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

187 rentals available

1 of 20
640 Cornell Street
$1,800
640 Cornell Street, Charleston, SC 29407
(843) 625-6825
1 unit available
1 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking, Pool + more
Recently updated units
1 of 25
Fully Furnished Downtown Rental Available June 1st!!!
$3,500
348 King Street, Charleston, SC 29401
(843) 810-0438
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Parking, Air conditioning, Some paid utils, Internet access, and Furnished
Recently updated units
Gorgeous two bedroom newly built condominium at the Gadsden
$5,000
5 Gadsdenboro Street, Charleston, SC 29401
(843) 723-2763
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Hardwood floors, Dogs allowed, Garage, Stainless steel, Gym + more
Luxury Haven
Prime downtown Charleston luxury, next to Gadsdenboro Park.
Nestled next to Charleston's new Gadsdenboro Park, this luxury condominium offers unparalleled amenities. Residents love the rooftop pool with stunning harbor views and a state-of-the-art fitness center. Furnished with tastefully curated interiors, it provides both elegance and comfort in Charleston's vibrant Downtown.
Recently updated units
2004 Vestry Street
$2,530
2004 Vestry Drive, Charleston, SC 29414
(843) 790-7221
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage + more
Recently updated units
Move in Ready Three Bedroom Townhome in West Ashley
$2,400
4101 Perrine Street, Charleston, SC 29414
(843) 723-2763
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Dishwasher, Dogs allowed, Parking, Stainless steel, and Range
Recently updated units
2 Bedroom, 2 Bath Cottage in Westside Neighborhood of Downtown Charleston
$3,250
170 Fishburne Street, Charleston, SC 29403
(843) 608-8845
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Recently renovated, Air conditioning, Microwave + more
Recently updated units
700 Daniel Ellis Drive unit: 2203
$2,500
700 Daniel Ellis Drive, Charleston, SC 29412
1 unit available
1 bed
Amenities
Patio / balcony, Garage, Recently renovated, Walk in closets, Ceiling fan, and Tennis court
Recently updated units
837 Sycamore Ave
$2,000
837 Sycamore Avenue, Charleston, SC 29407
(843) 367-7313
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
W/D hookup, Pet friendly, Parking, Stainless steel, Walk in closets, and Air conditioning
Recently updated units
Charming Urban Living
$3,800
16 Gordon Street, Charleston, SC 29403
(843) 619-7979
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
Hardwood floors, Microwave, Range, and Refrigerator
Recently updated units
61 Cooper St.
$3,400
61 Cooper Street, Charleston, SC 29403
(854) 800-3355
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Hardwood floors, Pet friendly, Garage, Recently renovated, and Air conditioning
Recently updated units
Beautiful 2 BR/1 BA Furnished Apartment Available in Downtown Charleston!
$3,950
36 Charlotte Street, Charleston, SC 29403
(843) 324-7603
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
Recently renovated and Furnished
Recently updated units
2757 Jobee Drive 1102
$1,950
2757 Jobee Drive, Charleston, SC 29414
(864) 383-1680
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Pet friendly, Recently renovated, and Pool
Recently updated units
52 Chapel Street
$3,500
52 Chapel Street, Charleston, SC 29403
(843) 790-7221
1 unit available
1 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Air conditioning, Microwave, Furnished + more
Historic Charm
Live in a charming 1854 home with modern amenities
Experience living in a historic 1854 apartment that features original wooden beams and brick walls. It boasts modern amenities such as a fully furnished kitchen, in-unit laundry, and a comfortably furnished interior. Located in the heart of Downtown Charleston, it's just steps away from Marion Square, restaurants, museums, and more.
Recently updated units
2 Wharfside Street, #5E
$8,500
2 Wharfside Street, Charleston, SC 29401
(843) 806-0603
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Garage, Walk in closets + more
Recently updated units
315 Cassina Road
$2,500
315 Cassina Road, Charleston, SC 29407
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
Parking
Recently updated units
1405 Holt Street
$2,500
1405 Holt Street, Charleston, SC 29403
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
Parking, Recently renovated, 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.