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South Carolina Population Surge Attracts New Residents

Aerial view of South Carolina showcasing its urban and natural beauty with diverse communities.

News Summary

South Carolina is witnessing a remarkable population increase, with an influx of approximately 91,000 newcomers from 2023 to 2024. Fast-growing metro areas like Myrtle Beach and Spartanburg lead the way, thanks to both domestic relocations and international migration. The state ranks among the top four fastest-growing states, highlighting the appeal of its climate and lifestyle. As demographics shift, South Carolina’s future looks bright, with new faces bringing diverse cultures that enrich the community.

South Carolina Welcomes Newcomers, Population Soars!

The lovely state of South Carolina is buzzing with excitement as brand new data reveals a significant surge in its population! The U.S. Census Bureau has announced that the population in U.S. metro areas has increased by a whopping 3.2 million, or about 1.1%, reaching a grand total of 293.9 million from 2023 to 2024. And guess what? South Carolina is right in the thick of it!

Fast-Growing Metro Areas

Hold onto your hats, folks! Of the ten fastest-growing metro areas in the country, a staggering nine are located in the South. Right at the top of that list is our very own Myrtle Beach-Conway-North Myrtle Beach, ranked third in the nation! The Spartanburg metro area also made the cut, coming in at a fantastic tenth place. This explosive growth is making waves across the state, with many new faces arriving every day.

A Trend Driven by New Faces

According to insights from a Census Bureau demographer, this surge in population isn’t just a result of folks moving around domestically; international migration is playing a big part too. While some states see their residents leaving, South Carolina is enjoying a strong influx of newcomers. With an estimated growth rate of 1.06% and 2.05 people moving in for every one person that leaves, it’s clear that people are eager to make South Carolina their home.

Welcome to South Carolina!

Between 2023 and 2024, South Carolina welcomed roughly 91,000 new residents, placing it among the top four fastest-growing states in the country, alongside Florida, Texas, and Utah. Out of this increasing population, the state gained about 101,296 incoming households, while only losing approximately 68,369 outgoing households. It seems people can’t get enough of the sunshine and southern charm!

Where Are They Coming From?

I bet you’re wondering where all these new South Carolinians are coming from! The leading states that people are relocating from include New York, North Carolina, and New Jersey. It’s like a big welcoming party as neighbors from nearby states come to check out the fantastic lifestyle in South Carolina.

Big Cities, Big Changes!

The largest cities in South Carolina, including Columbia, Charleston, and North Charleston, are thriving. Charleston County alone boasts a population of more than 400,000. If you look at the numbers for the largest counties, you’ll see that Greenville County has a population of 525,534, while Richland County is close behind with 416,147. Together, the combination of Greenville, Spartanburg, and Anderson counties exceeds a total of 1 million residents—now that’s a bustling community!

A Look to the Future

The growth isn’t just about numbers; it’s also transforming the state’s demographic landscape. Once a place where the majority were born and raised, South Carolina has seen a notable drop in those numbers. Back in 1970, around 80% of residents were born in the state, whereas in 2023, only 52% can say the same. This shift will likely continue as new faces bring their cultures and experiences to enrich the Palmetto State.

Age Structure & Future Outlook

What’s intriguing is that the average age of South Carolina residents is approximately 38.8 years. By 2034, projections show that the state may have more residents aged 64 and older than those under 18, presenting interesting challenges and opportunities for local communities.

Top Ten Fast-Growing Counties

Jasper County topped the charts with a huge year-over-year increase of 6%, growing from 33,642 to 35,618 residents! Other fast-growing counties include Horry, Berkeley, and Dorchester, each contributing to the spicy mix that South Carolina displays.

In summary, South Carolina is truly a hit destination for new residents as it continues to grow and evolve. With its charming towns, beautiful scenery, and warm climate, it’s no wonder so many people are looking to call this lovely state their home. Here’s to welcoming even more friends to the great state of South Carolina!