Lexington County, South Carolina

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Lexington County, South Carolina

Lexington County is a county located in the central part of the U.S. state of South Carolina. As of the 2020 census, the population was 293,991, making it the sixth-most populous county in the state. The county seat and largest town is Lexington. The county was created in 1785.

History

Lexington County was formed in 1785 from the central portion of Orangeburg District. It was named after the Battle of Lexington, the first battle of the American Revolutionary War. The county has a rich history, with significant events and developments occurring throughout the 18th and 19th centuries.

Geography

According to the United States Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 758 square miles (1,960 km²), of which 699 square miles (1,810 km²) is land and 59 square miles (150 km²) (7.8%) is water. The county is part of the Columbia, South Carolina metropolitan area.

Adjacent counties

• Richland County - east
• Calhoun County - southeast
• Orangeburg County - south
• Aiken County - southwest
• Saluda County - west
• Newberry County - northwest

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, there were 293,991 people, 113,957 households, and 78,123 families residing in the county. The population density was 420 people per square mile (160/km²). The racial makeup of the county was 76.5% White, 15.2% African American, 1.8% Asian American, and 5.1% from other races.

Economy

Lexington County has a diverse economy with sectors including manufacturing, retail, healthcare, and education. The county is home to several large employers, including Michelin, Amazon, and Lexington Medical Center.

Education

The county is served by several school districts, including Lexington School District One, Lexington School District Two, Lexington School District Three, and Lexington School District Four. Higher education institutions in the county include Midlands Technical College and campuses of the University of South Carolina.

Government and politics

Lexington County is governed by a council-administrator system. The county council consists of nine members elected from single-member districts. The county is part of South Carolina's 2nd congressional district.

Communities

Cities

• Cayce
• West Columbia

Towns

• Batesburg-Leesville
• Chapin
• Gilbert
• Irmo
• Lexington
• Pelion
• Pine Ridge
• South Congaree
• Springdale
• Summit
• Swansea

Unincorporated communities

• Red Bank
• Seven Oaks

Notable people

• James F. Byrnes, former Governor of South Carolina, United States Secretary of State, and Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States
• Lindsey Graham, United States Senator from South Carolina

See also

• National Register of Historic Places listings in Lexington County, South Carolina
• List of counties in South Carolina