Mortgage Rates in Charleston, South Carolina — March 2026
Updated March 2026 | Based on Charleston market data and regional lending conditions
Charleston is a growing city in South Carolina with a population of 150,277. The current 30-year fixed mortgage rate in Charleston is 6.71%, which is 0.06% above the national average. With a median home price of $445,000 and a 20% down payment of $89,000, homebuyers can expect a monthly principal and interest payment of approximately $2,300.
Current Mortgage Rates in Charleston, SC
Below are the current average mortgage rates available in the Charleston area as of March 2026. Rates vary by lender, credit score, and loan-to-value ratio. Use our free calculator above to see your personalized estimate.
| Loan Type | Rate | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30-Year Fixed | 6.71% | 6.65% | +0.06% |
| 15-Year Fixed | 5.95% | 5.89% | +0.06% |
| 5/1 ARM | 6.21% | 6.15% | +0.06% |
| FHA | 6.31% | 6.25% | +0.06% |
| VA | 6.11% | 6.05% | +0.06% |
| Jumbo | 6.91% | 6.85% | +0.06% |
Charleston Housing Market Overview
The Charleston housing market reflects moderate demand with prices near the national average. The median household income in Charleston is $65,825, and the cost of living index is 105.5 (national average = 100). Based on the 28% affordability rule, you would need an income of approximately $107,614 to comfortably afford the median-priced home in Charleston, which exceeds the current median household income.
Monthly Payment Breakdown for Charleston
Based on the median home price of $445,000 with 20% down ($89,000), here is what you can expect to pay monthly in Charleston:
15-Year vs. 30-Year Mortgage in Charleston
Choosing a 15-year mortgage in Charleston at 5.95% instead of a 30-year at 6.71% would save you $288,900 in total interest over the life of the loan. However, your monthly payment would be $2,995 instead of $2,300 — an increase of $695 per month.
Calculate Your Charleston Mortgage Payment
Use our free calculator to get a personalized estimate based on your loan amount, interest rate, and term.
Open Free CalculatorFrequently Asked Questions About Mortgages in Charleston
What are the current mortgage rates in Charleston, SC?
As of March 2026, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate in Charleston, South Carolina is 6.71%, while the 15-year fixed rate is 5.95%. FHA loans average 6.31% and VA loans 6.11%. These rates are 0.06% above the national average of 6.65%.
How much is a monthly mortgage payment in Charleston?
Based on the median home price of $445,000 with 20% down, the estimated monthly mortgage payment in Charleston is $2,300 for principal and interest. Including property taxes of $211/month, the total monthly housing cost is approximately $2,511.
What income do I need to buy a home in Charleston?
Using the 28% rule, you would need an annual income of approximately $107,614 to afford the median-priced home in Charleston at $445,000. The median household income in Charleston is $65,825. This means most households would need to either earn above the median or consider homes below $445,000.
Is Charleston a good place to buy a home in 2026?
Charleston has a moderate cost of living with a cost of living index of 105.5 (national average = 100). The property tax rate in South Carolina is 0.57%, which is below the national average. Charleston has a population of 150,277 and offers a balanced lifestyle.
Mortgage Rates in Other South Carolina Cities
Related Tools & Guides
Last updated: March 2026. Rates are approximate averages based on regional lending data for the Charleston, South Carolina area. Individual rates may vary by lender, credit score, loan amount, and other factors. Use our free calculator for a personalized estimate.