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 29
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
1 of 18
1258 Gilmore Road
$3,150
1258 Gilmore Road, Charleston, SC 29407
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Granite counters, Parking, Recently renovated, Stainless steel, and Ceiling fan
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
89 Fishburne Street
$2,050
89 Fishburne Street, Charleston, SC 29403
(843) 410-9958
1 unit available
1 bed
Amenities
W/D hookup, Dishwasher, New construction, Parking, Stainless steel, Walk in closets + more
Recently updated units
195 Romney Street
$1,840
195 Romney Street, Charleston, SC 29403
(843) 410-9958
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Recently renovated, Walk in closets, Air conditioning + more
Modern Design
Stylish townhouse in historic Charleston locale.
Discover urban living in this meticulously designed 3-bedroom townhouse in the heart of historic downtown Charleston. Residents appreciate the modern, updated feel of the units and commend the responsive management team. With luxurious vinyl plank flooring and a kitchen perfect for entertaining, this townhouse combines style and convenience effortlessly.
Recently updated units
3 Woolfe Street
$1,930
3 Woolfe Street, Charleston, SC 29403
(843) 790-7221
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Hardwood floors, Air conditioning, Microwave, Range, and Refrigerator
Recently updated units
770 Dills Bluff Road
$3,250
770 Dills Bluff Road, Charleston, SC 29412
(843) 633-0269
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Dogs allowed, Parking, and Air conditioning
Cozy Retreat
Charming home between city life and beach tranquility.
Discover a delightful retreat at Dills Bluff Road, where charming and cheerful decor welcomes you home. Situated conveniently just 15 minutes from both the vibrant streets of downtown Charleston and the serene sands of Folly Beach, this home offers a perfect balance of city and coastal living. Dog owners will appreciate the fenced backyard, ideal for a playful companion.
Recently updated units
126 Logan Street
$5,000
126 Logan Street, Charleston, SC 29401
(864) 662-6929
1 unit available
4 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Hardwood floors, Pet friendly, Parking, Stainless steel, and Air conditioning
Recently updated units
587 Rutledge Avenue
$3,150
587 Rutledge Avenue, Charleston, SC 29403
(864) 662-6929
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking, and Recently renovated
Recently updated units
1664 Teal Marsh Road
$9,000
1664 Teal Marsh Road, Charleston, SC 29412
(854) 444-8807
1 unit available
5 bed
Amenities
Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Pet friendly, Parking, Pool + more
Recently updated units
133 Bogard Street unit: B
$2,950
133 Bogard Street, Charleston, SC 29403
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
Ceiling fan
Prime Location
Walk to vibrant King Street shops and dining.
Experience the charm of 133 Bogard Street, where residents love its prime location and easy access to Charleston's buzzing King Street. Enjoy the friendly neighborhood ambiance with beautiful, tree-lined streets and spacious, light-filled interiors. Residents appreciate the responsive property management dedicated to making every living experience exceptional.
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.