News Summary
South Carolina has experienced a remarkable increase in population, welcoming over 161,000 new residents from 2019 to 2023. This growth is particularly notable in counties like Jasper and in areas such as Myrtle Beach, which ranked as the third-fastest-growing population in the nation in 2024. The influx is reshaping communities and local economies, yet it also brings challenges such as rising housing costs and infrastructure demands. Local governments are responding with measures such as development moratoriums to manage the impacts of rapid growth.
Welcome to the Growing Palmetto State!
South Carolina is buzzing with life as the state experiences a remarkable surge in population growth, driven largely by folks moving in from other states. Between 2019 and 2023, the state welcomed a whopping 161,385 new residents. That’s a significant influx that is reshaping communities and local economies all across the region!
In-Migration Trends
According to recent data from the Census Bureau, around 121,000 residents relocated to South Carolina from other states between 2019 and 2022 alone. It’s evident that people are taking notice of what the state has to offer. Six counties have accounted for a hefty 91,298 new residents—now that’s a number that can mean big changes in our beloved neighborhoods!
The Coastal Boom
One of the hottest spots in the state is definitely the Myrtle Beach metropolitan area. It was noted to be the third-fastest-growing population in the nation in 2024! With its stunning beaches and vibrant lifestyle, it’s no wonder that people are flocking to this coastal gem. But it’s not just Myrtle Beach that’s experiencing explosive growth.
Hot Commodities: Jasper County and More
Over in Jasper County, the growth has been off the charts, making it the third-fastest-growing county in the U.S. by 2024. With nearly 6% growth in one year and nearly 2,000 new residents added to the mix, Jasper County now boasts a population of around 33,642 residents. Many of these newcomers are retirees looking to enjoy a relaxed lifestyle in the sunny South.
Riding the Wave of Population Growth
Interestingly, South Carolina’s overall population increases by about 90,000 people annually, and it’s primarily due to in-migration. Despite a negative birth rate with more deaths than births, the state continues to attract new settlers. By 2042, the population is projected to soar to around 6.4 million residents—that’s quite a growth story!
Future Growth Areas
Looking ahead, several counties are expected to thrive. Horry, Berkeley, Jasper, Lancaster, and Spartanburg are likely to witness significant population growth by 2042 due to their appealing lifestyles and abundant job opportunities. Horry County, for example, shows an increase of 1,409 more deaths than births, emphasizing its appeal to retirees shifting its demographic landscape.
Myrtle Beach’s Transformation
The rapid growth of Myrtle Beach is compelling, too. Over the last 15 years, its population escalated from around 27,000 in 2010 to approximately 35,000 in 2020, showcasing a 32% increase. However, with this growth comes the challenge of accommodating more residents. Rent has skyrocketed by 66% from 2013 to 2022, making finding affordable housing tougher for newcomers and long-time residents alike.
Housing Market Dynamics
The housing market is feeling the pressure as new housing supply struggles to match the rapid demand. Low-priced homes nearly doubled from $95,000 in 2013 to $187,500 in 2022. This forced many potential homeowners to rethink their plans. Local developers and regulators are also facing significant challenges as they try to keep up with infrastructure needs exacerbated by the area’s sizzling population growth.
Morratorium in Jasper County
In light of the resident influx, Jasper County even enacted a temporary development moratorium to get its bearings straight with zoning and density ordinances amidst the growing demand. It’s a tough balancing act as local government seeks to accommodate growth while maintaining a community feel.
Final Thoughts
South Carolina is a vibrant tapestry of opportunity, attracting folks from far and wide, and holding the promise of a bright future. As it continues to grow, the state brings with it an exciting blend of cultures, lifestyles, and economic prospects. The Palmetto State, it seems, is just getting started!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: South Carolina Census Growing Population
- Wikipedia: Population Growth
- My Horry News: Population Growth Outpacing Housing Inventory
- Google Search: South Carolina Population Growth
- Myrtle Beach Online: Local News on Population Trends
- Google Scholar: South Carolina Population Trends
- Business Insider: City Metro Population Growth
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Population Dynamics
- Newsweek: Fastest Growing US Metro Areas
- Google News: Housing Market South Carolina
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach 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 Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). 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 Myrtle Beach Area 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.
