Market Overview
Home Prices in Charleston, SC
The median home value in Charleston, SC is $598,419 as of mid-2026, according to Zillow's Home Value Index (ZHVI).That's up 0.8% compared to a year ago and up 1.2% from two years prior.
Compared to the U.S. national median of $410,000, homes in Charleston are priced46% above average. Charleston is part of the Charleston-North Charleston, SC metro area.
Over the past five years, Charleston home values have risen by approximately43.8%, reflecting strong long-term appreciation in this market.
Price History
Charleston Home Price Trend
City Comparison
Charleston vs. National Median
At $598,419, homes in Charleston cost 46% above the national median of $410,000. Buyers in Charleston should expect to pay a premium compared to most U.S. markets.
Affordability
What Does It Cost to Buy in Charleston?
20% Down Payment
$119,684
on $598,419
Monthly P&I
$3,121/mo
30-yr @ 6.8%
Total Monthly Est.
~$3,964/mo
incl. taxes & insurance
Income Needed
$158,560
gross annual (30% rule)
10% Down Option
$59,842
+ PMI applies
Loan Amount (20% dn)
$478,735
at current rates
Estimates assume a 30-year fixed mortgage at 6.8%. Monthly total includes estimated property taxes and homeowner's insurance. Actual costs vary.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average home price in Charleston, SC?
The median home value in Charleston is $598,419 as of mid-2026, according to Zillow's Home Value Index (ZHVI). That's up 0.8% year-over-year.
How much have home prices changed in Charleston?
Over the past year, home values in Charleston have increased by 0.8%. Over five years, prices have risen approximately 43.8%.
How much do I need to earn to buy a home in Charleston?
To comfortably afford the median home price of $598,419 with a 20% down payment ($119,684) at today's rates (6.8%), you'd need a gross annual income of approximately $158,560. This assumes keeping total housing costs at or below 30% of gross income.
How does Charleston compare to the national average home price?
The national median home value is approximately $410,000. At $598,419, homes in Charleston are 46% above the national average.
What metro area is Charleston part of?
Charleston is part of the Charleston-North Charleston, SC metropolitan area. Home prices and market conditions can vary across the broader metro region.