Charleston sits in the historic STR category — a market profile with specific seasonal patterns, guest expectations, and regulatory considerations. The restrictive STR regulatory environment shapes which acquisitions are workable.
Charleston, SC is a medium short-term rental DSCR market. Property type: Historic. Median home value approximately $595K. Average nightly rate: $295.
Occupancy rate in Charleston averages approximately 65%, which combined with the nightly rate produces gross annual revenue per property of approximately $70K.
Charleston historic STR regulated. Permitted units command premium. STR regulatory environment in Charleston: restrictive.
Charleston seasonality and tourism patterns
Tourist demand in Charleston tends toward tourism segments specific to the destination.
Charleston STR economics
Charleston STR cash flow math: $70K gross revenue minus operating costs of approximately $28K (cleaning, supplies, management, marketing, utilities) leaves roughly $42K for debt service and net cash flow.
Charleston specific FAQ
Charleston sees varied seasonal patterns. Lenders use annual averaged occupancy in underwriting.
Property type performance varies in Charleston. Analyze comparable data via AirDNA.
Charleston has restrictive STR regulations.
Charleston averages approximately 65% occupancy. Premium properties outperform; standard properties cluster near average.
Charleston averages approximately $295 per night. Premium units command 1.5-2.5x average.
Full-service STR management in Charleston runs 20-35% of gross revenue. Co-host arrangements run 15-25%. Self-management saves the fee but consumes 10-20 hours weekly.
A Charleston STR at the median home value of $595K typically requires 25-30% down, furniture and setup ($15K-50K), reserves (6-12 months PITIA), and closing costs. Total initial capital roughly $243K+.
Bottom line for Charleston STR investors
The investor profile that succeeds in Charleston STR combines local market knowledge or quality co-host management, realistic revenue projections using AirDNA data, and operational discipline. Get those right and Charleston STR produces strong risk-adjusted returns.
STR regulations vary by city and change frequently. Verify current local rules before acquisition.