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Charleston's world-renowned culinary scene, historic charm, and beach access make it a premier vacation destination. Connect with realtors who specialize in Charleston short-term rental investments.
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Why Invest in Charleston STRs?
America's most charming city combines history, cuisine, and coastal living
Historic Tourism
Charleston's 350+ years of history, preserved architecture, and plantation tours attract millions of heritage tourists seeking authentic Southern experiences.
Culinary Destination
Consistently ranked among America's top food cities, Charleston draws culinary tourists to its award-winning restaurants and food festivals year-round.
Beach Access
Nearby Folly Beach, Isle of Palms, and Sullivan's Island offer pristine beaches, extending the rental season and broadening guest appeal.
Wedding Venue Capital
One of America's top wedding destinations, Charleston hosts thousands of destination weddings annually, filling STRs with wedding parties and guests.
What a Charleston STR Expert Brings
Local knowledge that makes the difference
- Downtown vs. Beach Markets - Guide you to the right investment based on your goals - historic downtown or beach community
- City Regulations - Navigate Charleston's evolving STR ordinances and licensing requirements
- Event-Based Projections - Accurate income estimates factoring in Spoleto Festival, Wine + Food Festival, and wedding season
- Historic Property Knowledge - Understand the unique maintenance and insurance needs of Charleston's historic homes
- Flood Zone Expertise - Identify properties with manageable flood risk and appropriate insurance strategies
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Get Matched FreeFrequently Asked Questions
Common questions about STR investing in Charleston
What are the STR regulations in Charleston, South Carolina?
Charleston has strict STR regulations limiting whole-home rentals to specific zoning districts. The city requires a Short-Term Rental Permit, business license, and accommodations tax registration. Operators must collect the 12.5% combined accommodations tax. Only owner-occupied properties can rent in most residential areas, while non-owner-occupied rentals are limited to commercial or mixed-use zones. Many historic neighborhoods prohibit STRs entirely. Read our complete Charleston STR Regulations Guide for details on compliance.
What is the average ROI for vacation rentals in Charleston?
Charleston is a premium market with STR properties generating 6-9% gross yields on higher property values. Properties averaging $285/night with 70% occupancy can gross $73,000+ annually. Historic downtown properties command the highest rates, while beach properties on Sullivan's Island, Isle of Palms, and Folly Beach offer seasonal beach rental income. Charleston's year-round tourism and wedding industry provide more consistent demand than pure beach markets.
What are the best areas to invest in Charleston for STR?
Isle of Palms and Sullivan's Island offer beach rentals with family appeal. Folly Beach provides a more casual vibe with fewer regulations. Downtown Charleston in approved zones commands premium rates but faces strict limits. Mount Pleasant provides suburban options near beaches. West Ashley and North Charleston offer lower entry points. The key is understanding which specific properties are zoned for STR use before purchasing.
When is peak season for Charleston vacation rentals?
Spring (March-May) is Charleston's peak with Spoleto Festival, garden tours, and ideal weather. Fall (September-November) offers pleasant temperatures and Charleston Wine + Food Festival. Wedding season (April-June, September-October) fills properties with bridal parties. Summer brings beach traffic to island properties. Winter is slower but holiday tours, restaurant week, and mild weather maintain baseline demand. Golf tourism runs year-round.
Should I invest in downtown Charleston or the beaches?
Downtown Charleston offers year-round tourism and higher nightly rates but faces strict zoning and permit limitations. Beach communities (Isle of Palms, Sullivan's Island, Folly Beach) have more STR-friendly regulations but higher seasonality. Isle of Palms Wild Dunes resort allows rentals with established infrastructure. Folly Beach recently tightened regulations but existing permitted properties remain valuable. Consider your investment timeline, management preferences, and risk tolerance when choosing between city and beach.
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