South Carolina boasts a significant history, culture, and scenic landscapes. With a diverse and growing population, the state has seen a 10.7% increase since 2010, reaching 5.1 million people in 2020. Nonetheless, certain areas within the state haven’t shared the same growth.
Specifically, some counties have witnessed a notable decrease in population over the past decade. This decline prompts inquiries into the economic and social difficulties and prospects these counties face. According to the 2020 census, the five South Carolina counties experiencing the most rapid population decline are:
Allendale County
Situated near the southern edge of the South Carolina-Georgia border, Allendale experienced a substantial 22.8% population decline, reaching 8,039 people in 2020.
This marked the most significant percentage decrease among all counties in the state and the second-largest in the entire nation. Allendale stands as one of the least affluent counties in the state, with a median household income of $24,956 and a poverty rate of 32.9%.
The county grapples with challenges such as low educational achievement, high unemployment, and limited access to healthcare and transportation. Allendale is a participant in the Southern Carolina Regional Development Alliance, which strives to attract new businesses and industries to the area.
Read More: This City Has Been Named the Healthiest Place to Live in Illinois
Lee County
Situated in the central region of the state, Lee experienced an 18.2% decrease in its population, reaching 16,153 people by 2020. This decline ranked as the third-largest percentage drop among all counties in the state and the seventh-largest nationwide.
Lee is characterized as economically disadvantaged, with a median household income of $30,508 and a poverty rate of 28.6%. As a member of the Central SC Alliance, Lee is part of efforts to enhance economic development and overall quality of life in the region.
Read More: This City Has Been Named the Worst City to Live in North Carolina
Bamberg County
Situated in the southern section of the state, Bamberg experienced a 17.8% decrease in population, reaching 12,908 individuals in 2020. This marked the fourth-largest percentage decline among counties in the state and the ninth-largest nationwide.
Bamberg is characterized by economic challenges, with a median household income of $31,433 and a poverty rate of 25.9%. Bamberg is a member of the Southern Carolina Regional Development Alliance, which seeks to draw in new businesses and industries to the area.
Read More: This City Has Been Named the Poorest City in Virginia
McCormick County
Situated in the western region of the state, McCormick experienced a 9% decrease in its population, reaching 9,764 individuals in 2020. This marked the sixth-largest decline percentage-wise among all counties in the state and the 29th largest nationwide.
McCormick is considered a relatively well-off county, boasting a median household income of $46,250 and a poverty rate of 14.9%. The county is actively involved in the Economic Development Partnership, a initiative focused on improving economic growth and the overall quality of life in the area.
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Hampton County
In the southern part of the state, Hampton experienced an 8.6% population decrease, reaching 18,113 people in 2020. This marked the seventh-highest percentage decline among counties in the state and the 38th-largest nationally.
As a moderately low-income county, Hampton has a median household income of $35,860 and a poverty rate of 21.8%. It is affiliated with the Southern Carolina Regional Development Alliance, working to draw in new businesses and industries to the area.
Read More: This Delaware City Has Been Named as the Fastest Growing City in the State
Final Words
These five counties showcase the varied and intricate aspects of rural South Carolina, molded by historical, economic, social, and environmental influences.
Despite encountering numerous challenges, they possess ample opportunities to utilize their strengths and resources for enhancing their situations and future possibilities. Exploring these counties allows us to develop a profound comprehension of the state and its inhabitants, acknowledging their resilience and untapped potential.
