Madison Station Apartments in Columbia: What to Know Before You Move

Madison Station is a mixed-income apartment community in downtown Columbia with studios through three-bedroom units

Madison Station sits at the corner of Sumter and Gervais Streets in Columbia's central business district, a location that puts you within walking distance of the State House, the Congaree River, and the city's restaurant and gallery district. The community includes studios, one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom floor plans, with some units designated as affordable housing through a partnership with the city's housing authority. The building itself is a renovated historic structure that combines period details with modern utilities and climate control.

The property opened as part of Columbia's downtown revitalization effort and draws residents who want to live car-light or car-free in the urban core. Parking is available but not required with every lease, which keeps costs lower for those who don't need it. The building has ground-floor retail and restaurant space, so you may live above shops and dining venues rather than in a purely residential tower.

Key Takeaways

• Madison Station offers studios through three-bedroom units in downtown Columbia at the intersection of Sumter and Gervais Streets, within walking distance of government offices, cultural venues, and dining.
• Some units are designated as affordable housing through a city partnership, though income limits and lease terms vary by unit type.
• The building is a renovated historic structure with ground-floor retail, so your neighborhood includes shops and restaurants at street level.
• Parking is optional rather than mandatory, which can lower your monthly cost if you use public transit or walk to work.

Unit types and what to expect in each

Studio units are the smallest option and work well for single residents or couples who spend most of their time outside the apartment. They typically include a combined living and sleeping area, a kitchenette, and a full bathroom. One-bedroom units add a separate bedroom and a larger kitchen, making them suitable for small families or remote workers who need dedicated workspace.

Two-bedroom and three-bedroom units serve families or roommate situations and include full kitchens, multiple bathrooms, and in-unit laundry in some cases. Floor plans vary within each category—some units face the street and have higher ceilings from the historic renovation, while others face the courtyard and tend to be quieter. You can request a tour to see the specific layout before committing to a lease.

Affordable housing units and income requirements

Madison Station participates in Columbia's affordable housing program, which means a portion of the units rent below market rate to households meeting specific income thresholds. These units are not set aside for a particular income level across the entire building—instead, individual units are designated, and the income limit depends on the unit size and the program year. A studio might have a different income cap than a two-bedroom in the same building.

To learn about current income limits and which units are designated as affordable, contact the leasing office directly or reach out to the Columbia Housing Authority. They maintain the list of available affordable units and can tell you whether your household income falls within the range for a specific unit type. Affordable units typically require the same lease terms and security deposit as market-rate units, but your monthly rent will be lower.

Location and what's within walking distance

The Sumter and Gervais intersection puts you in the heart of downtown Columbia. The South Carolina State House is two blocks away, making this location popular with state employees and those who work in government offices nearby. The Congaree River and the Riverfront Park are a short walk, offering green space, walking trails, and seasonal events.

Main Street's restaurant and retail corridor is accessible on foot, as is the Vista neighborhood's gallery and entertainment district. The COMET bus system has stops near the building, so you can reach other parts of the city without a car. If you work downtown or prefer urban living with walkable amenities, this location cuts down on commute time and transportation costs.

Parking, utilities, and lease terms

Parking at Madison Station is optional, not included automatically with every lease. If you want a dedicated spot, you pay an additional monthly fee; if you don't need one, you skip that cost entirely. This structure works for residents who use the COMET bus, bike, or walk to work, or who rarely drive.

Utilities are typically tenant-paid, though some leases include water and trash in the rent. Confirm what is covered before you sign—this affects your total monthly housing cost. Lease terms are usually 12 months, though shorter or longer terms may be negotiable depending on the leasing office's current policy. Pet policies vary, so ask about breed or size restrictions if you have animals.

How to contact the leasing office and schedule a tour

The Madison Station leasing office is located on-site at the building. You can visit in person during business hours, call to ask questions, or request a tour of available units. The staff can show you floor plans, discuss lease terms, and answer questions about the building's amenities and policies.

When you contact them, ask about current availability, move-in costs (security deposit, first month's rent, any fees), and whether any units are designated as affordable housing. If you're interested in an affordable unit, bring documentation of your household income so the leasing office can determine whether you meet the program requirements. Having this information ready speeds up the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a car to live at Madison Station?

No. The downtown location and COMET bus access make it possible to live here without a car. Parking is optional, so you only pay for a spot if you want one. Many residents walk or bike to work and use the bus for longer trips.

What is the income limit for affordable housing units?

Income limits vary by unit size and change year to year based on the program. Contact the leasing office or the Columbia Housing Authority to learn the current threshold for the unit type you're interested in. You'll need to provide proof of household income to verify you meet the requirement.

Are utilities included in the rent?

Water and trash may be included depending on your lease, but electricity and gas are usually tenant-paid. Ask the leasing office to specify what's covered in your lease before you sign, so you know your full monthly cost.

Can I see a unit before I lease?

Yes. The leasing office offers tours of available units so you can see the floor plan and condition before committing. If the exact unit you want to lease isn't available for viewing, ask to see a similar model to get a sense of the layout and finishes.

What are the move-in costs?

Move-in costs typically include a security deposit and first month's rent, plus any optional fees like parking or pet deposits. The leasing office can give you a complete breakdown of what you'll owe before move-in day. Costs vary based on unit size and lease terms.