...
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Welcome Home to Sweetgrass Village of Mt. Pleasant! We offer luxurious studio and one bedroom apartments with kitchenettes in en elegant hotel-like environment. Our friendly, service oriented 24 hour staff will provide you with all the care and comfort of home, while promoting a sense of...
Photo of Revela at Mt. Pleasant Assisted Living
1010 Photos available
11 Floor plan available
Pricing promotion
5 star
0%
4 star
100%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
I thought overall they did a good job here, but they weren't quite up to the level of care that my loved one needed. It was a nice facility, everything was well kept and clean, and the staff were all...
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Welcome to Revela at Mt. Pleasant Assisted LivingEngage in a lifestyle you’ll love at Revela at Mt. Pleasant in Mt Pleasant, SC.Living along the coast at Revela at Mt. Pleasant in Mt Pleasant, SC, provides our Residents not only with a beautiful location but with many opportunities to enjoy a...
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Photo of Ashley Landing Assisted Living
1313 Photos available
5 star
56%
4 star
22%
3 star
11%
2 star
0%
1 star
11%
See all reviews
Mom has been a resident of this community for awhile now. I just want to say Ashley Landing is great. All of the staff is friendly and welcoming. The food is excellent and there is always something going...
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
GET TO KNOW ASHLEY LANDING ASSISTED LIVINGFROM THE MOMENT YOU WALK IN THE DOOR, IT BECOMES CLEAR THAT SOMETHING IS DIFFERENT AT ASHLEY LANDING, WHERE WE OFFER AFFORDABLE ASSISTED LIVING FOR OUR RESIDENTS. ASHLEY LANDING FEELS LIKE HOME. THE GREETINGS ARE WARM AND FRIENDLY AND THE MEALS TASTE...
Photo of TerraBella James Island
77 Photos available
7.0
Review score
51 reviews
7.0
Review score
51 reviews
5 star
49%
4 star
29%
3 star
18%
2 star
2%
1 star
2%
See all reviews
It's a delightful place with southern beach charm !The room was great spacious being able to look out the windows and see the hummingbird feeders in the birdhouse feeders in the garden beds was spectacular...
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
TerraBella James Island is an assisted living community located in the beautiful community of James Island, South Carolina. Clark Sound is only a mile away and is a popular afternoon destination for our residents. If you have a history buff in your family we are only two miles from both the...
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8.0
Review score
2 reviews
8.0
Review score
2 reviews
5 star
50%
4 star
50%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
We love Kempton of Charleston. The facility is great especially if you have access to driving. The location is isolated and there is not enough activities and things going on away from the facility so my...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Photo of Carter-May Home
5 star
100%
4 star
0%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
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I am so very thankful for the loving care Mom (age 86 - COPD and dementia) receives at Carter-May Home. She was in Pinewood in Goose Creek, SC for about a year and a half until they raised her level of care...
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Photo of Cabading Homes #3
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Photo of Mathis Ferry Plantation
5 star
0%
4 star
100%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
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0%
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I chose this facility for my mom from the various experiences that I have had with assisted living facilities for the last 10 years. The transitions went smoothly at first and due to my mom's needs and her...
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Near the heart of historic Charleston, our building stands testament to a long standing tradition of Southern hospitality. Our friendly, dedicated and trained staff are here to assist you or loved ones with a warmth that conveys the trust and confidence you are seeking and deserve. We are...
Photo of Bell's Professional Residential Home Care
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Photo of Bishop Gadsden Episcopal Community
Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living, Nursing Homes
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Nursing Homes: Nursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.
Provides: Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Alterra Clare Bridge provides a comfortable, home-like setting with programs and services designed specifically for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or other memory impairments. Alterra Clare Bridge offers private and companion suites in a comfortable neighborhood environment. Unique building...
Photo of Langit's Assisted Living Facility
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.

Costs of assisted living in the Charleston area

The average total cost for an assisted living facility in Charleston is $4,283 a month.[01] This price tag includes amenities, services, and 24-hour assistance and care.

The graphic below is a look at the average baseline costs of an assisted living facility without any additional fees or add-on extras.

Average cost comparisons near Charleston, SC

Average monthly costs

Charleston, SC

$4,499

How people pay for assisted living in Charleston

The money to pay for assisted living primarily comes from private sources. However, there are ways to save money to ensure you have enough to finance an assisted living stay.

We’ll take a look at private payment methods, as well as how VA benefits, Medicaid, and Medicare might help.

Private pay methods

From Social Security benefits to investment returns, private pay means any source that helps you cover assisted living expenses. Some of the following are also useful income streams:

Caregiver Resources
Reverse Mortgages and Long-Term Care: The Pros and Cons
By Merritt Whitley, senior living writer and editor
VA benefits
29573

Number of veterans who live in Charleston, according to the U.S. Census Bureau

About 20% of Charleston veterans are 75+

Charleston is home to thousands of retirement-age veterans who could benefit from VA help to cover their assisted living expenses.

