There are many different communities in South Carolina, and each has its own unique appeal.
However, despite the state’s growing population and economic development, several towns are facing significant challenges that are causing their populations to decline.
This article explores five communities that are experiencing a large exodus of citizens, focusing on the underlying reasons and the consequences for the neighborhood.
Bennettsville
The center of Marlboro County, Bennettsville, has a rich history and a lot of southern charm. Nevertheless, its population has been steadily declining.
The population of Bennettsville decreased by 10% between 2010 and 2020, from 9,069 to 8,072. Given the state’s overall population growth, this decline is alarming.
With a median family income of $27,830 and an unemployment rate of 7.5%, Bennettsville suffers severe economic challenges.
The figures demonstrate the town’s persistent economic difficulties as they are much below the national averages.
With a violent crime rate of 7.2 per 1,000 persons, Bennettsville has serious crime problems. With only 72% of the population having completed high school, the level of educational attainment is still alarming.
Orangeburg
Known as “The Garden City,” Orangeburg is renowned for both the vibrant South Carolina State University and the beautiful Edisto Memorial Gardens. Despite these positive attributes, Orangeburg is seeing a worrying trend of inhabitants leaving.
Orangeburg’s population fell by around 6% between 2010 and 2020, from 13,964 to 13,196. The overall growth trend in South Carolina is in sharp contrast to this decline.
With an unemployment rate of 8.2%, which is significantly higher than the national average of 3.6%, Orangeburg is experiencing severe economic challenges.
The city’s typical household income is $30,847, which is substantially less than the $68,703 national median.
With a violent crime rate of 8.5 per 1,000 population, significantly higher than the national average of 4.0, Orangeburg is facing serious crime issues.
The fact that only 79% of high school pupils finish their coursework on time presents difficulties for the educational system.
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Marion
Like many South Carolina small towns, Marion, with its lovely downtown and charming old architecture, has had to overcome similar challenges.
Marion’s population dropped by 8% between 2010 and 2020, from 6,939 to 6,377 inhabitants. This decline is part of a broader trend affecting rural areas throughout the state.
With a median household income of $26,570 and an unemployment rate of 9.1%, Marion is experiencing severe economic difficulties. It is difficult for the community to attract new businesses and industries.
With a violent crime incidence of 7.8 incidents per 1,000 residents, Marion is facing serious crime problems.
Only 75% of high school pupils are graduating on time, indicating problems in the educational system.
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Gaffney
Despite its attractive qualities, Gaffney, which is well-known for its unique Peachoid water tower and rich history, is losing residents.
The population of Gaffney decreased by 5% between 2010 and 2020, from 12,414 to 11,422. For a community with such a rich history, this decline is concerning.
The median family income in Gaffney is $32,384, and the unemployment rate is now 7.9%. These economic difficulties are the main cause of the town’s population reduction.
Gaffney has a violent crime rate of 7.0 occurrences per 1,000 residents, which is higher than the national average. The 76% high school graduation rate indicates that the educational system is having difficulties.
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Allendale
Residents of Allendale, a small town in the southern section of the state, are leaving in significant numbers.
The population of Allendale fell significantly, from 3,482 in 2010 to 3,058 in 2020, a 12% decrease. This substantial drop is one of the steepest in the area.
With a median household income of $23,250 and an unemployment rate of 11.2%, Allendale faces a difficult economic environment. The information highlights the town’s financial difficulties.
With a violent crime rate of 9.0 per 1,000 persons, Allendale is confronted with serious issues. Only 68% of the population has completed high school, posing problems for the educational system.
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