AI-Scored Rankings • Updated 2026-04-03

Best Apartments in Charleston, SC — Scored by AI

ListWise scores every Charleston neighborhood on safety, walkability, schools, commute time, and rental value. See which areas actually match your lifestyle — not just what's cheapest.

$1,900/mo
Median Rent
150,227
Population
8
Neighborhoods Scored
Medical University of South Carolina
Top Employer
Local Insights

Why Charleston? What Renters Need to Know

Charleston averages $1,900 per month for a one-bedroom, though the iconic South of Broad neighborhood can exceed $4,000. More affordable options exist in West Ashley and North Central, while Park Circle in North Charleston offers trendy living around $1,800.

Quick Facts

Population 150,227
Median Rent $1,900/mo
Top Employer Medical University of South Carolina
Neighborhoods 8 scored by AI
Rent vs. National$1,900 vs $1,500 national median

Rent Comparison

Charleston median rent is $400 above the national median of $1,500/mo.

Largest Employer

The largest employer in Charleston is Medical University of South Carolina, making the Downtown/Peninsula area and nearby neighborhoods popular for commuters looking to minimize travel time.

Top Neighborhoods

Top Neighborhoods in Charleston

Ranked by ListWise's composite AI score. Top 3 shown free — unlock all 8 for the full picture.

#1

Downtown/Peninsula

Score: 91/100
Safety A
Walk Score 84
Avg Rent $2,800
Schools 7/10
#2

South of Broad

Score: 94/100
Safety A+
Walk Score 80
Avg Rent $4,200
Schools 9/10
#3

Harleston Village

Score: 89/100
Safety A
Walk Score 82
Avg Rent $2,500
Schools 8/10

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#4

Wagener Terrace

Score: 83/100
Safety B+
Walk Score 70
Avg Rent $1,950
Schools 6/10
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#5

North Central

Score: 72/100
Safety C+
Walk Score 65
Avg Rent $1,500
Schools 5/10
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#6

West Ashley

Score: 78/100
Safety B-
Walk Score 40
Avg Rent $1,650
Schools 6/10
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#7

James Island

Score: 82/100
Safety B+
Walk Score 35
Avg Rent $1,850
Schools 7/10
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#8

Park Circle

Score: 85/100
Safety A-
Walk Score 62
Avg Rent $1,800
Schools 7/10
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See All 8 Charleston Neighborhoods Ranked

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How It Works

How ListWise Scores Charleston Apartments

1

Tell Us Your Priorities

Rank what matters: safety, schools, walkability, commute, budget, nightlife. Every Charleston renter is different.

2

AI Scores Every Listing

We pull real-time data from MLS, crime stats, school ratings, transit APIs, and walk score databases for Charleston.

3

Get Your Ranked List

Receive a PDF + Excel report with Charleston properties ranked by YOUR priorities. Delivered within 24 hours.

FAQ

Frequently Asked About Charleston

What is the average rent in Charleston?

Charleston averages $1,900 per month for a one-bedroom, though the iconic South of Broad neighborhood can exceed $4,000. More affordable options exist in West Ashley and North Central, while Park Circle in North Charleston offers trendy living around $1,800.

Is Charleston affordable?

Charleston has become significantly less affordable in recent years due to rapid growth and tourism-driven demand. While still cheaper than major Northeast cities, rents have risen sharply since 2020. Many workers live in suburbs like Summerville and North Charleston to reduce housing costs.

What are the best neighborhoods in Charleston?

South of Broad is Charleston's most prestigious neighborhood, offering historic antebellum homes and top-rated schools but at premium prices. Harleston Village and the Downtown Peninsula offer similar charm at somewhat lower price points, while Park Circle is a popular choice for younger residents.

How does flooding affect Charleston living?

Charleston experiences significant tidal flooding, particularly in low-lying downtown areas and along the Ashley and Cooper rivers. King Tides regularly flood streets in the Historic District. Prospective residents should check FEMA flood maps carefully and budget for flood insurance, which can be substantial.

What is the job market like in Charleston?

Charleston's economy is led by MUSC (Medical University of South Carolina), Boeing, Joint Base Charleston, and a growing tech sector. Tourism and hospitality also represent major employment sectors, and the Port of Charleston supports substantial logistics and manufacturing jobs.

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Data is for informational purposes only. Verify all information independently before making housing decisions.