Many veterans and their dependents could be eligible for the VA Pension. Another benefit to look into is the Aid and Attendance benefit. A&A is specifically for veterans who need assistance with daily activities, have impaired vision, are bed-fast, or are in a nursing home. The Aid and Attendance benefit is provided on top of the monthly VA Pension. The regional VA office is the place to apply.

It’s difficult to be familiar with all the ins and outs VA benefits, which is why you can rely on trained veterans services officers to help you through the process. It’s free to get their help, and they are easy to find at veterans services organizations (VSOs) and VA offices.

The South Carolina Veteran Coalition brings VSOs, nonprofits, government officials, and other organizations together to help veterans more easily connect to available resources. The Combined Arms portal is your starting point to tap into this resource.

Resources for Charleston veterans

Local VA offices

The South Carolina Department of Veterans’ Affairs
1800 St. Julian Place, Suite 305
Charleston, SC 29204
Phone: 803-734-4014
Email: va@scdva.sc.gov
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Charleston County Veterans Affairs Office
Veterans services officers: Anne S. Owen and Leslie D. Kemp
4045 Bridge View Drive
North Charleston, SC 29405
Phone: 843-874-6360
Email: vaoffice@charlestoncounty.org
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

VSOs

American Legion Post 241
Veterans services officer: Perry W. James, IV
3151 Rivers Ave.
North Charleston, SC 29405
Phone: 803-351-0811

American Legion Post 179
1748 Ashley Hall Road
Charleston, SC 29414
Phone: 843-991-6308

VFW Post 445
1639 Camp Road
Charleston, SC 29412
Phone: 843-795-9419

VFW Post 5091
4257 Spruill Ave.
North Charleston, SC 29405
Phone: 843-744-2089

Disabled American Veterans
VA Regional Office
6437 Garners Ferry Road
Columbia, SC 29209
Phone: 803-647-2422

Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 780
520 Folly Road
Charleston, SC 29412
Phone: 843-762-7546

Medicaid

Medicaid is for low-income seniors who need help covering health care expenses. While Medicaid won’t cover an assisted living stay, it can absolutely help with health care expenses and medical care you might need while at an assisted living facility.

Eligible seniors can get in-home health care and support at their assisted living facility if it is medically needed. The Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver program is the way to get that coverage. South Carolina has three different waivers:

Need help applying for Medicaid?

You don’t have to go it alone when trying to figure out if you are eligible for Medicaid in South Carolina. There are many resources that can help you. They are as follows:

Lastly, if you are dually eligible for Medicaid and Medicare, you can tap into Healthy Connections Prime, a program specifically for seniors 65 and older who qualify for both. The Healthy Connections Prime ombudsman can provide guidance to those with dual eligibility.

Charleston resident Medicaid resources

Eligibility and application assistance

Healthy Connections Local Eligibility Office
3685 Rivers Ave., Suite 102
North Charleston, SC 29405
Phone: 888-549-0820
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Saturday, 9 – noon

SC Thrive
Phone: 800-726-8774
Email: contact@scthrive.org

Trident Area Agency on Aging
5895 Core Road., Suite 419
North Charleston, SC 29406
Phone: 843-554-2275
Email: info@tridentaaa.org
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

SC Department on Aging Programs

South Carolina Department on Aging
1301 Gervais St., Suite 350
Columbia, SC 29201
Phone: 800-868-9095

Medicare

Assisted living is not covered by Medicare. However, this federal health insurance program for seniors who are at least 65 years old, will help cover the cost of medical care no matter where you live.

Another way to get help is to apply for a Medicare Savings Program in South Carolina called Qualified Medicare Beneficiaries (QMB). If you’re eligible, QMB will help pay for Medicare premiums, copayments, and deductibles. There are income limits at play.

Do you need help applying for Medicare?

Medicare coverage is available to those 65+, but you don’t have to figure out how to access it by yourself. The South Carolina State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) is a great first stop. This program has no-cost counseling available for anyone in need of help understanding and applying for Medicare. The South Carolina Department on Aging operates SHIP, and connecting with this program can help you get enrolled in other programs for low-income seniors as well. The GetCareSC website is another great place to get connected with assistance and have your questions answered. You can sign up for Medicare online or at your local Social Security Administration office.

For seniors dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid, the Healthy Connections Prime program is for you. There are only a few states that offer coordinated care for dually eligible seniors, and if you need help navigating this program, the Health Connections Prime ombudsman is an excellent resource.

