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

1 Vendue Range, #L - 1
$12,000
1 Vendue Range, Charleston, SC 29401
(843) 806-0603
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage + more
Recently updated units
1739 River Front Dr
$2,390
1739 River Front Drive, Charleston, SC 29407
(854) 444-7817
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Dogs allowed, Garage + more
Recently updated units
388 Culver Avenue
$2,795
388 Culver Avenue, Charleston, SC 29407
(704) 519-7179
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Dogs allowed, Garage, Stainless steel + more
Recently updated units
1395 W Lenevar Dr
$2,875
1395 West Lenevar Drive, Charleston, SC 29407
(704) 519-7179
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Dogs allowed, Garage, and Air conditioning
Recently updated units
Welcome Home
$3,500
441 North Nassau Street, Charleston, SC 29403
(843) 709-6078
1 unit available
4 bed
Amenities
Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Pet friendly, Recently renovated, Stainless steel, and Walk in closets
Recently updated units
160 1/2 Coming Street
$2,400
160 1/2 Coming Street, Charleston, SC 29403
(864) 383-1680
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Hardwood floors, and Parking
Recently updated units
Stylish City Living in Historic Charleston
$4,850
109 East Bay Street, Charleston, SC 29401
(843) 212-4065
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking, Recently renovated, Stainless steel, Air conditioning + more
Recently updated units
510 Rutledge Avenue - B
$3,700
510 Rutledge Avenue, Charleston, SC 29403
(843) 410-2992
1 unit available
4 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry and Parking
Recently updated units
995 King ST
$2,100
995 King Street, Charleston, SC 29403
(864) 662-6929
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
Pet friendly
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
52 Chapel Street
$3,300
52 Chapel Street, Charleston, SC 29403
(843) 790-7221
1 unit available
1 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Air conditioning, Microwave, Furnished + more
Historic Charm
Live in a charming 1854 home with modern amenities
Experience living in a historic 1854 apartment that features original wooden beams and brick walls. It boasts modern amenities such as a fully furnished kitchen, in-unit laundry, and a comfortably furnished interior. Located in the heart of Downtown Charleston, it's just steps away from Marion Square, restaurants, museums, and more.
Recently updated units
681 Mclernon Trace
$2,800
681 McLernon Trace, Charleston, SC 29455
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Patio / balcony, Garage, Stainless steel, Walk in closets, Pool + more
Recently updated units
36 Charlotte Street unit: 2
$3,750
36 Charlotte Street, Charleston, SC 29403
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
Patio / balcony, Recently renovated, Ceiling fan, and Furnished
Recently updated units
1245 Lakefront Drive
$3,600
1245 Lakefront Drive, Charleston, SC 29412
(626) 650-3787
1 unit available
4 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Dogs allowed, Garage, Recently renovated + more
Recently updated units
1752 Skinner Avenue
$2,800
1752 Skinner Avenue, Charleston, SC 29407
(854) 444-8807
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Pet friendly, Parking, Recently renovated, Stainless steel, and Walk in closets
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

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Charleston Short-term Apartments (35)

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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

1 Vendue Range, #L - 1

1739 River Front Dr

388 Culver Avenue

1395 W Lenevar Dr

Welcome Home

160 1/2 Coming Street

Stylish City Living in Historic Charleston

510 Rutledge Avenue - B

995 King ST

587 Rutledge Avenue

52 Chapel Street

681 Mclernon Trace

36 Charlotte Street unit: 2

1245 Lakefront Drive

1752 Skinner Avenue

89 Fishburne Street