South Carolina’s workforce is touted as one of the most productive in the country and that translates to both Horry County and Myrtle Beach. Our workers are highly-skilled, reliable, and experienced in a variety of fields, and area colleges and universities ensure there is a steady stream of educated graduates ready to work. South Carolina also boasts the nation’s lowest unionization rate, and Horry County’s specifically is among the lowest in the state.

Horry County Workforce by the Numbers  

• Labor pool – 156,859
• Employed – 139,941
• Unemployment rate – 3.1%
• Union membership – 1.4%
• Average annual salary – $40,605

Higher Education Institutions 

Coastal Carolina University and Horry Georgetown Technical College educate thousands every year and prepare graduates to enter the workforce.

Over the past 10 years, enrollment at Coastal Carolina University has grown; in Spring 2022 there were 9,410 enrollments. The university has a $566 million economic impact on the South Carolina and Grand Strand economies.

Founded in 1966, Horry Georgetown Technical College offers over 80 degree, diploma, and certificate programs. Each year, the institution sees more than 7,800 enrollments, and boasts a 95% job placement rate.

Other educational institutions in Horry County include the Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics, Miller Motte College, and Webster University.