Hilton Head Island, SC, October 16, 2025
News Summary
At the 29th Annual State of the Region luncheon on Hilton Head Island, Governor Henry McMaster celebrated South Carolina’s significant economic growth and population increase. He emphasized the state’s collaborative spirit, showcasing achievements such as Hardeeville’s rapid growth and projected job creation. Jasper County’s housing development and broader trends of population influx suggest a promising future for the state, which is attracting many newcomers each year.
Hilton Head Island, SC – State’s Growth Celebrated at Annual Luncheon
On Wednesday, South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster addressed attendees at the 29th Annual State of the Region luncheon on Hilton Head Island, emphasizing the state’s significant economic growth and population increase. Hosted by the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce, McMaster highlighted the ongoing success of South Carolina compared to other states.
The governor expressed optimism about South Carolina’s future, stressing that it is unmatched in growth. He attributed much of the state’s success to effective communication, collaboration, and cooperation among its residents. McMaster showcased South Carolina’s natural beauty, including its saltwater, marshes, and live oak trees, positioning these elements as intrinsic to the state’s charm.
During his keynote speech, McMaster lauded the state’s achievements in economic growth, infrastructure development, and housing, further grounding these advancements in South Carolina’s historical progress over the last 237 years. Among the key examples cited was Hardeeville, identified as the fastest-growing municipality in South Carolina, which experienced an impressive 85% population increase from 2020 to 2024.
Future Job Growth and Development Plans
Hardeeville’s Mayor Harry Williams conveyed predictions of 10,000 to 12,000 new jobs expected in the city’s industrial zone over the next decade. Following the luncheon, McMaster held a press conference attributing the state’s charm and success to the quality of its residents, including its law enforcement agencies, universities, and communities.
Significant population growth trends are also seen across South Carolina, with Jasper County noted as the fastest-growing county in the nation regarding housing units. Between 2023 and 2024, housing in Jasper County grew by 8.4%, driven by its strategic location between Bluffton, SC, and Savannah, GA. Major development projects in Jasper County are set to enhance this growth, including upgrades to the Ridgeland-Claude Dean Airport, the expansion of Interstate 95, and the establishment of the TS Conductor manufacturing plant. Another notable project is the anticipated opening of a new Buc-ee’s location in Jasper County by 2028.
Regional Appeal and Population Increase Trends
The growth of Jasper County exemplifies a broader trend, as the Lowcountry region’s appeal continues to rise in a rapidly developing area. South Carolina has seen a statewide population increase of 1.7%, with the U.S. Census Bureau reporting that 62 communities grew faster than the national average. Fast-growing towns such as Moncks Corner and Woodruff reflect this trend.
As national population growth rates are highest in the South, South Carolina has become a significant population magnet, particularly for retirees and individuals relocating from other states. Currently, around 90,000 newcomers arrive each year, with projections indicating that the state could gain an additional one million residents by 2042, raising its total population to approximately 6.4 million.
Conclusion
South Carolina is experiencing a dynamic period of growth and development driven by a combination of historic foundations, community collaboration, and attractive regional features. The state’s focus on infrastructure, economic opportunities, and welcoming atmosphere plays a crucial role in shaping its bright future.
FAQ
What did Governor McMaster highlight at the State of the Region luncheon?
Governor Henry McMaster emphasized South Carolina’s significant economic growth and population increase, expressing optimism about its unmatched growth compared to other states.
Which municipality is identified as the fastest-growing in South Carolina?
Hardeeville is recognized as the fastest-growing municipality in South Carolina, with an 85% population increase from 2020 to 2024.
How many new jobs are projected for Hardeeville’s industrial zone?
Mayor Harry Williams projected the creation of 10,000 to 12,000 new jobs in Hardeeville’s industrial zone over the next ten years.
What notable developments are occurring in Jasper County?
Significant developments in Jasper County include upgrades to Ridgeland-Claude Dean Airport, expansion of Interstate 95, and the establishment of the TS Conductor manufacturing plant, with a Buc-ee’s location expected by 2028.
What does South Carolina’s population growth look like?
South Carolina’s population is growing at a rate of 1.7%, with the U.S. Census Bureau reporting 62 communities that grew faster than the national average. The state anticipates an additional one million residents by 2042.
Key Features of South Carolina’s Growth
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Fastest-Growing Municipality | Hardeeville – 85% increase from 2020 to 2024 |
| Projected Job Growth in Hardeeville | 10,000 to 12,000 new jobs in the next decade |
| Fastest-Growing County | Jasper County – 8.4% housing growth from 2023 to 2024 |
| State Population Growth Rate | 1.7% with projections for one million additional residents by 2042 |
| Communities Outpacing National Average | 62 communities in South Carolina |
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Additional Resources
- WJCL: South Carolina Governor Hilton Head Speech
- Wikipedia: South Carolina
- HousingWire: Nathan Ballentine NAF South Carolina
- Google Search: South Carolina population growth
- Island Packet: South Carolina News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: South Carolina
- Greenville Online: South Carolina Growth
- Google News: South Carolina growth
- Post and Courier: South Carolina Population Growth
- The Center Square: South Carolina News
Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
