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Bluffton, SC

Frequently asked questions

Bluffton, SC

Bluffton is a town in southern Beaufort County, South Carolina, United States. The population as of the 2020 census was 27,716, an increase of over 120% since the 2010 census, making it the 17th-most populous municipality and one of the fastest-growing municipalities in South Carolina. It is primarily located around U.S. Route 278, between Hilton Head Island and Interstate 95. The Lowcountry town's original one square mile area, now known as Old Town, is situated on a bluff along the May River. Bluffton is a primary town within the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton-Port Royal, SC Metropolitan Statistical Area.

After the Tariff of 1842, Bluffton became a hotbed of separatist sentiment, which in turn led to a protest against federal taxes called the Bluffton Movement in 1844. Even though the movement quickly died out, it somewhat contributed to the secession movement that led to South Carolina being the first state to leave the Union. In the Antebellum Period, Bluffton became a popular location for wealthy merchants and plantation owners. During the Civil War, two-thirds of the town was destroyed by fire during the Union's Bluffton Expedition on June 4, 1863.

Bluffton was once mostly wetlands, many of which were drained possibly during the antebellum era. Agriculture and pine timber harvesting contributed to the landscape still present today. The town proper consists of five primary areas. The historic district of Old Town, on the northern bluff of the May River; Palmetto Bluff, located on the southern side of the May River; Jones Estate, situated along the New River; Buckwalter, located on the northwest side of town; and Shultz Tract, north of Old Town. The May River winds through the center of town. The New River forms the southwest boundary of the town.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 54.19 square miles (140.4 km²), of which 51.97 square miles (134.6 km²) is land and 2.23 square miles (5.8 km²) (4.12%) is water. Bluffton is the fifth largest municipality in South Carolina by land area. The municipal boundary contains many large "doughnut holes" of unincorporated territory due to South Carolina's strict annexation laws. Most of Bluffton was undeveloped land until the housing boom of the early 2000s, which led to explosive growth in Bluffton's area. Many of Bluffton's planned unit developments were built during this time. As of 2012 many of these developments remain only partially complete due to the economic downturn.

Bluffton prioritizes health and wellness. Coastal Carolina Hospital provides a range of medical services including primary care, specialty care, urgent care, and wellness programs. Explore the parks, facilities, and programs the Beaufort County Parks and Recreation offers. These spaces provide opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking, jogging, sports, and picnicking. Join local fitness centers and gyms to participate in exercise programs, fitness classes, and strength training. Some popular options include Move Fitness & Yoga Studio, PULSEology Fitness Club, and eFitclub. Discover the walking and biking trails in and around Bluffton, such as the Deer Bone Trail and Buckwalter Place Greenway Trail. These trails offer opportunities for outdoor exercise and enjoyment of nature. 

Top sites in Bluffton, SC are Harbour Town Lighthouse, Haig Point, and Heyward House.

Population: 35,243 (2023). ZIP codes: 29909-29910. Area code(s): 843, 854. Elevation: 20 ft (6 m). Area: 54.19 sq mi (140.36 km²).

FAQs

What is Bluffton, SC famous for?

The historic Town of Bluffton is situated on a high bluff overlooking the pristine May River, a source of the world-famous Bluffton oysters. The historic riverfront community still welcomes visitors with as much charm and vibrancy as it did in its antebellum heyday. Its location was prized by Lowcountry planters and their families as a refuge from the harsh plantation environment.

Is Bluffton, SC expensive to live in?

Bluffton is ranked 64 out of 273 cities across the US in terms of cost of living. The cost of living in Bluffton is 105.1% of the national average. The total monthly expenditure you can expect to incur depends on the cost of housing, food, utilities, transportation, healthcare, and other miscellaneous goods and services.

Is Bluffton, SC a good place to live?

Bluffton is a town in South Carolina with a population of 29,375. Bluffton is in Beaufort County and is one of the best places to live in South Carolina. Living in Bluffton offers residents a suburban-rural mix feel and most residents own their homes.

Sources

Wikipedia

Town of Bluffton

Coastal Carolina Hospital 

Beaufort County Parks and Recreation 

Move Fitness & Yoga Studio

PULSEology Fitness Club 

eFitclub

Deer Bone Trail 

Buckwalter Place Greenway Trail

Harbour Town Lighthouse

Haig Point  

Heyward House

South Carolina Low Country and Resort Islands

Fly Homes

Niche

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