Hilton Head Island welcomes all homebuyers, whether you want to move here permanently, purchase a vacation home, retire, raise a family, or invest in real estate. The town boasts 12 miles of pristine beach and breathtaking views of the Atlantic. Residents enjoy subtropical weather year-round, beautiful homes, and a wide array of outdoor attractions. If you are considering San Francisco as your next home, here is what living in Hilton Head Island would be like.
Local Lifestyle and Community
With just over 39,000 permanent residents, Hilton is a somewhat small and charming town. Somewhat because the population can grow to over 150,000 during peak tourist season. The community remains vibrant, throughout, however, with a humid subtropical climate, rich cultural scene, long history, and community events and festivals. Hilton Head is also a green community with many eco-friendly initiatives designed to protect the Island’s natural beauty and resources.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Hilton Head Island is slightly higher than in similar cities. At 8 percent above the national average, a household income of $73,841 is necessary for a high quality of life. The priciest expenses in Hilton Head are transportation, and housing, which cost 11 and 16 percent more than the national average. The median price of Hilton Head Island Homes for Sale is $639,000. However, utilities are 21 percent less expensive here compared to the national average.
Attractions and Outdoor Recreation
There is a lot to do and enjoy in Hilton Head Island. It is, after all, a tourist town and a popular vacation destination. The 12 miles of beach and sand mean you can enjoy unfettered access to many public and private beaches. Here, you can swim, kayak, boat, fish, jet-ski, and more. Sea Pines, a private gated community, boasts several golf courses, the 4-millennia-old Sea Pines Shell Ring, and 600 acres of forest preserve. Other activities you can enjoy on the island include birdwatching, biking, horseback riding, and zip lining. Golfing is a particularly popular pastime, with over 40 golf courses in town (24 championship).
Shopping and Restaurants
After a long day of kayaking and golfing, you can enjoy the rich culinary heritage of Hilton Head. The Island houses over 250 restaurants serving a diverse range of flavors and cuisines. The food culture is actually a significant part of the community’s identity and you can take a culinary tour across town. For shopping, the Island is home to a Whole Foods, Kroger, The Fresh Market, and several local stores.
Schools
While a tourist town, Hilton Head has a strong commitment to education. The private and public school systems are highly rated, achieving an A grade from Niche. The Island also enjoys proximity to several institutions of higher learning including, the University of South Carolina Beaufort-Bluffton, College of Charleston, and the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), which are located in the region.
Find Your Dream Hilton Head Island Home with Mary Gerstner
If you love warm weather, stunning coastal scenery, and a vibrant community with safe streets and great schools, you will love the Island. Contact real estate expert Mary Gerstner today to discuss your housing needs and how to buy a home in Hilton Head Island.