Moving To South Carolina

A complete guide of the state from healthcare to diversity

Should you move to South Carolina?

South Carolina, the Palmetto State, is a place of coastal beauty, historic charm, and vibrant Southern culture. Known for its warm climate, renowned cuisine, and booming manufacturing industry, South Carolina offers a relaxed yet exciting lifestyle.

South Carolina’s economy is diverse, with strong sectors in manufacturing, healthcare, and tourism. Its cities, such as Charleston, Greenville, and Columbia, offer rich history, thriving arts scenes, and growing economies.

Living in South Carolina offers a variety of experiences. From exploring the historic city of Charleston to enjoying the beach lifestyle of Myrtle Beach or hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains, South Carolina is rich in natural beauty and culture. When it comes to education, South Carolina is home to many top-rated schools and universities, including Clemson University and the University of South Carolina.

If you’re looking for a state that offers a mix of history, natural beauty, and a growing economy, South Carolina could be your next home. Just be prepared for hot summers and a slower-paced way of life!

State Capital

Columbia

Area Code(s)

803, 839, 843, 864

Time Zone

Eastern Time Zone

Land Area (sq mi)

30,064

State Bird

Great Carolina wren

Motto

Dum spiro spero Animis opibusque parati (While I breathe, I hope Ready in soul and resource)

State Flag

Firstandsold.com is an audience-supported site. We may earn an affiliate commission when you purchase through links or ads. Learn more

How Does South Carolina Rank?

B
Diversity
B
Cost of Living
A
Home Affordability

Who Lives in South Carolina?

Discover more about the people who make up the State

Total Population

National Avg 6,652,315

Population Density

170 per sq mi

National Avg 206.5 persons/square mile

How does South Carolina compare?

B
Diversity Grade
White alone
63.5%
Black or African American
26.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
2%
Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Hispanic or Latino
6.6%

Foreign Born Persons

5.2%

Veterans

350822

Under 5 years
5.4%
Under 18 years
21.2%
Over 65 years
19.1%

South Carolina Climate

How’s the weather?

How Does South Carolina Compare?

#17
in Sunny Days
#11
in Annual Rainfall
#39
in Daytime Humidity

Start Organizing Your Move Today

Stay on top of tasks and avoid moving-day chaos. Download your moving checklist and box inventory list.

Healthcare in South Carolina

How are the hospitals and care?

Major Hospitals

59

Residents Per Bed

439

Residents Per Physician

381.7

How Does South Carolina Compare?

#37
in Healthcare
#19
in Available Beds
#34
in Doctors Per Resident

South Carolina Metropolitans

South Carolina

Columbia

North Carolina, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach-Conway-North Myrtle Beach

South Carolina

Spartanburg

South Carolina

Charleston-North Charleston

South Carolina

Hilton Head Island-Bluffton

South Carolina

Greenville-Anderson

South Carolina

Florence

South Carolina

Sumter

South Carolina Cost of Living

How Does South Carolina Compare?

20
in Cost of Living
31
in Minimum Wage
32
in Living Wage

Don't Forget!

Auto insurance costs change from city to neighborhood. Through Insurify, you can receive personalized quotes from top insurers in 5 minutes or less.

Renting? Renter’s insurance protects you, your guests, and your things. And Lemonade offers renters insurance plans for as low as $5 per month.

South Carolina State Taxes

Housing in South Carolina

Buying or renting? Here’s more about real estate in the zip code.

Total Households

1,976,447

Own vs. Rent

Own 70.3%
Rent 29.7%

Connect with a local South Carolina REALTOR®

Buying or selling? We’ll help you connect with the right real estate agents in South Carolina or anywhere you need help.

Median Home Value

223,400

National $440,300

Median Rent

$970

National $1,702

Average Homeownership cost

$390

Taxes, Insurance, Utilities, HOA (no mortgage)

Persons Per Household

2.51

Moving advice

Increase your odds of a quick sale, earning more money, or saving your rental deposit by hiring a professional cleaner. A study by HomeLight found home sellers who invest in cleaners earned $3,700 more

South Carolina Schools

Explore the school district and schools

8th Grade Proficiency (2022)

Ranked #39 in Mathematics

Basic Proficiency

56%

Proficient or Above

22%

Ranked #43 in Reading

Basic Proficiency

63%

Proficient or Above

27%

Education Attainment

High School Degree
88.8%
Bachelors Degree
29.8%

Need some help with your move?

Moving labor can be hired by the hour, helping you budget for the heavy stuff or your entire move.

South Carolina Cities & Towns

South Carolina Economy

The industries, jobs, and economics of the zip code

Median Household Income

$58,234

US Average $74,580

How does South Carolina compare?

In Labor Force

59.6%

Poverty rate

14.6%

Private Employers

116,896

Total Employees

1,936,015

South Carolina Counties

The Best, Worst, Wealthiest, and More...

45 trending topics that matter for today’s mover

Best Metros in America

Discover the top-rated Metros across America
Best Metros

Best Cities in America

The top-rated cities and towns across America
Best Places in America

Best Metros For Families

Explore the perfect Metros for Families
Best For Families

Continue Reading

Moving soon?

Receive valuable information and advice direct to your inbox.

Moving Checklist & Box Inventory Guides Included!

Join the First&Sold community

Connect With a REALTOR®

Buying or selling a home? Access First&Sold’s network of experienced REALTORS®

Buy first, sell after.

Let us know the best way for a home advisor to reach you.

By submitting this form you agree that First&Sold may call/text/email you about your inquiry or for marketing, informational and related purposes. Message/data rates may apply. You also agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

We're excited to hear from you.

Let us know how to reach you and one of our friendly home specialist will reach out to you shortly.

By submitting this form you agree that First&Sold may call/text/email you about your inquiry or for marketing, informational and related purposes. Message/data rates may apply. You also agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

The next step is a sold sign

Let us know the best way for a home advisor to contact you.

By submitting this form you agree that First&Sold may call/text/email you about your inquiry or for marketing, informational and related purposes. Message/data rates may apply. You also agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

Meet Nuri Caplinger

Questions on Las Vegas real estate? Ready to buy or sell? Meet your local Professional, Nuri.

Learn how your information is protected in the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

Speak to an advisor

Enter your information and a home advisor will reach out to you shortly.

By submitting this form you agree that First&Sold may call/text/email you about your inquiry or for marketing, informational and related purposes. Message/data rates may apply. You also agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy