These are the 10 fastest growing SC counties in 2026. See if your county ranks
South Carolina’s population continues to surge in 2026.
You’ve probably seen SC’s increasing popularity with your own eyes. It’s hard not to miss the rapid development, progressively annoying traffic and the influx of crowds.
Last year, SC recorded the fastest population growth in the nation, according to the SC Department of Employment and Workforce. Between July 1, 2024, and July 1, 2025, SC’s population grew at a rate of 1.5%, which was faster than any other state in the country.
Some SC counties, like Greenville, hold the most South Carolinians, but are not growing as fast as some of the smaller counties.
The World Population Review, a worldwide population tracker, keeps track of the fastest-growing counties in each state by using statistical models and trend analyses based on recent census data and projections, and birth and death rate models.
Here are the 10 SC counties that are bringing people in the fastest since 2020, according to the WPR:
The 10 fastest-growing counties in SC
#1 Jasper County
- 2020 population: 29,148
- 2026 population: 39,570
- Percent change: 35.76%
Jasper County, the southernmost county in SC, is currently the 4th-fastest growing county in the nation, and has remained the fastest-growing county in SC for several consecutive years.
#2 Horry County
- 2020 population: 353,779
- 2026 population: 443,425
- Percent change: 25.34%
Horry County was the 4th most populous county in SC last year, but due to its major population growth, it has surpassed Charleston County and Richland County to take the 2nd place spot.
#3 Lancaster County
- 2020 population: 96,592
- 2026 population: 117,364
- Percent change: 21.5%
Lancaster County is currently the 15th largest county in SC, but has seen tremendous growth due to high affordability, lower taxes and its proximity to Charlotte, North Carolina.
#4 Berkeley County
- 2020 population: 231,508
- 2026 population: 280,582
- Percent change: 21.2%
Berkeley County is the 8th largest county in SC, and is expected to continue growing due to its proximity to Charleston, housing affordability and surburban development
#5 Edgefield County
- 2020 population: 25,673
- 2026 population: 31,107
- Percent change: 21.17%
Edgefield County is the 30th largest county in SC. The county is known for its rich history, 19th century architecture and slow-paced lifestyle.
#6 Spartanburg County
- 2020 population: 329,405
- 2026 population: 390,388
- Percent change: 18.51%
As the 5th largest county in SC, Spartanburg County is likely on this list due to its economic growth, affordable cost of living and charming downtown area.
#7 Kershaw County
- 2020 population: 65,596
- 2026 population: 74,804
- Percent change: 14.04%
Kershaw County is the 19th largest county in SC, and is growing due to its proximity to Columbia, economic development and relative affordability.
#8 Dorchester County
- 2020 population: 162,059
- 2026 population: 184,449
- Percent change: 13.82%
Dorchester County is the 11th largest county in SC. Its proximity to Charleston, affordable housing and mix of urban and rural areas are drawing in people.
#9 Greenville County
- 2020 population: 527,266
- 2026 population: 592,843
- Percent change: 12.44%
While Greenville County is not at the top of this list, it has been the most populous county in SC for several years due to its low cost of living, scenic downtown and booming job market.
#10 Beaufort County
- 2020 population: 187,829
- 2026 population: 207,403
- Percent change: 10.42%
Beaufort County is also the 10th largest county in SC. Its likely growing due to its coastal beauty, high quality of life and premier retirement locations.