What Is the Average Rent in South Carolina?
Explore South Carolina's average rent. Understand pricing variations across cities, property sizes, and key market influences.
Average rent refers to the typical monthly cost renters pay for housing in a specific area. This figure provides a benchmark for understanding the financial landscape of a rental market. This article explores varying rental costs across South Carolina, offering insights into statewide averages, prices in major metropolitan areas, and how property characteristics influence rent.
Statewide Average Rent Overview
The average rent in South Carolina shows variability across different reporting periods and data sources. As of August 2025, the average rent for a rental property is approximately $1,392 per month. Other recent data points indicate a range, with averages reported around $1,618 in July 2025, or even $1,845 in August 2025. A December 2024 figure suggested an average of $1,239. This statewide figure encompasses all property types and sizes, reflecting a broad market trend.
These variations underscore that average rent figures can fluctuate based on the specific methodologies and datasets used by different reporting agencies. Despite these differences, figures consistently point to South Carolina as a state where rental costs are below the national average.
Average Rent by Major Metro Area
Rental costs across South Carolina vary significantly by metropolitan area, reflecting distinct local market dynamics. As of August 2025, Charleston consistently ranks among the most expensive cities, with a one-bedroom averaging $2,100 and a two-bedroom around $2,304.
In Columbia, the state capital, rental prices are more moderate. The average rent for an apartment is approximately $1,158 for a one-bedroom and $1,347 for a two-bedroom. Greenville also offers a more accessible rental market compared to Charleston. The average rent in Greenville is about $1,290 per month, with one-bedroom units averaging around $1,290 and two-bedroom units at approximately $1,523.
Myrtle Beach, a popular coastal destination, sees average rents around $1,380 per month. A one-bedroom apartment in Myrtle Beach costs about $1,380, and a two-bedroom averages around $1,622. Spartanburg, located in the Upstate region, presents more affordable options. As of August 2025, one-bedroom units average about $1,100, while two-bedroom units are around $1,295. Rock Hill, near the North Carolina border, has an average rent of approximately $1,296 per month, with a one-bedroom averaging $1,296 and a two-bedroom about $1,452.
Average Rent by Property Size and Type
The size and type of a rental property directly influence its monthly cost across South Carolina. Larger units with more bedrooms typically command higher rents. As of August 2025, a studio apartment statewide averages around $1,391 per month.
A one-bedroom apartment rents for about $1,392 across South Carolina. A two-bedroom unit averages approximately $1,556. Properties with three bedrooms see an average rent of about $1,838 per month. These figures represent statewide averages, and actual prices vary based on geographic location and local market conditions.
Key Factors Influencing Rent Prices
Several factors contribute to variations in rent prices across South Carolina. Demand and supply dynamics play a significant role; areas with high demand and limited inventory experience higher rents. Population growth and economic development in certain regions increase competition for rental units. Strong job markets and an influx of new residents can drive up prices in desirable areas.
The specific location within a metropolitan area also influences rent. Properties closer to downtown areas, major employment centers, or highly-rated school districts have higher rental costs. The age and condition of a property, along with its amenities, are additional considerations. Newer buildings or those with features like pools, fitness centers, or in-unit laundry facilities command premium rents. Broader economic conditions, including inflation and interest rates, affect the entire housing market. When interest rates rise, homeownership can become less affordable, potentially increasing demand for rental properties and pushing up rent prices.