South Carolina’s Fastest-Growing Industry
Life sciences have firmly established themselves as the fastest-growing industry in South Carolina, boasting a 42% growth rate since 2017. According to SCBio, the industry has an annual economic impact of $25.7 billion and employs over 87,000 individuals, either directly or indirectly. The average salary for a life sciences job in the state is $87,369, significantly surpassing the state average by 79%.
Greenville, in particular, has become a vital hub for medical technology, biotechnology, and pharmaceutical companies within the sector. The area’s appeal has been steadily increasing, with multiple companies either relocating to or planning expansions in the Upstate region. One notable recent addition is Samaritan Biologics, a Tennessee-based medical technology company specializing in human amniotic allograft products. The company announced plans to open a $5 million manufacturing facility in Greenville County, expected to generate 85 new jobs in the area.
Sam Konduros, president and CEO of Greenville City Economic Development Corp., highlighted the economic benefits of these developments, pointing out that life sciences companies offer some of the highest wages across industries in Greenville. “This sector not only transforms our economy but also raises living standards for our residents,” he noted.
A Thriving Talent Pipeline
A key factor driving Greenville’s success in the life sciences industry is its robust talent pipeline. Max Stewart, CEO of the Greenville Area Development Corp., attributed this to the region’s 26 colleges and universities, including Clemson University, Furman University, and Greenville Technical College. In 2024 alone, approximately 923 degrees in biological and biomedical sciences were awarded in the Greenville area, comprising 742 bachelor’s degrees, 149 master’s degrees, and 32 doctoral degrees.
Stewart emphasized the importance of tailoring education to meet industry demands. “We actively work with higher education institutions to ensure the workforce aligns with the needs of incoming companies. Without the right talent, we wouldn’t attract these businesses,” he stated.
The talent pool in Greenville is recognized nationally, with a CBRE report ranking the city among the top 20 markets in the U.S. for life sciences manufacturing talent. Beyond academic credentials, Greenville’s quality of life further enhances its appeal.
Building a Sustainable Future
Leaders in the life sciences sector agree that Greenville offers a unique blend of skilled talent and livability. James Chappell, president and CEO of SCBio, noted that these factors make recruiting and retaining top talent relatively easy. “Greenville’s strong community and quality of life create a ‘snowball effect,’ encouraging professionals to settle here long-term,” he explained.
As the industry continues to expand, Greenville remains at the forefront of South Carolina’s life sciences revolution. With its strategic focus on education, innovation, and community development, the city is well-positioned to sustain this growth, bolstering the state’s economy and solidifying its place as a leader in life sciences.
