North Charleston, SC, United States

With a population of 114,852, North Charleston is a sprawling industrial city grappling with the legacy of its plantation roots and military presence. The tax burden is heavy, with a median household income of $36,719, and bureaucracy is a persistent headache, as the city has expanded rapidly through annexation. However, the city has rebounded from the closure of the Charleston Naval Base, attracting major employers like Boeing and Mercedes-Benz. For those seeking affordable living and proximity to the Charleston metro area, North Charleston may be worth considering, but the high eviction rates and lingering racial tensions are important factors to weigh.