Short-Term & Long-Term Apartment Rentals in Charleston | Relocation Guide

ByBill Byrd

Helping You Navigate Rental Options While You Settle Into the Charleston Area

Relocating to Charleston, transitioning between homes, or simply needing flexibility? Over the years, many of our clients—buyers, sellers, students, and professionals—have found that short-term or flexible apartment rentals provide the perfect solution while they explore the area or prepare for a permanent move.

This guide was created to help you quickly identify apartment communities that offer a mix of short-term and long-term lease options across the Charleston Tri-County area. Whether your stay is measured in months or you’re planning for something longer, the communities listed below offer a range of locations, amenities, and lease structures designed to meet different needs.

Because apartment availability, pricing, and lease terms can change frequently—and many communities offer seasonal specials or incentives—we always recommend contacting each property directly for the most current details before making a decision.

What This Apartment Guide Includes (and What It Doesn’t)

The apartment communities listed in this guide include professionally managed properties that may offer:

  • Short-term or flexible lease options
  • Traditional long-term leases
  • A variety of floor plans and amenities
  • Locations throughout Charleston, Berkeley, and Dorchester counties

This guide does not include vacation rentals such as Airbnb or VRBO properties. If you’re specifically searching for nightly or weekly stays, those platforms are often better suited for that purpose:

Our focus here is on apartment communities that can serve as a temporary or transitional housing option while you search for a home, finalize a relocation, or plan your next move.

Tips for Searching for Rentals in the Charleston Area

Just like buying a home, finding the right rental in Charleston benefits from a little strategy. To make the process smoother, consider the following:

  • Tour before committing: Photos rarely tell the whole story. Touring helps you compare layouts, noise levels, and overall feel.
  • Ask about lease flexibility: Some communities offer month-to-month or shorter lease terms for a premium.
  • Confirm all costs: Be sure to ask about utilities, parking, pet fees, and any move-in incentives.
  • Think about location first: Proximity to work, schools, beaches, or downtown Charleston can dramatically affect your experience.
  • Plan ahead: Charleston’s rental market can be competitive, especially during peak seasons.

Most importantly, remember that rental needs often change quickly when relocating. A short-term apartment can provide the breathing room you need to get to know the area before making a long-term housing decision.

John’s Island/James Island/West Ashley Apartments

Short and Long Term Apartment Rentals In Charleston

The Avalon at James Island: 202 Promenade Vista St, Charleston, SC 29412

(844) 519- 7286

The Standard at James Island: 215 Promenade Vista St, Charleston, SC 29412

(866) 761- 8514

35 Folly in West Ashley:  35 Folly Rd Blvd, Charleston, SC 29407

(843) 632- 5543

1000 West at West Ashley: 1000 Bonieta Harrold Dr Charleston, SC  29414

(843) 632- 5543

Spyglass Seaside Apartment Rentals in James Island: 1674 Folly Road, Charleston, SC 29412

(843) 410- 4888

Aspire at James Island Apartment Rentals: 1743 Central Park Road Charleston, SC 29412

(844) 800-8027

The Apartment Rentals at Shade Tree in Johns Island: 2030 Wildts Battery Blvd, Johns Island, SC 29455

(843) 588-5509

The Charthouse at James Island: 1559 Folly Rd, Charleston, SC 29412

(843) 795-1232

  • The Charthouse at James Island: 1559 Folly Rd, Charleston, SC 29412
  • (843) 795-1232
  • Call for flexible terms and rates
  • Unfurnished
  • https://www.charthouseapts.com

Not Sure You Want To Rent? Check Out What’s For Sale!

Mount Pleasant/Daniel Island

Short and Long Term Apartment Rentals In Charleston

The Watch at Mount Pleasant: 997 Johnnie Dodds Blvd. Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464

(844) 506-9154

Brideside at Patriots Point: 175 Harbor Bridge Lane, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

(855) 864-1521

Oyster Park at Mount Pleasant: 1421 Shucker Cir, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464

(833) 629-3644

1201 Midtown at Mount Pleasant:1201 Central Haven Dr, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464

(843) 606-4417

River Walk at Mount Pleasant: 301 Seaport Ln, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464

(833) 799-8821

Wharf7 at Daniel Island: 515 Robert Daniel Drive Charleston, SC 29492

(843) 216-1300

Central Island Square at Daniel Island: 50 Central Island St. Daniel Island, SC 29492

 (843) 654-1867

The Sage at 1240 at Mount Pleasant: 1240 Winnowing Way, Mt Pleasant, SC 29466

(843) 548-8478

The Haven at Indigo Square at Mount Pleasant: 1800 Indigo Market Drive, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464

(843) 806-4558

Not Sure You Want To Rent? Check Out What’s For Sale!

Downtown

Short Term and Long Term Apartment Rentals in Charleston

Elan Midtown in Downtown: 441 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC 29403

(843) 937-8577

The Guild in Downtown: 128 Columbus Street Charleston, SC 29403

(843) 548-1658

Westedge in Downtown: 10 WestEdge Street Charleston, SC 29403

(843) 806-3831

  • Westedge in Downtown: 10 WestEdge Street Charleston, SC 29403
  • (843) 806-3831
  • Call for flexible terms and rates
  • Lease terms range from 12-15 months 
  • Unfurnished
  • https://www.westedgecharleston.com

The Merchant in Downtown: 102 Sottile St, Charleston, SC 29403

(843) 779-1083

Caroline Luxury Apartment Rentals: 99 Westedge St, Charleston, SC 29403

(843) 350-0559

511 Meeting St. at Downtown:  514 King St, Charleston, SC 29403

(843) 258-5196

Still Not Sure You Want To Rent?

