With its perfect combination of beachfront living, first-class golf courses, and outstanding restaurants, Hilton Head is at the top of nearly everyone’s list of the best places to retire in The Carolinas…or the rest of the country for that matter.
The historic Harbour Town Lighthouse is the iconic symbol that represents Hilton Head, but there is a whole lot more to this area than just a lighthouse. Residents of Hilton Head also have access to excellent shopping options, tons of biking trails and nature preserves, and the option to participate in just about any water sport you can imagine.
Where is Hilton Head?
Hilton Head is a small island community located along the southern coast of South Carolina. It is approximately two hours south of Charleston, South Carolina, and about 45 minutes northeast of Savannah, Georgia.
Hilton Head has its own airport right on the island, and you can get to and from just about anywhere you’d like to fly by connecting through Charlotte, North Carolina.
The closest interstate highway is I-95, which is about 45 minutes west of the island.
History of Hilton Head
Hilton Head received it’s name from Captain William Hilton all the way back in 1663. Ever since then, the area has been seen as an extremely valuable piece of land.
In 1956, the James F. Byrnes bridge was constructed to make Hilton Head more accessible, and shortly after Charles E. Fraser started developing Sea Pines Resort. Many other developments would quickly follow.
The PGA Tour began hosting regular events at Sea Pines Resort in 1969.
Hilton Head Demographics
The 2010 census recorded a population of 37,099 people living in Hilton Head. Current estimates show that number to have grown to just over 40,000 people.
Of that population, 27.3% are between the ages of 45 and 64, and 24.1% are 65 or older. So more than half of the population is over the age of 45.
The median income for a family in Hilton Head is just over $71,000.
Hilton Head Climate
The average highs in Hilton Head typically range from the high 80s during the summer months to the low 60s during the winter months. The average lows in the winter generally stay above the freezing point.
The island averages a little over 4 inches of precipitation each month with August representing the most precipitation for the year.
Hilton Head Resources
Because Hilton Head is such a popular vacation destination, there is a plethora of information available to help you quickly get acclimated to the area. Here are some of the best places to start your research: