Where is South Carolina Located in the United States?

South Carolina is located in the southeastern region of the United States, known for its rich history, beautiful coastline, and diverse landscapes that range from the Blue Ridge Mountains in the northwest to the Atlantic coastal plain in the southeast. The state plays a significant role in American history, being one of the original thirteen colonies and the first state to secede during the Civil War. South Carolina’s economy is driven by industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism, with Charleston and Myrtle Beach being popular tourist destinations.

State Name: South Carolina
Postal Abbreviation: SC
Population: 5.28 million (2023 estimate)
Area: 32,020 square miles
Capital: Columbia
Largest City: Charleston
Statehood Year: 1788 (8th state)
Time Zones: Eastern Time Zone

Bordering States of South Carolina

North Carolina

To the north, South Carolina shares a border with North Carolina, which stretches for about 200 miles from the Atlantic coastline to the Blue Ridge Mountains. The boundary runs through a region characterized by rolling hills, forests, and rivers. Economically and culturally, the two states are closely connected, particularly in areas near major metropolitan regions like Charlotte, NC, and Greenville, SC. Interstate highways such as I-85 and I-77 facilitate trade and travel between the two states. South Carolina’s Upstate region shares cultural and economic ties with North Carolina’s Piedmont, particularly in industries like manufacturing, textiles, and technology.

Georgia

To the southwest, South Carolina is bordered by Georgia, with much of the boundary defined by the Savannah River. The two states share a rich history, particularly related to agriculture and the Civil War era, with historic cities like Savannah, GA, and Charleston, SC, being key cultural centers. The Savannah River provides water resources and serves as an important transportation route for commerce. Key bridges and highways, such as Interstate 20 and Interstate 95, connect the two states, facilitating economic activities, particularly in trade, logistics, and tourism. South Carolina’s Lowcountry region shares many cultural characteristics with coastal Georgia.

Atlantic Ocean

To the east, South Carolina’s border is defined by the Atlantic Ocean, with a coastline that stretches for approximately 187 miles. This coastline is home to popular vacation destinations like Myrtle Beach and Hilton Head Island. The oceanfront is a major contributor to the state’s economy, particularly through tourism, fisheries, and port operations in Charleston. The Intracoastal Waterway runs parallel to much of the coast, providing an important navigational route for commercial and recreational vessels.

GPS Coordinates of South Carolina

South Carolina is positioned in the southeastern United States, with general GPS coordinates of 33.8361° N latitude and 81.1637° W longitude. This location places the state in a region known for its warm, humid climate and diverse geography that ranges from the mountains to the coast.

• Northern Coordinates: The northernmost point of South Carolina is near Landrum, a small town located in the Upstate region, at approximately 35.2154° N latitude. This area lies close to the border with North Carolina and is characterized by the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The region is known for its scenic beauty, with rolling hills, forests, and access to outdoor recreational activities like hiking and fishing.
• Southern Coordinates: The southernmost point of South Carolina is located near Daufuskie Island, a small island located just off the coast from Hilton Head Island, at around 32.0477° N latitude. This region is part of South Carolina’s Lowcountry, known for its coastal marshes, beaches, and historical sites. Daufuskie Island is accessible only by boat, making it a remote but popular destination for those seeking a quieter coastal experience.
• Eastern Coordinates: The easternmost point of South Carolina is at Myrtle Beach, a major tourist destination on the Atlantic coast, located at approximately 33.6891° N, 78.8867° W. This area is known for its extensive beaches, entertainment options, and golf courses. The Myrtle Beach area is a key part of South Carolina’s tourism industry, attracting millions of visitors each year.
• Western Coordinates: The westernmost point of South Carolina is located near the town of Mountain Rest, close to the border with Georgia, at around 83.3535° W longitude. This area is part of the Blue Ridge Mountain region and features rugged terrain, dense forests, and rivers. The region is known for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and whitewater rafting, particularly in the nearby Sumter National Forest.

South Carolina’s coordinates place it in a region that experiences a subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters. The state’s location near the coast also means it is prone to hurricanes and tropical storms, particularly during the late summer and early fall.

