Skip to main content

Abbott Arms Apartments in Columbia: What to Know Before You Move

By Constance Obi · Culture & Recreation Writer

Abbott Arms is a mid-rise apartment community in central Columbia with one- and two-bedroom units

Abbott Arms Apartments sits on Devine Street in the heart of Columbia's midtown area, a location that puts you within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and the University of South Carolina campus. The community offers furnished and unfurnished floor plans, with units ranging from one to two bedrooms. Parking is included with your lease, and the property has a fitness center and a pool on-site.

The building itself is older—constructed in the 1970s—so the aesthetic and finishes reflect that era. If you're drawn to newly renovated interiors or modern high-rise amenities, this may not match what you're looking for. But if you value location and walkability over brand-new construction, the trade-off can work in your favor, especially if rent is a primary concern.

Key Takeaways

  • Abbott Arms is located on Devine Street in midtown Columbia, within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and USC.
  • The community offers one- and two-bedroom units, both furnished and unfurnished, with parking included.
  • On-site amenities include a fitness center and pool, though the building dates to the 1970s and reflects that age.
  • You should contact the leasing office directly for current rent prices, lease terms, and move-in costs, as these change regularly.

Location and Neighborhood Context

Devine Street runs through one of Columbia's most active neighborhoods. You're close enough to walk to Five Points, a cluster of bars, coffee shops, and casual restaurants that draws both students and professionals. The University of South Carolina's campus is a short walk away, which means the area has a younger demographic and a college-town feel year-round.

If you work downtown or near the university, the commute is manageable. If your workplace is farther out—toward the airport, toward Irmo, or toward the suburbs—you'll be driving against the grain during rush hour. Street parking fills up in the evenings, but Abbott Arms includes a parking spot with your lease, so you're not competing for curb space.

Floor Plans and Unit Types

Abbott Arms offers one-bedroom and two-bedroom layouts. One-bedrooms are typically around 600 to 700 square feet, and two-bedrooms range from roughly 900 to 1,000 square feet, though exact dimensions vary by unit. Some units come furnished—useful if you're relocating to Columbia for a job or a temporary assignment—and others are unfurnished.

The building has no elevator, so if you're on an upper floor, you'll be climbing stairs. This is worth considering if you have mobility concerns or if you move furniture frequently. Windows and natural light vary depending on which side of the building your unit faces.

Amenities and Building Features

The property includes a fitness center with basic equipment and a swimming pool. These are standard offerings for mid-range apartment communities and can be useful if you want to avoid a gym membership or if you enjoy swimming in warm months. The pool is seasonal and typically closes in late fall.

Laundry facilities are available on-site, either in-unit or in a common laundry room depending on your floor plan. Internet and utilities are your responsibility; the lease does not include them. Trash and recycling pickup is included, and the property has designated areas for both.

Rent, Lease Terms, and Move-In Costs

Rent prices at Abbott Arms vary based on unit size, floor level, and lease length. One-bedroom units typically cost less than two-bedroom units, and ground-floor units may differ from upper floors. Lease terms are usually 12 months, though shorter or longer terms may be negotiable depending on availability.

Move-in costs typically include a security deposit, first month's rent, and sometimes a non-refundable application or administrative fee. The exact amounts change based on current occupancy and market conditions. You should contact the leasing office directly to learn what the current rates are and what fees apply to your specific move-in date.

How to Contact Abbott Arms and Next Steps

The leasing office is located on-site and is staffed during business hours. You can visit in person to tour units, ask questions about availability, and discuss lease options. If you prefer to call ahead, the office can tell you which floor plans are currently available and can schedule a tour at a time that works for you.

When you visit or call, have questions ready about utilities, parking rules, pet policies (if applicable), and any current move-in specials. Bring a photo ID and be prepared to discuss your income and rental history if you want to move forward with an application. The leasing team can walk you through the next steps and timeline.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Abbott Arms a good fit if I'm a student at USC?

Yes, the location is ideal for students—it's walkable to campus and close to Five Points, where many students spend time. The furnished units are popular with students who don't want to buy furniture for a year or two. Confirm whether the lease allows student co-signers and what the policy is on roommates.

Can I get a short-term lease if I'm relocating for work?

Most apartments prefer 12-month leases, but it's worth asking the leasing office about shorter terms or subletting options. Some properties offer 6-month leases at a higher monthly rate. Discuss your timeline when you contact them so they can tell you what's possible.

Are pets allowed at Abbott Arms?

Pet policies vary by property and change over time. Contact the leasing office directly to learn whether pets are allowed, what size or breed restrictions apply, and whether there are additional pet deposits or monthly fees.

What utilities do I pay for, and what's included?

Typically, you pay for electricity, water, gas, and internet yourself. Trash and recycling pickup are usually included in rent. Ask the leasing office for a breakdown of what's included in your lease and what you'll be billed for separately.

Is there assigned parking, or is it first-come, first-served?

Parking is included with your lease, but confirm whether you get an assigned spot or whether it's in a general lot. Ask about guest parking policies and whether there are any restrictions on vehicle size or type.