Choosing between Isle of Palms (IOP) and Sullivan’s Island is a great problem to have — both offer stunning beaches, tight-knit communities, and access to Charleston’s award-winning lifestyle. But the two islands have distinct personalities, pricing, and investment profiles.
As Isle of Palms residents and local real estate professionals, McConnell Real Estate Partners breaks down the key differences to help you decide which island is right for your family or investment goals.
🌴 Lifestyle & Vibe
Isle of Palms
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Family-friendly and welcoming
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Walkable and golf-cart accessible
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Resort conveniences (Wild Dunes, restaurants, events)
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More vacation rental activity
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A blend of full-time residents, investors, and second-home owners
Sullivan’s Island
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Quiet, residential, laid-back
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Very limited commercial activity
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No short-term rentals allowed
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More privacy overall
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Extremely strong community roots
If you want energy + amenities, IOP is a standout.
If you prefer peace + exclusivity, Sullivan’s Island may be your match.
💰 Home Prices & Property Types
Isle of Palms
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More inventory variety
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A wide range of price points ($1.8M–$15M+)
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Plenty of new construction
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Strong options for both primary and investment buyers
Sullivan’s Island
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Limited turnover
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One of the most expensive zip codes in the state
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Luxury properties, historic cottages, and oceanfront estates
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Minimal new construction opportunities
📈 Investment Potential
Isle of Palms
STR-friendly with strong:
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Occupancy rates
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Rental income potential
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Buyer demand
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New build opportunities
Ideal for investors or second-home buyers wanting rental income.
Sullivan’s Island
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No short-term rentals
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Limited ability to offset carrying costs
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Market driven by high-net-worth primary or legacy buyers
Sullivan’s is an excellent lifestyle + long-term appreciation play, not a cash-flow investment.
🚗 Accessibility & Amenities
IOP:
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Restaurants, bars, shopping
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Wild Dunes resort and golf
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Family events, festivals, live music
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Easy access to Mount Pleasant
Sullivan’s:
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Exclusive eateries (Poe’s, Home Team, The Obstinate Daughter)
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Quiet beaches
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More residential spacing
⭐ Why Buyers Trust McConnell Real Estate Partners
A recent client shared:
“So grateful we found McConnell Real Estate!… We can’t recommend McConnell Real Estate enough!”
Another wrote,
“They were always available, very knowledgeable about the area, and provided great recommendations.”
Local insight matters — especially when choosing between two incredible islands.
Not sure which beach is right for you?
We’ll help you explore both — with real data, rental projections, and neighborhood-level insight.
