10 Top South Carolina Industries to Consider If You Work in or Relocate to the State
Considering moving? The state offers a dynamic economy with opportunities in various growing industries. Whether you look at it or South Carolina offers plenty of options. With its beautiful coastal towns, rich culture and expanding job market, it is an attractive destination. South Carolina's primary industries include manufacturing, tourism, and technology, making it ideal for job seekers and home buyers alike.
South Carolina at a Glance: Home Prices, Income and Employment
Top Employers in South Carolina
- Walmart: 36,100 workers
- Prisma Health: 28,800 workers
- BMW Group: 11,000 employees
- Michelin: 9000 employees
- Below are: 8700 workers
10 Major Industries in South Carolina
1. Advanced manufacturing
Main employers: BMW (Greer location), Michelin North America (Greenville), Boeing (South Carolina locations)
South Carolina's advanced manufacturing sector is one of the state's largest, producing goods ranging from automobiles to aerospace components. BMW operates a significant automotive manufacturing plant in Greer, while Michelin North America's headquarters in Greenville supports tire manufacturing and distribution. Jobs in this industry include manufacturing engineers, assembly line workers, and quality control specialists. South Carolina's location and infrastructure on the Atlantic coast make it a hub for manufacturing and attracts skilled workers from across the country.
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2. Tourism and hospitality
Main employers: Kiawah Island Golf Resort (Kiawah Island), Charleston Place Hotel (Charleston), Marriott (locations in South Carolina)
Tourism is the cornerstone of South Carolina's economy with its beaches, historic sites and resorts. In the summer of 2024. Jobs in this industry range from hotel management to event planning and culinary arts. Kiawah Island Golf Resort is a major employer offering opportunities in hospitality management, while Charleston Place Hotel offers luxury service positions. The industry thrives throughout the year, making it ideal for those looking for a dynamic work environment.
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3. Aerospace
Main employers: Boeing (location in North Charleston), Lockheed Martin (locations in South Carolina), Collins Aerospace (locations in South Carolina)
The aerospace sector in South Carolina is growing rapidly, supported by major companies such as Boeing, which operates a manufacturing facility 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 an aerospace leader. The availability of jobs and South Carolina's competitive cost of living make this industry attractive to career-oriented individuals.
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4. Car
Main employers: BMW (Greer location), Volvo (Ridgeville location), Michelin North America (Greenville)
The automotive industry powers South Carolina's economy with manufacturing facilities for globally recognized brands. BMW's Greer plant produces cars exported around the world, while Volvo's Ridgeville plant produces luxury cars. Jobs include industrial engineers, machine operators and production managers. A strong industry presence strengthens local economies, creating attractive living opportunities for newcomers.
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5. Technology and software development
Main employers: Blackbaud (Charleston), Benefitfocus (Charleston), Red Hat (locations in South Carolina)
Driven by innovative companies like Blackbaud and Benefitfocus in Charleston. Jobs range from software developers to IT project managers and data analysts. Industry growth creates a demand for tech-savvy professionals who seek a balance between career opportunities and a high quality of life. With its thriving tech scene, South Carolina offers an exciting environment for professionals in the field.
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6. Healthcare and biotechnology
Main employers: Prisma Health (Greenville), MUSC Health (Charleston), McLeod Health (Florence)
Healthcare and biotechnology make up an important part of South Carolina's economy, offering a variety of roles in hospitals and research institutes. Greenville-based Prisma Health is the state's largest health care provider, while MUSC Health is a leader in medical education and research. Roles include registered nurses, laboratory technicians and medical researchers. South Carolina's growing healthcare infrastructure makes it an excellent choice for healthcare professionals.
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7. Logistics and transportation
Main employers: South Carolina Ports Authority (Mount Pleasant), Continental Tire (Fort Mill), UPS (locations in South Carolina)
South Carolina's logistics sector benefits from its strategic location and efficient port operations. The South Carolina Ports Authority in Charleston facilitates international trade, creating roles in logistics management and cargo operations. Continental Tire's Sumter plant adds to the state's robust transportation network. The industry supports career growth for those interested in supply chain management and operations.
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8. Agriculture and agribusiness
Main employers: Dole Food Company (locations in South Carolina), Perdue Farms (locations in South Carolina), 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 The industry offers a wide range of opportunities for professionals interested in sustainable agriculture.
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9. Financial services
Main employers: Bank of America, Wells Fargo, TD Bank (all located out of state in South Carolina)
South Carolina's financial sector offers opportunities in banking, insurance and financial technology. TD Bank's Greenville office provides roles in banking operations and customer service. The growth of the sector creates a stable job market, attracting professionals seeking economic stability. South Carolina's low cost of living further supports a strong work-life balance for financial professionals.
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10. Energy and utilities
Main employers: Dominion Energy (locations in South Carolina), Duke Energy (locations in South Carolina), Santee Cooper (Moncks Corner)
The energy sector in South Carolina focuses on renewable energy and utilities. Dominion Energy's Cayce headquarters support roles in engineering, customer service and project management. Santee Cooper's operations contribute to the state's growing renewable energy portfolio. With advances in energy efficiency, the industry is attracting professionals committed to sustainability.
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