Apartments for rent in Charleston, SC

Introduction to Charleston, SC

Located on a broad island in South Carolina's famed Lowcountry, Charleston is a charming colonial town noted for its rich history and southern hospitality. Its well-maintained historic landmarks and attractions only accentuate the plentiful modern conveniences, and the city supports active residents of all ages. In fact, Charleston is known as the southeastern United States' premier "lifestyle destination" for young families and retirees alike. You'll have no trouble finding rentals in this welcoming corner of South Carolina.

Charleston Attractions

Charleston has one of the country's highest concentration of preserved Colonial-style buildings, and you must see favorites such as the Calhoun Mansion, the Old Slave Mart Museum and picturesque Rainbow Row. To complement these historic structures, Charleston boasts an extensive network of public squares and pocket parks. Thanks to the presence of a 300-year-old French Protestant church and one of the largest Roman Catholic cathedrals in North America, the city is also a mecca for folks who take an interest in religious history.

Did You Know?

The Dock Street Theater, built in 1736, was the first theater in the United States. Located on the corner of Church Street and Queen Street, the theater still provides excellent entertainment to Charleston residents and visitors.

Charleston, SC Apartments and Neighborhoods

Whether you want a laid-back atmosphere by the Atlantic or a bustling downtown scene outside your door, Apartment Guide will help you find the area you're dreaming of. Review our top neighborhoods in Charleston for options with everything from suburban appeal in North Charleston to historic Downtown elegance. Some favorite Charleston neighborhoods include:

• Downtown: Characterized by cobblestone streets, historic churches and stately southern mansions, Downtown Charleston offers a one-of-a-kind setting with proximity to fine dining and boutique shopping.
• The Islands: Ocean lovers should seek out apartments in Isle of Palms, Folly Beach and Sullivan's Island. Your neighbors will be a mix of retirees and active residents involved in beach activities, and your traffic will be significantly higher during the summer months.
• East Cooper/Mount Pleasant: Named for its location east of the Cooper River, this area is convenient to both downtown and the beach. Great schools and a strong sense of community make this an ideal place for families.
• West Ashley/James Island: West of the Ashley River, you'll find established communities bordered by the Intracoastal Waterway. The architectural styles vary as much as the price points, which reflects the diversity of residents in this area.
• North Charleston: The affordability of North Charleston attracts both families and businesses who appreciate proximity to Downtown and beaches without paying the price tag to live there.

Customize Your Search for Charleston Apartments

Even Charleston's most active residents need a place to rest after a long day at the beach or out on the water. Fortunately, Apartment Guide can help you find downtown rentals that feature modern amenities and won't break your budget. From furnished two-bedroom spaces in modern waterfront communities to sprawling three-bedroom townhouses on the city's leafy outskirts, Apartment Guide's database has an up-to-date repository of attractive options. If you'd prefer to search for a specific type of living space in downtown, simply use our intuitive search feature to find apartments with amenities like in-suite laundry, covered parking and must-have central air conditioning. With an impressive selection and an easy-as-pie interface, Apartment Guide is your source for hundreds of affordable Downtown Charleston apartments.

Free Things to Do in Charleston

Take a scenic walk along the waterfront at The Battery to see historic antebellum mansions, numerous monuments and views of Fort Sumter. Follow the water toward East Bay Street, and you'll run into the famous Rainbow Row, 13 historic, vividly painted Charleston homes.  

For Families with Kids

Hop on a ferryboat and ride from Patriots Point to Fort Sumter where your kids can view the cannons and battle-scarred walls at the site where the Civil War started. For families relocating with kids, you'll find that Charleston County School District serves over 50,000 students; many of the top-rated schools are in the Mount Pleasant and James Island communities.

Outdoor Activities in Charleston

Charleston makes the most of the water that surrounds it on three sides. The city is ringed with marinas and launch ramps for sailing enthusiasts and motor-boaters. Adventure sports enthusiasts love the town's easy access to the open waters of the Atlantic and regularly head out to sea to deep-sea fish, parasail and water ski. On the other side of town, wildlife-rich protected areas like Bear Island Game Management Area offer endless opportunities for hikers and bird watchers.

Dining in Charleston

Charleston has long been a hot spot for the pickiest foodie with its extensive list of top seafood and fine dining restaurants including Hyman's Seafood and the nationally acclaimed Husk Restaurant.

Getaways from Charleston

Although there is plenty to keep you entertained in Charleston, the distance to destinations outside the city is short and worthwhile. For a quiet beach experience, Edisto Island is an hour away, or make the two-hour drive north to Myrtle Beach for a more touristy scene.