South Carolina Becomes Top Destination for Gen Z Adults in 2024
In 2024, South Carolina emerged as the leading state for net migration of Gen Z adults (ages 18-27), with an estimated 22,843 more individuals in this age group moving into the state than leaving it. A total of 60,223 Gen Z adults relocated to South Carolina from other states, while 37,380 departed. This data, derived from American Community Survey (ACS) data analyzed by LendingTree, indicates a significant demographic shift. Key reasons for this influx include college enrollment, with 44% of in-movers being students, and military service, accounting for 7% of the cohort. Most new residents came from neighboring states like North Carolina and Georgia, with New York, Florida, and Virginia also being significant sources. Within South Carolina, 23% settled in the Charleston metropolitan area, 16% in Columbia, and 13% in Greenville. Common occupations for in-movers included waiters/waitresses and receptionists, while college graduates often studied psychology, nursing, marketing, finance, and public relations.