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
16 Nats Ct
$1,875
16 Nats Court, Charleston, SC 29403
(839) 777-2256
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
Pet friendly and All utils included
Recently updated units
1 of 40
Modern Living in the Heart of West Ashley
$2,599
2376 River Park Way, Charleston, SC 29414
(843) 212-4065
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Air conditioning, Concierge, Microwave, Garbage disposal + more
Recently updated units
25 Ashley Avenue
$4,330
25 Ashley Avenue, Charleston, SC 29401
(843) 790-7221
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Parking, Stainless steel, Air conditioning + more
Recently updated units
1805 Chelwood Circle
$2,995
1805 Chelwood Circle, Charleston, SC 29407
(843) 737-6034
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
Patio / balcony, Pet friendly, and Recently renovated
Recently updated units
1811 Luna Court
$3,095
1811 Luna Court, Charleston, SC 29414
(843) 737-6034
1 unit available
4 bed
Amenities
Patio / balcony, Pet friendly, Garage, Pool, Dog park, Playground + more
Recently updated units
1860 Piper Drive
$1,995
1860 Piper Drive, Charleston, SC 29407
(843) 737-6034
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Garage, and Carpet
Recently updated units
6040 Fieldstone Circle
$2,950
6040 Fieldstone Circle, Charleston, SC 29414
(843) 737-6034
1 unit available
4 bed
Amenities
Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Pet friendly, Stainless steel, Pool, and Guest suite
Recently updated units
2347 Tall Sail Drive
$2,195
2347 Tall Sail Drive, Charleston, SC 29414
(843) 737-6034
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dogs allowed, Stainless steel, and Pool
Recently updated units
139 Alexander Street
$2,195
139 Alexander Street, Charleston, SC 29403
(888) 659-9596 ext. 6309048
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
Hardwood floors, Recently renovated, Air conditioning, Microwave, Range, and Refrigerator
Recently updated units
1865 Jaywood Circle
$2,795
1865 Jaywood Circle, Charleston, SC 29407
(843) 507-0340
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
Patio / balcony, Pet friendly, Recently renovated, and Stainless steel
Recently updated units
10 Orrs Court
$6,195
10 Orrs Court, Charleston, SC 29403
(888) 659-9596 ext. 6213169
1 unit available
4 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Stainless steel + more
Recently updated units
Charming fully furnished one bedroom condo in Ansonborough
$2,900
53 Hasell Street, Charleston, SC 29401
(843) 471-0680
1 unit available
1 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Granite counters, All utils included, Parking, Stainless steel, Microwave + more
Recently updated units
342 King StreetUnit C
$3,000
342 King Street, Charleston, SC 29401
(843) 625-6825
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Air conditioning, Microwave + more
Recently updated units
3 Bedroom 2.5 Bath Townhouse in Eaglewood Retreat - James Island
$3,200
809 Soaring Lane, Charleston, SC 29412
(843) 795-0600
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Pet friendly, Garage, Stainless steel + more
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
164 Queen Street
$4,300
164 Queen Street, Charleston, SC 29401
(843) 806-0603
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Parking + more
Prime Locale
Steps from Charleston's vibrant dining and shopping scene.
Nestled in Charleston's historic district, this beautifully renovated home is perfect for those seeking vibrant city living. With refinished oak floors and custom cabinetry, this fully furnished property offers stylish comfort. Steps away from popular dining and shops, it also features dog-friendly accommodations, making it ideal for pet lovers.
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.