3Q25: Charleston MSA Retail Snapshot

Charleston’s retail market remains exceptionally tight, supported by steady population growth and consistent tenant demand for well-located spaces. Market-wide vacancy is low at approximately 3.2% with some positive net absorption over the recent quarter. Some recent retail construction delivery is encouraging, but all projects are taking a long time to receive entitlements and to build. James Island, Johns Island, West Ashley, Mt. Pleasant, and Summerville—report vacancies between 0% and 2.6%, while North Charleston and Daniel Island show slightly softer but still healthy levels under 6%. Average rents remain strong at $25.90 PSF, and despite a few municipal development hurdles, overall market momentum reflects a well-balanced environment of limited supply, robust demand, and ongoing investment.