Sky21– The state of South Carolina is known for its diversified culture, fascinating history, and gorgeous scenery. In 2020, there will be 5.1 million people living in the state of South Carolina, a 10.7% increase in population from 2010. However, certain regions of the state have experienced different trends.
Over the past ten years, a number of counties have seen a notable decrease in population, which has prompted an investigation into the social and economic issues these areas face. The five South Carolina counties with the biggest population declines, as reported by the 2020 census, are:
County of Allendale
The population of Allendale, which is close to Georgia’s southern border, decreased by a significant 22.8% in 2020, to 8,039 individuals. This was the second-largest percentage decline in the country and the most notable in the state. With a poverty rate of 32.9 percent and a median household income of $24,956, Allendale is experiencing financial difficulties. In an effort to draw in new companies and sectors, the county actively participates in the Southern Carolina Regional Development Alliance.
Lee County
Lee County, which is in the center of the state, saw an 18.2% decline in population from 2016 to 2020, when it had 16,153 residents. This loss was the seventh largest in the country and the third largest in South Carolina in terms of percentage decline. With a poverty rate of 28.6% and a median household income of $30,508, Lee is economically disadvantaged. It works in tandem with the Central SC Alliance to improve the region’s general standard of living and economic growth.
County of Bamberg
Bamberg, which is located in the southern part of the state, had 12,908 residents in 2020, a 17.8% decline in population. This was the ninth-largest percentage fall nationally and the fourth-largest in South Carolina. With a poverty rate of 25.9% and a median household income of $31,433, Bamberg is facing financial difficulties. As a participant in the Southern Carolina Regional Development Alliance, it aims to draw in new companies and sectors.
McCormick County
Located in the west, McCormick had a 9% decline in population in 2020, with 9,764 people living there. In terms of percentage, this was the sixth-largest fall in the state and the 29th-largest nationwide. With a poverty rate of 14.9% and a median household income of $46,250, McCormick is comparatively wealthy. The county focuses on enhancing both general quality of life and economic growth through its active participation in the Economic Development Partnership.
Hampton County
Hampton, located in the southern portion of the state, saw a decline in population of 8.6%, with 18,113 residents in 2020. This constituted the 38th largest percentage fall nationwide and the seventh highest in South Carolina. With a median family income of $35,860 and a poverty rate of 21.8%, Hampton is classified as a fairly low-income county. Hampton, a member of the Southern Carolina Regional Development Alliance, strives to draw in new companies and sectors of the economy.
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In Summary
In summary, these five counties provide an insight into the various and intricate facets of rural South Carolina, influenced by social, cultural, historical, and environmental elements. In spite of the difficulties, individuals have the ability to use their assets and strengths to better their current circumstances and prospects going forward. Investigating these counties reveals the resiliency and unrealized potential of the state and its people.