Apartments for Rent in South Carolina

South Carolina

Living in South Carolina means immersing yourself in southern charm and tropical weather, so it's no surprise that plenty of people search for South Carolina apartments every year. Many are retirees who want to live in warmer weather and enjoy the nearly year-round opportunities for outdoor activities.

Although traditionally an agricultural state (peaches, tobacco, tea and watermelons are still major exports), industry and tourism are the two economic leaders in today's South Carolina. Textile manufacturing, chemical plants and paper products are all important in this coastal state.

Tourism, however, is the most important source of income. History buffs flock to Civil War sites and antebellum mansions that have been carefully restored or preserved. Cities like Charleston are rich with historical architecture and beautiful old-world style bed and breakfasts. The Atlantic Coast also offers lots of relaxation and sun.

Outdoor Attractions

For beach lovers, Sea Island and Myrtle Beach provide waves and sunshine for surfing, deep sea fishing and swimming. The waves along the South Carolina shore are some of the best around for surfing and boogie boarding. The boardwalks are also very popular, offering everything from great foods to Ferris wheels and arcades for evening fun under the stars. Golf is actually more popular here than virtually any other state, with the Grand Strand having the highest concentration of golf courses in the country.

South Carolina is also famous for beautiful gardens. Visitors can stroll through miles of lush gardens, visit Cypress swamps and explore the grounds of huge antebellum plantations to enjoy nature.

Colleges and Universities

There are dozens of college towns with reasonably priced apartments in South Carolina because the state has so many colleges and universities. The University of South Carolina has eight campuses, but there is also the College of Charleston, Clemson University and dozens of small, liberal arts colleges as well as a medical school, a law school, a chiropractic school and several seminaries. The famous military academy The Citadel is also located here.

Real Estate and Housing

Both housing and the cost of living are relatively low in South Carolina, averaging about ten percent less than the national average. If you are looking for an apartment to rent here, however, you need to be aware of the variables. For instance, an apartment in Charleston will actually be higher than the national average – this city is so popular and housing is so scarce that it bucks the state trend.

For more reasonable apartment rentals located in cities, consider Columbia, Rock Hill, Greenville and Mt. Pleasant. Do your homework and explore the neighborhoods when apartment shopping in South Carolina. Historic districts charge a premium for even small apartments, but you can find real bargains if you shop for South Carolina apartments in downtown areas that are just starting re-development and revitalization projects.