Where to Find and Rent Apartments in Lexington, South Carolina

What to know before you search for a Lexington apartment

Lexington is a growing suburb west of Columbia with a mix of older residential neighborhoods and newer developments. The rental market here tends to be more affordable than downtown Columbia, and you'll find everything from garden-style complexes to townhome communities. Before you start looking, know that most landlords require a credit check, proof of income (usually 2.5 to 3 times the monthly rent), and a signed lease. Some complexes charge application fees, typically $25 to $50, though a few waive them.

The town sits along US 378 and I-20, so location matters for your commute. Apartments near the highway corridor fill faster and rent higher than those in quieter neighborhoods. Lexington High School and Lexington Medical Center are major landmarks that help orient the rental market—apartments near these areas tend to be pricier. Spring and early summer are peak rental season, so if you're flexible on timing, fall and winter often bring better availability and occasional move-in specials.

Key Takeaways

• Most Lexington landlords require proof of income at 2.5 to 3 times the monthly rent, a credit check, and a signed lease before you can move in.
• Apartments near I-20 and US 378 rent higher and fill faster than those in quieter neighborhoods farther from the highway.
• Spring and summer are peak rental season; fall and winter often have more availability and occasional move-in specials.
• Lexington's rental market is generally more affordable than downtown Columbia, with options ranging from garden-style complexes to newer townhome communities.
• Application fees typically run $25 to $50, though some complexes waive them if you apply in person or online during a promotion.

Where to look for available apartments

Start with the major listing sites—Zillow, Apartments.com, and Rent.com all have Lexington inventory updated regularly. These sites let you filter by price, pet policy, and amenities, and most show photos and floor plans. Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist also have Lexington rentals, though you'll need to vet listings more carefully for scams; never wire money or send payment before seeing the unit in person.

Driving through neighborhoods you like is still effective. Lexington has several apartment complexes with their own leasing offices—these often have units available that haven't hit the big listing sites yet. Stop by the office, ask what's available, and ask about move-in specials. Many complexes offer reduced deposits or a month free if you sign a 12-month lease during slower seasons. Local property management companies often manage multiple buildings; if you find one you like, check their website to see what else they rent in town.

The Lexington County Chamber of Commerce website has a business directory that includes some property management firms. Calling a few directly can sometimes uncover off-market units or buildings about to list. Real estate agents who handle rentals can also search the MLS for rental listings, though most focus on sales rather than leases.

Neighborhoods and areas to consider

Downtown Lexington (around Main Street and the town center) has older, smaller apartments and some converted historic buildings. Rent is lower here, and you're walkable to restaurants and shops, but parking can be tight and units tend to be older. This area appeals to people who want a small-town feel and don't mind older construction.

Near I-20 (both north and south of the interstate) has newer complexes, chain restaurants, and shopping. Rent runs higher, but you get newer appliances, fitness centers, and easier highway access. This is where most of the newer construction happens. Commutes to Columbia or other parts of the state are quick from here.

Residential neighborhoods west and south of downtown (around Corley Mill Road and Sunset Boulevard) offer quieter streets, often with older single-family homes converted to rentals or small apartment buildings. Rent is moderate, and you're farther from highway noise. These areas appeal to people who prioritize peace and don't mind a short drive to shopping or dining.

Near Lexington Medical Center (on Hospital Drive) has some newer apartments and townhomes, partly because hospital workers rent here. This area is convenient if you work at the hospital or nearby offices, but it's less walkable than downtown.

What to expect in rent and deposits

Lexington apartment rent varies by age, size, and location. A one-bedroom in an older complex away from I-20 might run $600 to $800 per month. A one-bedroom in a newer complex near the highway could be $850 to $1,100. Two-bedroom units typically range from $750 to $1,300, depending on the same factors. These ranges shift with the market, so check current listings to see what's actually available now.

Security deposits are usually equal to one month's rent, though some complexes charge 1.5 months for newer buildings or if your credit score is below 600. Pet deposits (if pets are allowed) typically run $200 to $500 per pet, plus a monthly pet fee of $25 to $50. Some complexes have no-pet policies; others allow dogs and cats but not both. Ask about this before you apply if you have pets.

Move-in costs add up fast: first month's rent, security deposit, application fee, and sometimes a parking fee or utility deposit. Budget for $2,000 to $3,500 for a one-bedroom move-in, depending on the complex. Many landlords offer move-in specials during slower seasons—reduced deposits, waived fees, or a month free—so ask what's current when you call.

