South Carolina Sees Gains in Child Well-Being, Still Ranks 38th Nationally

South Carolina is showing progress in child well-being, according to the 2026 KIDS COUNT Data Book released by the Annie E. Casey Foundation. The state ranks 38th in the nation, but recorded the largest score increase of any state over the past five years. The report highlights improvements in family and community measures, including fewer children living in concentrated poverty and fewer births to teen mothers. However, challenges remain, with more than a quarter of South Carolina children living in households burdened by housing costs and a similar percentage living in families without stable parental employment. Children’s Trust of South Carolina says continued investments in children and families are needed to strengthen the state’s future workforce and improve outcomes statewide.