The Six: South Carolina's Historic Apartment Complex in Columbia

What The Six Is and Where to Find It

The Six is a mixed-use residential and commercial building in downtown Columbia, located at 1400 Main Street in the heart of the city's central business district. The building takes its name from its six stories and combines apartment units with ground-floor retail and restaurant space. It sits within walking distance of the South Carolina State House, the Congaree River, and the Main Street entertainment corridor that has become central to Columbia's downtown revival over the past decade.

The building occupies a prominent corner lot and serves as both a residential address and a neighborhood anchor. Its design reflects contemporary urban development priorities—mixed-income housing stacked above street-level commerce—that cities across the Southeast have adopted to bring people back to downtown cores. The Six opened to residents in the mid-2010s and has remained a visible part of Columbia's skyline and downtown foot traffic since then.

Key Takeaways

• The Six is a six-story mixed-use building at 1400 Main Street in downtown Columbia combining apartments with ground-floor retail and dining.
• The building is located within the Main Street entertainment district, near the State House, Congaree River, and other downtown attractions.
• Apartment units range from studios to multi-bedroom layouts designed for urban living with limited parking typical of downtown locations.
• Ground-floor tenants have included restaurants and shops that activate the street and serve both residents and downtown visitors.
• Rental rates and current unit availability change regularly and should be confirmed directly with the building's leasing office or management company.

Apartment Layouts and Unit Types

The Six offers a range of floor plans suited to different household sizes and living preferences. Units typically include studios, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom configurations, though specific layouts and square footage vary by floor and location within the building. Many units feature floor-to-ceiling windows that take advantage of downtown views and natural light—a selling point for urban apartments where outdoor space is limited.

Finishes in the building generally include modern kitchen appliances, climate control, and in-unit or building-level laundry options depending on the unit type. Flooring, countertops, and fixture quality reflect the building's positioning as a contemporary downtown address rather than budget housing. Balconies or patios are available on some units, particularly those on higher floors or corner positions.

Parking at The Six is structured parking rather than surface lots, which is standard for downtown buildings where land is expensive and street parking is limited. Residents typically pay an additional monthly fee for parking, and spaces may be assigned or available on a first-come basis depending on the lease terms. Some units are marketed as car-free or reduced-parking options for residents who rely on public transit or walkability.

Location and Walkability in Downtown Columbia

The Six's Main Street address places residents within the densest, most walkable part of Columbia. The State House and its surrounding historic district are a short walk north. The Congaree River and the Riverfront Park trail system lie a few blocks south and east. The Main Street corridor itself hosts restaurants, bars, galleries, and shops that have opened as downtown has attracted investment and residents over the past fifteen years.

Public transit connections are stronger here than in other parts of Columbia. The COMET bus system runs routes through downtown, and the Main Street location reduces the need for a car for daily errands, dining, and entertainment. The building's ground-floor retail and restaurant tenants add to the street-level activity and convenience for residents who want urban living without constant car use.

Nearby cultural venues include the Columbia Museum of Art, the Koger Center for the Arts, and various galleries and performance spaces scattered through the historic district. The South Carolina State Museum is also within reasonable walking or short transit distance. For residents who work downtown or in the nearby government and business districts, the location offers a genuine commute advantage.

Amenities and Building Services

The Six typically includes common amenities standard to contemporary urban apartment buildings. These may include a fitness center or gym, a community room or lounge for residents, and rooftop or courtyard space depending on the building's design. Some downtown buildings of this type also offer package receiving areas, bike storage, and pet-friendly policies—details that vary by building and should be confirmed with management.

Building security usually includes controlled entry, security cameras in common areas, and on-site or contracted management staff. Utilities are typically included in rent or billed separately depending on the lease structure; this varies by unit and should be clarified before signing. Internet and cable services may be provided by a single vendor or left to individual resident choice.

Maintenance and repair response times are important to confirm, especially in a building where many residents work full-time jobs and may not be home during standard business hours. Ask about emergency maintenance availability and the process for reporting issues before you sign a lease.

