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

17 South
$1,656
105 Ivy Green Way, Charleston, SC 29414
(843) 350-3352
32 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Pet friendly, Walk in closets, 24hr gym + more
Prime Tranquility
Luxurious living with serene, soundproof spaces.
Experience luxurious living at 17 South Apartments, where Charleston's finest features meet unmatched tranquility. Renters rave about the comforting quiet thanks to exceptional soundproofing. The resort-style pool, well-equipped fitness center, and all-inclusive utility bills shape a stress-free lifestyle. This property stands out as a cost-effective option at 16% below metro average.
Recently updated units
Verified listing
Verified
3 bed / 2 bath home ~ Available October 2025
$4,672
181 Gordon Street, Charleston, SC 29403
(854) 888-9954
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Recently renovated, Stainless steel + more
Recently updated units
Verified listing
Verified
2 3 Bedroom Townhomes in West Ashley
$1,775
2103 Rondo Street, Charleston, SC 29414
(854) 209-4415
2 units available
2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
W/D hookup, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly + more
Recently updated units
Verified listing
Verified
Charming Single-Family Home
$2,699
2023 Four Mile Lane, Charleston, SC 29405
(854) 333-7687
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
Dishwasher, Range, and Refrigerator
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Verified listing
Verified
2BR Townhome in West Ashley – Prime Location Fresh Updates!
$2,080
2328 Applebee Way, Charleston, SC 29414
(843) 350-6143
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
Pet friendly, Parking, Recently renovated, and Walking trail
Recently updated units
Verified listing
Verified
33 Ashton Street | Steps from MUSC The Citadel, Perfectly Designed for Today
$4,500
33 Ashton Street, Charleston, SC 29403
(854) 215-3265
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Granite counters, Dishwasher, Parking, Recently renovated, Stainless steel + more
Recently updated units
Verified listing
Verified
333 Ashley Avenue
$2,940
333 Ashley Avenue, Charleston, SC 29403
(864) 662-6929
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
Granite counters and Pet friendly
Recently updated units
8 Sires St
$3,000
8 Sires Street, Charleston, SC 29403
(839) 777-2256
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Granite counters, Pet friendly, Stainless steel, Coffee bar, and Air conditioning
Recently updated units
94 Hanover Street
$2,600
94 Hanover Street, Charleston, SC 29403
(843) 790-7221
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Stainless steel, Air conditioning, and Refrigerator
Recently updated units
16 Cannon Street
$1,800
16 Cannon Street, Charleston, SC 29403
(843) 790-7221
1 unit available
1 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Parking, Air conditioning, and Refrigerator
Vibrant Location
Prime Charleston location near restaurants and cafes.
Nestled in Charleston's charming Cannonborough-Elliottborough neighborhood, 16 Cannon Street offers a vibrant setting perfect for those who love city life. The property is just a short walk from King Street's lively restaurants, shops, and galleries. Hardwood floors, granite countertops, and in-unit laundry add to the convenience and style of this apartment.
Recently updated units
27 Smith Street
$5,230
27 Smith Street, Charleston, SC 29401
(843) 790-7221
1 unit available
4 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Stainless steel, Walk in closets, Fireplace + more
Recently updated units
7 Ann Street
$3,500
7 Ann Street, Charleston, SC 29403
(843) 790-7221
1 unit available
4 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Pet friendly, Parking, and Air conditioning
Recently updated units
17 Coming Street
$3,830
17 Coming Street, Charleston, SC 29401
(843) 790-7221
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Air conditioning, Range + more
Prime Location
Steps from College and King Street delights.
Enjoy the convenience of downtown Charleston living at 17 Coming Street. The property's charming historic architecture is admired by residents, and its location near the College of Charleston and vibrant King Street offers easy access to local shopping and dining. With hardwood floors and spacious layouts, including balconies for upper-level bedrooms, the apartment offers comfort and character.
Recently updated units
796 Harbor Place Drive
$3,230
796 Harbor Place Drive, Charleston, SC 29412
(843) 790-7221
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Nest technology, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Dishwasher, Pet friendly + more
Recently updated units
188 St. Philip Street
$3,730
188 Saint Philip Street, Charleston, SC 29403
(843) 790-7221
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Parking, Air conditioning, and Refrigerator
Charleston Gem
Prime location near King Street's attractions
Discover this charming 1-bedroom apartment in downtown Charleston, just steps from bustling King Street. Residents appreciate the modern conveniences like in-unit laundry and hardwood floors. With nearby restaurants and shops, this property offers a vibrant lifestyle right at your doorstep.
Recently updated units
40 Bee Street Flats
$1,800
40 Bee Street, Charleston, SC 29403
(843) 790-7221
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Parking, Stainless steel, Gym + more
Central Hub
Enjoy life in Charleston's vibrant heart!
40 Bee Street Flats provides a charming ambiance right in the lively neighborhood of Cannonborough - Elliottborough, Charleston. Residents rave about its prime location offering easy access to work, dining, and shopping. The property features a convenient fitness center and a peaceful study lounge for enhanced living experiences.
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.

Luxury Apartments for Rent in Charleston, SC

17 South

3 bed / 2 bath home ~ Available October 2025

2 3 Bedroom Townhomes in West Ashley

Charming Single-Family Home

2BR Townhome in West Ashley – Prime Location Fresh Updates!

33 Ashton Street | Steps from MUSC The Citadel, Perfectly Designed for Today

333 Ashley Avenue

8 Sires St

94 Hanover Street

16 Cannon Street

27 Smith Street

7 Ann Street

17 Coming Street

796 Harbor Place Drive

188 St. Philip Street

40 Bee Street Flats