Credit: Southern Land Company
The region’s residential landscape is shifting as affluent retirees are choosing Charleston over Florida and trading beachfront ownership for downtown, amenity-rich living. Society at Laurens, Charleston’s newest luxury residential community, exemplifies this developing movement toward elevated, maintenance-free, city living.
While Florida has long been the go-to retirement destination, rising home maintenance costs, flood insurance premiums and coastal erosion may be causing a shift. According to AARP, more than 338,000 Americans relocated for retirement in 2023, a 44% increase from 2022. South Carolina topped the list of U-Haul growth states in 2024; of all the moves throughout the state, over 51.7% were arrivals.
Communities like Society have identified a need in the market, capturing what today’s retirees seek. The property offers studios to three-bedroom residences with open-concept layouts, chef-inspired kitchens and custom walk-in closets. Resort-style amenities include a heated saltwater pool, The Blue Palm social club with a full kitchen and bar, a state-of-the-art fitness center and a private pet spa to enhance daily life. Luxury rentals provide freedom from traditional home upkeep and encourage a sense of independence to explore downtown attractions, dining and community fellowship.