Here are the 10 richest SC counties for 2024, new study shows. See if you live in one
South Carolina has grown in overall wealth and population in recent years, but some counties have done better than others.
Financial tech company SmartAsset recently published a report that shows the 10 richest counties in the state by using data from property values, investment income and median income. Data sources included IRS SOI tax statistics, Zillow, and the U.S. Census.
Of the 10 richest counties, five are in the Lowcountry, three are in the Midlands, one is in the Pee Dee Region and one is in the Upstate.
Below is a list of the top 10 wealthiest counties in the state, plus South Carolina overall for reference. To view all 46 counties, click here. From there, click on the county of your choice in the state map.
South Carolina overall
- Median income: $48,021
- Investment income: $44,014
- Median home value: $234,204
#1 Charleston County
- Median income: $78,795
- Investment income: $146,964
- Median home value: $592,068
Charleston was ranked 13th best place to live for 2025-2026 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: $81,260
- Investment income: $107,231
- Median home value: $542,350
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: $80,158
- Investment income: $45,511
- Median home value: $384,923
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 Berkeley County
- Median income: $77,874
- Investment income: $57,079
- Median home value: $371,014
Berkeley County is a short drive away from Charleston, but it has plenty of history and atmosphere of its own to see. There you’ll find Cypress Gardens, where several motion pictures have been filmed, including “The Notebook” and “The Patriot.” You can spend the day enjoying a scenic boat ride through the 80-acre blackwater swamp, surrounded by tall bald cypress and tupelo trees.
#5 Lancaster County
- Median income: $72,186
- Investment income: $33,126
- Median home value: $385,769
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.
#6 Greenville County
- Median income: $71,328
- Investment income: $62,112
- Median home value: $332,595
Greenville County is home to the booming city of Greenville, which has been growing for years now and has routinely been featured on seemingly endless “best of” lists.
“The city’s walkable downtown is anchored by Falls Park on the Reedy,” according toTravel+Leisure. “This centerpiece park features a waterfall, gardens, public art, and Liberty Bridge, a pedestrian-friendly suspension bridge.”
There are 37 parks spread out around Greenville, offering residents walking and biking trails, disc golf, tennis and more. The city also has two major healthcare systems with multiple locations.
#7 Dorchester County
- Median income: $73,686
- Investment income: $27,584
- Median home value: $356,063
Near the greater Charleston area, Dorchester County is among the fastest growing areas of the state, with the third highest labor force participation rate. North Charleston, the third largest city in the state, is located mainly in Dorchester. It offers a variety of attractions, such as the North Charleston and LaFrance Fire Museum and Educational Center.
#8 Georgetown County
- Median income: $59,782
- Investment income: $72,151
- Median home value: $396,178
In Georgetown County visitors will find South Carolina’s Hammock Coast, which features the state’s most beautiful, award-winning beaches. Some of the best golf in the U.S. can also be played here. The county’s historic county seat, Georgetown, was recently listed among the 10 best coastal small towns in the U.S. by USA Today.
#9 Lexington County
- Median income: $71,280
- Investment income: $43,944
- Median home value: $263,334
Found in the Midlands, Lexington County is counted among the fastest growing areas in the state and region. The county offers plenty of recreational opportunities, among the best of which is Lake Murray, which is 50,000 acres in size and offers roughly 650 miles of shoreline. Lexington is also home to plenty of history and a robust dining scene.
#10 Jasper County
- Median income: $60,452
- Investment income: $36,611
- Median home value: $404,697
Jasper County’s history dates back to the late 17th Century. It is steeped in history, from the Revolutionary War to the Civil War and visitors and find many historic sites scattered throughout the county. One such spot is Thomas Heyward Jr.’s tomb, who was a signer of the Declaration of Independence. Jasper County is also home to a collection of charming small towns and festivals, as well sites for nature lovers, like the Savannah National Wildlife Refuge and Blue Heron Nature Trail.
This story was originally published December 5, 2024 at 5:30 AM.
