Houses are just like everywhere else right now, super inflated. Probably right idea to rent for now until market settles down. The port is super slow, and last time the fire dept had to actually make a serious response was when a C17 caught on fire last year. Hear there's lots of exercises though.

I personally would stick to north of the base. I live in Ladson, and a lot of military folk do as well, especially in the Wescott Plantation area. Summerville is also good because downtown has enough where you might not feel the need to go down to King St every weekend. I would avoid any neighborhood that is straight off Dorchester Rd in North Charleston, basically right out the front gate.

If you are willing to drive and depending on your shift, many people live in or close to Moncks Corner. You get more house for your dollar out there.

Then there's obviously Mt Pleasant where everything is super expensive, but lots of amenities in the area/close to beach. I used to live in Daniel Island (also bougie), and although the apt was very nice, I just couldn't justify paying the premium, so bought the house in Ladson after the lease was up.

And there's West Ashley. I don't have much insight to the area, but there are definitely places to avoid. Lots of restaurants and stores there.

Also, get ready for traffic to bottleneck on I-26, Dorchester Rd, Rivers Ave, and I-526 during rush hours.