Horry County

As of the 2020 U.S. Census, Horry County, SC, had a population of 351,029. The racial makeup was 83.6% White, 12.7% African American, 1.4% Asian, and 2.3% identifying as two or more races. Hispanic or Latino residents made up 7.8% of the population. The median household income was approximately $51,908. The county covers around 1,255 square miles. The population density was roughly 280 people per square mile.

As of 2023, Horry County, SC, has a median home price of approximately $270,000. The county, which includes Myrtle Beach, has experienced a 10% annual price growth. The median rent is around $1,450 per month. Housing inventory is low, with 1.5 months of supply. The average property tax rate stands at 0.51%. Homeownership rate is 74%, and 26% are rentals. The area’s population grows steadily due to retirees and young families attracted by the coastal lifestyle.

Horry County, SC, a significant electoral region, has local, state, and federal elections. Typically, voter turnout varies between 50-70% in general elections. The latest election cycle included the county council, state legislative seats, and federal positions. Key races featured Sheriff Phillip E. Thompson (Republican, incumbent) and challengers. The County Council had seats contested, such as District 10 with Danny Hardee (Republican).

For state-level, Senate District 33 saw Luke Rankin (Republican, incumbent) defending his seat. On the federal level, the 7th Congressional District included Republican Russell Fry challenging incumbent Tom Rice.

Important election data:

• Voter Registration: ~240,000
• Absentee ballots cast: ~25,000
• Polling places: 122

Visit Horry County Voter Registration and Elections for updates and comprehensive details.

Horry County, SC, exhibits educational attainment figures that reveal both strengths and areas for improvement when compared to state and national averages. Approximately 88% of residents aged 25 and older have completed high school, which is slightly below the national average of 90% but close to the South Carolina state average of 89%. Around 24% hold a bachelor's degree or higher, which is lower than the national average of 34% and the state average of 28%. The Horry County Schools district serves over 45,000 students across 56 schools, maintaining a student-to-teacher ratio of about 16:1. While educational achievements mirror state levels, the county still lags behind national averages, indicating room for growth in higher education attainment.

As of the latest available data, Horry County, SC, primarily thrives on tourism, healthcare, and retail trade. The county reports an unemployment rate of around 5.4%, higher than the national average of approximately 3.8% but closely aligns with the state average of 5.6%.

Top Industries:

1. Tourism and Hospitality: Given Myrtle Beach's popularity, this sector is predominant.
2. Healthcare: The region hosts multiple medical facilities.
3. Retail Trade: Supported by both residents and tourists.

In comparison to national averages:

• Tourism/Hospitality: Far above the national average due to regional attractions.
• Healthcare and Retail: Align closely with national trends.

Statewide comparisons indicate:

• Tourism/Hospitality: Much higher than the state average due to coastal attractions.
• Healthcare and Retail: Again, these sectors show strong alignment with state-level trends.

Overall, Horry County's employment landscape is significantly influenced by its thriving tourism industry.

As of the latest available data, the median household income in Horry County, South Carolina, is approximately $55,000. This is lower than both the national median household income, which stands at around $68,700, and the South Carolina state median household income, which is approximately $61,000.

Horry County's income levels reflect its largely tourism-based economy and seasonal employment patterns, differing from broader state and national metrics that may include more diverse industrial and economic activities.

As of recent reports, Horry County, SC has a crime rate higher than the national average. The violent crime rate is 3.90 per 1,000 residents, compared to the national average of 4.0. Property crime is significantly higher, with a rate of 32.49 per 1,000 residents versus the national average of 22.0.

These figures highlight the need for community safety measures and law enforcement strategies to mitigate crime. Always refer to the latest data for the most accurate and up-to-date information.