South Carolina Employment Hits Record High in July 2025, Despite Slight Uptick in Jobless Rate

COLUMBIA, S.C. — South Carolina’s employment landscape remained strong in July 2025, with the number of people working statewide reaching a record 2,464,262, according to data released by the S.C. Department of Employment and Workforce (DEW). This marks an increase of nearly 5,000 jobs over the previous month and more than 32,000 compared to July 2024.

“It was another strong employment month for South Carolina with job growth in nearly every industrial sector,” said DEW Executive Director William Floyd. “Employers expanded their payrolls by an estimated 9,000 jobs.”

The state’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate rose slightly from 4.1% in June to 4.2% in July, matching the national rate. This uptick is attributed to more people entering the labor force, which increased by 6,833 over the month, bringing the total to 2,572,017.

Professional and business services led the way in job growth, adding 3,800 positions, followed by gains in leisure and hospitality (+2,200), education and health services (+1,000), and government (+1,600). Meanwhile, the manufacturing and construction sectors saw modest declines, shedding 800 and 600 jobs respectively.

“We’ve experienced another month of positive numbers all around and positive hiring,” Floyd said. “With more than 72,000 jobs still open in the state, there’s strong potential for continued growth.”

Local Focus: York and Lancaster Counties

In York County, the labor force rose to 158,999 in July, with 151,431 individuals employed. The county’s not seasonally adjusted unemployment rate increased to 4.8%, up from 4.4% in June, though slightly down from 4.9% a year ago. The number of unemployed residents stood at 7,568.

Lancaster County reported a labor force of 50,932 with 48,485 residents employed and an unemployment rate of 4.8%, up from 4.5% in June. While the rate remains stable year-over-year, local jobseekers are encouraged to utilize resources offered through regional SC Works centers and job-matching initiatives.

Both counties are part of the greater Charlotte metropolitan area, which continues to experience steady growth. Job sectors contributing to the area’s stability include manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare, with local employers continuing to report vacancies and hiring needs.

Looking Ahead: Workforce Development Month

September marks Workforce Development Month across South Carolina, highlighting education and training programs aimed at connecting jobseekers with local employers. “By promoting education and training programs and other career resources, September spotlights businesses who collaborate with their regional community to create pathways for career advancement,” Floyd said.

Events throughout the state will include job fairs, hiring events, and the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce’s Workforce Symposium, emphasizing the state’s ongoing efforts to reduce unemployment and strengthen the labor force.