Richland County

The Capital City’s County

Home to Columbia, the state’s capital, Richland County is rich in the resources that help the Region to flourish in many ways. Voted as the second-best county in South Carolina for young professionals and the fourth-best county to live in South Carolina, Richland County offers an ideal environment for both work and play. Brimming with talent as the youngest county in the state, Richland County is quickly growing its high-tech industries with the presence of IT giants like PwC, Capgemini and Duck Creek Technology, as well as advanced manufacturers and distributors. With local favorites such as the Soda City Market, this county has access to some of the freshest produce and coolest trinkets in the state. Steeped in history, Richland offers a plethora of historic landmarks for locals and visitors to check out, including the South Carolina State House or a guided tour of the gorgeous homes through Historic Columbia. With a diverse mix of educational institutions, global brands, students and educators, home types, and entrepreneurs, Richland County is home to ample opportunities for job seekers and employers alike.

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Fast Facts

Youngest county in the state

Home to three rivers: the Broad, the Saluda, and the Congaree, which converge within the county

Most educated MSA in South Carolina

Home to South Carolina's capital city of Columbia

Educational and intellectual hub with 8 college and university locations

Rich in Attractions

Whether you’re interested in adventure or a laid-back vacation, Richland County has activities for every interest. Visit the South Carolina State Museum, Riverbanks Zoo & Garden, or the Edventure Children’s Museum for an educational day with the family. For an upscale night out, the ballet or an award-winning art museum may suffice. A day in the sun may include a round of golf, kayaking or tubing, or a tour of a producers-only market or street festival. History buffs can explore the county’s historic districts and plot out plans for a visit using Historic Columbia’s Building Richland County interactive map.

 

There’s no shortage of things to do and places to see in Columbia. For a night of arts and culture, check out the live music at The Senate or Township Auditorium, or enjoy the classics with the South Carolina Philharmonic. Theatre buffs can head to Trustus Theatre for a live show, and an endless list of museums, sites, and tours will keep them busy and impressed. For a day in the sun, head to Riverbanks Zoo & Garden, Congaree National Park, or Lake Murray. Enjoy a night out at Bourbon, Hendrix, in the International Corridor, or hop around from brewery to brewery for some IPA’s and craft beers. Plus, with a slew of free activities and attractions awaiting, the chance to try something new is just around the corner.

 

Want to experience Columbia SC at your own pace? Check out this virtual tour.

 

Looking for afterschool programs, summer camps or other ways to keep your family busy? Take a peek at these opportunities in Richland County and head over to the City of Columbia’s page for even more.

Lush trees surround the quad at USC Horseshoe in the Central SC Region

Booming with Education

Richland County is home to some of the best educational institutions in South Carolina. Approximately 70,000 students attend school in the county’s three school districts: Richland County School District One, Richland County School District Two, and Lexington-Richland County School District Five. Plus, there are 21 private schools and eight higher learning institutions, including the flagship university of the state, University of South Carolina, Midlands Technical College campuses of Beltline, Northeast, and Fort Jackson, Columbia College, Benedict University, and Allen University in Columbia International University.

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Featured Media

March 13, 2025

ALLTAPE Adhesive Manufacturing Inc. selects Lexington County to establish first South Carolina operation

COLUMBIA, S.C. – ALLTAPE Adhesive Manufacturing Inc. (ALLTAPE), a manufacturer of adhesive products, today announced it selects Lexington County to establish the company’s first South Carolina operation. The $70 million investment will create 130 new jobs.   Part of ATP Group and founded in Germany, ALLTAPE specializes in developing and manufacturing sustainable and solvent-free adhesive […]

January 15, 2025

Cardiff Products Corporation selects Lexington County for first South Carolina operation

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Cardiff Products Corporation (Cardiff Products), a beverage manufacturer, today announced it selects Lexington County to establish the company’s first South Carolina operation. The $99.6 million investment will create 94 new jobs. Founded in Canada in 2019, Cardiff Products is a family-owned business that specializes in producing high-quality beverages for the U.S. and Canadian markets. The […]

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