The Best Neighborhoods in Charleston

When you think of Charleston, South Carolina, what comes to mind? Maybe you picture cobblestone streets and the city’s rich history. Maybe you take a more modern approach and consider the city’s scrumptious restaurant scene or fantastic shopping along King Street. In fact, these elements each contribute to Charleston’s southern charm and are part of the reason why it consistently ranks as a desirable city to live in.

But Charleston is more than just one thing. Each neighborhood of the city has its own unique charm. This guide will give you a sense of some of the best neighborhoods in Charleston, SC, including:

• North East Charleston
• South Charleston
• North Charleston
• Summerville
• Mount Pleasant
• Downtown
• James Island
• West Ashley

Let’s get started! 

1. North East Charleston: Daniel Island

One of the first things to know about Charleston is that it’s a harbor city. As a practical matter, that means it can be a bit confusing to the uninitiated since it’s made up of several island areas. So, in the northeast area of Charleston, there are many different areas to focus on. One of the most appealing is Daniel Island.

Originally a planned community that has now expanded to become its own full neighborhood, Daniel Island is less than 30 minutes from downtown Charleston—and it’s the best neighborhood to stay in Charleston. While you’ll have easy access to downtown, Daniel Island also provides plenty of options for you if you choose to live in the area. 

Daniel Island boasts plenty of restaurants to satisfy any craving. Italian lovers can choose between the scallop risotto and the gnocchi bolognese at Sermet’s Courtyard, and if you prefer Greek or Mediterranean food, swing by Ali Baba Deli to enjoy a Kofta Kebab.

Once your appetite is satiated, a trip to Governor’s Park can be a great way to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, baseball, and tennis. You can also take advantage of the dog walk and the spectacular waterfront.

Rent for studio apartments can start below $1,500, but if you’re looking for more space, a three-bedroom will cost closer to $3,000 per month. Overall, the average rent on Daniel Island is around $1,533.

2. South Charleston: Johns Island

Much like in the northeast, you’ll find many different communities to the south of downtown. One of the most interesting is Johns Island, which is the largest island in all of South Carolina. 

While only a third of Johns Island is actually located in Charleston, it’s another community that keeps you close to the city center while also providing a respite from the bustle of downtown. 

Golf fans should head south to Kiawah Island to check out the ocean course where Phil Mickelson won the 2021 PGA Championship. If you’d rather spend your time with food and drink, take a drive down highway 700 and take your pick of the many dining establishments. Maybe start with a Pork Saltimbocca at Wild Olive Cucina and finish up with one of the dozens of whiskeys available at Seanachai Whiskey and Cocktail Bar. If you’re up for a drive north, you should also be sure to check out Angel Oak Park and the 65-foot-high Angel Oak Tree.

The rent range is on Johns Island falls between $1,500 and $2,200. However, the average rent tends to be on the lower end of this range, coming in just above $1,500.

3. North Charleston

North Charleston is technically its own city. In fact, it’s the third-largest city in all of South Carolina. Boasting convenience (the airport is located in North Charleston!) and lower rent than some areas, North Charleston may be slightly farther from the water but is still accessible and a great place to live. 

Since North Charleston is its own city, it should come as no surprise that there’s no shortage of restaurant options. Revel in the comfort of down-home chicken and waffles or oxtails and gravy at Nigel’s Good Food or try the Dim Sum Sunday Brunch at Jackrabbit Filly.

Also, if you’re looking for an approachable museum, check out the North Charleston Fire Museum and rekindle your childhood love of all things firetruck.

Rents are lower in this area, with the average just under $1,200. Even the high end of rent tends to stay around the $1,500 mark.

4. Summerville

The Charleston area is known for its history—and so is Summerville. This neighborhood offers you a glimpse into the past, with nearly 70% of its buildings pre-dating World War I. But it’s also a growing area that is increasingly more attractive to modern residents and young professionals.

Summerville is nicknamed Flowertown and there’s a reason: You can check out the blooms in Azalea Park where you may even be able to catch the annual Flowertown Festival. When you’re done, check out Lowcountry Olive Oil for some of the best local olive oils in South Carolina.

