For outsiders, South Carolina elicits visions of palmetto trees, shrimp boats, wide front porches with rocking chairs, and jugs of delectable sweet tea — everything that makes South Carolina a traveler’s dream. If you’re new or just visiting, one thing you’ll quickly notice is the locals talking about our beautiful state in distinct sections: the Lowcountry, Pee Dee, Midlands, and Upstate. Curious about what makes each area special and why they’re called these names? We’ll dive into the fascinating history behind each region, explore their unique names, and highlight the must-see cities in every part of South Carolina. Let’s get started on this exciting journey through our charming state!

Lowcountry

“Lowcountry” is a term that originally referred to all of the states below the Sandhills (the ancient sea coast) or the Fall Line which runs the width of South Carolina from Chesterfield County to Aiken County. As a result, the section that runs above Sandhills was coined as the “Up Country,” while the geographical region below it was referred to as the “Low Country.” The result is South Carolina has two distinct landform regions, which vary by look and culture. 

When we talk about the Lowcountry today, we’re talking about the coastal plain. This low-lying part of South Carolina is a puzzle of river systems, salt marshes, wetlands, and islands. It includes white sand beaches and national forests of cypress and pine. We’re also talking about a culture rich in traditions, from fish fry dinners to southern hospitality. 

History of the Lowcountry

In 1562, French explorer Jean Ribaut settled in Port Royal and established one of the area’s first colonies. By the late 1690s, the Sea Islands (and British Charles Town–today, Charleston) had become permanent settlements. In 1711, the City of Beaufort became the state’s second oldest city. The city was named after the Duke of Beaufort, one of South Carolina’s Lord Proprietors. 

However, between 1779 and 1781, the British Forces occupied the area around Beaufort. In the years that followed, agricultural production increased. The coastal zone had the perfect environment for growing rice, cotton, and indigo. As a result, Beaufort quickly became the most cultured and wealthiest town for its size, famous for its sea island cotton, a rare and fine strain unique to the area. 

Through the years, the South Carolina Lowcountry was heavily dependent on plantation agriculture. It was also known for its architecture. Lowcountry-style architectural homes were developed in the late 1700s and are still being constructed today. They have proven to be the most efficient design against the hot, subtropical climate of the outer coastal plain. Historically, Lowcountry buildings have been made from timber and will either have a raised first floor or have been set on pilings. This is done to avoid the swampy environment, hurricane flooding, or high tide levels. 

Broad-hipped roofs were also a popular feature and extended over the large and deep-covered front porches that were accented by pillars or columns. It made room for a shaded sitting area. Additionally, large windows were used to let warm air inside the house escape during the evening. Today, most modern homes in the Lowcountry will feature a central breezeway that allows air to flow throughout the whole house, helping to keep cool during hot summer days. 

The City of Charleston 

One of the most recognizable cities in South Carolina, Charleston is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Central in Charleston County, it lies halfway along the state’s coastline. has an estimated population of around 153,000 as of 2022. It was founded in 1670 as Charles Town in honor of King Charles II and was located at Albemarle Point by the west bank of the Ashley River, which is now known as Charles Towne Landing. 

However, the site was relocated in 1680 to where the city is today. In just ten years, it became the fifth-largest city in colonial America. By 1793, Charleston adopted its current name and was incorporated as a city. Modern Charleston is known for its historic sites and architectural beauty. 

The Spanish moss-draped trees, centuries-old mansions, and cobblestone walks are part of its charm. Life in Charleston is a peek into the past with horse-drawn carriages roaming downtown, gas lamp-lit streets every night, and antebellum architecture. However, it’s certainly not stuck in the past. Those who only meant to visit this beautiful city end up staying there for good. It also has a high quality of life, with a thriving arts scene, excellent schools, and a diversified job market. The southern cuisine makes it a culinary hotspot. It helps make the Lowcountry a top tourism region for the state.

Living in the Lowcountry 

Starting in the 20th century, the Lowcountry economy invested in other sectors. Tourism remains a top draw. Much-loved attractions are its historical and cultural sites. Learn about the Gullah culture of the Sea Islands, visit sites of Revolutionary and Civil War battles, and find centers teaching folk arts like indigo dying.

