Affordable living, rich history, and small-town charm.

Welcome to the Pee Dee Region of South Carolina

The Pee Dee is a scenic and culturally rich region located in the northeastern corner of South Carolina. Known for its friendly communities, natural beauty, and agricultural roots, the Pee Dee offers an affordable and laid-back lifestyle—perfect for families, retirees, and anyone looking to escape the fast pace of larger cities.

Whether you’re drawn by job opportunities, Southern hospitality, or a slower pace of life, the Pee Dee may be the right place for you to call home.

Major Cities in the Pee Dee

Florence
Florence is the largest city in the Pee Dee and serves as the region’s economic and medical hub. With a revitalized downtown, strong healthcare systems, and major transportation routes (including I-95 and I-20), Florence is growing while still offering a small-city feel.

Darlington
Famous for its NASCAR track—Darlington Raceway—this small city offers a strong sense of community and local pride. It’s also known for its historic buildings and cultural traditions.

Marion
Marion is a quiet, historic town with tree-lined streets, antique shops, and charming homes. It’s ideal for those seeking a peaceful, small-town lifestyle.

Small Towns & Rural Communities

Hartsville
Home to Coker University and Sonoco, Hartsville blends higher education, industry, and culture. Its vibrant downtown and lakeside access make it one of the Pee Dee’s most attractive small cities.

Mullins
Known for its tobacco history and friendly people, Mullins features historic architecture, family-run businesses, and local events that bring the community together.

Latta
A small town with rich character and history, Latta offers quiet living and easy access to Dillon and Florence.

Local Attractions & Points of Interest

  • Darlington Raceway – One of NASCAR’s most historic tracks and home of the Southern 500.

  • Francis Marion University Performing Arts Center – A cultural hub in downtown Florence.

  • Lynches River County Park – Features trails, a canopy walk, river access, and a nature center.

  • South Carolina Tobacco Museum (Mullins) – Preserves the agricultural heritage of the region.

  • Lake Robinson and Cheraw State Park – Offer boating, camping, and hiking in peaceful natural settings.

Major Employers in the Pee Dee

The Pee Dee region has a strong base in manufacturing, education, healthcare, and agriculture:

Healthcare & Education:

  • McLeod Health – A leading regional healthcare provider headquartered in Florence.

  • MUSC Health Florence & Marion – Expanding healthcare facilities and services.

  • Francis Marion University and Coker University – Major employers in higher education.

  • Public school districts throughout the region also provide numerous education jobs.

Manufacturing & Industry:

  • Sonoco (Hartsville) – A global packaging company and one of the region’s largest employers.

  • ESAB, Honda of South Carolina, and Domtar Paper also have large manufacturing operations in the region.

  • Distribution centers and industrial parks are growing in and around Florence, thanks to the I-95 corridor.

Agriculture & Forestry:

  • The region has long been a center for farming—especially tobacco, soybeans, and cotton.

  • Agribusiness and food processing remain key economic drivers, along with timber and forest products.

Things to Do in the Pee Dee

  • Stroll downtown Florence for shopping, dining, and live music.

  • Attend local festivals like the SC Pecan Festival, Taste of Hartsville, or the Marion Fox Trot Festival.

  • Visit local museums and galleries showcasing Southern art, history, and culture.

  • Explore nature on walking trails, rivers, and lakes throughout the region.

  • Enjoy the small-town pace of life, with community events, markets, and welcoming neighbors.