Rentometer, Inc. | Data as of 10/23/2025
Charleston, Illinois blends small‑town charm with the vibrant energy of a university community, making it a sought‑after destination for renters of all ages. Anchored by Eastern Illinois University, the city offers a lively downtown district filled with local cafés, boutique shops, and cultural venues such as the historic Paramount Theatre. Neighborhoods like South Campus and St. Mary’s provide easy access to campus life, while the historic district showcases beautiful Victorian homes and tree‑lined streets. Residents also enjoy nearby natural attractions, including the scenic Eagle Creek Park and the Harkness Arboretum, which add outdoor recreation to the city’s appeal. The mix of student, faculty, and professional populations creates a balanced rental market that supports both short‑term leases and longer‑term family rentals.
The Charleston rental market reflects this diversity, offering a range of apartments and houses to suit various needs. One‑bedroom apartments are commonly found in the $700‑$800 range, while two‑bedroom units typically sit in the $900‑$1,000 bracket, providing affordable options for couples and small families. Larger three‑bedroom apartments trend around $1,200, appealing to those seeking extra space without leaving the city limits. Stand‑alone houses, especially three‑bedroom homes, average in the $1,400 range with median rents closer to $1,050, and four‑plus‑bedroom houses also average around $1,400, often attracting larger households looking for suburban comfort. These price points, coupled with convenient access to local schools, shopping centers, and public transportation, make Charleston a compelling choice for renters seeking quality living at competitive rates.
| Property Type | Bedrooms | Average | Median | Min - Max | 25th - 75th |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment | 1 Bedroom | $727 | $785 | $550 - $920 | $600 - $800 |
| Apartment | 2 Bedroom | $950 | $1,005 | $610 - $1,200 | $845 - $1,050 |
| Apartment | 3 Bedroom | $1,206 | $1,160 | $955 - $1,515 | $1,040 - $1,500 |
| House | 3 Bedroom | $1,433 | $1,050 | $950 - $2,300 | $950 - $2,300 |
| House | 4+ Bedroom | $1,439 | $1,300 | $1,049 - $2,200 | $1,300 - $1,350 |
In the current period, the average rent in Charleston was $700 for 1 Bedroom, $949 for 2 Bedroom, $1,188 for 3 Bedroom, and $1,062 for 4+ Bedroom.
Data provided by Rentometer, Inc.