The burning question- What's weather like in Charleston, SC?

I get asked all the time from people looking to relocate to Charleston from out of state- what is the weather like year-round? 

I love this question because so many individuals and families are looking to relocate from the northeast specifically- as did I. So, keep in mind my opinion is heavily weighed on somebody who is used to upstate NY long, cold, miserable winters. Almost seemingly never-ending- to say the least. 

One thing I love about the weather in Charleston is how you really get to experience season changes throughout the year. It does in fact semi-drastically change from winter, to spring, to summer, to fall.

The biggest difference (again, comparing to NE weather) is the seasons aren’t as long. Which is really nice.

I’d say winter weather lasts about a solid 3 months, maybe- late December to February. Winter here gets down to the low 50s on average. However, you could easily wake up on a Tuesday mid-December, check the weather and the high is 70 and sunny. It's random and weird for sure. I’ve acclimated to the warm south and anything with a 5 in front of it is cold to me at this point.

One thing I was pleasantly surprised with, is that I still get to pull out my jackets, coats, and boots come the colder season here in Charleston. I was under the impression I’d never see them again once I moved south, and would have to say goodbye to fall and winter fashion. Nope, not the case at all. 

It definitely gets chilly here in the winter time. And the minute it drops below 60 degrees, the girlies pull out their parkas and men their beanies. It's definitely dramatic.

The fall is probably my favorite season in Charleston, besides summer obviously. Mid 70s, sunny, no humidity- it’s perfection. October/November is great. 

As for the summertime- yes it gets hot. However, being so close to the water (almost) solves that problem. Granted, it definitely is too hot to go outside some days for sure. 

Those super hot unbearable days really only linger in August. That’s the one month you shouldn’t visit if you don’t have too. But- I would take a few weeks of unbearable heat over 4-5 months of freezing cold and dark miserable skies all day long. 

Spring gets awkward. March/April calls for LAYERS. Morning is chilly, you'll want to wear a jacket. By 3PM you'll be sweating. The weather in the spring/fall is almost as indecisive as I am. You learn quick that layers are your best friend. 

The fact that Charleston is pretty much beautiful all year round has made the biggest difference in my life and overall happiness when comparing to living up north. The fact that 10 months out of the year I’m able to go for walks, work outside or enjoy a margarita on a rooftop if I feel like it- I’ll take it. 

...Oh and it rains- a lot. But half the time it doesn't when it says it's going to. Just plan for sunshine you'll be fine :)