Luxury living in Columbia? Here are some of the priciest apartments in the city
Columbia is often hailed as a more affordable alternative to other cities in South Carolina such as Greenville and Charleston. Still, rents in the state capital are on the rise.
Average rent in the Columbia metro area has increased 30% over the past five years, according to data from Zillow. Right now, the average cost of rent across units of all sizes is $1,391 a month.
A number of apartments in the area are raising the bar (and the price tag) by offering high-end amenities and the promise of luxury living. The State went on the hunt for some of the most expensive two-bedroom units in and around Columbia. Here’s what we found.
The Lady
Built in the 1920s and originally designed as offices, this trio of historic buildings underwent a major restoration before opening its doors to renters last year. Located at 1310 Lady St. these apartments are just one block over from all the action on Main Street
Two-bedrooms start at $2,168 for the smallest unit — about 994 square feet. A 1,573-square-foot unit will run you between $3,146 and $3,186, according to a leasing agent.
Many of the original materials were able to be preserved, so there’s plenty of vintage charm. Think exposed brick and polished concrete. Residents can also enjoy sweeping views of downtown from the rooftop terrace and garden.
The Palms
This apartment complex at the corner of Lady and Main streets just finished constructing an additional building along Assembly Street, so there are plenty of brand new units available.
Residents here have access to a pool complete with a cocktail cabana. Rent also includes a gym membership at 24/7 Health andFitness.
The “Cascade” floor plan is the largest two-bedroom, coming in at 1,158 square feet. That unit costs between $2,415 and $3,015, according to the director of marketing for the building’s developer. If you’d rather sacrifice the extra space for a corner apartment facing Assembly and Washington, check out the 1,088 square foot “Majestic” floor plan. Those units range from $2,850 to $3,225.
Gadsden Place
These historic Italianate buildings at 1209 and 1211 Gadsden St. have housed a variety of businesses since they were first erected in the 1920s. Now they’ve been transformed into a mix of apartments and “live-work” office spaces.
According to the building’s website, for $2,400 a month you can live in a penthouse apartment overlooking the bustling Vista neighborhood. These units come equipped with a spiral staircase that leads up to a private rooftop landing.
You’ll also enjoy convenient features like in-unit laundry, hardwood floors and walk-in closets.
Vista Lofts
Residents of this downtown apartment at 701 Gervais St. are just a short walk to all that the Vista neighborhood has to offer.
The loft-style units have floor-to-ceiling windows that let in plenty of natural light. High-end finishes like stainless steel appliances and granite countertops give these apartments a sleek, modern look.
The 1,126-square-foot “2A” floor plan costs $2,097 if you want it unfurnished or $3,000 if you’d prefer a furnished unit, according to the developer’s marketing director. The 1,172-square-foot “2C” floor plan goes for $2,097 a month.
Advenir at One Eleven
Located at 111 Knox Abott Drive, this apartment complex is just across the river from downtown Columbia in neighboring Cayce. The building is walking distance to the Three Rivers Greenway and a quick drive over the bridge to the Vista, so residents here get the best of both worlds.
There are a range of amenities including a resort-style pool, 24-hour fitness center, grilling stations, a billiards room and a “sky lounge” with views of the Columbia skyline.
Coming in at $2,367 a month, the 1,283-square-foot “Draper” unit is the most expensive apartment, according to the Advenir website. Unfortunately, there is currently a wait list for this floor plan. If you’re looking to move right now, there are three “Congaree” units available. Those apartments are 1,146 square feet and start at $1,760 a month.
