July 13, 2025

Charleston Faces Severe Affordable Housing Crisis

News Summary

Charleston is experiencing a significant affordable housing crisis driven by increasing living costs and a surge in population. With over 5,800 affordable housing units already in the city, the demand has led to the closure of waiting lists for public housing. Local officials indicate the need for urgent strategies to increase housing availability as many residents, especially seniors, face lengthy waits for affordable options. Initiatives are underway, including tax incentives and funding for land acquisition to address the growing affordability gaps.

Charleston is currently grappling with a significant affordable housing crisis, driven by soaring living costs and a rapid influx of residents. According to local officials, the challenges have necessitated an urgent focus on increasing the availability of affordable housing options in the city.

As of July 1, Charleston has reported over 5,800 existing affordable housing units, with an additional 815 units currently proposed or in development. However, the demand continues to surge, leading to the closure of waiting lists for public housing and Section 8 programs managed by the Charleston County Housing and Redevelopment Authority. The waiting list for the Charleston Housing Authority has ballooned to between 2,200 and 2,900 individuals, highlighting the growing urgency of the situation.

Arthur Milligan, the CEO of the Housing Authority of the City of Charleston, stated that the area’s rapid growth and the attraction of high-income industries have intensified competition for housing among various income levels. As families relocate to Charleston, many face the risk of encountering unaffordable housing rates. Affordable housing is generally defined as residences that cost 30% or less of a household’s pre-tax income for those earning between 0% to 120% of the Area Median Income.

Over the past decade, Charleston’s population has surged by approximately 28,000 residents, while only about 16,000 new houses have been constructed. This discrepancy underscores the escalating demand for affordable units. While there is a clear need for such development, Milligan noted that current construction efforts are falling short of meeting the existing demand.

The city’s strategic plan from 2021 aims to exceed the provision of 15,000 affordable housing units by the year 2030, with the goal of eliminating any affordability gaps. Local authorities have begun several initiatives to promote the development of affordable housing, including the introduction of tax incentives to encourage developers to invest in affordable housing projects. The Charleston Housing Authority is currently overseeing seven active development projects, with aspirations for an additional 1,500 units.

Angela Childers, CEO of the Charleston County Housing and Redevelopment Authority, has pointed out the visible necessity for affordable housing in light of the struggles faced by existing Section 8 participants. The increase in the senior population, many of whom no longer have the means to work, has further intensified the need for affordable options. Some residents, such as senior Juanita Dochterman, have reported enduring lengthy waits—up to 16 months—for access to affordable housing in desirable neighborhoods.

To combat the housing crisis, the Charleston County Council is advancing initiatives designed to support affordable housing through efforts like the purchase and maintenance of homes intended for low- to moderate-income individuals. A recent joint venture acquisition of 104 affordable housing units in North Charleston for $15 million aims to preserve workforce housing while implementing necessary improvements.

Additionally, the Charleston Affordable Housing Land Acquisition Grant Program has secured $2.5 million in funding to assist both nonprofit and for-profit developers in acquiring land for future affordable housing projects. After the initial round of applications, $1.1 million has been awarded to three projects, meant to deliver 32 rental and 12 homeownership opportunities for those seeking affordable options.

Lastly, Charleston County has established a “Housing Our Future Trust Fund,” which will support the development of affordable housing through revolving loans aimed at developers. As demand continues to rise, county officials are committed to adapting and evolving their strategies to meet the ever-changing needs of the community.

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Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON

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