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The Mills Apartments in Charleston: What to Know Before You Move

By Constance Obi · Culture & Recreation Writer

The Mills is a mixed-income apartment community in downtown Charleston with studios through three-bedroom units

The Mills sits at 70 East Bay Street in Charleston's historic district, steps from the waterfront and the Market Hall area. The complex offers studios, one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom apartments, with a mix of market-rate and income-restricted units. The building itself is a converted historic structure that preserves the character of the neighborhood while providing modern apartment living.

The location puts you within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and cultural venues along East Bay and King Streets. If you work downtown or want to live near Charleston's main entertainment and business district, The Mills' address is one of its main draws. Parking is available on-site, though spaces are limited given the urban setting.

Key Takeaways

  • The Mills offers a range of unit sizes from studios to three-bedroom apartments in a converted historic building on East Bay Street.
  • The complex includes both market-rate units and income-restricted apartments, so affordability options depend on your household income and the current availability.
  • The downtown location provides walkable access to restaurants, retail, and cultural attractions, but parking is limited and street parking may be necessary.
  • You can contact the leasing office directly at the property or through the management company to learn about current openings and move-in costs.

Unit types and layouts

Studios at The Mills are designed for single occupants or couples and typically include a combined living and sleeping area, a kitchen, and one bathroom. One-bedroom units add a separate bedroom, giving you more defined living space. Two-bedroom and three-bedroom apartments are suited for families or roommate situations and include multiple bathrooms.

Floor plans vary depending on which section of the building your unit is in, since The Mills is a converted structure rather than a purpose-built modern complex. Some units may have higher ceilings, exposed brick, or other historic details. When you contact the leasing office, ask to see the specific floor plan for any unit you are considering, as layouts are not uniform across the building.

Income-restricted and market-rate options

The Mills includes both market-rate apartments and income-restricted units. Income-restricted apartments are reserved for households earning below a certain percentage of the area median income (AMI), which changes yearly. Market-rate units have no income limits and rent is set by the property based on demand and market conditions.

If your household income falls within the income limits for restricted units, your rent will be lower than market-rate apartments of the same size. The leasing office can tell you the current income thresholds and which unit sizes have restricted availability. Availability of income-restricted units changes frequently, so it is worth asking about the waitlist if nothing is currently open.

Amenities and building features

The Mills includes common areas typical of downtown apartment complexes. Depending on the current state of the building, amenities may include a fitness center, community room, or outdoor space. Because the building is historic and downtown, the amenities are more limited than a suburban complex with a pool or extensive grounds.

The building's main advantage is its location and walkability rather than on-site recreation. You have immediate access to Charleston's downtown restaurants, the Waterfront Park, and cultural institutions like the Gibbes Museum and the historic Market Hall. If you value being able to walk to entertainment and dining, The Mills' setting makes up for smaller on-site amenities.

Parking and transportation

Parking at The Mills is on-site but limited. If you have a car, you may have a reserved space, a first-come-first-served spot, or you may need to use street parking depending on your lease terms and current availability. Parking fees, if charged separately, are not included in base rent and should be confirmed when you inquire about units.

The downtown location is well-served by CARTA (Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority) bus routes, making car-free living possible if you work downtown or use public transit regularly. The waterfront and historic district are highly walkable for shopping, dining, and entertainment. If you rely on a car for commuting outside downtown, confirm parking availability before signing a lease.

How to contact The Mills and what to ask

You can reach The Mills leasing office by visiting the property at 70 East Bay Street or by calling the management company. When you contact them, ask about current availability in your desired unit size, the rent range for market-rate and income-restricted units, and move-in costs such as security deposit and any application fees.

If you are interested in an income-restricted unit, ask about the current income limits, required documentation (usually recent pay stubs and tax returns), and how long the waitlist is. Ask whether utilities are included in rent or billed separately, and clarify what is covered by your lease regarding parking, trash, and internet. Request a tour of an available unit or a model unit so you can see the actual layout and finishes.

Neighborhood context and nearby attractions

The Mills' location on East Bay Street puts you in the heart of Charleston's historic downtown. The Market Hall and surrounding shops are a short walk, as is the Waterfront Park, which offers green space and views of the harbor. King Street, one block inland, has retail and dining options ranging from local restaurants to national chains.

The neighborhood is pedestrian-friendly and well-lit, with a mix of residential, commercial, and cultural uses. If you enjoy being in the center of activity and do not mind urban noise and crowds, this location works well. If you prefer quieter surroundings, neighborhoods like Cannonborough or the upper King Street area offer more residential character while still being close to downtown.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between market-rate and income-restricted units at The Mills?

Market-rate units have no income limits and rent is set by the property. Income-restricted units are reserved for households earning below a set percentage of area median income, and the rent is lower. The leasing office can tell you the current income thresholds and which unit sizes have restricted availability.

Is parking included in the rent at The Mills?

Parking is on-site but limited. Whether it is included in rent or charged separately depends on your lease and current availability. Contact the leasing office to confirm parking terms before you sign, as this can significantly affect your total monthly cost.

Can I live at The Mills without a car?

Yes. The location is walkable to downtown shops and restaurants, and CARTA bus routes serve the area. If you work downtown or use public transit, car-free living is realistic. If you commute outside downtown, having a car is more practical.

What documentation do I need to apply for an income-restricted unit?

Income-restricted units typically require recent pay stubs, tax returns, and proof of household income. The leasing office will provide a full list of required documents when you inquire. Requirements may vary depending on the funding source for the restricted units.

How do I know if my income qualifies for a restricted unit?

Income limits are set as a percentage of area median income and change yearly. The leasing office can tell you the current limits for your household size. If you are unsure, call or visit and ask them to review your situation — they can tell you whether you likely meet the threshold without a formal application.