Cedar Grove Apartments in Charleston: What to Know Before You Move

Cedar Grove is a mixed-income apartment community in Charleston's East Side

Cedar Grove is located on the East Side of Charleston and offers rental housing managed through a partnership model that combines public housing authority oversight with community development. The community consists of garden-style apartment buildings with one-, two-, and three-bedroom floor plans. Units are available to households across a range of income levels, though the property prioritizes households earning below the area median income.

The property sits within walking distance of local schools, grocery stores, and public transit routes. Many residents choose Cedar Grove for its location relative to downtown Charleston employment centers and its proximity to community services on the East Side.

Key Takeaways

• Cedar Grove offers one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments to households at various income levels, with priority given to lower-income households.
• The community is managed through a public-private partnership that includes the Charleston Housing Authority and community development organizations.
• Rent is typically calculated as a percentage of household income, though the exact amount depends on your specific income and family size.
• To explore housing options at Cedar Grove, you will need to contact the Charleston Housing Authority or visit their office to learn about current availability and the information you need to provide.

How rent is calculated at Cedar Grove

Rent at Cedar Grove is generally set at 30 percent of your household's gross monthly income, which is a standard formula used across many mixed-income communities. This means your rent payment adjusts based on what your household earns, rather than being a fixed dollar amount for all residents.

The Charleston Housing Authority reviews your income documentation during the process to determine your rent amount. If your household income changes significantly during your tenancy, you may be required to report that change, which could affect your monthly rent.

What to bring when you contact Cedar Grove

When you reach out to the Charleston Housing Authority about Cedar Grove, have your household income documentation ready. This typically includes recent pay stubs, tax returns, or letters from your employer showing your current earnings. You will also need to provide identification and information about anyone who will be living in the unit with you.

If you are currently renting elsewhere, a reference from your current or previous landlord can strengthen your application. The Housing Authority will also ask about any prior evictions or lease violations, so be prepared to discuss your rental history honestly.

The Charleston Housing Authority and how to contact them

Cedar Grove is managed by the Charleston Housing Authority, a public agency that oversees public and mixed-income housing throughout the city. You can reach the Housing Authority by phone or by visiting their main office to ask about Cedar Grove specifically, current availability, and what steps come next.

The Housing Authority maintains a waiting list for Cedar Grove when units are not immediately available. The length of the wait varies depending on how many people are ahead of you and how frequently units turn over. Staff at the Housing Authority can tell you whether the community is currently accepting new residents or if you would be added to a waiting list.

Lease terms and what to expect as a resident

Cedar Grove leases are typically one year in length, and you will be expected to maintain the unit in good condition and follow community rules. The lease covers standard expectations like keeping noise at reasonable levels, not subletting without permission, and reporting maintenance issues promptly.

The property includes on-site management and maintenance staff who respond to repair requests. Utilities are typically split between what the landlord covers and what residents pay directly, though the exact breakdown depends on your specific lease. Ask about which utilities are included in your rent and which you will pay separately.

Nearby schools, transit, and community resources

Cedar Grove's East Side location puts you near several Charleston public schools, including both elementary and middle school options within a short distance. The property is also served by CARTA public transit routes, which connect to downtown Charleston, the Medical District, and other parts of the city.

The East Side has a growing network of community resources, including health clinics, food pantries, job training programs, and youth services. Many of these are within walking distance or a short bus ride from Cedar Grove, making it easier to reach services without a personal vehicle.

Income limits and who can live at Cedar Grove

Cedar Grove is designated as mixed-income housing, which means it serves households at different income levels rather than only the lowest-income residents. However, the community does prioritize households earning below the area median income for Charleston. The specific income limits change annually and depend on your household size.

The Charleston Housing Authority can tell you whether your household's income falls within the range for Cedar Grove. Income limits are set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and vary based on whether you are a single person, a couple, or a family with children.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I learn about Cedar Grove has an available unit right now?

Contact the Charleston Housing Authority directly by phone or in person at their main office. They can tell you whether Cedar Grove currently has units available or if you would be placed on a waiting list. Availability changes frequently, so calling is the fastest way to get current information.

What happens if my income increases after I move in?

Your rent is recalculated annually or when you report a significant income change. If your household income rises, your rent will increase accordingly, since it is based on 30 percent of your gross income. The Housing Authority will notify you of any rent adjustment and give you time to adjust your budget.

Can I bring a pet to Cedar Grove?

Pet policies vary by property and lease. Contact the Charleston Housing Authority or the on-site management office to learn about Cedar Grove's specific rules regarding pets, any breed or size restrictions, and whether pet deposits or monthly pet fees apply.

Is there a waiting list, and how long does it usually take?

Cedar Grove may have a waiting list depending on current occupancy. The Housing Authority can tell you the approximate wait time when you inquire. Wait times vary based on how many units are available and how quickly residents move out, so there is no single answer that applies every month.

What if I have an eviction or lease violation in my past?

The Housing Authority reviews your rental history as part of the process, but a past eviction does not automatically disqualify you. Be honest about what happened and explain the circumstances. The Housing Authority considers the age of the incident and whether you have since maintained stable housing.