Thinking of making the move across the pond in 2023? The US is home to an array of beautiful coastal towns and cities, each offering up their own unique personality and charm, and from long, sandy beaches to spectacular harbours, if you’re in search of a slice of laid-back oceanside living, then you’ll certainly find it here.
Whether you don’t want to give up the buzz of a bustling city, or you’re craving the peace and tranquillity of a quiet and sleepy beach town, the abundance of options on the US coast is diverse and exciting, and from quaint, largely unknown hideaways with a very local feel, to large and fast-paced paced hotspots that attract visitors from all over the country and beyond, there’s a coastal town or city to suit all tastes.
We asked the experts at Solomon & Sons moving company, who regularly help clients to relocate to some of the most impressive seaside destinations in America, to share their top picks.
Santa Barbara, California
This glamorous west coast hot spot, which is often referred to as the ‘American Riviera’, is the obvious choice for luxury seekers, and here, you can expect to rub shoulders with a rich and famous crowd. With plenty of lavish, expensive mansions and penthouse apartments to choose from, the city offers a perfect blend of sun, sea and laid-back Californian living, so if you’re seeking a slice of the good life, then look no further.
Home to swathes of golden, palm-fringed beaches, Santa Barbara also offers an abundance of designer shops and boutiques and some truly world-class restaurants, and with numerous vineyards found in the surrounding areas, it’s also a wine enthusiast’s paradise. Add to that a vast array of art galleries and museums, a great nightlife scene and plenty of excellent educational institutions, and you’d be hard-pressed to find a box this spectacular city doesn’t tick.
Charleston, South Carolina
A quaint coastal city that is steeped in rich history, Charleston is awash with pretty, pastel-coloured houses that make it a thoroughly Instagrammable place to live. Home to some of the best bars and eateries in all of the South, it’s also a veritable haven for foodies, and the warmth of the locals will make you feel instantly welcome.
Charleston’s southern charm is undeniable, and beyond its cobbled streets and cultural events (it hosts a number of festivals and live music shows throughout the year) it’s the perfect place to call home for those who enjoy outdoor pursuits, with its privileged access to waterways meaning many locals regularly enjoy activities like swimming, fishing and water sports.
Add to that the fact that Charleston is home to several well-respected educational institutions, including the Medical University of South Carolina and the College of Charleston, and a great jobs market, and it’s a great choice whether you’re flying solo or considering making the move with family.
Portland, Maine
The picturesque coastal town of Portland is decidedly more low key than Santa Barbara, but that’s exactly what we love about it. Steeped in rich history and awash with natural beauty, if you’re an outdoor enthusiast who loves long walks in the countryside and along the coastline, then from its thriving waterfront area to the quaint Old Port and numerous hiking trails, this is the perfect place for you.
There’s a strong sense of community in Portland, and residents here enjoy a great quality of life thanks to low crime rates, great schools and a vibrant food and drink scene where freshly caught local seafood, craft beer breweries and farm-to-table restaurants make a regular appearance. There’s also an impressive arts scene, with a host of theatres and art galleries to keep you entertained – so Portland really does offer the perfect balance of fun and relaxation, allowing you to enjoy the best of both worlds.
The bottom line
Whatever you’re hoping to get out of your move across the pond, if coastal living is important to you then you’re almost certain to find a city or town to suit. These are three of the top destinations to consider for 2023, each offering breath-taking ocean views, fresh sea air and plenty to see and do. And with a wide array of luxury real estate to choose from too, it really doesn’t get much better.