Rent Costs and Lease Terms

Rental rates at The Six reflect its downtown location, contemporary finishes, and mixed-use positioning. Rates are higher than comparable apartments in suburban Columbia or older downtown buildings, but lower than luxury high-rise apartments in major metropolitan areas. Specific pricing depends on unit size, floor level, view, and current market conditions—rates change seasonally and as units turn over.

Lease terms are typically twelve months, though shorter or longer terms may be negotiated depending on the building's occupancy and management policies. Security deposits, pet fees (if pets are allowed), and parking fees are charged separately from base rent and should be factored into the total monthly cost. Some buildings offer move-in specials or concessions during slower leasing periods; these are worth asking about but should not be the only factor in your decision.

To get current pricing and availability, contact the building's leasing office directly by phone or visit in person. Rates posted online may not reflect current offers or recent changes. Leasing staff can also answer questions about specific units, floor plans, and lease terms that apply to your situation.

Neighborhood Character and Dining and Entertainment

Living at The Six places you in the middle of Columbia's downtown dining and entertainment scene. Main Street and the surrounding blocks host restaurants ranging from casual to upscale, breweries, coffee shops, and bars. The neighborhood draws both residents and visitors, particularly on weekends and during events like the First Friday art walks that happen monthly in the historic district.

The building itself often hosts ground-floor tenants that change over time—restaurants, retail shops, and service businesses that activate the street and serve the building's residents as well as the broader downtown community. This street-level activity is part of the appeal of downtown living but also means the neighborhood has more noise and foot traffic than suburban apartments, particularly on weekend evenings.

Cultural events, festivals, and concerts happen regularly in downtown Columbia, particularly along Main Street and in nearby parks. The proximity to these venues is a draw for residents who want to be near entertainment without driving. The trade-off is that downtown living requires comfort with urban density, noise, and the presence of unhoused people and other challenges that come with downtown cores in any city.

How to Contact The Six and Next Steps

To learn about current units, pricing, and lease terms, reach out to The Six's leasing office directly. You can visit the building in person at 1400 Main Street in downtown Columbia during business hours, call the leasing office, or check the building's website or social media pages for contact information and current listings.

When you contact them, ask about current availability, specific floor plans and pricing, lease terms, parking costs, pet policies, and any current move-in offers. Request a tour of a model unit or an available apartment so you can see the finishes, layout, and views in person. Ask about the application process, required documentation, and timeline for approval.

If you are considering downtown living for the first time, spend time in the neighborhood at different times of day and on different days of the week. Walk the streets, visit the restaurants and shops, and get a feel for the noise level, activity, and character. Downtown living is not for everyone, and it is worth confirming that the location and lifestyle match what you are looking for before you commit to a lease.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is parking included in the rent at The Six?

Parking is typically a separate monthly fee at The Six, not included in base rent. Structured parking is available in the building, but spaces are limited and cost varies depending on location and availability. Ask the leasing office for current parking rates and whether any units include parking in their lease terms.

Are pets allowed at The Six?

Pet policies vary by building and lease terms. Contact the leasing office directly to learn whether pets are allowed, what size or breed restrictions apply, and whether pet deposits or monthly pet fees are charged. Policies may differ for dogs, cats, and other animals.

What is the lease term at The Six?

Standard leases are typically twelve months, though shorter or longer terms may be available depending on the building's policies and current occupancy. Ask about lease options when you contact the leasing office, and confirm the exact terms before you sign.

Is The Six a good fit if I work outside downtown Columbia?

That depends on your commute and comfort with urban living. If you work in the suburbs or outside the city, you will likely need a car and will spend time commuting. The downtown location offers walkability and entertainment value but may not be practical if your work is far away. Consider your daily routine before deciding.

What is the neighborhood like at night?

Downtown Columbia is active on weekend evenings with restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues drawing crowds. Weeknights are quieter but still have foot traffic and activity. The neighborhood is generally safe but has the urban character of any downtown—noise, visible homelessness, and the presence of people you do not know. Visit at night to see if the environment feels comfortable to you.