Living in South Carolina: Jobs, Education, History, Attractions and Real Estate
South Carolina offers a combination of coastal living, historic cities, outdoor recreation, education and employment opportunities. From Charleston and Columbia to Greenville, Myrtle Beach and Hilton Head Island, the state has a wide range of communities and lifestyles.
For people considering living in South Carolina or purchasing property such as Isle of Palms real estate, understanding the state’s economy, education system, attractions, history and coastal considerations can help with the decision.
South Carolina’s population has also grown significantly in recent years. The U.S. Census Bureau estimated the state’s population at 5,570,274 on July 1, 2025, representing an 8.8% increase from the 2020 population estimate base.
Employment and the South Carolina Economy
South Carolina’s economy has changed considerably since the original version of this article was published in 2013. Manufacturing, automotive production, aerospace, logistics, technology, life sciences and other industries now form important parts of the state’s economic landscape.
The South Carolina Department of Commerce identifies aerospace, automotive, advanced manufacturing, agribusiness, distribution and logistics, electric vehicles, life sciences, research and development, and technology among the state’s key industries.
Manufacturing is particularly important. South Carolina has developed a diversified manufacturing base that includes automobiles, aircraft, appliances, tires, advanced materials and other products. The state’s Department of Commerce reports that manufacturing accounted for 13.9% of the private-sector workforce in its cited industry data.
The state’s export economy is also significant. South Carolina reported $38.5 billion in export sales in 2025, the state’s highest export value in seven years. Motor vehicles and parts, aircraft and parts, and machinery and parts were among the leading exported products.
Current employment picture
Employment conditions are also very different from those described in the original 2013 article.
According to the South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce, the state’s unemployment rate fell to 4.1% in August 2026, while the number of employed residents reached approximately 2.57 million. The state also reported year-over-year nonfarm payroll growth of 1.6%.
These figures provide a more useful picture of the current South Carolina employment market than the unemployment statistics from 2013.
Education in South Carolina
Education is another important consideration for families thinking about living in South Carolina.
The state has a substantial higher-education network that includes public research universities, comprehensive universities, technical colleges and independent institutions.
The South Carolina Commission on Higher Education currently lists institutions such as Clemson University, the University of South Carolina, the Medical University of South Carolina, the College of Charleston, Coastal Carolina University, Winthrop University and The Citadel, along with numerous technical colleges and private institutions.
South Carolina’s technical college system can also be useful for students seeking career-focused education and workforce training.
The Commission on Higher Education’s latest institutional data program includes information on enrollment, admissions, tuition, graduation outcomes and institutional finances, providing a current overview of the state’s higher-education sector.
For families purchasing a home, school availability and the location of colleges can therefore be important factors when comparing different South Carolina communities.
Things to Do in South Carolina
One of the major attractions of South Carolina is the variety of things to do.
The state combines Atlantic beaches, historic cities, gardens, museums, zoos, outdoor recreation and cultural attractions. This makes South Carolina appealing both to permanent residents and visitors.
South Carolina Beaches
The South Carolina coast is one of the state’s most recognizable attractions.
Popular destinations include:
- Myrtle Beach
- Hilton Head Island
- Isle of Palms
- Folly Beach
- Sullivan’s Island
- Kiawah Island
- Edisto Beach
The official South Carolina tourism site highlights the state’s coastal destinations, including Myrtle Beach, Hilton Head Island, Charleston and Isle of Palms.
Myrtle Beach is part of the Grand Strand and offers beaches, restaurants, golf, museums, fishing and family attractions.
Hilton Head Island offers beaches, golf, dining and outdoor recreation, while Charleston’s nearby beaches provide a different combination of coastal activities and historic surroundings.
Isle of Palms
For anyone researching Isle of Palms real estate, the location deserves particular attention.
Isle of Palms is a barrier island approximately 12 miles from Charleston. It is known for beaches, fishing, golf, water activities and its relaxed coastal atmosphere.
The City of Isle of Palms says the community has approximately seven miles of beaches, with opportunities for swimming, fishing, biking and kayaking.
Its proximity to Charleston also makes Isle of Palms attractive to people who want access to a coastal community while remaining close to the city’s restaurants, culture, employment and historic attractions.
Attractions for Families and Visitors
South Carolina has plenty of attractions beyond its beaches.
The South Carolina Aquarium in Charleston features exhibits representing habitats from the state’s mountains to the Atlantic Ocean. Its attractions include marine life, sea turtles, sharks, stingrays and educational exhibits.
In Columbia, Riverbanks Zoo & Garden occupies a 170-acre site and features more than 3,000 animals along with botanical gardens, river views and educational experiences.
These attractions add to the recreational options available to people who live in South Carolina rather than simply visiting for a short vacation.
South Carolina History
South Carolina has a particularly significant place in American history.
Charleston is one of the state’s most important historic destinations. Visitors can explore historic neighborhoods, architecture, museums, monuments and sites connected with both the Revolutionary War and the Civil War.
