SC among worst states for young people to work and live, new report shows. Where it ranks and why

When it comes to places to start a career and life fresh out of college, South Carolina is less than ideal, a new report shows.

Choosing where to start a career post-college can have a big impact on a person’s life and future. A recent report from financial website Scholaroo shows that some states are better than others at offering a blend of vibrant job markets, networking opportunities, affordable living costs and an environment conducive to personal growth.

South Carolina ranking for young professionals

So, where does South Carolina fall among states best suited for young professionals just out of college?

The Palmetto State ranks 45th in the U.S., the report shows. In fact, nearly all of the bottom 10 worst states on the list are in the South.

Below are the rankings South Carolina got in each category that earned the state its overall score.

South Carolina

• Job market and work conditions: 45th
• Affordability: 41st
• Crime and safety: 34th
• Workplace diversity: 39th
• Health: 40th
• Leisure: 38th

Methodology

The report determined the rankings by considering multiple factors, such as high unemployment rate, median household income and access to quality health care as well as ample restaurants, bars, museums and movie theaters. Several of the data points were tuned to recent college graduates and other young professionals seeking internships and entry-level jobs.

10 worst states for young professionals

1. Texas
2. Tennessee
3. Arkansas
4. Kentucky
5. South Carolina
6. Oklahoma
7. Louisiana
8. Alabama
9. Mississippi
10. West Virginia

10 best states for young professionals

1. Massachusetts
2. Rhode Island
3. New Hampshire
4. Maryland
5. Connecticut
6. Vermont
7. Washington
8. Minnesota
9. New Jersey
10. Oregon

Patrick McCreless

The State

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Patrick McCreless is the Southeast service journalism editor for McClatchy, who leads and edits a team of six reporters in South Carolina, Georgia and Mississippi. The team writes about trending news of the day and topics that help readers in their daily lives and better informs them about their communities. He attended Jacksonville State University in Alabama and grew up in Tuscaloosa, AL.