The state also recognizes the environmental importance of its Atlantic Coastal Plain. The state, local, and federally protected or preserved wetlands, and lands are abundant here. These wild spaces are known for their bird-watching, fishing, hunting, and water trails. The subtropical climate allows for plenty of fun and enjoyable recreational activities all year. 

The Lowcountry is a vacationer’s paradise. Its many seaside resorts are a prime destination for tennis, golf, and beach vacations. Hilton Head is an early example of the fine resorts, with Sea Pines Plantation developed in the 1950s. Along with other longstanding seaside communities, it remains a popular Lowcountry destination for visitors and residents alike. 

The friendly locals radiate southern hospitality and charm. This is the region that gave us sweet tea and delicacies like the Lowcountry boil. The food traditions are heavily rooted in seafood, with dishes like shrimp and grits, sweet potato and crab soup, and gumbo.

If you’re looking for other destinations in the Lowcountry area, visit other cities located here. Top choices to visit and live include Bluffton, Beaufort, and Port Royal. 

Greater Pee Dee

Find this geographic region in the northeast corner. Pee Dee is a region with an interesting name and an even more interesting history. The Pee Dee River basin is named after the Native Pee Dee Tribe. With approximately 200 members, they are a state-recognized tribe. 

History of the Pee Dee

The northeastern region was the homeland of the Pee Dee Native Americans, who lived here as a part of the South Appalachian Mississippian culture. They lived in the Pee Dee region between 1000 to 1400 years ago, but a majority of the tribe left for unknown reasons. However, those that remained reside in this area to this day. The seat of the tribal government has been located in Marlboro County starting from 1976. 

Living in the Pee Dee

Agricultural roots run deep in the inland hills. Find pine plantations, cotton, tobacco, soybeans, and various produce growing in the rolling hills. The farmer’s markets here are a true delight with their locally sourced freshly picked products. You can visit some of the farms to pick your own seasonal produce.

Rivers wind their way through state parks, wetlands, and swamps. In fact, those deep cypress swamps are part of South Carolina lure. Local Revolutionary War hero General Francis “Swamp Fox” Marion used them to outsmart and outrun British troops. 

All the outdoor activities are a perk of Pee Dee region living. Find canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, on multiple rivers–the Little Pee Dee, Lynches, and Great Pee Dee. Hike the boardwalks at Woods Bay, or horseback at River Neck Acres. Play golf at championship courses designed by greats like Ellis Maples. Or cheer the drivers at NASCAR’s Darlington 500. 

Pee Dee Cities

Florence is the region’s largest city and sits at the heart of the Pee Dee region. The former railroad hub is a cultural center for this part of the state, with a college, medical facilities, and growing job market. It hosts the South Carolina Pecan Festival and has performing arts venues.

Sometimes included in the greater geographical region are Georgetown and Horry County. This coastal zone encompasses the Grand Strand — a long stretch of beaches that run from North Carolina’s state border all the way down to South Carolina’s Winyah Bay in Georgetown County. Tourism dominates the coastline, where beaches, shopping, amusement parks, golf, and fishing are included in visitors’ itineraries. Because of the Grand Strand’s endless activities and beautiful landscapes, Myrtle Beach has long been a popular destination across the country. Its mild weather, low cost of living, and golf courses with some of the best golf communities in South Carolina have also contributed to the rise in population in recent years. 

Major cities of coastal Pee Dee are Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, and Conway. 

Midlands

The Midlands is appropriately named since it consists of the middle part of the state.  It may sound obvious, but this region is named as such because it is the halfway point between the Lowcountry and the Upstate. It’s here we leave the flat coastal zone for the sandy, rolling hills of the Piedmont region. 

The state’s capital, Columbia, is at the heart of the Midlands. In fact, this region largely coexists with the Columbia metropolitan area, including Orangeburg and Newberry counties but excluding Sumter County. Moreover, the central part of Orangeburg County is considered to be the Midlands, but the western part is considered part of the Lowcountry.

Living in the Midlands 

In recent years, the Midlands has become a huge business center in South Carolina. That’s primarily because of its growing paper, steel, and textile industry. It is a center for both medical supply production and farming. Being home to the state capital, you’ll find some stability in government work. While not as popular as the coast, the Midlands does have some attractions that draw tourism–particularly through outdoor recreation.

