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Colony Square Apartments in Columbia: What to Know Before You Move

By Constance Obi · Culture & Recreation Writer

What Colony Square Offers

Colony Square Apartments is a residential community in Columbia located in the midtown area, near the Five Points neighborhood. The complex offers one- and two-bedroom floor plans with standard apartment amenities including air conditioning, carpet or hard flooring, and on-site parking. Residents have access to a community pool and laundry facilities.

The location puts you within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and bars along Harden Street and nearby streets in Five Points. The University of South Carolina campus is close by, which shapes both the neighborhood character and the tenant mix. Public transit options connect to other parts of Columbia from nearby stops.

Key Takeaways

  • Colony Square is a midtown Columbia apartment complex with one- and two-bedroom units near Five Points and the University of South Carolina.
  • The community includes a pool, on-site parking, and laundry facilities, with standard apartment features in each unit.
  • Rent, lease terms, and current availability change regularly, so contacting the leasing office directly gives you accurate pricing and move-in information.
  • The Five Points location offers walkable access to dining, retail, and entertainment but also means higher noise and activity levels typical of a college-adjacent neighborhood.
  • Parking is on-site, which matters if you own a car, though the neighborhood is also accessible by foot and public transit.

Rent, Lease Terms, and Availability

Rent amounts and lease terms vary depending on unit size, floor level, and current market conditions. One-bedroom and two-bedroom units are priced differently, and move-in specials or promotions may be available at different times of year. The leasing office can tell you what is currently available and what the terms are for units you are interested in.

Most apartment communities in Columbia require a lease of 12 months, though shorter or longer terms may be negotiated. You will typically need to provide proof of income, a background check, and references before signing. Contact the leasing office directly at the property for current rates and to schedule a tour of available units.

The Five Points Neighborhood and What It Means for Daily Life

Five Points is one of Columbia's most active neighborhoods, known for its mix of restaurants, bars, independent shops, and cultural venues. Being near this area means you can walk to dinner, coffee, and entertainment without driving. The neighborhood draws students, young professionals, and long-term residents, creating a lively street scene.

That activity level also means the area is noisier than quieter residential neighborhoods, especially on weekends and evenings. Street parking fills up, and the sidewalks are crowded during peak hours. If you prefer a quieter setting, you may want to tour the property at different times of day to see whether the noise and activity level suit you.

Parking and Transportation

Colony Square provides on-site parking for residents, which is valuable in a neighborhood where street parking is limited and often full. If you own a car, confirm with the leasing office how many parking spaces come with your unit and whether there are additional fees for extra spaces or guest parking.

The location is also accessible by public transit. COMET, Columbia's public bus system, runs routes through the midtown area and connects to other parts of the city. The neighborhood is walkable for groceries, dining, and entertainment, so some residents live car-free or car-light. Walking to campus or downtown is possible but takes 20 to 30 minutes depending on your exact destination.

Proximity to University of South Carolina

Colony Square's location near the University of South Carolina campus makes it popular with students and university employees. This proximity is convenient if you study or work at USC, but it also means the community has a college-oriented character. Lease terms and tenant turnover reflect the academic calendar, with many residents moving in August and out in May or June.

If you are not affiliated with the university, you will be living in a neighborhood shaped by student life and academic schedules. This can mean more activity during the school year and quieter periods during summer and winter breaks. Ask the leasing office about the current mix of student and non-student residents if this matters to your decision.

What to Check During a Tour

When you visit Colony Square, look at the condition of common areas, including the pool deck, parking lot, and hallways. Check water pressure and appliance function in the model unit. Ask about maintenance response times if something breaks, and whether there is a 24-hour emergency line.

Walk the neighborhood at different times of day to get a sense of noise and activity. Talk to current residents if you can—they will tell you honestly about management responsiveness, maintenance quality, and what living there is actually like. Ask about any planned renovations or changes to the community that might affect your lease term.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Colony Square a good fit if I want a quiet place to live?

The Five Points location is active and social, especially on weekends. If quiet is your priority, visit at night and on Saturday to hear the noise level. Some units may be quieter than others depending on which side of the building they face, so ask the leasing office about the quietest available units.

Can I get out of my lease early if I need to move?

Early lease termination policies vary by community and lease agreement. Some allow it with a fee, others do not. Ask the leasing office about their specific policy before you sign, and get the terms in writing as part of your lease.

What utilities are included in rent?

Inclusion of utilities varies. Some apartments include water and trash; others do not. Electricity is typically the resident's responsibility. Ask for a breakdown of what is included and what you will pay separately each month so you can budget accurately.

Is the pool open year-round?

Most apartment pools in Columbia close during winter months. Ask the leasing office when the pool season runs and whether there are other amenities available during off-season, such as a fitness center or community room.

How do I contact the leasing office to tour or ask questions?

Call or visit the leasing office at the property directly. They can answer questions about current availability, pricing, lease terms, and schedule a tour. Having specific questions ready—about parking, utilities, pet policy, and maintenance—helps you get the information you need in one conversation.