how many people live in south carolina

South Carolina has about 5.48 million people as of the U.S. Census Bureau’s July 1, 2024 estimate. The Census also lists 5.37 million for July 1, 2023, so the population has continued to grow.

Quick Scoop

• 2024 estimate: 5,478,831 people.

• 2023 estimate: 5,373,555 people.

• 2020 census count: 5,118,425 people.

South Carolina is the 23rd most populous state in the U.S.