South Carolina’s real estate market is a rich tapestry of historic elegance, island tranquility, and coastal grandeur. From the storied streets of Charleston to the sun-soaked luxury of Hilton Head, the Palmetto State is home to some of the Southeast’s most awe-inspiring residences.
Here’s a look at five of the most expensive homes in South Carolina, each offering a glimpse into a lifestyle defined by beauty, comfort, and exclusivity.
5. Wadmalaw Island, SC – $10,600,000
Set on over 13 acres along the Bohicket River, this $10,600,000 single-family estate spans 6,872 square feet with 6 bedrooms and 7 bathrooms. Built in 2003 and inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright, the main house features river views, a gourmet kitchen, elevator, multiple entertaining spaces, and an attached guest wing. Additional guest houses add living quarters, bringing the total to 9 garage bays and over 1,000 feet of deep-water frontage with a private dock and boat lift.
Where is Wadmalaw?
Wadmalaw Island is located in Charleston County, South Carolina, southwest of Johns Island and bordered by the Wadmalaw and Bohicket creeks. It is largely rural, with farms, marshlands, and the Charleston Tea Garden, the only large-scale tea plantation in North America. The island has no commercial center but is accessible by road from Johns Island. Public services, including schools, are managed by Charleston County.
Living Room
Framed by a curved wood ceiling and tall windows, the living room includes cream sofas, a carved coffee table, and a fireplace built from natural stone. Wrought iron railings line the upper walkway, creating a sense of openness between floors. Rich tones and detailed finishes shape the warm, dramatic atmosphere.
Kitchen
Organized around an island with a black countertop, the kitchen features light wood cabinetry decorated with natural patterns. A stone wall houses a fireplace beside a cozy sitting area with a leather chair and mounted TV. Hardwood floors and recessed lighting tie the space together with a relaxed, functional layout.
Office
Lined with full bookshelves and wood paneling, the office centers around a rounded executive desk with ornate detailing. A coffered ceiling and built-in lighting frame the space above, while wide windows and classic portrait art complete the study. Seating areas and neutral carpet support both work and reading.
Bedroom
Set beneath angled ceilings, the bedroom includes a dark tufted headboard, upholstered chairs, and three tall windows with wood trim. A soft rug lies beneath a small table at the center of the space. Framed art and balanced lighting complete the room’s calm layout.
Bathroom
Defined by blue tile and marble surfaces, the bathroom includes a step-up soaking tub under a window and a glass walk-in shower. Warm wood trim and cabinetry add contrast to the cool color scheme. Decorative fixtures and a patterned rug soften the stone textures throughout.
Listing agent: Bobby Shealy of ERA Wilder Realty, info provided by Coldwell Banker Realty
4. Isle Of Palms, SC – $10,750,000
Located on nearly 2 acres of oceanfront in Isle of Palms, this $10,750,000 single-family estate offers 6,999 square feet with 7 bedrooms and 9 bathrooms. Built in 2007, the home includes a gourmet kitchen with Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances, pine-beamed living spaces, a saltwater pool, jacuzzi, and multiple ocean-facing decks.
Features also include a private elevator, three laundry rooms, a spacious garage, and guest suites each with spa-style baths and private balconies.
Where is Isle Of Palms?
Isle of Palms is a barrier island city in Charleston County, South Carolina, located northeast of Charleston across the Intracoastal Waterway. It features a wide beach, the Wild Dunes Resort, and residential neighborhoods popular with both year-round residents and vacationers. The island is connected to Mount Pleasant by the Isle of Palms Connector. It falls under the Charleston County School District.
Living Room
Wrapped in windows that face the ocean, the living room includes oversized sectionals, neutral armchairs, and a light area rug beneath wooden ceiling beams. Coastal light fills the open floor plan, with glass doors opening onto a beach-facing deck. Earth-toned floors and layered textures create a calm, expansive space.
Kitchen
Structured around a central island, the kitchen combines soft green cabinetry with stainless steel appliances and a large range under a detailed arch. Barstools line one side of the island while brick-style floors run throughout. Glass-front upper cabinets, pendant lighting, and a wide refrigerator complete the classic layout.
