An Investor’s Guide to Charleston’s Short-Term Rental Market
A Short-Term Rental—often known as a vacation rental or
furnished executive stay—is a fully furnished property that is
leased for fewer than 30 consecutive days. These rentals range
from charming guest cottages to high-end downtown condos
and are typically listed on platforms like Airbnb, VRBO, and
Booking.com.
In Charleston, STRs are highly regulated and categorized based
on zoning, property type, and occupancy requirements, which
vary across neighborhoods. Whether you're an owner-occupier
looking to earn supplemental income or an investor seeking
cash-flowing property, STRs present a unique opportunity to tap
into Charleston’s thriving hospitality economy.
Think of it as owning your own boutique hotel—only better.
With its cobblestone streets, historic charm, and vibrant
coastal lifestyle, Charleston continues to captivate travelers—
and investors alike. Ranked the #1 City in the U.S. by Travel +
Leisure for 12 consecutive years, this Southern gem welcomes
over 7.8 million annual visitors seeking everything from luxury
getaways to charming weekend escapes.
The demand for thoughtfully managed short-term rentals is at
an all-time high, with an average daily rate of $378 and a 62%
occupancy rate. For investors, Charleston offers not only strong
cash flow potential but also the rare opportunity to own
property in a market that blends culture, character, and
consistently high occupancy rates.