Charleston resident Medicare resources

Apply for Medicare

Social Security Administration Office
1463 Tobias Gadson Blvd.
Charleston, SC 29407
Phone: 800-772-1213
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

South Carolina Department on Aging
State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)
1301 Gervais St., Suite 350
Columbia, SC 29201
Phone: 800-868-9095

Understand South Carolina laws and regulations for assisted living communities

Assisted living facilities in South Carolina are licensed as Community Residential Care Facilities by The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC). In addition to ensuring facilities adhere to the South Carolina licensing regulations for assisted living facilities, assisted living residents are also protected by the state’s Bill of Rights for Residents of Long-Term Care Facilities.

The regulations govern everything from the design and construction of the facility itself to maintenance requirements. Emergency procedures, disaster preparedness, and fire prevention are also covered.

Staff and training

The assisted living facility must have a licensed administrator. Minimum staff-to-resident ratios are also outlined: There must be at least one staff member for every eight residents during peak hours. That number goes up to one for every 30 residents during non-peak hours, and someone is required to be awake at all times.

Staff training must cover medication management, first aid, CPR, dealing with accidents or injuries, and anything specific to a resident’s diagnoses (such as specialized training for memory care).

Resident care and services

Facilities must assess the needs of residents within 72 hours of their admittance, as well as provide an individualized care plan within the first week. The plan should include assistance the resident will need and how they will receive it. It must outline necessary visits from health care providers, nutritional needs, and which recreational and social activities suit the needs of the resident.

Inspections

The DHEC is responsible for the unannounced annual inspections of long-term care facilities in Charleston. These inspections are required as part of South Carolina’s licensing requirements. The DHEC ensures long-term care facilities follow all regulations.  The DHEC’s inspection reports can be found by searching online or reaching out to the DHEC.

South Carolina Department of Health contact information

South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control
2600 Bull St.
Columbia, SC 29201
Phone: 855-472-3432
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.

COVID-19 regulations for Charleston assisted living communities

Charleston does not have COVID-19 mandates for assisted living facilities to follow. The city offers these guidelines as best practices and gives coronavirus updates here.

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Vaccinations. Per CDC guidelines, vaccinations are recommended.

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Masking. Masks are advised in public settings.

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Facility cleanliness. High-traffic areas should be disinfected frequently.

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Social distancing. It is recommended that contact with those who are exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19 be avoided.

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CDC guidelines. The Charleston guidelines match the recommendations from the CDC.

Get to know assisted living in Charleston

10Number of in-network assisted living facilities in market
4.1/5.0 average in-network rating
80% of our Charleston partner communities are pet-friendly
80% of these partner communities in Charleston offer memory care
90% of partner communities in Charleston offer full medication management
60% of our Charleston partner communities have a doctor on call
2748
Number of people we have referred to our partner communities in Charleston
81
Average age of resident we have referred to partner communities in Charleston
Gender split: 63% female

Types of assisted living in Charleston

A Place for Mom partners with two standalone assisted living communities in Charleston. The rest of our partner facilities also include memory care. Four of our 10 partner facilities include independent living options, too.

Activities for social butterflies

No matter which assisted living facility you choose, they all have plenty of extras to make any stay a comfortable one. With an activity director on staff at nearly all our partner facilities, you can enjoy activities like art classes, happy hours, live musical performances, and day trips to Charleston’s beautiful historic and coastal sights. In many communities, you can join in on trivia games in the cozy common areas or catch a movie with friends in the movie lounge.

Southern hospitality and care

In our partner assisted living facilities, making sure your needs are taken care of is a top priority. Someone will always be awake 24/7 if you need assistance of any kind. Your needs will be covered by visiting podiatrists, physical and occupational therapists, and speech therapists available at almost all our partner facilities. More than half of our partners have a doctor on call as well. That’s all in addition to the regular staff ready to meet your needs.

Prepared meals and dining for easy living

In our partner assisted living facilities, worrying about what to make for dinner is no longer a concern. You can expect three chef-prepared meals a day to be served to you in a restaurant-style setting. You can socialize over Southern staples or enjoy a meal in a private dining room in some facilities with visiting family and friends. If you have special preferences, that’s no problem. More than half of our partners offer vegetarian or low/no sodium options.

Unfamiliar with Charleston? Highlights for seniors

72,706

Number of seniors over the age of 65 currently living in Charleston

18%
Percentage of seniors 65 and older within the Charleston population
$50,969
Median annual income for Charleston seniors 65 and older

Health care for seniors in Charleston

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Medical University of South Carolina Health

Recognized in 22 types of care by U.S. News & World Report, this hospital delivers on its promise of great health care.

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Roper St. Francis Healthcare

Roper is nationally ranked by U.S. News & World Report for its rehabilitation program. It’s also rated as high performing in 12 other procedures and conditions.

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Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center

The VA Medical Center in Charleston, along with several VA clinics in the surrounding area, take care of the health care needs of Charleston’s veterans.