Dining Room
Placed beneath a vaulted ceiling with exposed beams, the dining room includes a long wood table and cushioned chairs in cool tones. A large chandelier hangs above, and the white fireplace is framed by decorative tile and artwork. Natural light flows through French doors and tall side windows nearby.
Bedroom
Positioned with a full ocean view, the bedroom features a woven-frame bed, a bench, and a chaise lounge near large glass windows. Matching nightstands with ceramic lamps stand on either side of the bed, and soft green curtains frame the light-filled wall. Pale floors and a cream rug reinforce the quiet, beachside tone.
Pool Deck
Set just above the shoreline, the pool deck includes a circular hot tub, a curved swimming pool, and lounge chairs facing the view. Palm trees and hedges provide privacy along the side while a wooden fence marks the perimeter. Stone tiles span the entire patio, extending around multiple seating areas.
Listing agent: Christopher Smith, Patrick Ryan of Serhant, info provided by Coldwell Banker Realty
3. Charleston, SC – $12,500,000
Situated South of Broad in Charleston, this $12,500,000 single-family home spans 5,774 square feet and includes 4 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms. Built in 1834, the Chisolm-Alston House is a Greek Revival residence originally designed by Charles F. Reichardt, featuring 12-foot ceilings, a spiral staircase, Corinthian columns, and restored interiors by designer Carolyne Roehm.
The property includes a garden, off-street parking, a basement for storage, and multiple formal and family spaces that blend historic architecture with modern function.
Where is Charleston?
Charleston is a historic coastal city in South Carolina, located where the Ashley and Cooper rivers meet the Atlantic Ocean. It’s known for its cobblestone streets, preserved architecture, and role in American history, including the Civil War’s start at Fort Sumter. The city has a busy port, a growing tech sector, and is home to the College of Charleston. Charleston is served by Charleston County School District and the Charleston International Airport.
Parlor
Draped in ornate trim and antique accents, the parlor includes green walls, a black fireplace, and twin gilded mirrors flanked by blue porcelain. Two settees and carved chairs sit on a black-and-white marble floor, framed by golden wall sconces and a detailed chandelier. A wide doorway leads into a striped hallway beyond.
Library
Lined with custom shelves and crowned by an elaborate ceiling, the library includes bust sculptures, tall windows, and a long central reading table. Books are organized by color along both sides, while a brass chandelier centers the room. Natural light filters in through paned glass, complementing the decorative molding and rich furnishings.
Kitchen
Brightened by large windows and white cabinetry, the kitchen features marble countertops, a farmhouse sink, and checkerboard tile floors. Glass-front cabinets reach toward the high ceiling, while botanical artwork adds color beside the cooking area. Ferns and fresh flowers soften the space with natural elements.
Bedroom
Patterned in floral wallpaper and red drapes, the bedroom showcases a domed canopy bed with gold accents and matching bedding. Columns divide the sleeping area from a seating nook, where blue rugs and curved chairs sit beneath tall windows. Gilt mirrors, portraits, and sculpted light fixtures complete the theatrical design.
Bathroom
Fitted with a large glass shower and clawfoot tub, the bathroom combines white cabinetry, dark wood floors, and a dramatic red window shade. An ornate mirror and sconces add detail above the marble sink. Light pours in from a tree-framed window beside the soaking area.
Listing agent: Robertson Allen of The Cassina Group, info provided by Coldwell Banker Realty
2. Sullivan’s Island, SC – $14,000,000
Located on Sullivan’s Island, this oceanfront single-family home is priced at $14,000,000 and spans 5,106 square feet with 5 bedrooms and 7 bathrooms. Originally built in 1975, the home underwent a complete reconstruction led by Dufford & Young, adding an upper level and enhancing every detail.
Positioned on a half-acre lot, the property includes a saltwater pool, spa, elevator, multiple porches, and restored architectural elements like pecky cypress walls.
Where is Sullivan’s Island?
