South Carolina, September 11, 2025
News Summary
South Carolina’s population has surged by 1.7% between July 2023 and July 2024, reaching 5.48 million residents. Approximately 91,000 new residents contributed to this increase, with coastal and Upstate regions attracting domestic migrants. Jasper County recorded the third-fastest growth rate in the nation at 5.9%, while Hardeeville led municipalities with a remarkable 16.3% increase. The growing appeal of the state’s natural beauty and expanding economic opportunities, especially in tourism, plays a key role in this trend.
Columbia, South Carolina – South Carolina’s population has grown by 1.7% between July 2023 and July 2024, bringing the state’s total population to 5,479,000 residents. This period saw the arrival of approximately 91,000 new residents, primarily due to a surge in domestic migration. The shift in population is being felt mainly in coastal regions and select Upstate areas, reflecting the state’s growing appeal as a residential destination.
Among South Carolina’s counties, Jasper County has recorded the third-fastest population growth rate in the nation at 5.9%, while numerous other counties, including Horry, Spartanburg, Greenville, Lancaster, and Laurens, have contributed to the state’s rapid growth. Six counties in South Carolina have been ranked among the top 100 fastest-growing counties in the United States out of roughly 3,000 tracked.
All of South Carolina’s ten metropolitan statistical areas reported population increases during this timeframe. The coastal areas, particularly Horry County, remain a significant draw for new residents and visitors alike, spurred by their natural beauty and recreational opportunities. In the Upstate, counties like Greenville and Spartanburg are experiencing economic booms, especially in tourism, as evidenced by increased visitor numbers reported by local tourism boards.
Tourism in Greenville has surged, with over 38% of visitors citing dining and culinary experiences as key reasons for their travel. Unique scenery has also influenced 44% of visitors’ decisions to explore the area, highlighting its vibrant restaurant scene and picturesque surroundings as major attractions.
In terms of growth at a municipal level, Hardeeville has emerged as South Carolina’s fastest-growing municipality, boasting a stunning 16.3% increase in population from July 2023 to July 2024. Beaufort has also seen notable growth, driven largely by new multi-family developments, adding to the demand for housing as newly arrived residents seek accommodations in suburban and urban areas.
While the state rejoices in its increased population, resulting challenges arise, such as loss of green spaces and heightened congestion in schools and roadways. As South Carolina continues to attract residents — averaging about 90,000 newcomers annually — projections indicate that by 2042, the state’s population could reach approximately 6.4 million.
The current growth trends reveal that the South is experiencing the highest population increase among regions in the United States. South Carolina’s elderly population is also on the rise, with forecasts suggesting that within the next decade, there will be more residents aged over 64 than those younger than 18.
The primary sources of domestic migration into South Carolina include New York, North Carolina, and New Jersey. As the demand for housing escalates, the housing market faces increased pressure, particularly within burgeoning urban areas. The Greenville-Spartanburg-Anderson region has surpassed a combined population of one million, marking it as a significant hub of growth within the state.
FAQ Section
What is the recent population growth rate of South Carolina?
The population of South Carolina grew by 1.7% from July 2023 to July 2024.
How many new residents moved to South Carolina between July 2023 and July 2024?
Approximately 91,000 new residents relocated to South Carolina during this time period.
Which county in South Carolina had the fastest growth rate?
Jasper County recorded the third fastest growth rate in the nation at 5.9%.
What part of South Carolina is growing the fastest?
Population growth is primarily concentrated in coastal areas like Horry County and in Upstate regions, including counties such as Spartanburg and Greenville.
Which municipalities are showing significant growth in South Carolina?
Hardeeville is noted as the fastest-growing municipality, with a 16.3% increase in population. Beaufort has also experienced significant growth due to new developments.
What are the main attractions for tourists visiting Greenville?
Visitors to Greenville are largely drawn by its dining and culinary experiences, unique scenery, and vibrant events.
Key Features of Population Growth in South Carolina
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Population Growth Rate | 1.7% increase (July 2023 – July 2024) |
| New Residents | 91,000 new residents |
| Fastest Growing County | Jasper County (5.9% growth) |
| Fastest Growing Municipality | Hardeeville (16.3% growth) |
| Major Attractions | Dining, unique scenery in Greenville |
| Projected Population by 2042 | Approximately 6.4 million |
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Additional Resources
- Greenville Online: South Carolina Growth and Tourism
- Wikipedia: South Carolina
- Post and Courier: South Carolina Population Growth
- Google Search: South Carolina Population Growth
- Island Packet: Local News on South Carolina
- Google Scholar: South Carolina Demographics
- The Center Square: South Carolina News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: South Carolina
- Axios: North Carolina Population Growth
- Google News: South Carolina Tourism
Author: STAFF HERE GREENVILLE
The HERE Greenville Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Greenville community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Greenville Our team includes lifelong Greenville residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sales in the Heritage Historic District 17 , Greenville’s textile and railroad heritage 2 , and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Greenville Technical College programs) 27 . Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Greenville Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
