Charleston Industrial Market Report

Slowing development coincides with rising port volumes. Between 2022 and 2025, Charleston’s industrial stock expanded by nearly 35 percent, representing growth roughly in line with the previous decade. This wave of new supply is expected to subside in 2026, however, as the metro anticipates its smallest delivery slate since 2014. Meanwhile, quarterly net absorption has been consistently positive since the start of 2025, following more than 1.4 million square feet of net relinquishment the year prior. Much of this rebound has been driven by strengthening demand for mid- to large-format distribution space, with properties over 50,000 square feet recording sharply improved absorption in late 2025 and early 2026. In contrast, properties from 10,000 to 20,000 square feet continue to face softening demand. Looking ahead, broader industrial activity will remain supported by the metro’s ability to attract new business and by the South Carolina Ports system, which recorded year-over-year cargo volume growth in 2025, despite evolving trade policy uncertainty.