Get to Know Wagener Terrace in Charleston, SC

Introduction

Wagener Terrace, a neighborhood in the heart of downtown Charleston, SC, is one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in the city. This historic neighborhood has beautiful craftsman-style homes and a prime location near everything in Charleston making homes that do go on the market a hot commodity.

The History of Wagener Terrace

Wagener Terrace's namesake, Captain Frederick W. Wagener, was a wholesale grocer who lived at Lowndes Grove plantation. By 1919, there were only 4 houses in the area and paved roads and sewers weren't a reality until 1923 and the majority of the neighborhood wasn't built out until the 1930s.

A lot of the homes built in the 30s here feature craftsman-style architecture which is notable for having a similar feel but each has its own character, making each home almost one-of-a-kind. With their botanical color palettes of light greens, yellows, pinks, and more - it's not hard to see why the neighborhood is sought-after for its cozy and earthy feel.

The boundaries of Wagener Terrace are typically defined as Mt. Pleasant Street to the North, Rutledge Avenue to the east, the Ashley River to the west, and Hampton Park and The Citadel to the south.

The Neighborhood

With a lot of the main employers nearby, the neighborhood tends to draw a good deal of young professionals working at The Citadel, BoomTown, MUSC, and others in addition to real estate investors interested in flipping homes.

A good number of homes are situated along the Ashley River with riverfront views across to Charles Towne Landing but for other residents, it's an easy walk to enjoy some time along the waterfront.

The location is also ideal because it's off the main thoroughfare but within close proximity to dining, work, and entertainment whether by bike or car.

Schools

If you're planning on moving with your family to Wagener Terrace, an important thing to consider is the area's schools your children will attend. After all, a home in a good school district can be more valuable than one in an average school district - in more ways than one!

Julian Mitchell Elementary School

Julian Mitchell is a public school that serves 351 students in grades PK-5th. The student-teacher ratio is 13 to 1 with 96% of the teachers on staff with 3 or more years of experience.

James Simons Montessori School

This public school of 391 students in grades PK-8th grade with a 16 to 1 student-teacher ratio and 85% of the teachers with 3 or more years of experience.

Simmons Pinckney Middle School

Simmons Pinckney serves 278 students in grades 6-8 with an 11 to 1 student-teacher ratio and 74% of the teachers with 3 or more years of experience. 

Burke High School

Burke's 375 students in grades 9-12 have a student-teacher ratio of 9 to 1 with 89% of those teachers having 3 or more years of experience in the field.

Porter Gaud

This private school was voted the #1 private high school in the Charleston area by niche.com. It's 942 students in grades 1-12 have a student-teacher ratio of 9 to 1. Tuition for 12th grade is listed as $22,460.

Charleston Catholic School

Charleston Catholic serves 185 students in grades K-8 with a student-teacher ratio of 13-1. Tuition for 8th grade is listed at $10,250.

Ashley Hall

This private boarding school is rated the #2 boarding high school in the state of South Carolina with 637 students in grades PK through 12th. The student-teacher ratio is 8 to 1. Tuition for 12th grade is listed as $28,755.

Real Estate in Wagener Terrace

Homes in Wagener Terrace enjoy the convenient location close to the heart of downtown Charleston while featuring yards and houses with sizes you might find in places like James Island or West Ashley.

There are both older and newer construction single-family homes here with builds from 1925 up to 2019 starting at 858 square feet up to 4,000+. You'll have a range of 2-5 bedrooms and 1 to 7 bathrooms and the prices to match - homes here have a median sale price of the mid $600s up to the mid $2 millions.

Does Wagener Terrace have an HOA?

The neighborhood has a very active association called The Wagener Terrace Neighborhood Association (or WTNA) which has both a website and Facebook page which regularly posts information about events and other information concerning the neighborhood. They meet on the third Monday of each month and voting requires the payment of a $10 annual membership to the association but all residents are welcome to attend the meetings.

How to get around

Most of Wagener Terrace features sidewalks so getting around by foot is definitely an option, as well as by bicycle. It's close enough to downtown Charleston that you can easily walk there and back, and it's also within walking distance of several restaurants and shops. If you want to head directly to the beach, however, driving is your best option. 

Things to do nearby

There are lots to do in the area, including restaurants, bars, and shops. Not to mention the lovely Hampton Park nearby located right next door to The Citadel. Each year, Wagener Terrace's Neighborhood Association holds an Oyster Roast for residents that includes all-you-can-eat oysters, barbecue, live music, and a silent auction at Lowndes Grove Plantation.

Dining near Wagener Terrace

Harold's Cabin

Locals were thrilled to have this neighborhood favorite reopen after closing for 18 months during the pandemic. And one look through the recent reviews tells you this spot has hit its stride again.

Rutledge Cab Co.

The vibe, service, and food are all frequently mentioned when people talk about Rutledge Cab Co. And in terms of food, the wings, Reuben, and burgers get a lot of rave reviews.

Edmund's Oast

This spot quickly became a mainstay for the Charleston area and for good reason, with a great selection of beers and cocktails and a menu that belies what you might think of as "brewery food".

Butcher & Bee

Another mainstay in Charleston, Butcher & Bee now has a location in Nashville, TN, and the accolade of being a finalist with James Beard. The food here may sometimes seem light on choices for the carnivores, but you'd never know the difference - everything on the menu will leave you fat & happy.

Lewis Barbecue

image via Lewis Barbecue Instagram

Mix Texas and Charleston together and you get some amazing 'Que. Time and time again, reviewers claim it's the best barbecue they've had... and mac-n-cheese...and brisket...

Conclusion

Wagener Terrace is an all-around great place to live. The neighborhood has a lot to offer, with its parks, historic houses, convenience, and tight-knit community feel. If you’re looking for a home with character and charm, this is the place for you! And if there’s anything I can do to help find your ideal Wagener Terrace home, make sure to get in touch.

Get started on your search by viewing available homes for sale in Wagener Terrace.

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