Fort Sumter
Fort Sumter, located in Charleston Harbor, is closely associated with the beginning of the American Civil War.
According to the National Park Service, Confederate forces opened fire on the Union garrison at Fort Sumter on April 12, 1861. The bombardment continued until April 13, when the Union garrison surrendered. The engagement is recognized as the opening engagement of the Civil War.
Today, Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park preserves this important part of American history.
Kings Mountain
South Carolina’s history extends well beyond the Civil War.
The Battle of Kings Mountain took place on October 7, 1780, during the American Revolution. The National Park Service describes it as an important Patriot victory in the Southern Campaign. Kings Mountain National Military Park preserves the battlefield and offers visitors trails, exhibits and educational programs.
What Homebuyers Should Know About Coastal South Carolina
If you are considering purchasing South Carolina real estate, location-specific costs and risks should be part of your research.
This is particularly important for coastal properties.
A property near the ocean can offer beautiful surroundings and convenient access to beaches. However, coastal homes can also face additional considerations involving flooding, wind damage, hurricanes, maintenance and insurance.
The South Carolina Department of Insurance provides dedicated resources for coastal property owners. These include information about wind-damage mitigation, insurance shopping and the state’s SC Safe Home program.
Flood insurance is another important consideration. The South Carolina Department of Insurance explains that standard homeowners insurance generally does not cover flood damage, including damage caused by storm surge. Separate flood insurance may therefore be necessary.
For Isle of Palms specifically, buyers should check the property’s current flood zone and applicable flood regulations before purchasing. The City of Isle of Palms provides information about FEMA flood maps and property-specific flood-zone research.
Questions to ask before buying coastal property
Before purchasing a coastal home, consider:
- Is the property located in a flood zone?
- What type of flood insurance is required or recommended?
- What will homeowners insurance cost?
- Is wind and hail coverage available?
- Has the property experienced previous storm or flood damage?
- What elevation and flood-protection measures does the property have?
- Are there restrictions on renovations or rebuilding?
- What are the local property taxes and ongoing maintenance costs?
- Is the property intended as a primary residence, vacation home or rental property?
These questions can help buyers understand the total cost of ownership rather than focusing only on the purchase price.
Why People Consider Living in South Carolina
South Carolina offers several features that may appeal to people considering relocation.
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Growing population
The state’s population has grown substantially since 2020, reaching an estimated 5.57 million residents in July 2025.
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Diverse economy
The economy includes manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, technology, logistics, life sciences, agriculture and tourism.
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Coastal lifestyle
Residents can access a wide range of beaches and coastal communities, from the busy Grand Strand to quieter island destinations.
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Higher education
South Carolina has numerous universities, colleges and technical institutions serving students across the state.
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History and culture
Historic Charleston, Fort Sumter, Kings Mountain and other sites provide opportunities to explore the state’s long and complex history.
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Outdoor recreation
Beaches, waterways, parks, gardens, golf courses and hiking areas provide recreational opportunities throughout the state.
Is South Carolina Right for You?
The answer depends on what you are looking for.
Someone seeking a coastal lifestyle may prefer communities such as Isle of Palms, Hilton Head Island or other beach destinations. A person focused on employment may want to compare larger employment centers such as Greenville, Columbia and the Charleston region.
Families may place greater emphasis on schools and access to healthcare. Students may focus on universities and technical colleges. Meanwhile, retirees and second-home buyers may be more interested in climate, recreation, housing costs and proximity to the coast.
If you are considering living in South Carolina, it is useful to visit different communities before making a long-term decision.
For prospective homebuyers, this is especially important. A property that looks attractive during a vacation may have very different costs and practical considerations when used as a primary residence or investment property.
South Carolina at a Glance
- Capital: Columbia
- Population: Approximately 5.57 million, July 2025 estimate
- Major employment sectors: Manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, technology, logistics, life sciences, agriculture and tourism
- August 2026 unemployment rate: 4.1% according to South Carolina DEW
- Major coastal destinations: Myrtle Beach, Hilton Head Island, Isle of Palms, Folly Beach and Sullivan’s Island
- Major education centers: Clemson, Columbia, Charleston, Greenville and other communities across the state
- Historic attractions: Fort Sumter, Kings Mountain National Military Park and historic Charleston
- Important coastal consideration: Flood and wind insurance should be researched carefully before purchasing property.
Final Thoughts
South Carolina has developed significantly since this article was originally published in 2013. Today, the state combines a diversified economy, a growing population, numerous educational institutions, historic attractions and a substantial coastline.
For people considering living in South Carolina, the state offers many different types of communities. For prospective buyers interested in Isle of Palms real estate, the combination of beaches and proximity to Charleston can be appealing, but coastal insurance and flood risk should be evaluated carefully before purchasing.
Rather than relying on old statistics or general assumptions, prospective residents and buyers should compare current employment, housing, insurance, education and lifestyle factors for the specific South Carolina community they are considering.
