Considering moving to South Carolina? The state offers a dynamic economy with opportunities across a variety of thriving industries. Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Charleston or apartments in Greenville, South Carolina has plenty to choose from. It is an attractive destination with beautiful coastal cities, a rich culture and a growing job market. South Carolina’s major industries include manufacturing, tourism, and technology, making it an ideal location for both job seekers and home buyers.
South Carolina Overview: Home Prices, Income, and Employment
Top Employers in South Carolina
Walmart: 36,100 employees Prisma Health: 28,800 employees BMW Group: 11,000 employees Michelin: 9,000 employees Lowe’s: 8,700 employees
South Carolina’s 10 Major Industries
1. Advanced manufacturing
Major Employers: BMW (Greer), Michelin North America (Greenville), Boeing (South Carolina)
South Carolina’s advanced manufacturing sector is one of the state’s largest, producing products ranging from automobiles to aerospace parts. BMW operates a significant automobile manufacturing plant in Greer, and Michelin North America’s headquarters in Greenville supports tire production and sales. Jobs in this industry include manufacturing engineers, assembly line workers, quality control specialists, and more. South Carolina’s location on the Atlantic Coast and infrastructure make it a manufacturing hub, attracting skilled workers from across the country.
Considering moving to South Carolina to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Greer or Greenville.
2. Tourism and hospitality
Major Employers: Kiawah Island Golf Resort (Kiawah Island), Charleston Place Hotel (Charleston), Marriott (South Carolina locations)
Tourism is the cornerstone of South Carolina’s economy, and its beaches, historic sites, and resorts will drive approximately $940 million in visitor spending in the summer of 2024. Jobs in this industry range from hotel management to event planning to culinary arts. Kiawah Island Golf Resort is a premier employer offering hospitality management opportunities and Charleston Place Hotel offers upscale service positions. This industry thrives all year round, making it ideal for those looking for a dynamic working environment.
Considering moving to South Carolina to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Charleston or Kiawah Island.
3. Aerospace
Major Employers: Boeing (North Charleston location), Lockheed Martin (South Carolina location), Collins Aerospace (South Carolina location)
South Carolina’s aerospace industry is growing rapidly, supported by major companies such as Boeing, which operates manufacturing facilities in North Charleston. Positions include aerospace engineers, assembly technicians, and logistics coordinators. Lockheed Martin also has a presence in the state, contributing to South Carolina’s reputation as a leader in the aerospace industry. Employment availability and South Carolina’s competitive cost of living make this industry attractive to career-minded individuals.
Considering moving to South Carolina to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in North Charleston or Charleston.
4.Automobile
Major employers: BMW (Greer), Volvo (Ridgeville), Michelin North America (Greenville)
The automotive industry supports South Carolina’s economy with manufacturing facilities for globally recognized brands. BMW’s Greer plant produces vehicles that are exported around the world, and Volvo’s Ridgeville plant builds luxury cars. Job titles include industrial engineers, machine operators, and production managers. The industry’s strong presence boosts the local economy and creates attractive livelihood opportunities for newcomers.
Considering moving to South Carolina to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Greer or Ridgeville.
5. Technology and software development
Major Employers: Blackbaud (Charleston), Benefitfocus (Charleston), Red Hat (South Carolina location)
South Carolina’s technology sector has grown to $51.7 billion, led by innovative companies like Charleston’s Blackbaud and BenefitFocus. Job titles range from software developers to IT project managers to data analysts. Industry growth has created a demand for technology-savvy professionals who seek a balance between career opportunities and a high quality of life. South Carolina’s booming technology scene provides an exciting environment for professionals in the field.
Considering moving to South Carolina to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Charleston or Mount Pleasant.
6. Healthcare and Biotechnology
Major Employers: Prisma Health (Greenville), MUSC Health (Charleston), McLeod Health (Florence)
Healthcare and biotechnology form an important part of South Carolina’s economy and play a variety of roles in hospitals and research institutions. Greenville-based Prisma Health is the state’s largest health care provider, and MUSC Health is a leader in medical education and research. Roles include registered nurses, laboratory technicians, and medical researchers. South Carolina’s healthcare infrastructure continues to grow, making it an excellent choice for healthcare professionals.
Considering moving to South Carolina to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Greenville or Charleston.
7. Logistics and transportation
Major Employers: South Carolina Port Authority (Mount Pleasant), Continental Tire (Fort Mill), UPS (South Carolina locations)
South Carolina’s logistics sector benefits from its strategic location and efficient port operations. The South Carolina Port Authority in Charleston facilitates international trade and creates roles in logistics management and freight forwarding operations. Continental Tire’s Sumter plant adds to the state’s robust transportation network. The industry supports career advancement for those interested in supply chain management and operations.
Considering moving to South Carolina to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Mount Pleasant or Fort Mill.
8. Agriculture and agribusiness
Major Employers: Dole Food Company (South Carolina location), Perdue Farms (South Carolina location), McCall Farms (Effingham)
South Carolina’s agribusiness sector thrives on a variety of agricultural products, including peaches, poultry, and timber. Positions include agricultural engineers, farm managers, and marketing specialists. With a growth rate of 40% from 2010 to 2020, this industry offers ample opportunities for professionals passionate about sustainable agriculture.
Considering moving to South Carolina to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Effingham or Florence.
9. Financial services
Major Employers: Bank of America, Wells Fargo, TD Bank (all based out of state and in South Carolina)
South Carolina’s financial sector offers opportunities in banking, insurance, and financial technology. TD Bank’s Greenville office is responsible for banking operations and customer service. Growth in this sector creates a stable job market and attracts professionals seeking financial security. South Carolina’s low cost of living further supports a strong work-life balance for financial professionals.
Considering moving to South Carolina to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Greenville or Columbia.
10. Energy and utilities
Major Employers: Dominion Energy (South Carolina location), Duke Energy (South Carolina location), Santee Cooper (Moncks Corner)
South Carolina’s energy sector focuses on renewable energy and public services. Dominion Energy’s Cayce headquarters supports engineering, customer service and project management roles. Santee Cooper’s operations are contributing to the expansion of the state’s renewable energy portfolio. Advances in energy efficiency are attracting sustainability professionals to the industry.
Considering moving to South Carolina to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Elgin or Moncks Corner.
