Largest cities in South Carolina

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South Carolina, known for its southern charm and rich cultural heritage, is a state that offers a high quality of life and a strong sense of community. With a population of approximately 5.1 million, it ranks as the 23rd most populated state in the U.S. South Carolina has experienced steady population growth, driven by its attractive living conditions and economic opportunities. Bordered by North Carolina to the north, Georgia to the south and west, and the Atlantic Ocean to the east, South Carolina offers a variety of living environments across its roughly 271 cities and towns.

Living in South Carolina provides residents with numerous benefits, including a low cost of living, a mild climate, and a rich cultural scene. The state's moderate population density allows for vibrant community life and ample opportunities for recreation and relaxation. South Carolina's economy is diverse, with strengths in manufacturing, agriculture, and tourism. The state's steady population growth supports sustainable development and economic stability. The AreaVibes list of the largest cities in South Carolina, based on data from the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey, offers a comprehensive overview of South Carolina cities by population, highlighting the state's most significant urban centers.

Charleston Population: 142,427 Livability Score: 76

Area Size: 282 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,306 Med. Household Income: $106,951

Charleston, SC, known as 'The Holy City,' offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern urban amenities. Located in Charleston County, Charleston is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Savannah (108 miles) and Columbia (114 miles) enhance its status as a central point in the region. Charleston's blend of scenic landscapes, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Columbia Population: 137,084 Livability Score: 78

Area Size: 350 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,016 Med. Household Income: $71,443

Columbia, SC, known as 'The Capital of Southern Hospitality,' offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern urban amenities. Located in Richland County, Columbia is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Charleston (114 miles) and Augusta (75 miles) enhance its status as a central point in the region. Columbia's blend of scenic landscapes, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

North Charleston Population: 117,218 Livability Score: 66

Area Size: 191 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,590 Med. Household Income: $70,108

North Charleston, South Carolina, known as "The Hub of the Lowcountry," is a dynamic and rapidly growing city located in the Charleston metropolitan area. With its strong economy, diverse population, and rich cultural scene, North Charleston offers a high quality of life for its residents. The city's blend of historic charm and modern amenities makes living in North Charleston an attractive option for families and professionals.

Mount Pleasant Population: 91,527 Livability Score: 71

Area Size: 117 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,028 Med. Household Income: $153,267

Living in Mount Pleasant, SC offers a perfect blend of coastal beauty and Southern hospitality. Known for its historic charm and modern amenities, Mount Pleasant is a thriving community just minutes from downtown Charleston. The Boone Hall Plantation, one of Americaâ€™s oldest working plantations, offers a glimpse into the regionâ€™s rich history and is a popular destination for residents and visitors alike.

Rock Hill Population: 76,923 Livability Score: 70

Area Size: 98 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,025 Med. Household Income: $76,946

Greenville Population: 71,185 Livability Score: 79

Area Size: 75 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,452 Med. Household Income: $88,456

Summerville Population: 55,185 Livability Score: 63

Area Size: 50 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,857 Med. Household Income: $90,252

Goose Creek Population: 44,214 Livability Score: 67

Area Size: 107 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,068 Med. Household Income: $113,429

Hilton Head Island Population: 41,077 Livability Score: 64

Area Size: 107 KM² Density (sq mi): 993 Med. Household Income: $128,100

Sumter Population: 40,739 Livability Score: 59

Area Size: 84 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,252 Med. Household Income: $61,655

Full list of the largest cities in South Carolina

Rank	Location	Population	Area KM²	Median Income	Livability Score
1	Charleston	142,427	282	$106,951	76
2	Columbia	137,084	350	$71,443	78
3	North Charleston	117,218	191	$70,108	66
4	Mount Pleasant	91,527	117	$153,267	71
5	Rock Hill	76,923	98	$76,946	70
6	Greenville	71,185	75	$88,456	79
7	Summerville	55,185	50	$90,252	63
8	Goose Creek	44,214	107	$113,429	67
9	Hilton Head Island	41,077	107	$128,100	64
10	Sumter	40,739	84	$61,655	59
11	Florence	39,448	57	$75,854	62
12	Spartanburg	38,808	51	$64,006	76
13	Myrtle Beach	34,485	61	$65,766	67
14	Greer	33,190	55	$97,274	81
15	Aiken	32,110	54	$84,296	67
16	Anderson	27,956	38	$49,236	67
17	Mauldin	26,699	26	$101,335	87
18	Hanahan	26,450	27	$104,458	72
19	Socastee	26,401	35	$70,959	69
20	Conway	25,463	57	$63,984	63
21	North Augusta	24,271	53	$93,204	71
22	Bluffton	23,896	135	$129,896	69
23	Greenwood	23,893	42	$49,849	63
24	Simpsonville	23,729	23	$110,851	87
25	Taylors	23,727	27	$91,132	81
26	Lexington	22,445	26	$108,105	81
27	St. Andrews	22,188	16	$55,741	67
28	Easley	21,688	32	$84,060	71
29	Wade Hampton	20,936	23	$85,717	75
30	Fort Mill	20,703	50	$152,422	76
31	Five Forks	20,122	20	$165,408	80
32	West Columbia	18,344	22	$66,563	63
33	Clemson	17,526	20	$68,090	83
34	Seven Oaks	17,121	20	$91,752	70
35	North Myrtle Beach	17,032	55	$93,262	71
36	Red Hill	16,638	29	$72,318	68
37	Dentsville	16,145	17	$53,647	71
38	Ladson	15,636	18	$93,582	64
39	Berea	15,623	20	$55,805	72
40	Gantt	15,043	25	$57,037	69
41	Lake Wylie	14,454	20	$153,651	68
42	Cayce	14,389	43	$77,173	71
43	Beaufort	13,805	73	$80,224	69
44	Port Royal	13,654	49	$88,902	70
45	Gaffney	13,179	22	$47,549	66
46	Orangeburg	13,075	23	$42,544	54
47	Irmo	12,834	18	$112,569	73
48	Parker	12,654	18	$55,444	74
49	James Island	12,534	12	$121,553	70
50	Oak Grove	12,504	17	$85,887	66

Methodology

To compile the list of the largest cities in South Carolina, AreaVibes used census data from the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS). The American Community Survey releases updated estimates annually, offering a valuable resource for understanding the evolving dynamics within communities. These estimates are crucial for officials, community leaders, businesses, and local residents as they provide insights into demographic, economic, and social changes. By analyzing ACS data, stakeholders can make informed decisions, plan for future developments, and address the needs of their communities effectively. The detailed population information from the ACS helps track trends, allocate resources, and implement policies that enhance the quality of life for all residents.

Map of the population Density by State

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The map above serves as an excellent tool for discovering the most and least densely populated states across the United States. By highlighting both the states with the highest and lowest population density, it offers a comprehensive view of the nation's demographic landscape. This visual representation allows users to easily compare different regions, making it a valuable resource for anyone considering relocation or investment opportunities. Living in high density states could give you access to the following benefits: additional economic opportunities, enhanced amenities, improved health care, better infrastructure and technological advancement. Less densely poupulated states on the other hand, often have a lower cost of living, reduced traffic, closer-knit communities, abundant natural spaces and lower crime rates.