The lease and what to check before signing

Lexington leases are typically 12 months, though some complexes offer 6-month or month-to-month terms at a higher monthly rate. Read the lease carefully before signing. Check the lease end date, what happens if you break it early (most charge a penalty equal to one to two months' rent), and what utilities you pay versus the landlord. Some complexes include water and trash; others don't. This difference can add $50 to $150 to your monthly cost.

Look for the pet policy in writing, the parking rules (assigned spot, lot parking, or street parking), and what maintenance requests look like (online portal, phone call, email). Ask about quiet hours—most leases have them, usually 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. Check whether the lease allows subletting if you think you might need to leave early. Some landlords allow it with written permission; others forbid it entirely.

Ask the landlord or leasing office about the condition of the unit when you move in. Many complexes do a move-in inspection; if yours does, attend it and document any damage already there. Take photos or video of the unit before you move furniture in. This protects you when you move out and the landlord assesses damages.

Utilities and what's included

Most Lexington apartments do not include utilities in the rent. You'll pay Dominion Energy for electricity, Lexington Water for water and sewer, and possibly a trash service fee (though some complexes include trash). Internet is almost never included; you'll choose your own provider. Budget roughly $100 to $150 per month for electricity (higher in summer and winter), $30 to $50 for water and sewer, $15 to $25 for trash, and $50 to $100 for internet, depending on your speed and provider.

Some newer complexes include water and trash in the rent to simplify billing. A few include basic cable or internet, though this is less common in Lexington than in larger cities. Always ask what's included before you sign. The difference between "utilities included" and "you pay all utilities" can be $200 to $300 per month.

Moving to Lexington: next steps

Once you've found an apartment you want, the landlord will ask for an application. Bring a photo ID, proof of income (recent pay stubs or a letter from your employer), and permission to run a credit check. Some landlords also ask for references from previous landlords. The application process usually takes three to seven business days. The landlord will call or email you with a decision.

If approved, you'll sign the lease and pay the move-in costs (first month's rent, security deposit, and any fees). Most complexes give you keys or access codes on your lease start date. If you're moving from out of state, update your driver's license at the South Carolina DMV within 30 days. Register your vehicle at the DMV as well if you're staying longer than 30 days.

Lexington has no city income tax, and South Carolina's state income tax is lower than many states, so that's one less financial burden if you're relocating. Set up your utilities before move-in day so you have power and water when you arrive. Most utility companies need 24 to 48 hours to activate service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I negotiate the rent or move-in costs?

Negotiating rent is difficult in Lexington's current market, especially for newer complexes. However, move-in specials (reduced deposits, waived fees, or a month free) are common during slower seasons—typically fall and winter. Asking about current specials costs nothing. For older buildings or single-family rentals managed by individual landlords, there's more room to negotiate, especially if you're signing a longer lease or paying several months upfront.

What if I have bad credit or a low income?

Most Lexington landlords require a credit score of 600 or higher and income at 2.5 to 3 times the monthly rent. If your credit is lower, some landlords will accept a co-signer (someone who guarantees the lease if you don't pay) or a larger security deposit. If your income is below the threshold, a co-signer can help here too. Older buildings and single-family rentals are sometimes more flexible than newer complexes.

Are there pet-friendly apartments in Lexington?

Yes, but policies vary widely. Some complexes allow dogs and cats with deposits and monthly fees; others allow only dogs under a certain weight; some have no-pet policies. Pet deposits typically run $200 to $500 per pet, with monthly fees of $25 to $50. Call ahead and ask about the specific pet policy before you apply. Breed restrictions are common, so mention your pet's breed when you inquire.

How long does the lease approval process take?

Most landlords respond within three to seven business days after you submit your application. Some complexes are faster if you apply in person at the leasing office. Once approved, you'll sign the lease and pay move-in costs, then receive your keys or access code on your lease start date. If the landlord needs to verify employment or references, approval may take up to two weeks.

What should I do if my landlord won't return my security deposit?

South Carolina law requires landlords to return your security deposit within 30 days of move-out, minus any documented damages beyond normal wear and tear. The landlord must provide an itemized list of deductions. If they don't return it or the deductions seem unfair, send a written request (certified mail is best) asking for the deposit or an explanation. If they don't respond, you can file a claim in small claims court. Keep photos of the unit's condition when you moved out as evidence.