South Carolina population soars, leads nation in domestic migration

South Carolina is the fastest-growing state in the U.S., with a 1.5% population increase between July 2024 and July 2025, driven by domestic migration to its climate, economy, and lower cost of living. The state gained 66,622 net domestic migrants in the year, with growth concentrated in 10 counties. Economists attribute the trend to expanding healthcare and technology sectors, reflecting a broader shift of residents from high-tax states to more tax-friendly environments.