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

180 rentals available

1 of 17
1268 Marvin Avenue
Ask for price
1268 Marvin Avenue, Charleston, SC 29407
Contact for Availability
Amenities
Garage, Recently renovated, Stainless steel, Ceiling fan, Playground, and Tennis court
1 of 28
Three Bedroom Townhouse in Carolina Bay
$2,600
1710 Restoration Court, Charleston, SC 29414
(843) 723-2763
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly + more
Community Leisure
Vibrant community near downtown Charleston
Discover a thriving community with three pools, walking trails, and a dog park that residents absolutely adore. This townhouse boasts a modern kitchen with stainless steel appliances and granite countertops, offering convenience and style. Enjoy the screened porch and fenced yard for a perfect blend of indoor-outdoor living.
Recently updated units
21 Hester Street
$3,000
21 Hester Street, Charleston, SC 29403
(843) 790-7221
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking + more
Recently updated units
233 King Street
$2,990
233 King Street, Charleston, SC 29401
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Dishwasher, Carpet, Range, and Refrigerator
Prime Location
Charming Space in Downtown Charleston
Find yourself in the heart of Charleston at 233 King Street. This apartment offers a special blend of history and modernity, with spacious rooms featuring high ceilings and charming architectural details like fireplaces. The prime location gives you easy access to downtown attractions, while the included parking space adds a layer of convenience.
Recently updated units
1344 Palm Cove Drive
$3,700
1344 Palm Cove Drive, Charleston, SC 29492
1 unit available
4 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Garage, Recently renovated, Pool, and Ceiling fan
Recently updated units
225 Seven Farms Dr Ste 105
$6,000
225 Seven Farms Drive, Charleston, SC 29492
(843) 972-3865
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
Air conditioning
Recently updated units
Charming Single-Family Home
$2,325
2023 Four Mile Lane, Charleston, SC 29405
(843) 225-2990
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
Dishwasher, Furnished, Range, and Refrigerator
Recently updated units
169 Dorothy Dr
$2,424
169 Dorothy Drive, Charleston, SC 29414
(854) 300-5311
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage, Walk in closets + more
Recently updated units
3 bedroom fully furnished home, Pet Friendly Johns Island, Charleston
$3,190
3044 Sugarberry Lane, Charleston, SC 29455
(706) 399-8707
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Dogs allowed, Parking, Air conditioning + more
Recently updated units
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
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
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
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
381 Sumter Street
$4,800
381 Sumter Street, Charleston, SC 29403
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Parking, Recently renovated, Ceiling fan, and Bbq/grill
Recently updated units
39 America Street
$2,600
39 America Street, Charleston, SC 29403
(843) 345-9671
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Pet friendly, and Air conditioning
Downtown Charm
Prime location near colleges and dining spots.
Experience the best of Charleston living at 39 America Street with its prime downtown location making it easy to walk to popular colleges, shopping centers, and dining spots. Featuring a perfect blend of modern amenities like central air, hardwood floors, and a private balcony, this townhouse offers both comfort and style. Pet owners will appreciate the pet-friendly policies and spacious yard, while nearby parks provide great outdoor recreation options.
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.