Check Out Homes For Sale Downtown

North Charleston, Hanahan, Goose Creek and Ladson Apartments

Short and Long Term Apartment Rentals

Legends at Charleston Park at North Charleston: 8850 Dorchester Rd, North Charleston, SC 29420

(843) 410-4885

Atlantic on the Avenue at North Charleston: 6880 Rivers Ave, North Charleston, SC 29406

(843) 243-9836

Alta Shores Apartment Rentals at North Charleston: 2605 Elms Plantation Blvd, North Charleston, SC 29406

(843) 797-7277

Alta Shores Apartment Rentals at North Charleston: 2605 Elms Plantation Blvd, North Charleston, SC 29406

(843) 797-7277

Alta Shores Apartment Rentals at North Charleston: 2605 Elms Plantation Blvd, North Charleston, SC 29406

(843) 797-7277

The Mason at Ladson: 1110 Mason Pond Pl, Ladson, SC 29456

(843) 314-4803

Still Not Sure You Want To Rent?

Summerville, Moncks Corner, Nexton

Short and Long Term Apartment Rentals

Elevate at Brighton Park at Summerville: 115 Great Lawn Dr, Summerville, SC 29486

(843) 620-0022

Parks at Nexton at Summerville: 2000 Front St, Summerville, SC 29486

(854) 201-3136

Westbury Mews Apartment Rentals at Summerville: 1425 Old Trolley Road   Summerville,  SC  29485

(843) 461-3707

Legends at Azalea at Summerville: 3500 Pinckney Marsh Ln, Summerville, SC 29483

(843) 900- 3390

South City Apartment Rentals at Summerville: 50 Cheryl Lane, Summerville, SC 29486

(843) 396-8348

Still Not Sure You Want To Rent?

Final Note

Charleston offers a wide variety of rental options across many price points and neighborhoods. Taking the time to compare properties—and verifying current pricing and terms directly with each community—will help ensure you find a solution that fits both your timeline and your goals.

If you’d like help understanding different areas of Charleston or planning your next move, our team is always happy to point you in the right direction.

Frequently Asked Questions About Apartment Rentals in Charleston

Are short-term apartment rentals available in Charleston?

Yes. Many apartment communities in the Charleston area offer short-term or flexible lease options, although availability varies by season and location. It is always best to contact the property directly to confirm current terms.

What is considered a short-term apartment rental?

Short-term rentals typically range from month-to-month leases to agreements lasting three to six months. Some communities offer furnished units or corporate housing options for added flexibility.

Do Charleston apartments offer furnished rentals?

Some apartment communities offer furnished or partially furnished units, particularly for short-term or corporate leases. Availability and pricing can change frequently, so calling ahead is recommended.

How much do short-term apartments cost in Charleston?

Pricing depends on location, lease length, and demand. Short-term leases often carry a premium compared to traditional long-term rentals, and many communities offer seasonal specials that are not advertised online.

What areas of Charleston are most popular for renters?

Popular rental areas include Downtown Charleston, Mount Pleasant, West Ashley, James Island, North Charleston, and Summerville. Each area offers a different lifestyle, commute time, and price range.

Is it hard to find a rental in Charleston?

Charleston can be competitive, especially during peak relocation seasons. Having flexibility on lease length, move-in date, or location can help improve availability.

Should I rent before buying a home in Charleston?

Many relocating buyers choose a short-term rental first. This allows time to explore neighborhoods, understand traffic patterns, and make a confident long-term home purchase decision.

Relocating to Charleston? Start With a Smart Plan

Moving to Charleston and not sure where to live yet?
A short-term apartment can give you the flexibility to explore neighborhoods, compare lifestyle options, and make informed decisions before committing to a home purchase.

👉 Relocation Tip: Many of our clients rent first, then buy once they’ve had time to experience Charleston firsthand.

📍 Ready to take the next step?
  • Explore Charleston neighborhoods
  • Get guidance on buying vs. renting
  • Create a personalized relocation plan
→ Talk With a Local Charleston Real Estate Advisor

About the Authors

Bill Byrd and Waverly Byrd are a father-daughter real estate team based in Charleston who specialize in helping individuals, families, and investors relocate with confidence.

With decades of combined experience, Bill and Waverly understand that relocating isn’t just about finding a home—it’s about finding the right fit. From navigating short-term rentals and neighborhood selection to timing a purchase, managing transitions, and planning next steps, they guide clients through the entire process with clarity and care.

Bill brings deep market knowledge, long-term perspective, and experience advising clients through complex real estate decisions. Waverly adds a modern, hands-on approach with a strong pulse on Charleston’s neighborhoods, lifestyle options, and day-to-day realities of living here. Together, they offer a balanced, thoughtful approach that relocating clients value—especially those moving from out of state.

Many of their clients choose to rent first, then buy, using short-term housing to explore Charleston before making a long-term commitment. Bill and Waverly help coordinate that strategy, answer the questions most people don’t know to ask, and ensure nothing falls through the cracks along the way.

If you’re relocating to Charleston and want local insight, honest guidance, and a clear plan—Bill and Waverly would love to help.