South Carolina is home to a rich history, diverse culture, and captivating landscapes. Despite a state-wide population growth of 10.7% since 2010, reaching a total of 5.1 million people in 2020, some areas within South Carolina have faced contrasting trends.
Several counties have experienced a significant decline in population over the past decade, prompting an exploration into the economic and social challenges these regions confront. According to the 2020 census, the five South Carolina counties undergoing the most notable population decrease are:
Allendale County:
Allendale, situated near the southern border with Georgia, witnessed a substantial 22.8% population decline, totaling 8,039 people in 2020. This marked the most significant percentage decrease in the state and the second-largest nationwide. Allendale faces economic hardships, with a median household income of $24,956 and a poverty rate of 32.9%. The county actively participates in the Southern Carolina Regional Development Alliance, aiming to attract new businesses and industries.
Lee County:
Located in the central part of the state, Lee County experienced an 18.2% population decrease, reaching 16,153 people by 2020. This decline ranked as the third-largest percentage drop in South Carolina and the seventh-largest nationally. Lee is economically disadvantaged, with a median household income of $30,508 and a poverty rate of 28.6%. It collaborates with the Central SC Alliance to enhance economic development and overall quality of life in the region.
Bamberg County:
Positioned in the southern section of the state, Bamberg saw a 17.8% decrease in population, amounting to 12,908 individuals in 2020. This marked the fourth-largest percentage decline in South Carolina and the ninth-largest nationwide. Bamberg faces economic challenges, with a median household income of $31,433 and a poverty rate of 25.9%. It is a member of the Southern Carolina Regional Development Alliance, striving to attract new businesses and industries.
McCormick County:
Situated in the western region, McCormick experienced a 9% decrease in population, totaling 9,764 individuals in 2020. This marked the sixth-largest decline percentage-wise in the state and the 29th largest nationally. McCormick is relatively well-off, boasting a median household income of $46,250 and a poverty rate of 14.9%. The county actively participates in the Economic Development Partnership, focusing on improving economic growth and overall quality of life.
Hampton County:
In the southern part of the state, Hampton faced an 8.6% population decrease, reaching 18,113 people in 2020. This marked the seventh-highest percentage decline in South Carolina 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%. Affiliated with the Southern Carolina Regional Development Alliance, Hampton works towards attracting new businesses and industries.
Conclusion:
These five counties offer a glimpse into the diverse and complex aspects of rural South Carolina, shaped by historical, economic, social, and environmental factors. Despite the challenges, they hold potential to leverage their strengths and resources for improving their situations and future prospects. Exploring these counties provides insight into the resilience and untapped potential of the state and its inhabitants.