Charleston County Tax Rate
Charleston County's effective property tax rate for legal residences is approximately 0.50% — between Berkeley County (~0.51%) and Dorchester County (~0.67%). The rate reflects Charleston County's combined millage after Act 388's school operating tax elimination for primary residences. Charleston County has the additional advantage of being home to the state's largest city, which brings a broad commercial and industrial tax base that reduces residential millage requirements.
Real Numbers — Charleston County 55+ Buyers
| Home Value | Annual Tax (Under 65) | Monthly | Annual Tax (65+) | Monthly |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $450,000 | ~$2,250 | ~$188 | ~$2,000 | ~$167 |
| $550,000 | ~$2,750 | ~$229 | ~$2,500 | ~$208 |
| $650,000 | ~$3,250 | ~$271 | ~$3,000 | ~$250 |
| $750,000 | ~$3,750 | ~$313 | ~$3,500 | ~$292 |
Charleston County 55+ Communities
| Community | County | Eff. Rate | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Del Webb Point Hope | Charleston | ~0.50% | TBD (active build) |
| Encore at Carolina Park | Charleston | ~0.50% | $500K–$800K+ |
How to Apply in Charleston County
Legal Residence (4%): File Form PT-501 with the Charleston County Assessor, 4045 Bridge View Dr., North Charleston, SC 29405. Online application available at charlestoncounty.org. File within 6 months of purchase.
Senior Homestead Exemption: File with the Charleston County Auditor. First $50,000 FMV exempt, no income limit, one-time application. Auditor phone: 843-958-4200.
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