South Carolina offers a wide range of attractions, including stunning beaches, renowned cities, and charming towns. However, there are certain areas in the Palmetto State that may not be as desirable to live in.

Certain towns face challenges such as high crime rates, low incomes, and underperforming schools, which can impact their desirability as places to live. 

According to the latest information from the FBI and other sources, we have identified the least desirable location to reside in South Carolina for 2024:

Union County, SC: Addressing Resident Concerns

Union County is home to 7,719 residents, unfortunately earning the reputation of being the least desirable place to live in South Carolina. Road Snacks believes that Union deserves this title for a few reasons:

• The rate of unemployment stands at 10.9%, nearly double the national average.
• With a poverty rate of 31.6%, it’s evident that a significant portion of the population is facing financial difficulties.
• The median family income in this area is $30,161, which is significantly lower than the national average.
• The city has a significantly higher crime rate compared to the state average, making it a concerning statistic for residents.
• Schools that have a student-teacher ratio of 16:1 and a completion rate of 77% are facing financial challenges and struggling to perform satisfactorily.

Union was once a bustling hub for the textile industry, but over the past few decades, it has undergone significant changes, resulting in a decline in employment opportunities and leaving many individuals without viable prospects. 

The city is missing key amenities such as parks, bars, and entertainment options. The city offers visitors the opportunity to explore its rich history and culture at the Union County Museum.

Other Potential Candidates

Several cities in South Carolina have a low quality of life, not limited to Union. There are other cities in the state that may be considered less appealing to live in.

• Dillon has an alarmingly high rate of property crime and a concerning second-highest rate of serious crime in the state.
• Hartsville is known for experiencing a high number of serious crimes, as well as ranking third in the state for property crimes.
• Darlington has a rather concerning rate of serious crime, ranking fourth in the state. Additionally, it also has a relatively high rate of property crime, ranking fifth in the state.
• Orangeburg has a concerning level of poverty and a significant issue with serious crime, ranking among the highest in the state.
• Florence has one of the highest poverty rates in the state, along with a significant number of serious crimes.

Union County has been identified as the least desirable area to reside in South Carolina in 2024. 

The region faces numerous challenges, such as high unemployment, poverty rates, a low median family income, increased crime rates, and underperforming educational institutions. 

Once a thriving textile city, Union has unfortunately experienced economic decline and is now lacking essential services. 

Other contenders for less desirable living conditions include Dillon, Hartsville, Darlington, Orangeburg, and Florence, each presenting its own set of challenges.

Read also: California’s Best: City Earns Top Ranking for Livability