Charlotte, NC [Average Rent Price History]
Charlotte’s rental market has seen notable shifts in recent years, reflecting broader economic and housing trends. This analysis offers a comprehensive look at how average rent prices have evolved over the past year, providing you with a clear perspective on the market’s trajectory.
By understanding these patterns, you can make more informed decisions as you navigate your apartment search in one of the nation’s most dynamic cities.
Note: All of the rental data included here comes from our internal database of rent estimates. We offer rental estimates at the city, state, and national level available for download.
Average Rent Prices in Charlotte, NC [2024]
Like many U.S. cities, Charlotte’s rental market has seen a number of fluctuations in recent years.
This breakdown explores how average rent prices have responded to economic shifts, offering a clearer picture for prospective renters.
| Month | Bed | Bath | Avg Square Feet | Average Price (% Y/Y)* | Average Days on Market (% Y/Y)* |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024-07-01 | Studio | 1 | 548 sqft | $1333 (-7.36%) | 113 (73.84%) |
| 2024-07-01 | 1 | 1 | 740 sqft | $1471 (0.34%) | 86 (26.47%) |
| 2024-07-01 | 2 | 1 | 915 sqft | $1375 (-2.68%) | 53 (8.16%) |
| 2024-07-01 | 2 | 2 | 1124 sqft | $1799 (0.5%) | 81 (-5.81%) |
| 2024-07-01 | 3 | 1 | 1150 sqft | $1653 (4.81%) | 34 (17.24%) |
| 2024-07-01 | 3 | 2 | 1431 sqft | $2044 (-4.03%) | 74 (-1.33%) |
| 2024-07-01 | 3 | 3 | 1628 sqft | $2530 (-14.35%) | 58 (-63.97%) |
| 2024-08-01 | Studio | 1 | 546 sqft | $1384 (-7.11%) | 108 (52.11%) |
| 2024-08-01 | 1 | 1 | 746 sqft | $1467 (-0.13%) | 91 (42.18%) |
| 2024-08-01 | 2 | 1 | 917 sqft | $1348 (-3.23%) | 56 (-28.2%) |
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The average rent in Charlotte, NC is $1,497 per month as of January 2025. Average rents for different types of apartments in Charlotte are as follows:
- Studio: $1,497 per month
- One-bedroom: $1,505 per month
- Two-bedroom: $1,809 per month
- Three-bedroom: $2,406 per month
Charlotte’s rental market is seeing mixed trends heading into 2025. Studio rents have surged to $1,497, reflecting increased demand, while one-bedroom apartments have stayed relatively steady at $1,505. Two-bedroom units remain a solid option at $1,809, but prices for larger three-bedroom apartments have dipped, offering potential savings for renters seeking more space.
When it comes to how quickly apartments are renting, studios are now moving off the market much faster, with an average of just 66 days. On the other hand, some larger apartments, like three-bedroom units, are taking longer to rent, giving renters more flexibility. If you’re looking for a smaller space, it’s best to act quickly, while those interested in bigger units might find better deals with more time to negotiate.
When Is the Best Time to Rent an Apartment in Charlotte?
Historically, the best time to rent in Charlotte tends to be late summer through early fall, and recent trends reinforce this pattern. Studio rents were at their lowest in October 2024, averaging $1,351, before rising sharply to $1,497 by January 2025. Larger units, such as two-bedroom, one-bath apartments, also saw their most competitive rates in the fall, with rents dipping to $1,329 in October before climbing again to $1,337 in December.
In terms of availability, summer still provides the most options. Average days on market for studios peaked at 113 days in July before dropping to 66 days in January, showing how competition increases later in the year. Similarly, larger units like two-bedroom apartments had their highest availability in the summer, with days on market averaging 70 days in November. For renters, late summer offers the best variety, while early fall is ideal for locking in more affordable rates, especially for smaller units like studios.
What Salary Do You Need to Live Comfortably in Charlotte?
At a median rate of $1,294 for a one-bedroom apartment in Charlotte, you would need to earn around $51,760 annually to keep rent under 30% of your income. For a two-bedroom apartment, with a median rent of $1,411, a yearly income of approximately $56,440 would be necessary to maintain affordable housing costs.
Average Rent in Charlotte, NC By Neighborhood
| Neighborhood | Avg Square Feet | Average Rent (Y/Y) | Average Days on Market (Y/Y) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ashley Park | 801 sqft | $1371 (-10.45%) | 106 (253.33%) |
| Ballantyne East | 783 sqft | $2070 (25.45%) | 77 (-30%) |
| Ballantyne West | 771 sqft | $1673 (5.88%) | 249 (255.71%) |
| Barclay Downs | 790 sqft | $1570 (1.29%) | 111 (76.19%) |
| Brookhill | 662 sqft | $1826 (-19.38%) | 177 (-14.07%) |
| Brown Road | 885 sqft | $1431 (-8.03%) | 35 (-68.46%) |
| College Downs | 740 sqft | $1242 (0.24%) | 61 (-19.73%) |
| Commonwealth | 801 sqft | $2160 (28.03%) | 38 (-68.33%) |
| Concord Mills | 821 sqft | $1298 (2.44%) | 41 (105%) |
| Dilworth | 752 sqft | $1940 (11.17%) | 94 (95.83%) |
Most Popular Apartment Communities in Charlotte
Discover Charlotte’s top 50 most sought-after apartment communities, ranked by the number of people who favorited these spots while browsing other potential listings.
