Charleston, SC Short-Term Rental ROI Calculator
Analyze your Airbnb investment with live Charleston market data. Pre-populated with real ADR, occupancy, and revenue benchmarks.
Investor Quick Take
Strengths
- Solid occupancy — 60% market average
- Competitive ADR — $198/night market rate
- STR-friendly regulations — low compliance burden
Risks
- Moderate seasonality — plan for slower months
Solid Market
Based on ADR, occupancy, and supply metrics
Charleston is a urban market with 60% average occupancy and $198 ADR.
We've pre-populated this calculator with Charleston's market averages. Adjust the values to match your specific property.
Charleston Short-Term Rental Market Overview
Charleston draws consistent STR demand from business travelers, event tourism, and weekend visitors. As South Carolina's major urban center, the city generates year-round occupancy that insulates investors from the seasonal volatility common in resort markets.
The average STR in Charleston generates approximately $43,400 in annual revenue, with an average daily rate of $198 and a 60% occupancy rate across the year. These metrics position Charleston as a solid mid-tier STR market — particularly attractive to investors seeking consistent year-round cash flow.
Active listings in Charleston grew by 11% year-over-year, currently sitting at approximately 3,100 active STR units. This moderate growth rate suggests a market finding equilibrium between supply and demand, which typically supports stable occupancy and ADR. Investors should track supply trends quarterly using tools like AirDNA or Rabbu before committing capital.
Key considerations for Charleston investors: regulatory risk is rated low — Charleston currently has minimal STR regulation, making it an investor-friendly market from a compliance perspective. Monitor local policy, as regulations can change. Property management costs, cleaning turnover for short stays, and platform fee optimization are the primary levers operators use to improve net margin in this market.
Market Metrics
Charleston Airbnb Revenue by Property Size
| Property Size | Avg ADR | Avg Occupancy | Avg Annual Revenue | Est. Cap Rate Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $109 | 60% | $24K | 2.1–2.9% |
| 1BR | $150 | 60% | $33K | 2.9–4.0% |
| 2BR | $218 | 60% | $50K | 4.4–6.0% |
| 3BR | $287 | 60% | $67K | 6.0–8.1% |
| 4BR+ | $396 | 60% | $91K | 8.1–11.0% |
Charleston STR Revenue Calendar
Seasonal Insight: Peak season runs October, April, and May. Expect up to 15% higher revenue during peak months. Plan for January and December as your slowest period — approximately 20% below the annual average.
Is Charleston a Good Market for Short-Term Rentals?
Why investors choose Charleston
- ✓Solid revenue potential: market average of $43,400 per year with upside for well-managed properties
- ✓Reliable occupancy: 60% market average provides predictable income baseline
- ✓Year-round demand: Charleston's diverse visitor base prevents the seasonal cliffs common in resort markets
- ✓Growing market: 11% annual listing growth signals strong investor and visitor confidence
Key risks to consider
Charleston STR Regulatory Overview
ModerateCharleston limits STR permits, particularly non-owner-occupied rentals in residential neighborhoods. The historic district has additional restrictions. Permit caps are in effect in some zones.
Key Requirements
- ·STR permit required
- ·Owner-occupied preference in residential zones
- ·Density limits apply in some areas
- ·State and local tax registration
Source: City of Charleston Business License Office · Last verified: 2026-01. Regulations change frequently — always verify current requirements with local authorities before investing.
Compare Charleston to Similar Markets
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| Metric | Charleston | Nashville | Gatlinburg | Pigeon Forge |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ADR | $198 | $189 | $224 | $195 |
| Occupancy | 60% | 61% | 69% | 72% |
| Avg Revenue | $43K | $42K | $56K | $51K |
| Median Home Value | $525K | $465K | $385K | $355K |
| Regulatory Risk | Low | Moderate | Low | Low |
Charleston Short-Term Rental FAQs
Is Charleston a good market for short-term rentals?+
Charleston, SC is a solid US STR markets. With an average daily rate of $198 and 60% occupancy, the average listing earns approximately $43,400 per year. Market performance varies significantly by property type, location within the city, and management quality — this calculator helps you model your specific scenario.
What is the average Airbnb income in Charleston?+
The average STR listing in Charleston generates approximately $43,400 in gross annual revenue at a $198 average daily rate and 60% occupancy. Top-performing listings with premium amenities, strong reviews, and professional management can earn 30–50% above the market average. After platform fees (3–5%), cleaning costs, and other expenses, net revenue typically ranges 60–75% of gross.
What occupancy rate can I expect for an Airbnb in Charleston?+
The market-average occupancy in Charleston is approximately 60%. New listings typically underperform the market average for the first 3–6 months while accumulating reviews. Properties with professional photography, competitive pricing, and consistently high ratings can reach 72–78% occupancy. This market is moderately seasonal — consistent occupancy is achievable year-round with good pricing strategy.
What are the STR regulations in Charleston?+
Regulatory risk in Charleston is rated Low. Charleston currently has minimal STR regulation, making it investor-friendly from a compliance standpoint. Always verify current requirements — local policies can change. Regulations change frequently; always confirm current rules with local authorities.
What type of property performs best as an Airbnb in Charleston?+
In Charleston, the highest-performing STR properties are typically 1–2 bedroom apartments and condos near downtown. Guests in urban markets prioritize location, walkability, and modern amenities. The most efficient segment by revenue-per-dollar-invested is typically the 2-bedroom category.
What is the best season for Airbnb in Charleston?+
Charleston sees peak STR demand during spring (March–May) and fall (September–October). During peak season, top properties can command rates 15% above their annual average. Demand remains relatively stable throughout the year, with only moderate seasonal variation.
How much does it cost to buy an STR investment property in Charleston?+
The median home value in Charleston is approximately $525,000. With a 20% down payment, you'd invest roughly $121K in cash (including closing costs and setup). At the market-average revenue of $43,400/year, a property at median value would generate a gross revenue yield of approximately 8.3%. Use this calculator to model your specific purchase price, financing terms, and expense assumptions.
How does Charleston compare to other STR markets?+
Charleston offers accessible entry points relative to premium coastal markets. The $198 ADR is near the national STR average of roughly $185. For comparison, markets like Aspen and Malibu exceed $450 ADR but require significantly higher acquisition costs. Charleston offers a lower barrier to entry with reliable occupancy fundamentals.
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