Transportation for seniors in Charleston

Getting around Charleston is best done by car, but in our partner assisted living facilities, you won’t need one. Almost all of them offer complimentary transportation, while 30% offer it at cost.

Charleston also has some public transportation options; however, the city only scores 24 on a scale of 100 in this area, according to Walk Score.[04] A walk score grades a city on its walkability with 100 being the highest score. Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) is the fixed-route bus system in the city, while the Downtown Area Shuttle (DASH) has routes specific to the downtown area. CARTA plans free ride days for seniors once per quarter to encourage those who are 55+ to use the bus system.

For just $4 per ride, CARTA OnDemand offers routes within this specific service area for seniors who are at least 55 years old. The remainder of the fee is subsidized in this partnership between Uber and Charleston. Those who qualify for Tel-A-Ride paratransit will also be eligible for CARTA OnDemand.

You can always call the Charleston Black Cab Company or the Charleston Cab Company for a ride, as well as some senior-specific options like A Golden Ride.

In some areas, Charleston is pedestrian-friendly, but not everywhere. Some urban infrastructure for bicycles and trails exists.

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40

Walk Score

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24

Transit Score

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50

Bike Score

Senior activities in Charleston

Stretching along the coast, Charleston was established more than three centuries ago. Notes of the past are captured in the city’s architecture, culture, and activities. While there are plenty of modern things to do, history is at the heart of this Southern city.

Step into the past

Charleston’s Rainbow Row was once the heart of Charleston’s commerce and trade; it’s now a designated historic landmark and a great place for a walking or horse-drawn carriage tour. The late Colonial-era Nathaniel Russell House Museum is a beautiful place to step into the past.

You can learn about Charleston’s roots at America’s first museum and the Old Slave Mart Museum. Take a ferry to Fort Sumter where the Civil War began on April 12, 1861 when the Confederates fired the first shot on the federal garrison. It’s important to note that many parts of the Fort are accessible, but not all of it. The ferry to get there is also accessible; however, the tides can sometimes prevent the ramp system from being used. Call ahead to be sure.

Established in 1807, the Charleston City Market is another must-see. Open daily, you can find all types of Southern staples, art, and the highly sought after hand woven sweetgrass baskets the area is known for.

Natural Southern beauty

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is more than 400 acres of beautiful gardens and one of the South’s oldest plantations. Visitors can take a garden tour or a nature tour by train or boat. The train and the boat are both accessible. However, the guided house tour is not because of all the stairs.

Charleston’s Waterfront Park is another beautiful place to enjoy nature. With eight acres of natural beauty and waterfront views, there’s something beautiful for everyone to enjoy. Walking paths are strewn with benches to rest and take in the views. The park even has intimate garden rooms with seating and plenty of shade.

For waterfront views, sun, and sand, head out to Folly Beach. The barrier island offers six miles of beaches, shops, and restaurants. While you’re there, check out the Porgy House, where Charles Gershwin wrote his famous folk opera Porgy and Bess in the home of authors Dubose and Dorothy Heyward.

Area attractions

The South Carolina Aquarium is a great place to go with visiting family and especially grandkids to learn about sea turtles or pet a stingray. Accessibility is central to the experience: Wheelchairs can be checked out for free, special sensory resources are available, and service animals are allowed.

Fans of art will enjoy The Gibbes Museum of Art, which offers this accessibility guide to ensure you have a great experience at its exhibits and programs. Charleston’s Gaillard Center offers the opportunity to enjoy ballet, live music, or even comedy at a fully accessible venue. Charleston Music Hall is another spot to take in live music, with six accessible seating areas available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ashley Gardens Transitional Assisted Living and Memory Care, The Palms of Mt. Pleasant and Somerby of Mount Pleasant are the top-rated Assisted Living facilities near Charleston, SC. These Assisted Living facilities received the highest rankings based on verified family reviews. See full list of communities.

The average cost of Assisted Living in Charleston is 4499.27 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.

References

  1. A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.

  2. U.S. News & World Report. (2023). MUSC Health University Medical Center.

  3. U.S. News & World Report. (2023). Roper Hospital.

  4. WalkScore. (2023). Living in Charleston.

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More questions?

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The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical, legal or financial advice or create a professional relationship between A Place for Mom and the reader. Always seek the advice of your health care provider, attorney or financial advisor with respect to any particular matter, and do not act or refrain from acting on the basis of anything you have read on this site. Links to third-party websites are only for the convenience of the reader; A Place for Mom does not endorse the contents of the third-party sites.
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1.

A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.

2.

U.S. News & World Report. (2023). MUSC Health University Medical Center.

3.

U.S. News & World Report. (2023). Roper Hospital.

4.

WalkScore. (2023). Living in Charleston.