These communities stand out for their vibrant neighborhoods, modern amenities, and prime locations, attracting interest from renters all across the area.
| Property Name | City | Scale |
|---|---|---|
| Coffey Creek | Charlotte | 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 |
| Stillwater | Charlotte | 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 |
| Blu at Northline | Charlotte | 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 |
| Affordable Housing - Elan at Mallard Creek Apartment Homes | Charlotte | 🔥🔥🔥🔥 |
| The Perch | Charlotte | 🔥🔥🔥🔥 |
| Aurora | Charlotte | 🔥🔥🔥🔥 |
| Verde at McCullough Station | Charlotte | 🔥🔥🔥🔥 |
| Magnolia Terrace | Charlotte | 🔥🔥🔥 |
| Central Pointe Apartment Homes | Charlotte | 🔥🔥🔥 |
| The Ascher Uptown | Charlotte | 🔥🔥🔥 |
Among Charlotte’s most popular apartment communities, Coffey Creek and Stillwater attract the highest interest levels from prospective residents, followed closely by Blu at Northline. Communities like Elan at Mallard Creek, The Perch, and Aurora also draw substantial attention, offering a range of highly favored options across Charlotte’s neighborhoods. These properties stand out for their amenities and location, appealing to a wide audience of renters with unique preferences.
Charlotte’s Rental Market
The following section contains insights into Charlotte’s rental market according to our experts.
Is Charlotte a Good Rental Market?
Charlotte’s rental market is strong, with one-bedroom apartments averaging $1,476 and larger two-bedroom, three-bath units reaching $2,598. High demand across various apartment sizes reflects a competitive market, making Charlotte an appealing choice for renters seeking both affordable and premium options.
Is It Hard to Get an Apartment in Charlotte?
It can be competitive to secure an apartment in Charlotte. Two-bedroom, one-bath units average only 47 days on the market as of October 2024, reflecting high renter interest. Larger units tend to stay available longer, such as two-bedroom, three-bath apartments, which average 55 days, providing more options for those seeking spacious layouts.
What Is the Price to Rent Ratio in Charlotte?
With a price-to-rent ratio of 15.6, it’s more affordable to rent than buy in Charlotte. Purchasing a home requires a larger upfront financial commitment, making renting a good option for those seeking flexibility and lower upfront costs.
How Much Is Rent in Cities Near Charlotte?
Rent prices in nearby cities often provide useful context when evaluating housing options.
Here, we compare average rents in cities around Charlotte, helping you gauge affordability and explore alternatives.
| Week | City | Bedrooms | Average Price (% W/W) | Avg Square Feet |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024-12-29 | Belmont | 1 | $1595 (-2.2%) | 710 sqft |
| 2024-12-29 | Belmont | 2 | $1810 (-2.79%) | 1164 sqft |
| 2024-12-29 | Belmont | 3 | $1942 (-3.62%) | 1319 sqft |
| 2024-12-29 | Charlotte | Studio | $1413 (-0.21%) | 534 sqft |
| 2024-12-29 | Charlotte | 1 | $1645 (0.18%) | 750 sqft |
| 2024-12-29 | Charlotte | 2 | $2117 (0.28%) | 1142 sqft |
| 2024-12-29 | Charlotte | 3 | $2598 (0.89%) | 1473 sqft |
| 2024-12-29 | Concord | Studio | $1198 (-0.24%) | 410 sqft |
| 2024-12-29 | Concord | 1 | $1487 (0.67%) | 731 sqft |
| 2024-12-29 | Concord | 2 | $1617 (1.57%) | 1076 sqft |
Rent prices in cities near Charlotte offer a variety of options to fit different budgets. Gastonia and Rock Hill remain some of the most affordable spots, with one-bedrooms averaging $1,126 and $949, respectively. For those seeking upscale options, areas like Indian Land and Pineville offer two-bedrooms around $2,128 and $1,812. These price ranges give renters the flexibility to choose a location that matches their budget and lifestyle.
Looking for an Apartment in Charlotte?
Charlotte’s rental market has options for every budget, but finding the right fit can be challenging. Take our personalized quiz to get matched with apartments tailored to your lifestyle and budget. Start now and take the first step toward your dream home in Charlotte!
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