Cities and Towns in Lancaster County, South Carolina

Founded in 1798, Lancaster County is one of 46 counties in the state of South Carolina. Historically, Lancaster County was formed from Camden District. The city of Lancaster is the county seat. With FIPS code of 57, Lancaster County has a population of 100,336 and area of 555 square miles (1,437 km²).

List of all cities in Lancaster County, SC alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Abney, SC 29067 803
Fort Mill, SC 29707 803
Heath Springs, SC 29058 803
Indian Land, SC 29707 803
Kershaw, SC 29067 803
Lancaster, SC 29720 803
29721 803
29722 803
Pleasant Hill, SC 29058 803
Spring Mills, SC 29067 803
Stoneboro, SC 29058 803
Taxahaw, SC 29067 803
Van Wyck, SC 29744 803
White Bluff, SC 29067 803

Major Cities and Towns in Lancaster County, South Carolina

Lancaster, South Carolina

Location and History

Lancaster is the county seat of Lancaster County, located in the north-central part of South Carolina, approximately 40 miles south of Charlotte, North Carolina. The city was founded in 1785 and named after Lancaster, Pennsylvania, which was the hometown of several early settlers. The city quickly developed as a trading and agricultural hub, with cotton and tobacco being key crops in the area during the 19th century. Lancaster also had a significant role during the Civil War, where it was a site for troop encampments and was involved in the war’s economic activities. After the war, Lancaster’s economy shifted towards textiles, with the development of several mills that became a major part of the city’s identity for much of the 20th century. In recent decades, Lancaster has grown into a diverse city with a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial developments. It retains much of its historical charm with preserved buildings and public spaces, while also embracing modern growth.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Lancaster boasts several important educational institutions, such as Lancaster High School and A.R. Rucker Middle School, both of which are part of the Lancaster County School District. The University of South Carolina Lancaster, a branch of the state university, offers both undergraduate programs and continuing education opportunities. Key landmarks in the city include the Lancaster County Courthouse, which is an impressive neoclassical structure, and the historic Lancaster Downtown District, filled with 19th and early 20th-century buildings. The Andrew Jackson State Park, located just outside of the city, is a popular spot for outdoor activities and historical exhibits, offering visitors a chance to learn more about the birthplace of U.S. President Andrew Jackson. Lancaster also features the Southern Methodist Church and the historic Springs House, a grand estate tied to the Springs family, who were influential in the city’s textile industry.

Key Statistics

  • Area: 7.8 square miles
  • Population: 9,000 (2020 census)
  • Zip Codes: 29720
  • Latitude: 34.7255° N
  • Longitude: 80.7785° W

Indian Land, South Carolina

Location and History

Indian Land is an unincorporated community located in the southernmost part of Lancaster County, bordering North Carolina. Originally settled by Native Americans, the area was later colonized by European settlers in the 18th century. It was part of a land dispute between the British and the Cherokees, with the land eventually being granted to settlers in the late 1700s. The community remained largely rural throughout its history, with agriculture being the main economic activity. In the 20th century, the proximity of Indian Land to Charlotte spurred suburban development. The area has rapidly grown in recent decades, with residential and commercial developments transforming it from a quiet rural community into a thriving suburban area. Today, Indian Land is known for its rapidly growing population, due to its affordable housing, proximity to Charlotte, and its location along major highways.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Indian Land is served by the Lancaster County School District, with schools such as Indian Land High School and Indian Land Middle School. The area also has a strong private school presence, including the Lancaster Christian Academy. Indian Land is part of the greater Charlotte metropolitan area and offers access to a variety of educational resources in nearby cities. While Indian Land does not feature many large historical landmarks, it is home to several parks, including the highly visited Indian Land Heritage Park, which celebrates the area’s Native American roots. The park has walking trails, picnic areas, and public art displays. Other notable landmarks include the popular Ballantyne area, just across the state line in North Carolina, which offers shopping, dining, and entertainment options for residents.

Key Statistics

  • Area: 24.9 square miles
  • Population: 28,000 (2020 census)
  • Zip Codes: 29707
  • Latitude: 34.9393° N
  • Longitude: 80.8520° W

Kershaw, South Carolina

Location and History

Kershaw is a small town located in the central part of Lancaster County, roughly 15 miles north of Lancaster city. The town was named after the Kershaw family, prominent early settlers in the region. Kershaw was incorporated in 1888 and grew as an agricultural community. The town’s economy initially revolved around cotton farming and later diversified with the establishment of sawmills and other small industries. Kershaw played a small but significant role during the Civil War, with local residents joining the Confederate Army, and the area’s agricultural output contributing to the war effort. In the 20th century, the town experienced periods of growth, especially with the development of nearby highways and railroads that facilitated trade and travel. Today, Kershaw remains a quiet, rural town with a close-knit community and a strong agricultural heritage.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Kershaw is served by the Kershaw County School District, with schools like Andrew Jackson High School and Kershaw Elementary School offering education to local students. The town is also home to the Andrew Jackson State Park, located just outside the town, which celebrates the birthplace of U.S. President Andrew Jackson. The park features historical exhibits, nature trails, and a museum dedicated to Jackson’s life and legacy. Kershaw is also known for the Kershaw Town Hall and the historic Church of God of Prophecy, which are important civic and religious landmarks in the town. Other notable spots include the small but charming Kershaw Museum, which showcases the town’s history and agricultural roots.

Key Statistics

  • Area: 1.8 square miles
  • Population: 2,100 (2020 census)
  • Zip Codes: 29067
  • Latitude: 34.5891° N
  • Longitude: 80.5976° W

Heath Springs, South Carolina

Location and History

Heath Springs is a small town located in the western part of Lancaster County, about 10 miles from the city of Lancaster. Originally known as a farming community, Heath Springs was established in the 1800s and became a significant stop along the railroad lines that passed through the area. The town’s history is deeply tied to agriculture, particularly cotton and tobacco farming, which dominated the local economy for much of the 19th and early 20th centuries. Over time, the town has maintained a rural character, with a small but stable population. Heath Springs is an example of many towns in the South that thrived due to their access to transportation routes, but have seen a slow decline as industry shifted away. Today, the town is still primarily residential, with a few businesses serving the local community.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Heath Springs is served by the Lancaster County School District, with Heath Springs Elementary School providing education for younger students. The town does not have many large-scale landmarks, but it is home to a number of historic buildings and churches, including the Heath Springs Baptist Church, which has served as a spiritual hub for the community for generations. The town also features the Heath Springs Town Hall, an important civic landmark. Residents and visitors can enjoy the peaceful rural setting, with nearby parks and recreational areas, offering a quieter pace of life compared to larger towns and cities.

Key Statistics

  • Area: 2.2 square miles
  • Population: 700 (2020 census)
  • Zip Codes: 29058
  • Latitude: 34.6236° N
  • Longitude: 80.7450° W