Region Rundown: The Midlands
Uncover the Midlands of South Carolina, where dynamic history and lush landscapes are the norm. This is the region where folks get things done! It's home to the state government and many of its public administration industries. It's right inbetween Upstate and Lowcountry, hence the name.
Columbia serves as the beating heart of the Midlands, but there’s far more to this region than just the capital! The first female mayor in South Carolina was Martha Priscilla Shaw from Sumter. Orangeburg is known as the "Garden City" thanks to it's fertile soil and popular festival of roses. The city of Lexington has stood the test of time from before the American Revolution to modern day!
The Midlands is a region for academics, entrepreneurs, and families alike. There's a slice of life for everybody in the center of the state!
The counties of the Midlands region include: Aiken, Barnwell, Chester, Edgefield, Fairfield, Kershaw, Lancaster, Lexington, Newberry, Richland, Saluda, and York.
Governor Henry McMaster (photo credit - Gov. Office)
The Midlands is no stranger to public administration. The state government of South Carolina employs almost 60,000 individuals, many of which make their homes in this region. Public Sector work is a driving force in the economy, both for the state and its capital city, but there is plenty of room for private companies, too. Columbia is the headquarter home for corporate heavyweights like AgFirst and Colonial Life & Accident Insurance Company.
Columbia is the second most populous city in the state with about 140,000 residents. The city is known for its arts scene; the South Carolina Philharmonic calls the city home as does the Koger Center of the Arts, and Metropolitan Convention Center. Looking for a dose of children's education? EdVenture Children's Museum is open to little learners, inspiring the minds of tomorrow in the Midlands area.
Prisma Health Employee (photo credit - prismahealth)
Make way for the healthcare industry in the Midlands! Major employers like Lexington Medical Center, Prisma Health, and BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina contribute to the region's robust economy. Companies in this region are involved in all aspects of this industry, from research and life sciences to chemicals and manufacturing. Companies such as Nephron Pharmaceuticals and Nutramax Labrotories call counties in the Midlands region home.
Did you know the Amazon Industry and Fulfillment Center in West Columbia is over a million square feet? That's enough room for a whole lot of packages! Another surprise? Mark Anthony Brewing has big presence here. To clarify, those are the folks who make Mike's Hard and White Claws. Who knew? All in all, the Midlands central-to-the-state location make it a great choice for business to set up shop and thrive!
The Gamecocks flock to the University of South Carolina in Columbia. Residents are familiar with the campus that sits right beside the South Carolina State House. The University of South Carolina is the largest university in the state, with over 350 programs of study and around 50,000 students.
Major Institutions of Higher Education:
- Benedict College
- Central Carolina Technical College
- Columbia College
- Midlands Technical College
- University of South Carolina
University of South Carolina
The South Carolina State Fair is a highlight of the Midlands calendar, attracting about 400,000 visitors each year. From Ferris wheels to 4-H exhibits, there's something for everyone! Don’t forget the fair food, who doesn’t love a good dill pickle pizza? Speaking of food, the Midlands is home to the unofficial sauce of South Carolina barbecue. Are you team tomato-based or team mustard-based? The only thing sauce lovers can agree on is that it belongs on pulled pork!
It’s no wonder that the Midlands continues to be a beloved destination for residents and visitors alike. With great food, great atmosphere, and great opportunities, what’s not to love about South Carolina’s central region?