Levels of Elevation in South Carolina

South Carolina’s elevation varies widely across the state, from the low-lying coastal plains in the southeast to the higher elevations of the Blue Ridge Mountains in the northwest. The state’s diverse topography contributes to its unique climates and ecosystems.

• Highest Elevation: The highest point in South Carolina is Sassafras Mountain, located in the Blue Ridge Mountains in Pickens County, which rises to 3,560 feet (1,085 meters) above sea level. The summit of Sassafras Mountain offers panoramic views of both South Carolina and neighboring North Carolina. This area is part of the Southern Appalachian Mountains and is known for its biodiversity, with forests, streams, and a variety of plant and animal species.
• Lowest Elevation: The lowest point in South Carolina is at sea level along the Atlantic Ocean. The coastal region of South Carolina includes barrier islands, estuaries, and extensive marshlands. Cities like Charleston and Myrtle Beach are located at or near sea level, making them vulnerable to flooding and hurricanes, especially during storm surges.
• Average Elevation: The average elevation of South Carolina is approximately 350 feet (107 meters) above sea level. Much of the state consists of rolling hills in the Piedmont region, which transitions from the low-lying coastal plains to the higher elevations of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The Midlands region, which includes cities like Columbia, lies at a moderate elevation and serves as the geographic center of the state.

South Carolina’s varied elevation plays a key role in its climate and ecosystems. The higher elevations in the northwest are cooler and more temperate, while the coastal regions experience warmer, more humid conditions. This range of elevations also supports diverse plant and animal life, from the forests of the mountains to the marshes and beaches of the Lowcountry.

Most Extreme Points of South Carolina

South Carolina’s most extreme points cover a wide range of landscapes, from its coastal regions to its mountainous northwest.

• Easternmost Point: The easternmost point in South Carolina is located at Myrtle Beach, at approximately 33.6891° N, 78.8867° W. Myrtle Beach is part of the Grand Strand, a 60-mile stretch of beach along the Atlantic Ocean that is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the southeastern United States. The area is known for its sandy beaches, resorts, and entertainment attractions, drawing millions of visitors each year.
• Westernmost Point: The westernmost point of South Carolina is near the town of Mountain Rest, at around 83.3535° W, in Oconee County. This region is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, part of the Appalachian Mountain Range. The area is known for its rugged terrain, waterfalls, and hiking trails. Oconee State Park and the Sumter National Forest are nearby, offering outdoor recreational activities such as camping, fishing, and hiking.
• Southernmost Point: The southernmost point in South Carolina is located near Daufuskie Island, at approximately 32.0477° N latitude, just off the coast from Hilton Head Island. This area is part of South Carolina’s Lowcountry and is characterized by its marshes, rivers, and historical significance. Daufuskie Island is known for its preserved natural beauty and remains largely undeveloped, with no bridges connecting it to the mainland.
• Northernmost Point: The northernmost point of South Carolina is near Landrum, close to the North Carolina border, at approximately 35.2154° N latitude. This area lies within the Foothills region of the Blue Ridge Mountains and offers access to outdoor activities such as hiking, horseback riding, and scenic drives along the Blue Ridge Parkway.

These extreme points highlight South Carolina’s geographic diversity, from its bustling coastal areas to its quiet, mountainous regions. Each of these locations offers a different perspective on the state’s natural beauty and cultural significance.

Major Mountains in South Carolina

While South Carolina is not known for extensive mountain ranges, it does feature several prominent peaks and ridges, particularly in the Blue Ridge Mountain region in the northwest. These mountains are part of the larger Appalachian Mountain Range, which stretches across the eastern United States.

