A recent study identified the country’s 25 most fun and affordable cities—and tapped North Charleston’s zip code 29406, listing it at a respectable number 23 in the rankings.

The study, by Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate and Onboard Informatics, also gave nods to South Carolina’s Greenville (29607, #5), Florence (29501, #13) and Myrtle Beach (29572, #15).

Results were based on two metrics: First, researchers selected all U.S. zip codes where the median home price was within 20 percent of the state’s median, indicating relative affordability. Next, the 25 zip codes with the most bars and restaurants—and therefor the most opportunity to go out and enjoy—were identified to come up with the final list of winners.

According to the study, the median home price for the North Charleston zip code 29406 $139,900, and the area boasts 128 bars and restaurants. 29406 is a largely commercial swath straddling I-526 and Rivers Ave, and contained by Ashley Phosphate and East Montague Avenue to the north and south, and Dutton Avenue and S. Aviation Road to the east and west.

North Charleston’s livability factor is only partly revealed by its affordability and fun metrics. North Charleston also offers residents beautiful historic neighborhoods with many architecturally notable homes; a strong and growing economic base anchored by Boeing and Google facilities; highly regarded elementary, middle, and high schools, and two institutes of higher education; a thriving culture and arts scene; proximity to first-rate recreational opportunities like golf and boating; and some of the state’s best shopping.

And, of course, North Charleston is located adjacent to Charleston, America’s #1 travel destination (Condé Nast Traveler 2012 Readers’ Poll).

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