South Carolina

Charleston, SC Rental Market

Charleston is one of the most in-demand rental markets in the Southeast, driven by a diversified economy spanning aerospace (Boeing), technology, healthcare, and a thriving tourism and hospitality sector. Strong population growth, a historic downtown, and consistent demand from young professionals and relocating families support steady rent appreciation.

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Average Rent in Charleston, SC

$2,100

per month ยท 2026-06

+4.2% year-over-year

Market Score

8/10

Key Facts โ€” Charleston, SC Rental Market

  • Average rent in Charleston, SC:$2,100/mo
  • Median rent:$1,950/mo
  • Rent range:$800 โ€“ $4,500/mo
  • Most common rental (3 bedrooms):$2,350/mo
  • Active listings:850
  • Avg days to lease:28 days
  • Year-over-year change:+4.2%
  • Median home value:$425,000
  • Est. gross annual yield:5.9%
  • Data as of:2026-06

Rent by Bedroom in Charleston, SC

Average monthly rent for each bedroom type based on current active listings in Charleston.

Bedroom TypeAvg Rent/mo
1 Bedroom
$1,450/mo
2 Bedrooms
$1,850/mo
3 Bedrooms
$2,350/mo
4 Bedrooms
$3,100/mo
5 Bedrooms
$3,800/mo

Charleston Rental Market Statistics

Key indicators from the current Charleston, SC rental market.

Active Listings

850

Available now in Charleston

Avg Days on Market

28

From list to lease

Rent per Sq Ft

$1.58

Average across listings

Avg Square Footage

1,380 sq ft

Typical rental size

Rent Range

$800 โ€“ $4,500

Min to max active listings

Year-over-Year Change

+4.2%

Avg rent vs. prior year

Investing in Charleston, SC Rental Properties

Estimated returns based on current market rents and median home values. Perform full due diligence before investing.

Median Home Value

$425,000

Typical purchase price in Charleston

Est. Gross Annual Yield

5.9%

Before expenses & vacancy

Avg Monthly Income

$2,100

At average market rent

Gross yield = (avg rent ร— 12) รท median home value. Does not include expenses, financing, vacancies, or management fees. Analyze a specific property in Charleston for a full cash-flow breakdown including all costs.

Charleston, SC Rental Market FAQ

Common questions about renting and investing in Charleston, SC.

What is the average rent in Charleston, SC?

The average rent in Charleston, SC is $2,100 per month as of 2026. One-bedroom apartments average $1,450/mo, two-bedrooms average $1,850/mo, and three-bedroom homes average $2,350/mo. Rents vary significantly by neighborhood โ€” downtown and the peninsula command a premium over suburban areas.

Is Charleston, SC a good place to invest in rental property?

Charleston, SC offers strong fundamentals for long-term rental investors. With an estimated 5.9% gross annual yield and consistent 4%+ year-over-year rent growth, the market rewards patient investors. Major employers including Boeing, MUSC, and a growing tech sector provide a stable, diverse tenant base.

How competitive is the Charleston, SC rental market?

Charleston is a highly competitive rental market with over 850 active listings and an average of just 28 days on market. Properties in desirable neighborhoods near downtown, West Ashley, and Mount Pleasant move fastest and often receive multiple applicants.

What neighborhoods in Charleston, SC have the highest rents?

Downtown Charleston, the French Quarter, and South of Broad have the highest rents due to proximity to restaurants, the harbor, and historic attractions. Mount Pleasant and Daniel Island are the highest-rent suburban options, attracting families and professionals.

How have rents changed in Charleston, SC recently?

Rents in Charleston, SC have increased approximately 4.2% year-over-year. Rent growth has been supported by strong job creation in aerospace, tech, and healthcare, combined with limited housing supply relative to demand.

ZIP codes in Charleston, SC

Rent data for 11 ZIP codes in Charleston, with average rent, bedroom breakdowns and local market detail.

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