Charleston just scored another national shoutout — this time for its single scene.
In a new ranking from Zumper, the Holy City landed at No. 30 among the top U.S. cities for singles, based on a blend of affordability, lifestyle, and, well, how fun it is to be unattached here.
A data-driven take on dating
Zumper — best known for its rental market reports — analyzed 100 of the most populous U.S. cities across eight key metrics. The goal: to see which places are most “single-friendly.”
Each city was graded on a mix of numbers that make up modern single life:
Singles population (20%)
Median one-bedroom rent (20%)
Restaurants, nightlife, and entertainment options per capita (30% combined)
Cost of living, income, and unemployment rates (30% combined)
The rankings were designed to give smaller cities a fair shot by measuring options per capita rather than total count — so Charleston’s intimate size worked in its favor.
The Holy City’s report card
Charleston’s overall profile paints a familiar picture for locals: full of charm and flavor, a little pricey on the rent.
Here’s how we stacked up:
Single population: D
1-bed cost: F
Restaurants: A
Nightlife: A
Entertainment: A
Cost of living: C
Single income: A
Unemployment: A
So yes, finding an affordable apartment might sting — but there’s no shortage of great places to take (or meet) a date.
A Southern mix of romance and rhythm
“Fall is here and cuffing season has officially begun,” the report teased. And Charleston seems ready for it — with its easy walkability, candlelit restaurants, and a social scene that always feels a little cinematic.
The Holy City ranked just behind Rochester, Houston, and Kansas City. Still, it outshined dozens of larger metros, including Denver, Dallas, and Phoenix.
Nationally, Knoxville, Tennessee took the No. 1 spot for singles, followed by Salt Lake City, Atlanta, and Pittsburgh. Asheville, Richmond, and Austin rounded out the top 10.
A familiar Charleston balance
Once again, Charleston’s strengths — vibrant energy, cultural depth, and a never-ending calendar of things to do — shine brighter than its rent prices.
It might not be the cheapest place to fly solo, but if you’re looking for good food, good company, and maybe a little Lowcountry magic along the way, Charleston’s proving it’s still got game.
