South Carolina Payrolls Rose by 10,800 in August

South Carolina workers saw the unemployment rate drop to 4.1 percent as employment sectors added new jobs.

Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Employment

Bold flat-color editorial illustration of a wooden residential building frame, representing economic expansion and regional growth. — South Carolina payrolls grew by 10,800 jobs in August as the state’s unemployment rate fell to 4.1 percent. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Do you feel that economic conditions in your area are currently getting better?

South Carolina added 10,800 net jobs in August 2026, marking a 0.4 percent increase in payroll employment. During this period, the state unemployment rate decreased by 0.1 percentage point to reach 4.1 percent.

Why it matters

The steady rise in state payroll employment reflects a broader labor market trend that can influence household income stability and local economic conditions. While the jobs picture has improved, shifts in residential building activity may impact future housing inventory.

The state added 10,800 net jobs in August 2026, with leisure and hospitality and professional and business services leading the gains. Meanwhile, home values in the state rose 1.2 percent in Q2 2026 compared to Q1 2026, and are up 3.8 percent year-over-year.

The details

Job growth was largely concentrated in the leisure and hospitality sector, which added 4,000 positions, while professional and business services added 3,900 jobs. Despite the overall employment gains, residential permitting activity saw a 4.9 percent decrease from June 2026 to July 2026. Conversely, yearly residential permit data shows a 17.7 percent increase compared to July 2025, indicating a fluctuating housing development environment.

Q2 2025 served as the base period for year-over-year home value growth.
July 2025 was the base month for residential permitting growth comparisons.
Q1 2026 functioned as the base period for quarterly home value growth.
June 2026 marked the beginning of the monthly permitting comparison period.
August 2026 was the most recent month for state job and employment figures.

Money Landscape

The state economy is currently following a growth pattern aligned with the broader post-pandemic regional recovery. This upward trajectory in payrolls and home values contrasts with recent monthly volatility seen in residential construction permits.

Those currently in the job market may benefit from the hiring momentum in service and professional sectors, which continue to drive local employment figures. Homeowners should track local real estate values as the 3.8 percent yearly increase influences potential home equity growth.

The takeaway

The latest data highlights a resilient labor market, though the decline in monthly residential permits is a trend to watch for its potential effect on future housing availability. If you are planning a significant financial change related to your home or career, consider discussing your options with a qualified financial or tax professional.