If you're looking for a small southern town steeped in history and southern charm, you've come to the right place. Our guide to living in Moncks Corner should answer most of the questions you might have about this South Carolina town. Learn all about its history, schools, activities, and more in our helpful breakdown of this great Lowcountry gem.
History
Although the town was named for its landowner, Thomas Monck back in 1728, according to Wikipedia, the area of Moncks Corner had been settled by indigenous people for thousands of years before anyone else. The now extinct tribe of the Edistow people inhabited the area, and its descendants now comprise the eight families of the Wassamasaw Tribe of Vernertown Indians that make up the community located between Moncks Corner and Summerville.
As far back as colonial times, the area had been a major hub of South Carolina's commerce. Initially, the Cooper River and rural roads provided an artery to the colonies in the backcountry which also made Moncks Corner a target during the Revolutionary War with the "Swamp Fox" himself Francis Marion, and his army fighting British forces throughout the war.
As, "America's first true canal", The Santee Canal operated between the Santee and Cooper rivers from its opening in 1800 until the railway between Columbia and Charleston was completed in 1840. During the canal's heyday, it moved goods up and down its 22-mile length, but once the railroad began operations, its use slowly dwindled until its charter was revoked in 1850.
Economy
Working in Moncks Corner means choices in the manufacturing industry, which is the largest employer in the area. But you also have options in the hospitality, technical services, and public administration sectors as well. And according to payscale.com, Moncks Corner's cost of living is 16% lower than the national average and housing expenses come in 38% lower than the national average.
The median household income is $67,151 which is around 3% higher than the national average of $64,994.
Weather
Like the rest of the Lowcountry, Moncks Corner is in a subtropical climate and you'll find hot and humid summers here, warmer than along the coast like Charleston and James Island. Rain averages are typically higher while winters here are quite mild.
Schools
The public schools in Moncks Corner are considered above-average and there are a number of public options available for school-age children:
High School
Berkeley County Middle College High School
This public magnet school serves 115 students in grades 11 & 12 and was voted the #1 Best Public High School in Berkeley County by Niche.com. The student-teacher ratio is 29 to 1, but polls indicate high satisfaction with the teaching staff here.
This public high school serves 1,801 students in grades 9-12 with an 18 to 1 student-teacher ratio. Of the teaching staff, a little over 9% are in their first or second year of teaching with polls showing moderate satisfaction with curriculum and teaching.
Middle School
Berkeley Middle serves 1,488 6th through 8th graders with a student-teacher ratio of 19-1. Over 11% of the teachers on staff here are in their first or second year of teaching.
This middle school is actually located in North Charleston. There are 413 - 6th through 8th graders attending school here with a student-teacher ratio of 13-1. Around 23% of teachers on staff here are in their first or second year of teaching.
Elementary School
image via Howe Hall AIMS
This public Magnet school was voted the #3 public elementary school in Berkeley County by Niche.com. 418 students in grades K-5 attend this school with a student-teacher ratio of 17-1. There are currently no teachers on staff in their first or second years of teaching.
Bowen's Corner is located in Hanahan, SC serving 715 students in grades K-5. The student-teacher ratio is currently 16 to 1.
The "Wise Owls" of Whitesville Elementary consist of 891 students in grades PK-5th grade with a student-teacher 16-1. Almost 23% of teachers on staff here are in their first or second years of teaching.
959 students in grades PK-5th grade are served at Foxbank with a student-teacher ratio of 17-1.
This charter school teaches 936 students in grades K-8 with a student-teacher ratio of 16-1.
Berkeley Elementary serves 541 students in grades PK-2. They enjoy a student-teacher ratio of 14 to 1.
Real Estate
In Moncks Corner, around 69% of the population own their homes while the remaining 31% rent. Median Home Values are $202,000 which is 12% lower than the national average of $229,800 and average rents are $924 which is 16% less than the national average of $1,096.
Moncks Corner has a total of 63 neighborhoods with a current average sales price of $411,366 among the currently listed homes for sale.
Dining
Almost 900 4.5-star reviews can't be wrong about what one reviewer calls, "...an amazing hidden gem...". Notable dishes are bread pudding, ribs, and its selection of sauces.
image via Caribbean Delight
Reviewers can't say enough good things about - well, everything - but the Jerk Chicken and Oxtails come up quite a bit.
Deemed "A great hole-in-the-wall for breakfast" it's not an incorrect statement. Folks love the pancakes, portions, waitstaff, and more.
This cozy spot in Moncks Corner has been around for a bit and has a loyal following. Lunch and dinner are served here with great service from the staff. Make sure to save room for their popular dessert selections.
Things to do outdoors
image via Eric Bjork
As the backdrop for movies like "The Patriot" and "The Notebook", Cypress Gardens clearly has what it takes to be a true Lowcountry setting. Hike through 3.5 miles of cypress trees, take a swamp boat tour looking for local wildlife, and more.
3030 Cypress Gardens Rd., Moncks Corner, SC 29461
image via mepkin abbey
Formerly a rice plantation, Mepkin Abbey is now the home of Trappist monks, but also home to beautiful gardens. Take a guided tour or explore on your own, observe the monks going about their daily routine and then stop by the gift shop for some great mementos of your visit.
1098 Mepkin Abbey Rd., Moncks Corner, SC 29461
History buffs will enjoy learning about the early days of Moncks Corner and its importance to the transportation of goods like cotton and indigo at Old Santee Canal Park. Although most of the canal was submerged with the creation of Lake Moultrie, certain areas are still visible of this important canal that began operation in the 1800s.
900 Stoney Landing Rd, Moncks Corner, SC 29461
Conclusion
We hope that we’ve given you some great insight as to why Moncks Corner is not only a great place to visit but could be a great place to call home! From its rich history to its great food and lower cost of living to its laid-back southern vibe, Moncks Corner is a true gem of the south.
If you have more questions about the area, get in touch, we love talking about the Lowcountry.
And if you're considering a move, kickstart your search by taking a look at all the homes for sale in Moncks Corner currently.
Sarah@CharlestonsBestHomeTeam.com | www.CharlestonsBestHomeTeam.com | (843) 814-1513/ (843) 819-8570