While Summerville is a bit farther from downtown Charleston than the other neighborhoods on this list, it is still only slightly over a half-hour drive on I-26 (depending on traffic).

The average rent in Summerville is around $1,375, with most apartments renting between $1,200 and $1,800.

5. Mount Pleasant

The name gives away the secret of this island neighborhood. This is a thoroughly charming community on the water with plenty of options for shopping, dining, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area. 

Naval historians will want to take a day to explore Patriots Point and the USS Yorktown aircraft carrier. You can also hop on the water taxi, which connects Mount Pleasant to downtown.

If you’re looking for dining options, you can opt for fine dining such as the wagyu braised short ribs at Savi Cucina and Wine Bar. Or, if you’re not scared of some tourists, enjoy the fried seafood platter and waterfront views at The Wreck of The Richard and Charlene.

An apartment in a seaside community full of desirable locations doesn’t come at a discount. However, rents are still reasonablem=, with the average being just over $1,500.

6. Downtown

Some people need to be where the action is. In Charleston, that means downtown. Downtown Charleston refers to the peninsular-shaped area at the center of the city that overlooks the Charleston Harbor and whose edges are shaped by the Ashley and Cooper Rivers. When you think of Charleston, you’re probably thinking of downtown. 

You won’t have much trouble finding things to do in downtown Charleston, and since the area is only about five square miles, you can easily get around on foot or by utilizing the free shuttle service called DASH. 

You’re in the South—eat some barbecue! Try the brisket, the ribs, the cornbread, or some mac and cheese at Rodney Scott’s BBQ, or heck, get it all for a taste of true Charleston cuisine. Another downtown hotspot is Charleston City Market. Even though it’s only four blocks long, you could easily spend the day at this historic market. Find your favorite vendors and be sure to come back often. Downtown Charleston is also home to the well-known French Quarter district and the stunning Waterfront Park.

Downtown apartments aren’t known for their affordability, but considering the convenience of all the amenities of the area, they’re generally worth a slightly larger monthly rent. Downtown rents average slightly above $1,300 but can easily run closer to $2,500 for larger spaces.

7. James Island

While all of Charleston sits near the water, perhaps no other neighborhood embraces that vibe quite like James Island. Laid-back, east-coast surfer mentality is what rules the day in this community located to the southwest of downtown. Escape the hustle of city life, spend the day fishing, or relax and enjoy the vibe of Folly Beach in this welcoming Charleston neighborhood.

You’re only a short boat ride from the historic site of Fort Sumter where the first battle of the American Civil War took place. Of course, maybe you’d prefer to spend a relaxing day with some margaritas, a plate of nachos, and pastor tacos from Zia Taqueria. 

James Island is a residential area with a small-town ethos. As such, it isn’t exactly overrun with available apartments. That said, units can still be found ranging from around $1,300 to upwards of $3,000 depending on what you’re looking for.

8. West Ashley

The final Charleston neighborhood on this lineup is West Ashley which, you guessed it, is located to the west of downtown Charleston over the Ashley River. This is another residential area that allows for easy living among its famous natural beauty. Plus, it’s a quick commute from West Ashley to downtown when you’re in the mood for the hustle and bustle of the big city. 

Your history teacher will be disappointed if you don’t visit Charles Towne Landing. It’s a beautiful park area that’s also the site of the initial founding of the city, which took place in 1670. Once your homework is done, spend the day at Citadel Mall getting your shopping done, then pop over to The Glass Onion to enjoy a locally sourced cornmeal-fried catfish.

This neighborhood is a bit pricier than some of the others, with average rents at nearly $1,700 and higher-end rents coming in over $3,000.

Discover Charleston with Landing

As you can see, Charleston has plenty to offer no matter what vibe you’re looking for. And the best way to experience living in Charleston is by taking advantage of Landing’s network of apartments. 

Our furnished apartments are the best place to start your Charleston journey and get to know your new city. We offer flexible lease terms, meaning when you’re ready to move on, you can simply pack up and find your next Landing pad. Landing’s network is ready with plenty of options to help you start your next adventure in Charleston and beyond! Check out our apartments in Charleston today!