The heart of the Palmetto State.

Explore the Midlands of South Carolina

The Midlands region of South Carolina sits in the geographic and cultural center of the state. Anchored by Columbia, the state capital, the Midlands offers a mix of city energy, small-town charm, outdoor recreation, and historic character.

If you’re considering a move to South Carolina, the Midlands is a great place to start. With top employers, excellent schools, and a lower cost of living than coastal areas, this region appeals to families, young professionals, and retirees alike.

Major Cities in the Midlands

Columbia
South Carolina’s capital city and a hub for government, healthcare, education, and the military. Columbia is home to the University of South Carolina, Fort Jackson (the U.S. Army’s largest basic training facility), and a walkable downtown filled with restaurants, art galleries, and historic sites.

Lexington
One of the fastest-growing towns in the state, Lexington offers top-rated public schools, family-friendly neighborhoods, and a strong sense of community. It’s a popular choice for commuters working in Columbia.

West Columbia & Cayce
These sister cities across the Congaree River from downtown Columbia offer a mix of historic homes, riverside parks, and growing local businesses.

Smaller Towns with Southern Charm

Camden
South Carolina’s oldest inland city, Camden is known for its equestrian culture, antique shops, and charming historic district.

Newberry
A quaint town with a beautiful downtown, Newberry features a performing arts center, boutique shopping, and easy access to outdoor adventures.

Orangeburg
Home to two HBCUs—South Carolina State University and Claflin University—Orangeburg offers educational resources and a rich cultural history.

Must-See Landmarks & Attractions

  • Lake Murray: A massive lake popular for boating, fishing, and lakeside living, just minutes from Columbia and Lexington.

  • Riverbanks Zoo & Garden: One of the Southeast’s top zoos, located in Columbia, with beautiful walking trails and botanical gardens.

  • Congaree National Park: A hidden gem offering hiking, kayaking, and some of the tallest trees in the eastern U.S.

  • South Carolina State House: Take a tour of the historic building and its beautifully landscaped grounds.

  • Historic Camden: Explore Revolutionary War battle sites, historic homes, and seasonal festivals.

💼 Major Employers in the Midlands

The Midlands has a diverse and growing job market across public and private sectors:

Government & Military:

  • State of South Carolina (thousands of government jobs in Columbia)

  • Fort Jackson, the Army’s largest training base

Education & Healthcare:

  • University of South Carolina (USC), a major employer and research hub

  • Prisma Health and Lexington Medical Center, two of the region’s largest healthcare providers

  • Richland One, Richland Two, and Lexington School District One

Manufacturing & Industry:

  • Boeing (Columbia facility)

  • Michelin and Nephron Pharmaceuticals

  • Trane Technologies, Zeus Industrial Products, and other advanced manufacturers

Financial & Insurance Services:

  • BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina, headquartered in Columbia, employs thousands in healthcare and IT services.

Things to Do in the Midlands

  • Stroll along the Columbia Riverwalk or paddle the Congaree River

  • Visit the South Carolina State Museum, featuring history, science, and an observatory

  • Attend festivals like the Rosewood Crawfish Festival, Columbia Food and Wine Festival, or the Okra Strut in Irmo

  • Catch a Gamecock football game at USC’s Williams-Brice Stadium

  • Explore local breweries, food trucks, and markets throughout Columbia and Lexington

Ready to Make the Midlands Home?

Whether you’re looking for a vibrant downtown, suburban living with top schools, or small-town Southern charm, the Midlands has a place for you. With easy access to both the mountains and the coast, it’s perfectly positioned for work, play, and a high quality of life.