• Sassafras Mountain: Sassafras Mountain is the highest peak in South Carolina, standing at 3,560 feet. Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the summit offers panoramic views of both South Carolina and North Carolina. Sassafras Mountain is a popular spot for hiking and photography, and the surrounding area is rich in biodiversity. The Foothills Trail, a 77-mile hiking trail that winds through the Blue Ridge Mountains, passes near the summit of Sassafras Mountain.
• Table Rock Mountain: Table Rock Mountain is one of the most iconic peaks in South Carolina, known for its distinctive flat-topped summit. The mountain is located in Table Rock State Park, which offers hiking trails, camping, and scenic vistas. The Table Rock Trail is a challenging hike that leads to the summit, offering views of the surrounding Piedmont region. Table Rock Mountain is part of the Blue Ridge Escarpment, where the mountains meet the rolling hills of the Piedmont.
• Caesars Head: Caesars Head is a prominent granite peak located in Caesars Head State Park, part of the larger Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area. The peak stands at an elevation of 3,208 feet and offers dramatic views of the surrounding landscape, including Raven Cliff Falls, one of South Carolina’s tallest waterfalls. The area is popular for hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking. Caesars Head Overlook provides breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Piedmont below.
• Paris Mountain: Located near Greenville, Paris Mountain is a smaller mountain that rises to an elevation of 2,000 feet. Paris Mountain State Park is a popular destination for outdoor activities, offering hiking, biking, and swimming. The mountain’s proximity to the city makes it a favorite spot for day trips and recreation. The park is also known for its historic structures, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the 1930s.

Although South Carolina’s mountains are concentrated in the northwestern part of the state, they provide a dramatic contrast to the low-lying coastal plains and offer residents and visitors access to scenic landscapes and outdoor adventure. The mountains also play a role in the state’s weather patterns, with cooler temperatures and higher rainfall compared to the rest of South Carolina.

Major Rivers and Lakes in South Carolina

South Carolina is home to an extensive network of rivers and lakes that play a vital role in the state’s economy, environment, and recreation. The rivers provide water for agriculture, industry, and municipalities, while the lakes offer opportunities for fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities.

• Savannah River: The Savannah River forms the western border between South Carolina and Georgia. It is one of the most important rivers in the state, providing water for agriculture, industry, and drinking water. The river also supports power generation through the Savannah River Site, a nuclear power facility, and several hydroelectric dams. The river is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and kayaking. The cities of Augusta, GA, and North Augusta, SC, lie along the banks of the Savannah River, making it a key part of the region’s economy and transportation network.
• Pee Dee River: The Pee Dee River flows through the northeastern part of South Carolina, originating in North Carolina and eventually emptying into the Winyah Bay near Georgetown. The river is named after the Pee Dee Native American tribe and has historical significance in the state’s early settlement and agriculture. The Pee Dee River supports fishing, wildlife habitats, and recreation, with several state parks and wildlife management areas located along its course.
• Santee River: The Santee River is the largest river in South Carolina by drainage area. It flows from the Congaree River near Columbia and eventually reaches the Atlantic Ocean. The Santee River has been heavily managed for hydroelectric power and flood control, with the construction of the Santee Cooper Lakes system, which includes Lake Marion and Lake Moultrie. The river is important for wildlife, including migratory birds and fish species, and offers recreational opportunities like fishing, boating, and birdwatching.
• Lake Marion: Lake Marion is the largest lake in South Carolina, covering over 110,000 acres. It was created in the 1940s as part of the Santee Cooper hydroelectric project. The lake is a popular destination for fishing, particularly for largemouth bass, catfish, and crappie. It is also a major recreational area, offering boating, camping, and water sports. Several parks and marinas surround the lake, making it a key destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Lake Murray: Located near Columbia, Lake Murray is a large reservoir that serves as a primary source of drinking water and hydroelectric power for the region. The lake covers approximately 50,000 acres and is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and sailing. The Dreher Island State Park, located on the lake, offers camping, hiking, and picnic areas. Lake Murray is also home to the Purple Martin Sanctuary, where thousands of birds gather each year.

These rivers and lakes are essential to South Carolina’s economy, providing water for agriculture, industry, and recreation. They also support a rich diversity of wildlife and offer numerous opportunities for outdoor activities. The rivers, in particular, have played a significant role in the state’s history, serving as important transportation routes and sources of sustenance for Native American tribes and early settlers.