Speaking of outdoor activities, a true highlight is the 200 mile-long Saluda River. The waterway has scenic and rustic sections perfect for a relaxing escape. It also has sections with whitewater for those seeking adrenaline. Another waterway is Lake Murray near Lexington, a world-class fishing and vacation destination.  In the southern midlands awaits the top equestrian destination of Aiken, SC.  Horse country winds through the Piedmont Region’s sand hills and pine forests with equestrian trails and show facilities. 

Midlands Cities

Columbia is a cultural center for the Midlands, with its multiple state museums. Over a dozen museums engage visitors in South Carolina’s rich history, the arts, and science. Visit re-created pioneer villages, Civil War re-enactments, and the State House. 

If you’re looking for other great cities in the Midlands, be sure to visit Sumter, Lexington, and Orangeburg.

Upstate South Carolina

The Upstate region is the westernmost part of the state. Some call it the Upcountry, its historical term. Sitting between Charlotte and Atlanta, the Upstate sits in the middle of the Charlanta mega-region. Back in the day, wealthy Lowcountry residents would escape the humid summers for the milder climate of the Upcountry. It’s still one of the top tourism regions in the state.

Since BMW has made investments here, various other foreign companies have settled in the Upstate. Several manufacturing corporations have established their headquarters to leverage the low cost of living in this geographic region.

As a result, major commerce and business take place in the Upstate. Because of this, the Greenville-Spartanburg-Anderson MSA is known to be among the top seven markets for economic development in the country. Moreover, plenty of financial institutions, including the Bank of America, have regional offices in Greenville. Greenville County is at the center of geographical region’s economic renaissance.

Living in the Upstate

Much of the Upstate is either beautiful, rolling hills or part of a larger mountain region. In the northwesternmost corner, the Blue Ridge Mountains slide through the state. Much of the region does feel rural. It’s a smattering of beautiful farms, massive reservoirs, and charming small towns.

In these small towns, cottage-style homes and historic bungalows are within walking distance of parks, restaurants, and playgrounds. Young professionals who prefer to be close to the action can always opt for a loft-style apartment right in the heart of downtown.  Venturing into The Cliffs in the Blue Ridge Mountains will give you a glimpse of stunning homes and provide you with six communities to choose from.

Upstate Cities

Greenville is a city synonymous with the term “Upstate.” It ranks among the best places to live in this region.  It’s a lively city, with more events, festivals, and various other celebrations than you attend in a year. If you’re a foodie, a coffee lover, or just enjoy going around restaurants, you’ll also be happy to know that Greenville County alone has more than 1,000 restaurants. It has a dynamic arts scene and culture that make it a standout city by any measure. It sits in the Blue Ridge Mountain foothills, making it an excellent jumping-off point for adventure. Best of all, the charm and convenience still come with a low cost of living.

Its neighbor, Spartanburg, has 225 sunny days a year. That’s perfect for days spent fishing the lake or mountain biking the trails. It has a South Carolina-designated cultural district with art galleries, studios, and music venues. It’s home to BMW’s racing center and other manufacturing giants that help give it a prosperous economy. 

Upstate Recreation

But across the Upstate, the star is the great outdoors. Find some of South Carolina’s best lakes–Keowee, Hartwell, and Jocasee. Fish or boat here, or hit the rushing rivers for whitewater rafting or flyfishing. Hiking, biking, and equestrian trails wind through the valleys and hills. 

As a climate region, it’s one of the cooler in the state. The Blue Ridge mountain region is higher in elevation, which helps temper summertime heat. It also brings a higher chance of snow and ice in the winter, depending on where you are in the Upstate region. 

If you wish to see other cities that the Upstate has to offer, be sure to check out Clemson, Anderson, and Pickens.

The Regions of South Carolina

No matter which region you’re heading to, South Carolina is a mash-up of geography, culture, economy, architecture, and delicious cuisine! From Oconee County to Beaufort County, the slow and relaxed Southern pace of life provides a unique experience that you won’t find anywhere else. Living in the Palmetto State has become appealing to many people. It’s already a wildly popular destination for tourists all over the world.