10 Major Industries in South Carolina for Job Seekers
Considering moving to South Carolina? The state offers a dynamic economy with opportunities in several thriving industries. Whether you’re watching homes for sale in charleston or apartments in greenvilleSouth Carolina offers plenty of choices. With its beautiful coastal cities, rich culture and growing job market, it is an attractive destination. South Carolina’s major 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 employees
- Prism Health: 28,800 employees
- BMW Group: 11,000 employees
- Michelin: 9,000 employees
- Lowes: 8,700 employees
10 major industries in South Carolina
1. Advanced manufacturing
Major 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 parts. BMW operates a major automotive plant in Greer, while Michelin North America’s headquarters in Greenville supports tire production and distribution. Jobs in this industry include production engineers, assembly line workers, and quality control specialists. South Carolina’s location on the Atlantic coast and infrastructure make it a hub for manufacturing, attracting skilled workers from across the country.
Are you thinking about moving to South Carolina for a job in this industry? To consider homes for sale in Greer or Greenville.
2. Tourism and hospitality
Major employers: Kiawah Island Golf Resort (Kiawah Island), Charleston Place Hotel (Charleston), Marriott (South Carolina locations)
Tourism is a cornerstone of South Carolina’s economy, with its beaches, historic landmarks and resorts looking roughly encouraging $940 million in visitor spending during the summer of 2024. Jobs in this industry range from hotel management to event planning and culinary arts. Kiawah Island Golf Resort is a leading employer offering hospitality management opportunities, while the Charleston Place Hotel offers luxury service features. The industry thrives all year round, making it ideal for those looking for a dynamic work environment.
Are you thinking about moving to South Carolina for a job in this industry? To consider homes for sale in charleston or Kiawah Island.
3. Aerospace
Major employers: Boeing (North Charleston location), Lockheed Martin (South Carolina locations), Collins Aerospace (South Carolina locations)
South Carolina’s aerospace sector is growing rapidly, supported by major companies like 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 a leader in aerospace. The availability of jobs and competitive costs of living in South Carolina make this industry attractive to career-driven individuals.
Are you thinking about moving to South Carolina for a job in this industry? To consider homes for sale in north charleston or Charleston.
4. Automotive
Major employers: BMW (Greer location), Volvo (Ridgeville location), Michelin North America (Greenville)
The automotive industry powers South Carolina’s economy with manufacturing facilities of globally recognized brands. BMW’s Greer plant produces vehicles that are exported worldwide, while Volvo’s Ridgeville plant produces luxury cars. Jobs include industrial engineers, machine operators and production managers. The industry’s strong presence stimulates local economies and creates attractive life opportunities for newcomers.
Are you thinking about moving to South Carolina for a job in this industry? To consider homes for sale in Greer or Ridgeville.
5. Technology and software development
Major employers: Blackbaud (Charleston), Benefitfocus (Charleston), Red Hat (South Carolina locations)
South Carolina’s tech sector is booming at $51.7 billiondriven by innovative companies such as Blackbaud and Benefitfocus in Charleston. Jobs range from software developers to IT project managers and data analysts. The growth of the sector is creating a demand for tech-savvy professionals who are looking for a balance between career opportunities and a high quality of life. With its rapidly growing technology scene, South Carolina offers an exciting environment for professionals in this field.
Are you thinking about moving to South Carolina for a job in this industry? To consider homes for sale in charleston or Mount Pleasant.
6. Healthcare and biotechnology
Major employers: Prisma Health (Greenville), MUSC Health (Charleston), McLeod Health (Florence)
Healthcare and biotechnology are an essential part of South Carolina’s economy, providing diverse positions in hospitals and research institutions. Prisma Health, based in Greenville, is the state’s largest healthcare provider, while MUSC Health is a leader in medical education and research. Roles include registered nurses, laboratory technicians and medical examiners. South Carolina’s growing healthcare infrastructure makes it an excellent choice for healthcare professionals.
Are you thinking about moving to South Carolina for a job in this industry? To consider homes for sale in greenville or Charleston.
7. Logistics and transport
Major employers: South Carolina Ports Authority (Mount Pleasant), Continental Tire (Fort Mill), UPS (South Carolina locations)
South Carolina’s logistics industry benefits from its strategic location and efficient port operations. The South Carolina Ports Authority in Charleston facilitates international trade and creates roles in logistics management and freight operations. Continental Tire’s Sumter plant contributes to the state’s robust transportation network. The industry supports career growth for those interested in supply chain management and operations.
Are you thinking about moving to South Carolina for a job in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Mount Pleasant or Fort Mill.
8. Agriculture and agribusiness
Major employers: Dole Food Company (South Carolina locations), Perdue Farms (South Carolina locations), McCall Farms (Effingham)
South Carolina’s agribusiness sector is booming thanks to its diverse agricultural production, including peaches, poultry and timber. Positions include agricultural engineers, business managers and marketing specialists. Immediately Growth rate of 40% between 2010 and 2020the sector offers plenty of opportunities for professionals with a passion for sustainable agriculture.
Are you thinking about moving to South Carolina for a job in this industry? To consider homes for sale in Effingham or Florence.
9. Financial services
Major employers: Bank of America, Wells Fargo, TD Bank (all based out of state with locations in South Carolina)
South Carolina’s financial sector offers opportunities in banking, insurance and financial technology. TD Bank’s Greenville office offers banking operations and customer service positions. The growth of the sector creates a stable labor market, which attracts professionals looking for economic stability. South Carolina’s low cost of living further supports a strong work-life balance for financial professionals.
Are you thinking about moving to South Carolina for a job in this industry? To consider homes for sale in greenville or Colombia.
10. Energy and utilities
Major employers: Dominion Energy (South Carolina locations), Duke Energy (South Carolina locations), Santee Cooper (Moncks Corner)
South Carolina’s energy sector focuses on renewable energy and utilities. Dominion Energy’s headquarters in Cayce supports roles in engineering, customer service and project management. Santee Cooper’s operations contribute to the state’s growing renewable energy portfolio. Thanks to advances in energy efficiency, this sector is attracting professionals committed to sustainability.
Are you thinking about moving to South Carolina for a job in this industry? To consider homes for sale in Elgin or Monck’s Corner.
