The Civilian Population (excluding military personnel) within a 30 mile
radius of Florence is approximately 269,103. This is an increase of 8%
since 1990. The total civilian labor force within a 30 mile radius of
Florence has a variety of housing opportunities for everyone, reflecting a
During the newcomers' transition, or simply a visit to Florence, a number of
hotels and extended-stay suites provide comfortable accommodations with an
attitude of traditional Southern hospitality. There are also corporate
relocation services in the area to assist those transferring to Florence for
Many appreciate the gracious lifestyle and affordable housing options found
in Florence, SC. Those new to the area find that they have a variety of
options, made available through low property taxes, affordable housing, a
moderate cost of living and diverse neighborhoods. Whether by choosing to
live by a golf course green or on a quiet lake, complete with a dock in the
backyard, Florence residents thoroughly enjoy the casual lifestyle of the
Driving down oak-covered Cherokee Road gives one a glimpse into the Southern
past, while in the center of town residents revel in older, Spanish
moss-draped neighborhoods. Eighteen buildings in Florence are on the National
Register of Historic Places, and many of the beautiful, old homes date back
During the past decade, Florence's population has increased by 10 percent.
Area builders have kept pace by constructing new houses, expanding
established neighborhoods and opening attractive new residential
subdivisions, many in quiet areas outside the city limits. Today,
homebuilders adhere to smart growth policies. As of 1999, all the
jurisdictions in Florence employed a consolidated zoning ordinance and
comprehensive plan. The plan provides citizens uniform zoning in certain
areas, guiding the way to the future by promoting healthy growth while
Furnished and unfurnished apartment communities flourish throughout town.
Area residents can choose from an abundance of condominiums, duplexes, town
Keep Florence Beautiful, an affiliate of Keep America Beautiful, enhances the
quality of life by improving the appearance of city streets and neighborhoods
through sponsorship of the Adopt-A-Street program. The Rotary Club's Beauty
Trail highlights areas known for flower-filled yards. Florence neighborhoods
also boast amenities such as brush and yard waste removal, mosquito control
In 1998, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) designated the City
of Florence as the first project Impact community of South Carolina. Project
Impact communities commit to building a disaster resistant community through
the partnership of public and private entities. Several committees were
formed to determine and address potential risks that could be hazardous in
the event of a disaster in Florence. Those committees have developed
programs, distributed information and sponsored events citywide to reduce
Not only are the neighborhoods in Florence charming, diverse and affordable,
but they are safe. With living conditions like that, it's easy to see why so
Florence County is in the northeast section of South Carolina, approximately
60 miles from the Atlantic Ocean. The climate of Florence is relatively
temperate with a warm season that starts in May and extends well into
September. Average rainfall in the summer totals about 36% of the annual
total, which makes summer the heaviest of any season. Winter temperatures
are usually mild, but can range as low as 20 degrees. Snow flurries can also
occur, but it is unusual to have any measurable amount of snowfall. Florence
has an average growing season of 241 days, which lasts from approximately
Newcomers have 90 days after establishing residency to apply for a driver's
license. License's cost $12.50 and are good for five years. License plate
tags must be purchased within 45 days of establishing residency. Department
of Motor Vehicles is located at 3102 E. Palmetto St. Hours for the Florence
office are 8:30 am to 5:00 pm. Monday-Friday and on Saturdays from 8:30 am -