Jasper County Records Fastest Population Growth in the Country
By Lainey Stalnaker, Data Analytics Writer
South Carolina has grown rapidly in recent years, recording the fastest population growth of all 50 states between July 2024 and July 2025, according to the US Census Bureau (the Census). The Census also tracked county-level population estimates, and one county in South Carolina took the top spot for percent change.[1] From July 2024 to July 2025, Jasper County’s population increased 6.0 percent, adding 2,195 people. 33rd overall was Berkeley County with 3.3 percent growth, and 36th overall was Horry County at 3.2 percent growth. A total of 15 South Carolina counties were at or above the 90th percentile for population growth. They are shown in the figure below.

South Carolina is one of the most popular destinations for people relocating from other states, and its population has grown as a result. The figure below shows components of population change in the state’s counties with the greatest numeric increase in residents. These components are natural change (the number of births minus the number of deaths), net international migration, and net domestic migration. Domestic migration is the overwhelming driver of population growth across the state, although there are some exceptions. In Charleston County, for example, natural change and international migration play a bigger role.

Over the last five years, substantial in-migration has been the trend, particularly in coastal counties and in the Upstate. This population growth reflects South Carolina’s strong appeal as a wonderful state to work and live in, with varied industries, a rich and exciting culture, and natural beauty from the mountains to the sea.
Jobseekers and other individuals looking for information related to the state’s labor market are encouraged to take advantage of resources provided by DEW, which can be accessed online or at an SC Works Center.
[1] https://www.census.gov/data/tables/time-series/demo/popest/2020s-counties-total.html
