South Carolina boasts a rich history, diverse culture, and captivating landscapes. Even though the population in South Carolina has increased by 10.7% since 2010 to reach 5.1 million people in 2020, certain regions in the state have experienced different patterns.
Many counties have seen a notable decrease in population in the last ten years, leading to an investigation of the economic and social difficulties these areas face. Based on the 2020 census, the top five South Carolina counties experiencing the most significant population decline are:
Allendale County:
Allendale, located near the southern border with Georgia, experienced a significant 22.8% decrease in population, with a total of 8,039 individuals in 2020. This represented the most substantial percentage drop in the state and the second-largest across the country. Allendale is experiencing economic challenges, with a median household income of $24,956 and a poverty rate of 32.9%. The county is actively involved in the Southern Carolina Regional Development Alliance to attract new businesses and industries.
Lee County:
In the heart of the state, Lee County saw its population drop by 18.2% to 16,153 people by 2020. This decrease was the third-largest in South Carolina and the seventh-largest in the country. Lee faces economic challenges, with a median household income of $30,508 and a poverty rate of 28.6%. It works with the Central SC Alliance to improve economic development and quality of life in the region.
Information about Bamberg County:
Located in the southern part of the state, Bamberg experienced a 17.8% decline in population, totaling 12,908 people in 2020. This was the fourth-largest percentage drop in South Carolina and the ninth-largest in the country. Bamberg is currently dealing with economic difficulties, as the median household income is $31,433 and the poverty rate is 25.9%. Part of the Southern Carolina Regional Development Alliance, working to bring in new businesses and industries.
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McCormick County:
Located in the western region, McCormick saw a 9% drop in population, with a total of 9,764 people in 2020. This was the sixth-largest percentage decline in the state and the 29th largest nationally. McCormick has a median household income of $46,250 and a poverty rate of 14.9%. The county is actively involved in the Economic Development Partnership, with a focus on enhancing economic growth and the overall quality of life.
Hampton County:
Hampton in the southern part of the state experienced an 8.6% population decline, with a total of 18,113 residents in 2020. This was the seventh-highest percentage drop in South Carolina and the 38th-largest in the country. Hampton is a moderately low-income county with a median household income of $35,860 and a poverty rate of 21.8%. Hampton is associated with the Southern Carolina Regional Development Alliance and focuses on attracting new businesses and industries.
In conclusion:
These five counties provide insight into the varied and intricate elements of rural South Carolina, influenced by historical, economic, social, and environmental factors. Despite facing obstacles, they have the opportunity to use their strengths and resources to enhance their situations and future opportunities. Delving into these counties offers a glimpse into the strength and undiscovered capabilities of the state and its residents.
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