The Charleston region is a center of finance, industry, distribution and retail trade. The region's transportation systems are a major economic asset. Healthcare, finance, automotive, professional services, telecommunications and tourism are important economic sectors for Charleston.
For years the chemical industry has been a major economic component for the region. Chemical companies in the area include Monsanto, Union Carbide Corporation, FMC, Clearon Corp and E.I. du Pont de Nemours. Other industries having significant roles in the region's economy are glass manufacturing, steel fabricating and energy development.
The Business and Industrial Development Corporation provides a variety of services to new and existing businesses. The organization provides assistance with worker training, financing, engineering services, professional economic development and site selection.
In Charleston the sectors providing the most jobs are trade, transportation and utilities; government, healthcare, education, professional and business services, leisure and hospitality, financial activities and manufacturing.
Approximately 38% of the jobs are provided by management, professional and related occupations. About 25% of the workers have sale and office jobs. About 17% of the labor force is working in service jobs.
Top employers in the Charleston metro area:
- US Navy C/O Naval Weapons Station
- Medical University of South Carolina
- Charleston Air Force Base
- Charleston County School District
- Roper St. Francis Healthcare
- Piggly Wiggly Carolina Co Inc
- Robert Bosch Corporation
- Charleston County Local Government
- Walmart
- Force Protection Inc
- Trident Medical Center
- City of Charleston
- Santee Cooper Electric Utility
- Bi-Lo Stores
- MeadWestvaco Corporation
- US Postal Service
- College of Charleston
- Eagan McAllister Associates, Inc
- Giant Cement Company
- Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center
Notable facts about Charleston, South Carolina: Average earnings in 2009: $34,000. The cost of living index in 2008: 94.0 (U.S. average: 100). Adult residents holding a bachelor's degree: 38%.
Some of the helpful organizations that provide assistance to local businesses are:
- Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce
- Charleston, SC MSA Economic Development & Business Location Assistance
- South Carolina Manufacturers Alliance
- South Carolina Economic Developers' Association
- Small Business Administration - South Carolina
The Charleston Regional Business Journal provides news regarding business and the economy in Charleston, South Carolina.