Here are the 5 richest SC counties, new study shows. Do you live in one?
Multiple South Carolina counties have grown in wealth in recent years, but only five can be at the top.
Financial tech company SmartAsset recently published a study that shows the richest counties among all 46 in the state by using data from property values, investment income and per capita income. Of the five richest counties, three are in the Lowcountry. The other two are in the Midlands.
Below is a list of the top five wealthiest counties in the state.
#1 Charleston County
- Median income: $70,807
- Investment income: $63,931
- Median home value: $523,418
Charleston was ranked 53rd best place to live this year by U.S. News & World Report. This unique Southern city is filled to the brim with entertainment and great restaurants, but also features plenty of history, including preserved architecture and cobblestone streets. There are also a few beaches nearby for residents to enjoy.
#2 Beaufort County
- Median income: $74,199
- Investment income: $60,657
- Median home value: $505,269
Beaufort County has become a popular retiree destination, which has helped drive up housing costs. The county, which includes the popular tourist destination, Hilton Head Island, boasts a variety of beaches, cruises and restaurants.
#3 York County
- Median income: $72,234
- Investment income: $34,527
- Median home value: $355,603
York County has managed to capitalize on its location, offering the advantages of living in South Carolina with access to Charlotte, the largest metropolitan area in the two Carolinas. It is also about an hour’s drive from Columbia, the state’s capitol. York County features prominent parks and greenways, along with renowned hiking trail systems.
#4 Dorchester County
- Median income: $68,046
- Investment income: $18,060
- Median home value: $335,915
Established in 1897, Dorchester County today boasts award-winning school districts and has one of the longest free-flowing blackwater rivers in North America, the county’s website states. The county is home to North Charleston, a city that has seen booming economic growth in recent years.
#5 Lancaster County
- Median income: $67,407
- Investment income: $18,847
- Median home value: $364,904
Lancaster County is well-positioned, being approximately 40 miles south of Charlotte, N.C. and 60 miles north of Columbia. Lancaster is known for having a vibrant arts community. Lancaster initiated the Arts and Education program, which is now a statewide program that offers hands-on art instruction.
South Carolina overall
- Median income: $58,234
- Investment income: $26,697
- Median home value: $204,831
Here are the next five richest counties in the state to round out the top 10.
#6 Berkeley County
- Median income: $70,786
- Investment income: $34,599
- Median home value: $349,254
#7 Greenville County
- Median income: $65,513
- Investment income: $39,304
- Median home value: $304,529
#8 Georgetown County
- Median income: $55,719
- Investment income: $41,637
- Median home value: $360,134
#9 Horry County
- Median income: $54,688
- Investment income: $21,524
- Median home value: $309,937
#10 Lexington County
- Median income: $65,623
- Investment income: $25,549
- Median home value: $248,293
