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Old Hickory Apartments in Columbia: What to Know Before You Move

By Constance Obi · Culture & Recreation Writer

Old Hickory Apartments is a residential community in Columbia's Eau Claire neighborhood

Old Hickory Apartments sits on a tree-lined street in the Eau Claire area of Columbia, a neighborhood with direct access to downtown and the Congaree River. The community has been part of Columbia's housing landscape for decades and offers a mix of one- and two-bedroom floor plans. The property is managed on-site, and residents can reach management during business hours for maintenance requests and lease questions.

The neighborhood itself is walkable to local shops, restaurants, and services along Main Street and nearby corridors. Eau Claire has a strong community identity and hosts regular events through the Eau Claire Community Association. If you are considering this location, proximity to downtown employment, schools, and transit access are practical factors to weigh alongside the apartment itself.

Key Takeaways

  • Old Hickory Apartments offers one- and two-bedroom units in Columbia's Eau Claire neighborhood, within walking distance of downtown.
  • The property has on-site management that handles maintenance requests and lease administration during regular business hours.
  • Eau Claire is a walkable neighborhood with access to Main Street dining and shopping, plus proximity to the Congaree River and downtown employment centers.
  • Rental rates and current unit availability change seasonally, so contacting the leasing office directly will give you the most current information.
  • The neighborhood is served by Midlands public transit and is close to several schools and community resources.

Floor plans and unit types

Old Hickory Apartments offers one-bedroom and two-bedroom layouts. One-bedroom units typically include a living area, kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom. Two-bedroom units add a second bedroom and sometimes a second half-bath, depending on the specific floor plan. Unit sizes and configurations can vary within each bedroom category, so it is worth asking the leasing office which layouts are currently available.

Most units feature standard apartment amenities like kitchen appliances and climate control. Some units may have balconies or patios, though this depends on the floor plan and building location within the complex. The leasing office can show you a model unit or provide floor plan details when you visit or call.

Neighborhood context and nearby services

Eau Claire is one of Columbia's oldest neighborhoods and has undergone significant revitalization in recent years. The area is known for its tree-canopy streets, historic character, and strong sense of community. Main Street runs through the neighborhood and hosts restaurants, coffee shops, and retail businesses that serve both residents and visitors.

The Congaree River is accessible from Eau Claire, and the Congaree National Park entrance is about 20 minutes south of the neighborhood. Local schools serving the area include Eau Claire Elementary and other Richland County schools. The neighborhood is also home to community organizations and regular events, including the Eau Claire Community Association's programming throughout the year.

Transportation and access

Old Hickory Apartments is located on a street with good access to downtown Columbia via Main Street and nearby corridors. The Midlands public transit system (COMET) serves the Eau Claire area with bus routes that connect to downtown, the airport, and other parts of the metro area. If you rely on public transit, checking the current COMET route map will show you which lines serve the neighborhood.

The location is also walkable to many neighborhood destinations, and biking is feasible on local streets. If you drive, downtown parking and employment centers are a short commute away. The property itself should have on-site parking; ask the leasing office about parking arrangements, reserved spaces, and any additional fees.

How to contact Old Hickory Apartments

The leasing office is staffed during business hours and handles inquiries about current availability, floor plans, rental rates, and lease terms. You can visit in person to tour units and speak with the leasing team, or call ahead to schedule a time that works for you. The office can also answer questions about move-in costs, lease length options, and any current promotions.

When you contact the property, have your timeline in mind—whether you are looking to move within weeks or several months. This helps the leasing team tell you what units may be available and what the process looks like. If you have specific needs (pet-friendly units, accessibility features, ground-floor preference), mention those early so the team can show you relevant options.

Lease terms and move-in information

Lease lengths at apartment communities typically range from six months to one year, though options vary by property and current availability. Rental rates depend on unit size, floor plan, lease length, and market conditions at the time you sign. The leasing office will provide a detailed lease and explain all terms, fees, and resident responsibilities before you commit.

Move-in costs usually include first month's rent, a security deposit, and sometimes an administrative or application fee. Some properties offer move-in specials during slower leasing periods. Ask the leasing office what the current move-in costs are and whether any promotions are running. They can also explain the lease renewal process and what happens at the end of your lease term.

Community amenities and resident services

Amenities at apartment communities vary widely. Old Hickory Apartments may offer features like a community room, laundry facilities, or outdoor spaces, though the specific amenities should be confirmed directly with the property. Ask the leasing office for a complete list of what is included with your lease and what, if anything, carries an additional cost.

The on-site management team handles maintenance requests, which you can typically submit online, by phone, or in person at the leasing office. Response times for routine maintenance and emergency repairs should be explained in your lease. Understanding the maintenance process and how to reach management after hours is important if you have an urgent issue.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a one-bedroom and two-bedroom unit at Old Hickory?

One-bedroom units have a single bedroom, living area, kitchen, and bathroom. Two-bedroom units add a second bedroom and sometimes a second half-bath. Specific square footage and layout details vary by floor plan, so ask the leasing office to show you both options or provide floor plan drawings.

Does Old Hickory Apartments allow pets?

Pet policies vary by property. Contact the leasing office directly to ask about pet rules, breed or size restrictions, and any pet deposits or monthly pet fees. Having this information before you visit will help you determine if the property is a good fit for your household.

What utilities are included in the rent?

Utility inclusion depends on the lease and the property's policies. Some apartments include water and trash, while others require residents to pay for all utilities separately. The lease will specify exactly which utilities are covered and which you are responsible for. Ask the leasing office for an estimate of typical utility costs if they are not included.

How long does it take to move in after signing a lease?

Move-in timing depends on unit availability and your lease start date. Some units may be ready immediately, while others may need cleaning or repairs between residents. Discuss your desired move-in date with the leasing office when you are ready to sign, and they will confirm what is possible based on current availability.

Is there public transportation near Old Hickory Apartments?

Yes, the Midlands COMET bus system serves the Eau Claire neighborhood with routes connecting to downtown, the airport, and other areas. Check the current COMET route map on their website to see which lines are closest to the property and where they go. The leasing office can also tell you which routes residents typically use.