Mount Pleasant is a large suburban town in Charleston County, South Carolina, United States. It is the fourth-largest municipality in South Carolina, and for numerous years it was one of the state’s fastest growing areas, doubling in population between 1990 and 2000. The population according to the 2020 United States Census was 94,536.
History
The origins of Mount Pleasant date back to 1680 when settlers arrived from England and established Christ Church parish, considered to be the first settlement in Mount Pleasant. It was originally called North Point, but eventually came to be known as Mount Pleasant. Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, Mount Pleasant grew as a community based around agriculture and plantations. After the Civil War, it transitioned to a summer refugee for wealthy Charleston residents who came to Mount Pleasant for its lowcountry charm. Over time it developed into a bustling Charleston suburb.
Demographics
According to the 2020 Census, Mount Pleasant had a population of 94,536 people. The racial makeup of the town was 79.3% White, 11.5% Black or African American, 6.6% Asian, and 2.6% from two or more races. 5.5% of the population was Hispanic or Latino of any race.
The median age in Mount Pleasant is 39.3 years. 22.6% of the population is under the age of 18, and 15.5% is aged 65 or older. There are 36,945 households in the town, with an average of 2.45 people per household.
Mount Pleasant has seen rapid population growth since the 1970s as the Charleston area has developed. It is currently the fourth most populous municipality in South Carolina behind Columbia, Charleston, and North Charleston.
Economy and Major Employers
While Mount Pleasant is primarily a residential community, it also has a growing economic base. Some of the major employers in Mount Pleasant are:
- Boeing – Aerospace, defense, and technology firm
- Medical University of South Carolina – Academic medical center and hospital
- Charleston County Government – Public administration
- College of Charleston – Public university
- Joint Base Charleston – Military base
- Boomtown – Supermarket chain
Other major sectors of the economy include healthcare, education, retail, construction, tourism, and technology. Mount Pleasant serves as a bedroom community for Charleston’s job center, and many residents commute into downtown Charleston for work.
Attractions and Landmarks
Some of the most popular attractions and landmarks in Mount Pleasant include:
- Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum – Naval and maritime museum located on Charleston Harbor
- Mount Pleasant Pier – Historic fishing pier extending into Charleston Harbor
- Palmetto Islands County Park – Public beach and recreation area
- Shem Creek – Popular commercial and recreational fishing harbor
- Boone Hall Plantation – Antebellum plantation house museum
- Old Village – Historic neighborhood with shops and restaurants
Mount Pleasant hosts several annual events that attract tourists, such as the Charleston Food + Wine Festival, the Blessing of the Fleet and Seafood Festival, and the Holiday Festival of Lights.
Government
Mount Pleasant has a council-manager form of government. The town is governed by an elected Mayor and Town Council who appoint professional staff to manage day-to-day administrative operations. Some of the main departments include Public Services, Recreation, Planning, and Police. Mount Pleasant is located within Charleston County and subject to county ordinances as well.
The current Mayor of Mount Pleasant is Will Haynie, who was elected in 2019. There are five other Council Members representing different wards in the town. Council Members serve four year terms, and meetings are held twice per month.
Town operations and services are funded through property taxes, business license fees, accommodation taxes, and other revenue streams. Mount Pleasant has maintained a AAA bond rating for several years due to its strong financial management.
More information about Mount Pleasant’s government can be found on the town’s website.
Culture and Sports
Mount Pleasant maintains a strong sense of southern culture and charm. Family, faith, hospitality, and community are important values for many residents. The town hosts numerous festivals and community gatherings each year.
College of Charleston athletics are popular in Mount Pleasant. The Cougars compete in Division 1 sports including basketball, baseball, soccer, volleyball, golf, and sailing. Residents also support local youth sports leagues and programs.
The Charleston RiverDogs, a Class A minor league baseball team, play at Joseph P. Riley Jr. Park located along the Cooper River in Mount Pleasant. Many residents are season ticket holders and attend games regularly during the summer.
Arts and cultural institutions include the Mount Pleasant Museum, the Charleston Symphony Orchestra, and several community theaters. There are also numerous art galleries and classes offered around town.
Education
Public education in Mount Pleasant is managed by the Charleston County School District. There are twelve elementary schools, four middle schools, and three high schools located within the town limits.
Some of the largest public schools include Wando High School, Laing Middle School, and Belle Hall Elementary. There are also several private and charter school options in Mount Pleasant.
Higher education institutions include Charleston Southern University’s main campus and Trident Technical College’s Palmer Campus located in Mount Pleasant. Nearby colleges in Charleston include College of Charleston, The Citadel, Medical University of South Carolina, and more.
Conclusion
With its coastal location, charming atmosphere, and proximity to downtown Charleston, Mount Pleasant has developed into one of the most desirable places to live in South Carolina. The town offers residents a high quality of life with excellent schools, amenities, recreation, and natural beauty. Mount Pleasant’s population and economy continue to expand, while maintaining the town’s unique culture and identity.