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 -