Sullivan's Island's rich history and beautiful beaches draw visitors from all over the country each year.  The island was originally used as a defense point for early settlers of the Charleston area and later as a refuge for city dwellers from the summer heat.  The island also inspired Edgar Allan Poe's story "The Gold Bug."  Today, Sullivan's Island is home to over 1,800 full time residents, some of them retirees searching for exquisite beaches and little commercial development.

Sullivan's Island is a small community east of the Cooper river and a short drive from historic Charleston.  Mild year-round temperatures, recreation opportunities and location make Sullivan's Island a perfect choice for retirement.  The island averages 65º, allowing for year-round outdoor activities and beach access.  The island itself offers basketball, tennis, beaches, a Town Hall and historic Fort Moultrie for residents looking for amusement.

For those looking for a busier lifestyle, nearby Charleston offers many other diversions, including 27 golf courses, more than 100 shopping centers, over 2,000 historic structures, museums, theaters, art galleries and spectator sports.  Charleston is also home to 10 major hospitals employing 16,000 people.  Neighboring Isle of Palms offers two golf courses on the Wild Dunes Resort and many other recreational activities.

Unlike Isle of Palms, there are no official neighborhoods on the island, due to limited commercial growth and monitored development.  There are houses to rent and some on the market along the island.  The typical house on Sullivan's Island is about 4,740 square feet and sells for around $729,900 on a lot averaging one-half acre.  Based on the state average of 229 mills, property taxes on Sullivan's Island homes are $6,685.88.

Island residents pay at least $2,182 in home owner's insurance, but the estimate is larger based on the proximity of the homes to the coast.  Estimates do not include flood, hurricane or earthquake coverage.

Seniors wishing to retire in South Carolina may also take into consideration the property tax benefits of the state.  There is no state property tax, only local.  Adults over the age of 65 who have lived in South Carolina for at lest a year are exempt from municipal, county and school taxes on the first $20,000 of their home under the Homestead Tax Exemption.

Retirees are also eligible for income tax deductions of $3,000 and $10,000 for those over the age of 65. The maximum income tax rate is 7% on income over $11,400.  Social Security is not taxed.

For more information on retirement and housing in the Charleston area and Sullivan's Island, call the Charleston Chamber of Commerce (843) 853-8000, the Sullivan's Island Town Hall (843) 883-3198, the Charleston Trident Home Builders Association (843) 572-1414 or visit www.retirementparadise.net.