Sullivan’s Island is a small town in Charleston County, South Carolina, situated at the entrance of Charleston Harbor. It is known for its residential beach community, historic Fort Moultrie, and maritime forest. The island is part of the Charleston metropolitan area and is connected to Mount Pleasant by the Ben Sawyer Bridge. Public education is provided by Charleston County School District.
Porch
Designed for open-air lounging, the porch features sculptural rattan chairs and a green-cushioned swing suspended from the ceiling. White shutters and columns line the wall opposite the rail, allowing light and air to move freely through the space. Ceiling fans and lantern lights support year-round use.
Living Room
Arranged with two matching sofas and four armchairs, the living room opens to adjacent spaces through wide doorways and built-in shelving. A mix of framed art, patterned rugs, and neutral finishes fill the space with texture and color. Exposed ceiling beams and large windows frame the sitting area.
Kitchen
Outlined by dark wood cabinetry and white tile walls, the kitchen centers around a wide island with marble countertops and five stools. Two windows flank a white range hood and cooktop, with leafy views visible through each. Brass hardware and fixtures add contrast to the clean and simple palette.
Dining Room
Anchored by a wooden table with striped seat chairs, the dining room stands between the kitchen and hall with framed artwork on multiple walls. A brass chandelier hangs over the center of the table, flanked by decorative sconces. The space offers direct access to the kitchen through an open wall passage.
Bedroom
Backed by soft blue wallpaper, the bedroom includes a four-poster bed, a bench, and a vintage-style chaise near a row of large windows. Natural light filters through sheer curtains, revealing treetop views just beyond. A woven rug, spindle chair, and gold floor lamp finish the space with layered comfort.
Listing agent: Tim Reese of Dunes Properties Of Chas Inc, info provided by Coldwell Banker Realty
1. Hilton Head Island, SC – $18,000,000
Spread across two waterfront lots in Wexford, this $18,000,000 single-family estate encompasses 18,056 square feet with 8 bedrooms and 15 bathrooms. Built in 2003, it includes both a primary residence and a guest home, featuring amenities such as a bowling alley, wine cellar, media room, elevator, and a spa.
The property also offers a pool, hot tub, outdoor kitchen, seven-car garage, multiple piers, and extensive interior millwork throughout.
Where is Hilton Head Island?
Hilton Head Island is located in Beaufort County, South Carolina, along the Atlantic coast. It’s known for its beaches, golf courses, and the Harbour Town Lighthouse. The island includes several gated communities and is connected to the mainland by the Cross Island Parkway. It is part of the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton metropolitan area and served by the Beaufort County School District.
Living Room
Arranged beneath a coffered ceiling, the living room includes multiple conversation areas with velvet sofas, armchairs, and a stone fireplace. Arched openings and tall windows extend the space into surrounding rooms while maintaining sightlines across the open floor plan. Decorative art and patterned rugs complete the formal yet inviting atmosphere.
Dining Room
Backed by a panoramic mural, the dining room features a long polished wood table surrounded by intricately carved chairs. Dual chandeliers hang from a tray ceiling bordered with crown molding, casting light over the richly patterned area rug. Stone columns and arched doorways connect the space to a sun-filled corridor beyond.
Kitchen
Defined by warm tones and custom cabinetry, the kitchen includes a central island, a hanging pot rack, and a built-in dining nook. High-backed stools and pendant lighting line one side of the island, while a corner banquette wraps around a circular table near tall arched windows. Decorative tiles and carved details enhance the character of the cooking space.
Game Room
Outfitted with a red-felt pool table, the game room blends entertainment and relaxation through wood beams, dark trim, and lounge seating. A full bar anchors the far wall behind upholstered stools, while multiple game tables offer additional options. Layered lighting and rich finishes create a club-style atmosphere.
Pool Terrace
Set against a waterfront backdrop, the pool terrace includes red-cushioned lounge chairs, umbrella-shaded tables, and neatly sculpted landscaping. An infinity-edge pool stretches toward the view, framed by palms and curved stonework. Seating areas and dining options make the space ideal for entertaining or relaxing by the water.
Listing agent: William Anderson of Daniel Ravenel Sotheby’S International Realty, info provided by Coldwell Banker Realty
