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

The Beckett
$1,568
1100 Hampton Rivers Road, Charleston, SC 29414
(213) 699-5455
Rent Savings
19 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking + more
Welcoming Community
Ideal location with modern amenities and great value.
The Beckett in Charleston offers modern, sleek apartments with a welcoming community atmosphere. Enjoy top-notch amenities like a resort-style pool and well-equipped gym. Surrounded by a variety of shops, restaurants, and parks within walking distance, residents love the convenient location.
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836 White Oak Dr
$1,860
836 White Oak Drive, Charleston, SC 29407
(854) 504-2845
2 units available
3 bed
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The Halcyon
900 Corby Lane, Charleston, SC 29492
(470) 235-4087
$1,670+ moTotal price12-mo lease
13 units available
1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking, Gym + more
Serene Escape
Peaceful retreat with amazing amenities near Charleston.
The Halcyon offers a serene escape on picturesque Daniel Island. Enjoy a blend of modern design and natural beauty with easy access to Charleston's attractions. Residents love the welcoming community, excellent amenities, and peaceful ambiance.
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Spyglass Seaside
$1,958
1674 Folly Rd, Charleston, SC 29412
(659) 226-2993
23 units available
1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly + more
Coastal Haven
Unwind at a coastal retreat with stellar amenities.
Discover the joy of coastal living at Spyglass Seaside, minutes from the captivating Folly Beach shoreline. This charming community offers beautifully designed one to three bedroom apartments with elegant finishes and top-tier amenities. With access to a resort-style saltwater pool and a state-of-the-art fitness center, including a yoga studio, residents enjoy an active and relaxing lifestyle.
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Meeting Street Lofts
$1,509
601 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC 29403
(843) 640-5890
Rent Savings
35 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage + more
Prime Location
Experience Downtown Charleston Elegance
Meeting Street Lofts offers luxurious living in the heart of Charleston. Residents enjoy unmatched access to historical attractions and dining options within walking distance. With excellent community amenities like a saltwater pool, fitness center, and regular events, every day is a celebration of comfort and indulgence.
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Mulberry Pond
$1,750
1715 Grench St, Charleston, SC 29407
(404) 806-9878
2 units available
2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Pet friendly, Parking, Stainless steel, Playground, Fire pit + more
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4.0
The Charleigh
441 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC 29403
(843) 428-8465
$2,157+ moTotal price12-mo lease
Rent Savings
Top rated for Location
19 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance + more
Prime Location
Luxurious living in historic Charleston neighborhood.
The Charleigh is ideally located near the vibrant King Street, offering a contemporary lifestyle right in the heart of Charleston. With stylish studio, one, and two-bedroom apartments, each filled with natural light, this residence combines modern convenience with classic Southern charm. Enjoy top-notch amenities like a refreshing pool, sophisticated fitness center, and a friendly, professional staff enhancing your living experience.
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Madison Station
$2,016
651 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC 29403
(843) 738-1078
Rent Savings
1 unit available
1 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance + more
Prime Location
Central Charleston spot with luxury amenities.
Madison Station thrives at the heart of Charleston's East Central neighborhood. Residents enjoy easy access to local shops and restaurants, providing a dynamic lifestyle. Highlights include modern designs with high-end finishes and a secure, welcoming community that allows both cats and dogs.
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Harper Place at Bees Ferry
$1,594
3202 Coastal Grass Way, Charleston, SC 29414
(252) 584-3681
12 units available
1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance, Stainless steel + more
Luxury Oasis
Ultimate coastal luxury in West Ashley.
Welcome to Harper Place at Bees Ferry, a luxurious coastal oasis in Charleston's charming West Ashley. Both dogs and cats are welcome in this pet-friendly community, offering modern amenities like stainless steel appliances and bright, spacious apartments with private balconies. Residents love the attentive staff and the safe, welcoming neighborhood, complemented by a lavish clubhouse and fitness center.
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The Charthouse
$1,845
1559 Folly Road, Charleston, SC 29412
(854) 254-5116
4 units available
2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Pet friendly, Stainless steel, Gym + more
Coastal Comfort
Spacious living in scenic Charleston.
The Charthouse offers spacious apartments with balconies and modern finishes, including granite countertops and stainless steel appliances. The pet-friendly community welcomes both cats and dogs, featuring a dedicated dog park that pet owners adore. Minutes from Folly Beach, residents enjoy easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment options, enhancing the coastal lifestyle.
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The Rumney
$1,792
695 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC 29403
(843) 380-6689
Rent Savings
4 units available
Studio • 1 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage, Stainless steel, Air conditioning + more
City Convenience
Downtown living with modern amenities and pet-friendly policies.
Nestled in the heart of Downtown Charleston, The Rumney offers the perfect blend of city living and modern amenities. Both dogs and cats are welcome, making it an ideal home for pet lovers. Residents love its easy access to downtown attractions and the peaceful atmosphere within the community.
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43 Charlotte St
$2,800
43 Charlotte Street, Charleston, SC 29403
(854) 233-5274
1 unit available
1 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Dishwasher, Range, and Refrigerator
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289-291 King
$1,800
289 King Street, Charleston, SC 29401
(854) 946-5445
4 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
Dishwasher, Oven, and Refrigerator
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314 Ashley Avenue
$4,000
314 Ashley Avenue, Charleston, SC 29403
(854) 300-2099
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
Pet friendly and Internet access
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The Lily
$1,475
2040 Ashley River Road, Charleston, SC 29407
(843) 960-3809
11 units available
2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance + more
Modern Comforts
Contemporary living near vibrant downtown Charleston.
The Lily offers a delightful blend of modern upgrades and convenient features, all set in a charming Charleston location. With a resort-style pool, fitness center, and private balconies, your living experience is elevated. The property is just moments away from downtown's fine dining and entertainment, making every day exciting. Plus, cats and dogs are warmly welcomed!
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4.0
Sweetwater Waterfront Apartment Homes
$1,719
12000 Sweet Pl, Charleston, SC 29492
(843) 733-9300
Rent Savings
Top rated for Location
36 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance + more
Waterfront Luxury
Waterfront escape with exceptional amenities and vibrant community.
Sweetwater Waterfront Apartment Homes offer a stunning blend of natural beauty and modern luxury. Residents enjoy exceptional amenities like a community garden, a 24-hour fitness center, and breathtaking waterfront views. This pet-friendly community also features a private boat ramp providing deep water access to Nowell Creek.
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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

The Beckett

836 White Oak Dr

The Halcyon

Spyglass Seaside

Meeting Street Lofts

Mulberry Pond

The Charleigh

Madison Station

Harper Place at Bees Ferry

The Charthouse

The Rumney

43 Charlotte St

289-291 King

314 Ashley Avenue

The Lily

Sweetwater Waterfront Apartment Homes