Why is Charleston's rent so high?

Charleston is growing quickly, increasing the demand for housing, which raises rent. The combination of a hot rental market, high building costs, and a lack of rent controls results in a cost of living that’s 12% higher than the rest of the country.

What’s the best area in Charleston, SC?

If living in a grand apartment complex in Charleston, SC is for you, consider one of the following historic neighborhoods: – The Boroughs : Charleston’s hippest neighborhood, made up of Cannonborough, Elliotborough, and Wraggborough, is known collectively as The Boroughs. It has all the shopping, dining, and live entertainment options anyone could want. – Ansonborough : Stretching from Meeting Street to East Bay Street, the close-knit Ansonborough neighborhood is highly walkable with scenic waterfront views. – Downtown Charleston : Home to a lively social scene, downtown Charleston also hosts charming cobblestone streets and historical landmarks.

Is Charleston cheap to live in?

The median rent in Charleston is $1,658/month. Here’s the average rent for popular rental types: - 1BR : $1,472/month - 2BR : $1,725/month If you follow standard rental guidelines and spend 30% of your monthly income on rent, your household would need to earn $4,907 monthly, or $58,880 annually, to afford an average one-bedroom apartment in Charleston.

Start your Charleston search

How many bedrooms do you need?

Luxury Apartments for Rent in Charleston, SC

207 rentals available

823 Jordan Street
$4,025
823 Jordan Street, Charleston, SC 29412
(843) 790-7221
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking, Stainless steel + more
Recently updated units
Available 3/1. Beautiful 3 BR/2BA available in Elliottborough! Landscaping included!
$4,995
178 Smith Street, Charleston, SC 29403
(843) 640-8975
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Dogs allowed, Recently renovated, Walk in closets + more
Recently updated units
12 Elliott Street, #A
$7,500
12 Elliott Street, Charleston, SC 29401
(843) 806-0603
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Recently renovated, Air conditioning + more
Recently updated units
4078 Babbitt St
$2,200
4078 Babbitt Street, Charleston, SC 29414
(843) 790-0173
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
Pet friendly, Garage, Fireplace, and Extra storage
Pet-Friendly
Convenient location near I-526 with community events.
This Charleston townhouse boasts an inviting and community-oriented atmosphere, thanks to its proximity to I-526. Cats and dogs are welcome, adding to its pet-friendly charm. Enjoy the warmth of the gas log fireplace and ample natural light throughout. Local events and a welcoming community make it an appealing choice for residents.
Recently updated units
38 Meander Row unit: 11
$2,800
38 Meander Row, Charleston, SC 29412
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Pet friendly, Garage, Recently renovated, and Pool
Recently updated units
3 Franklin Street
$3,000
3 Franklin Street, Charleston, SC 29401
(864) 383-1680
1 unit available
2 bed
Recently updated units
635 Sequoia Street
$2,600
635 Sequoia Street, Charleston, SC 29407
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Parking, Recently renovated, Stainless steel, and Ceiling fan
Recently updated units
1711 Sparkleberry Ln
$2,950
1711 Sparkleberry Lane, Charleston, SC 29455
(864) 513-9089
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry and Pet friendly
Recently updated units
Like new beauty in Point Hope - Charleston
$4,650
137 Falaise Street, Charleston, SC 29492
(843) 352-9476
1 unit available
5 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage + more
Recently updated units
2 Bedroom | 1 Bathroom Home – Downtown Charleston - Available NOW! Short term lease!
$3,600
72 Montagu Street, Charleston, SC 29401
(843) 577-8595
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Pet friendly, Carport, Air conditioning + more
Recently updated units
262 Fleming Road
$1,900
262 Fleming Road, Charleston, SC 29412
(864) 662-6929
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Hardwood floors, and Pet friendly
Recently updated units
8 Sanctuary Court
$3,600
8 Sanctuary Court, Charleston, SC 29403
(843) 494-1130
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Stainless steel, Walk in closets + more
Chic Living
Luxurious living in historic Charleston's heart.
8 Sanctuary Court offers a chic and modern living experience in Charleston's historic district. The apartments feature spacious bedrooms and open floor plans, providing a sense of luxury and comfort. Community amenities, like the central brick court and state-of-the-art appliances, enhance the living experience, making it a perfect haven for residents.
Recently updated units
1737 Bozo Lane
$1,995
1737 Bozo Lane, Charleston, SC 29455
(843) 790-7221
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
W/D hookup, Pet friendly, Parking, Stainless steel, Air conditioning, and Refrigerator
Recently updated units
3046 Sweetleaf Lane
$3,000
3046 Sweetleaf Lane, Charleston, SC 29455
(864) 383-1680
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Pet friendly, Walk in closets, Air conditioning, Concierge, Hot tub + more
Recently updated units
1711 Orange Grove Shores Dr
$2,998
1711 Orange Grove Shores Drive, Charleston, SC 29407
(843) 867-4608
1 unit available
4 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking, Air conditioning, and Game room
Recently updated units
1804 Parkland Preserve Lane
$3,500
1804 Parkland Preserve Lane, Charleston, SC 29412
(864) 383-1680
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Pet friendly, Stainless steel, and Air conditioning
Recently updated units

