How to Live Like a Local in Charleston

Charleston, South Carolina, is becoming a popular tourist destination and place to live. Known as one of the friendliest cities in the United States, Charleston’s rich history and culture gives locals and visitors alike something to love. 

Whether you’re planning on moving to Charleston or want to avoid the standard tourist traps and experience the city like a local, here are some tips for places to stay, things to eat, and things to do in Charleston: 

Where should you live to feel like a local in Charleston?

If you want to feel like you’re living like a local in Charleston, consider staying in a furnished apartment in Charleston with a flexible lease. This option will give you a more authentic experience than staying in a hotel, and will be cheaper than staying in an Airbnb long-term. 

The average rent of Charleston apartments is only about $1,400/month, even in top Charleston neighborhoods like Folly Beach, West Ashley, or downtown Charleston. Thanks to the average rent cost, renters looking at Charleston apartments will spend under $120 a day to check out a specific neighborhood and really see everything that place has to offer.

Another benefit to having your own furnished apartment in Charleston is that you’ll have less to pack. You can even keep your usual routine, as many luxury apartments in Charleston have fitness centers or swimming pools you can take advantage of while you’re in town.

Where should you eat to feel like a local in Charleston?

No matter where in Charleston you decide to move, you’ll want to travel around the city to enjoy dining like a local. Burbage’s Grocery, Elliotborough Mini Bar, and Moe’s Crosstown Tavern are all favorites of Charleston locals. If you find yourself in the West Ashley area, be sure to check out Betty Lou’s Bistro, which is known for its fried meatballs and softshell crab. 

What should you do to feel like a local in Charleston?

Just because you have a fitness center, business center, and grilling area right outside your front door doesn’t mean that you need to stay in your apartment all day to “live” like a local. Locals in Charleston find things to enjoy year-round, such as golf courses and trips to Johns Island, Daniel Island, and James Island, not to mention hiking along the Ashley River. 

If you have a dog, East Bay Dog Park is a great place to meet other locals (and their pups!). Talking to others is one of many ways to get the most out of the Southern charm that Charleston is so well-known for—and a great way to get even more recommendations for how to live like a local while you’re in Charleston. 

If you’re looking to live in Charleston, Landing offers fully furnished apartments in Charleston with flexible lease terms that make it possible to stay for as long as you want in this southern spot. Browse Landing’s available apartments in Charleston, or contact us to learn more about how Landing works.