These numbers illustrate the overall Hispanic impact remains comparatively minute in South Carolina. Still, the rate of growth Palmetto State s Hispanic population has tripled since 1990, to a total number of 95,000 residents. Statewide, Charleston County places fourth among percentage of population statewide, with Greenville, Richland and Beaufort counties claiming higher numbers of Hispanic residents. The trend towards increasing Hispanic population share will almost certainly accelerate by the 2010 census, according to Scardaville. Nationally, the number of Hispanics roughly matches the total numbers for African-Americans, he adds.
Current trends point to locations in the Southeast as being more popular with Hispanic immigrants.
An existing network of contacts indicates a certain area is friendly to immigration the population follows. The growing number of Hispanics in the state labor force also is melting traditional racial and ethnic stereotypes away, as the Hispanic work ethic and cultural diversity has blossomed in South Carolina. Throughout the state s business, education and government sectors, leaders are reporting a favorable impression of the Hispanic work ethic and family-oriented culture, reports Scardaville. By reputation, they re here to work. Neighboring Southeastern states have seen a trend towards a huge Hispanic economic impact over the past five years.