Beaufort County, South Carolina

The_Arsenal_-_Beaufort,_SC

Beaufort County, South Carolina

Beaufort County, South Carolina is a county located in the southern part of the U.S. state of South Carolina. As of the 2020 census, the population was 187,117, making it one of the fastest-growing counties in the state. The county seat is Beaufort, and the largest city is Hilton Head Island.

History

Beaufort County was established in 1769 and named after Henry Somerset, 2nd Duke of Beaufort. The area has a rich history, including significant events during the American Revolutionary War and the American Civil War. The county is known for its well-preserved antebellum architecture and historic sites.

Geography

Beaufort County is located in the southeastern part of South Carolina, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the east. The county has a total area of 923 square miles, of which 576 square miles is land and 347 square miles is water. The county is characterized by its coastal and island geography, including the Sea Islands.

Adjacent Counties

• Colleton County - north
• Jasper County - west
• Hampton County - northwest
• Chatham County, Georgia - southwest

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, Beaufort County had a population of 187,117. The county has a diverse population with a mix of urban and rural communities. The population density is approximately 325 people per square mile.

Economy

The economy of Beaufort County is driven by tourism, particularly on Hilton Head Island, which is known for its beaches, golf courses, and resorts. Other significant sectors include healthcare, education, and the military, with several bases located in the county, including Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort and Parris Island.

Education

Beaufort County is served by the Beaufort County School District, which operates several elementary, middle, and high schools. Higher education institutions in the county include the University of South Carolina Beaufort and the Technical College of the Lowcountry.

Transportation

Major highways in Beaufort County include U.S. Route 21, U.S. Route 278, and South Carolina Highway 170. The county is also served by the Hilton Head Island Airport and the Beaufort County Airport.

Communities

Cities

• Beaufort
• Hilton Head Island

Towns

• Bluffton
• Port Royal

Census-designated places

• Burton
• Laurel Bay
• Shell Point

Notable People

• Robert Smalls - An African American politician, publisher, and businessman born in Beaufort.
• Pat Conroy - A renowned author who lived in Beaufort.

See Also

• List of counties in South Carolina
• National Register of Historic Places listings in Beaufort County, South Carolina
• Sea Islands