Charleston Market Update: February 2026

The Charleston housing market remains resilient and steady as we move into February 2026, continuing to attract buyers, sellers, and investors drawn to the Lowcountry lifestyle. Charleston real estate sales in 2025 were consistent with activity levels seen in 2023 and 2024, with total transactions up 1.4% year-over-year. Despite ongoing national economic uncertainty, home values in the Charleston area remain strong. The median home price in Charleston increased 2.7% from last year, bringing the current median sales price to approximately $440,000.

Mortgage rates have recently dipped back below 6.3%, offering renewed opportunity for buyers entering the Charleston real estate market. A Federal Reserve rate cut in early December helped boost buyer confidence, and we’ve seen increased showing activity and contract volume in recent weeks. However, industry experts are signaling that additional interest rate cuts may not occur during the first half of 2026, making early-year timing especially important for both buyers and sellers navigating today’s market.

Beyond real estate, the Charleston economy continues to show impressive growth and diversification. Breeze Airways is launching nonstop flights from Charleston to Cancun, operating weekly on Saturdays with introductory fares starting at $119 one-way, further enhancing Charleston’s appeal as a connected coastal city. Locally, the City of Charleston and the Charleston Redevelopment Corporation have delivered four new workforce housing units downtown and plan to develop 200 additional affordable housing units over the next three years. This initiative represents $55 million in planned investment, supported by a $100,000 city contribution, strengthening long-term housing accessibility across the region.
Charleston’s economic momentum is also tied to significant national investments. Delta Air Lines recently ordered 30 Boeing 787 Dreamliners, with options for 30 more, while Alaska Airlines announced its largest-ever aircraft order with Boeing. Notably, the deal includes five South Carolina–built 787 Dreamliners, reinforcing the state’s role in advanced manufacturing and job growth.

The Charleston rental and luxury housing market is also expanding. The Beach Company recently completed The Charles, a luxury waterfront rental community in downtown Charleston featuring 15 townhomes and eight residential flats across three buildings. Monthly rents range from $9,000 to $23,000, with residences offering up to 3,400 square feet of living space. Additionally, a $2 million church project on James Island has officially broken ground, contributing to continued development throughout the Charleston metro area.

As February unfolds, winter in Charleston offers a moment to pause, plan, and prepare for the busy spring real estate season ahead. Whether you’re considering buying a home in Charleston, selling your property, or simply keeping an eye on Charleston real estate market trends, we’re grateful to be a trusted local resource in a community we’re proud to call home. It’s truly an honor to guide our clients as they take the next step toward finding the perfect place to live in the Lowcountry.

As always, if you have questions about Charleston homes for sale, market conditions, or timing your next move, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Your Local Realtor Team
Terri & Ashley
Seignious & Smith