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 13
The Lily
$1,450
2040 Ashley River Road, Charleston, SC 29407
(843) 960-3809
8 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!
Recently updated units
Verified listing
Verified
1 of 26
4.5
Talison Row at Daniel Island Apartments
$1,853
480 Seven Farms Drive, Charleston, SC 29492
(843) 305-4818
Rent Savings
Top rated for Amenities
“Completely satisfied with everything.”
19 units available
1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly + more
Pet Haven
Luxurious, pet-friendly living amidst nature.
Talison Row at Daniel Island Apartments boasts a pet-friendly environment with an off-leash dog park and ample green spaces. Residents enjoy spacious living spaces with top-tier amenities like a saltwater pool and a 24-hour fitness center. Located just within the serene Daniel Island, it also offers proximity to parks and cultural attractions, enriching the community living experience.
Recently updated units
Verified listing
Verified
517 Rutledge Ave.
$2,340
517 Rutledge Avenue, Charleston, SC 29403
(854) 946-4268
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance, Parking, Stainless steel, Air conditioning + more
Recently updated units
Verified listing
Verified
23 Bond Owner 363-369 King LLC
$2,311
363 King Street, Charleston, SC 29401
(854) 209-4684
8 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Cats allowed, Recently renovated + more
Recently updated units
Verified listing
Verified
43 Charlotte St
$5,500
43 Charlotte Street, Charleston, SC 29403
(854) 233-5274
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Dishwasher, Parking, Range, and Refrigerator
Recently updated units
Verified listing
Verified
139 Wentworth Street
$3,200
139 Wentworth Street, Charleston, SC 29401
(854) 946-4396
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
In unit laundry, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking, Recently renovated, Stainless steel + more
Recently updated units
Verified listing
Verified
Mulberry Pond
$1,750
1715 Grench St, Charleston, SC 29407
(404) 806-9878
3 units available
2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Pet friendly, Parking, Stainless steel, Playground, Fire pit + more
Recently updated units
Verified listing
Verified
289-291 King
$2,700
289 King Street, Charleston, SC 29401
(854) 215-3049
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
Dishwasher, Oven, and Refrigerator
Recently updated units
Verified listing
Verified
314 Ashley Avenue
$4,000
314 Ashley Avenue, Charleston, SC 29403
(854) 254-5969
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
Pet friendly and Internet access
Recently updated units
Verified listing
Verified
2 bed / 1.5 bath on Rutledge St.
$4,000
254 Rutledge Avenue, Charleston, SC 29403
(854) 246-1676
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Cats allowed, Air conditioning, Ceiling fan, Carpet + more
Recently updated units
Verified listing
Verified
4 Ashe St. Unit D
$3,500
4 Ashe Street, Charleston, SC 29403
(854) 333-4474
1 unit available
1 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Parking, Recently renovated, and Stainless steel
Recently updated units
Verified listing
Verified
Harper Place at Bees Ferry
$1,655
3202 Coastal Grass Way, Charleston, SC 29414
(843) 983-3052
Rent Savings
25 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.
Recently updated units
Verified listing
Verified
LC Line & Low
40 Line Street, Charleston, SC 29403
(843) 612-5351
$2,195+ moTotal price12-mo lease
81 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Pet friendly, Stainless steel, Walk in closets, Gym + more
Historic Charm
Experience Charleston's Blend of Modern and Historic Living
LC Line Street is nestled among Charleston's iconic historic sites, offering a unique blend of luxury and charm. The location offers convenient access to the city's vibrant shopping, dining, and entertainment scene. Residents enjoy an array of modern amenities, complemented by Charleston's distinctive Southern allure.
Recently updated units
Verified listing
Verified
Caroline
$2,329
99 Westedge Street, Charleston, SC 29403
(854) 504-4955
9 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Pet friendly, Stainless steel, Walk in closets, Gym, Pool + more
Luxurious Amenities
Explore Caroline's vibrant location and upscale offerings.
Caroline is nestled in Charleston, offering luxurious living with a modern touch. The community provides top-notch amenities like a saltwater pool, fitness center, and pet spa. Residents can enjoy nearby Brittlebank Park and a variety of dining and entertainment venues just steps away.
Recently updated units
Verified listing
Verified
Overture West Ashley Age 55+ Apartment Homes
45 Coburg Rd, Charleston, SC 29407
(843) 773-5019
$2,200+ moTotal price15-mo lease
17 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Carport, 24hr gym + more
Vibrant Community
Ideal for active, social living near amenities.
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Overture West Ashley, where active living meets social ease. Positioned conveniently with shopping and dining options nearby, it's perfect for those who cherish access to daily conveniences. Residents rave about the modern amenities like the fitness center and pool, ensuring an enriching living experience.
Recently updated units
Verified listing
Verified
Overture Daniel Island Age 55+ Apartment Homes
7770 Farr Street, Charleston, SC 29492
(843) 940-7217
$1,995+ moTotal price12-mo lease
8 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage + more
Community Living
Charming retirement community with engaging social activities.
Overture Daniel Island is a perfect choice for those seeking a tranquil retirement lifestyle with a vibrant community. Located in serene Daniel Island, residents can enjoy picturesque natural surroundings and easy access to local shopping and dining. With cats and dogs welcome, beautiful modern interiors, and engaging activities, every moment feels special.
Recently updated units
Verified listing
Verified

More Rental Options

Bedrooms

Price

Amenities

Property Type

Charleston Short-term Apartments (33)

Cities

Mount Pleasant Luxury Apartments (65)

Counties

Charleston County Apartments (424)

Neighborhoods

Colleges

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.