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Renting a Luxury Apartment in Charleston, SC

Charleston, South Carolina’s laid-back coastal vibes and historic southern charm make it ideal for people looking for a relaxed lifestyle without giving up the conveniences of a larger urban center.

Along with its historical landmarks like Rainbow Row, Fort Sumter National Monument, and the Nathaniel Russel House, Charleston boasts many attractions that endear tourists and residents alike.

For those interested in culture, the Dock Street Theatre, America’s first, still hosts live performances. Bargain hunters love the unique boutiques along King Street, while more outdoorsy types enjoy stretching their legs by hiking John’s Island trails to visit Angel Oak. And no matter how you spend your day, you’ll appreciate a great meal at one of Charleston’s many gourmet restaurants.

Luxury rentals in Charleston are just minutes from these entertainment options, making them a highly sought-after commodity. If you’re interested in renting in one of these exclusive complexes, you’ll need a better house-hunting strategy than searching for “luxury apartments near me” on Google.

Instead, download the Apartment List app from Google Play or the App Store to your mobile device and complete the Renter Quiz outlining requirements like a pet-friendly apartment or access to public transit. Our powerful AI will deliver a curated list of luxury apartments in Charleston, SC that match your needs. Review the listings and book tours of some of the best apartment complexes in Charleston, SC — all from the convenience of your phone. You’ll soon find your ideal luxury apartment in South Carolina with exclusive amenities like a resort-style pool, concierge service, or deluxe clubhouse and public lounge.

Whether you choose a luxury apartment in downtown Charleston or a more sedate neighborhood, you’ll enjoy an exclusive residence you’ve only dreamt about. These upmarket rentals boast hardwood floors, scenic views, and modern appliances, elevating a mere apartment to lodgings radiating southern charm and hospitality.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

If living in a grand apartment complex in Charleston, SC is for you, consider one of the following historic neighborhoods:
- – The Boroughs: Charleston’s hippest neighborhood, made up of Cannonborough, Elliotborough, and Wraggborough, is known collectively as The Boroughs. It has all the shopping, dining, and live entertainment options anyone could want.
- – Ansonborough: Stretching from Meeting Street to East Bay Street, the close-knit Ansonborough neighborhood is highly walkable with scenic waterfront views.
- – Downtown Charleston: Home to a lively social scene, downtown Charleston also hosts charming cobblestone streets and historical landmarks.
The median rent in Charleston is $1,658/month. Here’s the average rent for popular rental types:
- - 1BR: $1,472/month
- - 2BR: $1,725/month
If you follow standard rental guidelines and spend 30% of your monthly income on rent, your household would need to earn $4,907 monthly, or $58,880 annually, to afford an average one-bedroom apartment in Charleston.

Luxury Apartments for Rent in Charleston, SC

823 Jordan Street

Available 3/1. Beautiful 3 BR/2BA available in Elliottborough! Landscaping included!

12 Elliott Street, #A

4078 Babbitt St

38 Meander Row unit: 11

3 Franklin Street

635 Sequoia Street

1711 Sparkleberry Ln

Like new beauty in Point Hope - Charleston

2 Bedroom | 1 Bathroom Home – Downtown Charleston - Available NOW! Short term lease!

262 Fleming Road

8 Sanctuary Court

1737 Bozo Lane

3046 Sweetleaf Lane

1711 Orange Grove Shores Dr

1804 Parkland Preserve Lane