Charleston Trip Cost Calculator

Charleston costs $100-160/day for budget travelers. Historic Southern charm, incredible food, and cobblestone streets.

Budget
$100-160/day
Mid-Range
$200-380/day
Luxury
$500-1000/day
Currency
$ USD
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traveler
Accommodation
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Budget Hotel
$0 per night
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Historic Inn
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Luxury Hotel
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Food & Dining
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Shrimp & Grits
$0 per dish
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Casual Lowcountry
$0 per meal
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Restaurant Dinner
$0 per meal
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Fine Dining
$0 per person
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Transportation
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DASH Trolley
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Walking
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Uber/Lyft
$0 per ride
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Uber (CHS)
$0 one-way
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Activities & Attractions
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Historic Walking Tour
$0 per person
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Fort Sumter
$0 per person
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Plantation Tour
$0 per person
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City Market
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Miscellaneous
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Craft Cocktail
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Sweetgrass Basket
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Charleston Budget Guide

Your Charleston Budget at a Glance

Charleston offers Southern elegance at moderate prices. Budget travelers should expect $100-160 per day, mid-range travelers $200-380 per day, and luxury seekers $500+ per day.

Where Your Money Goes

Accommodation downtown is pricey. Food is a highlight but not cheap. Walking is free and delightful. The good news: DASH is free, beaches nearby, and the city itself is the attraction.

Budget Traveler Tips

Maximize your dollar by:

  • Using free DASH trolley
  • Walking the Battery
  • Exploring City Market
  • Eating at food halls
  • Visiting in January-February

Money-Saving Tips

Use Free DASH Trolley

Free shuttle covers downtown historic district.

Save $15-25 per day

Walk the Battery

Waterfront promenade with antebellum mansions. Free.

Save $25 vs tours

Eat at Food Halls

Workshop and others offer variety at lower prices.

Save $15-25 per meal

Visit in Off-Season

January-February rates much lower than spring.

Save 40-60% on hotels

Best Time to Visit

Prices can vary by 60% depending on the season

Peak Season (More Expensive)

  • Spring (March - May)
  • Spoleto Festival (May - June)
  • Fall (September - November)

Low Season (Best Deals)

  • January - February
  • August

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a week in Charleston cost?
A week in Charleston costs $700-1,120 for budget travelers, $1,400-2,660 for mid-range, and $3,500+ for luxury travelers.
Is Charleston expensive to visit?
Charleston is moderately expensive, especially downtown. Amazing food scene. Very walkable.
What is the cheapest time to visit Charleston?
January to February is cheapest. Avoid Spoleto Festival (May-June) and peak summer.

Ready to Explore Charleston?

Check out our curated travel guides from local experts.