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Three Oaks Apartments in Columbia: What to Know Before You Move

By Constance Obi · Culture & Recreation Writer

Three Oaks is a mid-rise complex in central Columbia with one- and two-bedroom units

Three Oaks Apartments is located on Devine Street in Columbia's midtown area, a neighborhood with walkable access to restaurants, shops, and the University of South Carolina campus. The complex offers furnished and unfurnished one- and two-bedroom floor plans, with amenities that include a fitness center, pool, and on-site laundry facilities. Units range from studios to two-bedroom layouts, and the property allows both short-term and long-term leases.

The building itself is a mid-rise structure typical of Columbia's rental stock from the 1980s and 1990s. Devine Street location means you are near the Five Points entertainment district and have direct access to Main Street via a short drive or bus route. Parking is included with most leases, either in a lot or in a covered structure depending on the unit type.

Key Takeaways

  • Three Oaks sits on Devine Street in midtown Columbia, within walking distance of Five Points and near the University of South Carolina.
  • The complex offers one- and two-bedroom units with both furnished and unfurnished options, plus a fitness center and pool.
  • Lease terms vary from short-term to long-term, so you can ask about flexibility when you contact the leasing office.
  • Parking is included with your lease, though the type (lot or covered) depends on which unit you rent.
  • The neighborhood has good bus access and is close to dining and retail, making it convenient for people who work or study downtown.

Location and neighborhood context

Devine Street runs through one of Columbia's most established residential and commercial corridors. Three Oaks sits in the middle of that stretch, which means you have restaurants, coffee shops, and retail within a few blocks. The Five Points neighborhood—known for bars, live music venues, and casual dining—is a short walk or drive away.

If you work or study at the University of South Carolina, the complex is close enough that some residents bike or take the bus. Main Street and the downtown business district are also accessible by car in under ten minutes. The area has sidewalks and street lighting, though like most urban neighborhoods, it is busier during evening hours than in residential-only zones.

Unit types and floor plans

Three Oaks offers one-bedroom and two-bedroom units. One-bedroom layouts typically range from around 600 to 750 square feet, while two-bedroom units are generally 850 to 1,000 square feet, though these dimensions can vary. The complex lists both furnished and unfurnished options, so if you are relocating and need temporary housing with furniture included, that choice is available.

When you contact the leasing office, ask about the specific floor plan you are interested in—whether it has a balcony or patio, which direction it faces, and whether the kitchen has been updated. Older buildings sometimes have smaller closets and kitchens than newer construction, so seeing the actual unit or a recent photo before signing is worth the time.

Amenities and what is included

The property includes a fitness center with basic cardio and weight equipment, a swimming pool (seasonal), and on-site laundry facilities. Most units come with air conditioning, and parking is included in the rent. Some units may have in-unit washer and dryer hookups or connections, though this varies by floor plan—confirm this detail when you inquire.

The leasing office is staffed during business hours and can answer questions about maintenance response times, pet policies, and any recent renovations to common areas. If you have specific needs—such as accessible parking or a ground-floor unit—mention them early in the conversation so the leasing team can tell you what is available.

Lease terms and move-in process

Three Oaks offers both short-term and long-term lease options. Short-term leases (typically three to six months) are useful if you are new to Columbia or in a transitional situation. Long-term leases (12 months or more) usually have a lower monthly rate. When you call or visit, ask about current lease lengths available and any move-in specials or promotions.

Standard move-in costs typically include a security deposit, first month's rent, and sometimes a non-refundable administrative fee. The exact amounts depend on the unit size and current market conditions. The leasing office can provide a written estimate before you commit. If you are relocating for work or school, some employers and universities have partnerships with local apartments that may offer discounts—worth asking about.

Transportation and getting around

Three Oaks is served by the COMET (Columbia's public transit system), with bus stops on or near Devine Street. If you do not have a car, the bus network connects you to downtown, the University of South Carolina, and other parts of the city. The neighborhood is also bikeable, and many residents use bikes to reach Five Points or nearby shops.

If you drive, parking is included, and the location gives you quick access to I-20 and I-77 for commuting outside the immediate area. Devine Street itself can be congested during rush hours, so if you work downtown or on campus, leaving early or using transit may save time.

Nearby dining, shopping, and entertainment

Five Points, just a short walk away, is home to restaurants ranging from casual tacos and pizza to sit-down dinner spots, plus coffee shops, bars, and live music venues. Main Street downtown has additional dining and retail. The University of South Carolina campus is close by, so the area has a younger demographic and student-oriented businesses mixed with long-established neighborhood spots.

If you enjoy walkable neighborhoods with food and entertainment nearby, this location is a strong fit. If you prefer quieter, car-dependent residential areas, you may want to explore other parts of Columbia. The trade-off is that the midtown location is livelier and more convenient but also noisier, especially on weekend evenings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Three Oaks allow pets?

Pet policies vary by property and lease type. Contact the leasing office directly to ask about current pet rules, breed or size restrictions, and any pet deposits or monthly pet fees. Some apartments allow cats but not dogs, or have weight limits, so confirm before you move in with a pet.

Is there a fitness center or pool at Three Oaks?

Yes, the complex has a fitness center with basic equipment and a swimming pool. The pool is typically seasonal (open in warmer months). Both are included with your lease at no extra cost.

Can I get a furnished unit?

Three Oaks offers both furnished and unfurnished units. Furnished units are useful if you are relocating temporarily or do not want to buy furniture. Call the leasing office to see which floor plans are available furnished and what the rental rate difference is.

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

Move-in timing depends on when the unit is available and how quickly you complete the paperwork and pay deposits. The leasing office can tell you the earliest move-in date for a specific unit. If you need to move quickly, ask about units that are already vacant.

Is the neighborhood safe and walkable?

The midtown area around Devine Street is an established neighborhood with foot traffic and street lighting. Like any urban area, it is busier and noisier than quieter residential zones, especially on weekends. Walk the neighborhood at different times of day to get a feel for it before you commit to a lease.