Largest cities in South Carolina

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: 137,041 Livability Score: 77

Area Size: 282 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,194 Med. Household Income: $72,071

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: 134,057 Livability Score: 79

Area Size: 350 KM² Density (sq mi): 977 Med. Household Income: $47,416

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: 113,880 Livability Score: 65

Area Size: 191 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,467 Med. Household Income: $47,201

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: 89,410 Livability Score: 71

Area Size: 117 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,805 Med. Household Income: $104,772

Mount Pleasant, SC - Southern Charm by the Coast"; echo "

Rock Hill Population: 74,410 Livability Score: 69

Area Size: 98 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,870 Med. Household Income: $51,874

Greenville Population: 69,648 Livability Score: 82

Area Size: 75 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,340 Med. Household Income: $58,259

Summerville Population: 53,643 Livability Score: 61

Area Size: 50 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,478 Med. Household Income: $60,271

Goose Creek Population: 42,944 Livability Score: 66

Area Size: 107 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,016 Med. Household Income: $74,730

Hilton Head Island Population: 40,000 Livability Score: 63

Area Size: 107 KM² Density (sq mi): 967 Med. Household Income: $86,171

Sumter Population: 39,758 Livability Score: 59

Area Size: 84 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,212 Med. Household Income: $40,760

Full list of the largest cities in South Carolina

Rank	Location	Population	Area KM²	Median Income	Livability Score
1	Charleston	137,041	282	$72,071	77
2	Columbia	134,057	350	$47,416	79
3	North Charleston	113,880	191	$47,201	65
4	Mount Pleasant	89,410	117	$104,772	71
5	Rock Hill	74,410	98	$51,874	69
6	Greenville	69,648	75	$58,259	82
7	Summerville	53,643	50	$60,271	61
8	Goose Creek	42,944	107	$74,730	66
9	Hilton Head Island	40,000	107	$86,171	63
10	Sumter	39,758	84	$40,760	59
11	Florence	38,535	57	$51,073	58
12	Spartanburg	37,448	51	$42,841	75
13	Myrtle Beach	33,638	61	$43,378	67
14	Greer	32,229	55	$65,516	81
15	Aiken	31,428	54	$56,202	68
16	Anderson	27,387	38	$33,569	66
17	Socastee	25,846	35	$47,296	67
18	Mauldin	25,829	26	$67,902	85
19	Hanahan	25,743	27	$71,291	71
20	Conway	24,747	57	$42,840	60
21	North Augusta	23,370	53	$63,795	69
22	Greenwood	23,351	42	$32,970	60
23	Simpsonville	23,200	23	$75,535	86
24	Bluffton	23,176	135	$85,844	69
25	Taylors	23,107	27	$62,365	80
26	Lexington	21,847	26	$71,850	79
27	St. Andrews	21,355	16	$37,218	65
28	Easley	21,149	32	$55,655	69
29	Wade Hampton	20,192	23	$58,071	74
30	Fort Mill	19,920	50	$101,699	76
31	Five Forks	19,399	20	$112,146	81
32	West Columbia	17,782	22	$44,282	62
33	Clemson	16,917	20	$46,075	83
34	Seven Oaks	16,743	20	$61,064	68
35	North Myrtle Beach	16,684	55	$61,390	69
36	Red Hill	16,290	29	$47,839	66
37	Dentsville	15,537	17	$35,818	69
38	Ladson	15,252	18	$63,820	61
39	Berea	15,104	20	$37,186	71
40	Gantt	14,556	25	$38,165	67
41	Lake Wylie	14,091	20	$103,548	67
42	Cayce	13,964	43	$52,713	68
43	Beaufort	13,417	73	$54,061	71
44	Port Royal	13,265	49	$59,081	68
45	Gaffney	12,733	22	$31,355	66
46	Orangeburg	12,713	23	$28,587	52
47	Irmo	12,397	18	$75,344	70
48	Parker	12,175	18	$37,556	73
49	James Island	12,157	12	$82,083	71
50	Oak Grove	12,040	17	$58,349	64

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

Well Below nat. avg.
Below nat. avg.
Similar to nat. avg.
Above nat. avg.
Well above nat. avg.

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.