Greater Florence Chamber

Welcome to Florence, the center of what is commonly called the "Pee Dee Region." Florence, chartered in 1871 and incorporated in 1890, was named after Florence Henning Harllee, the daughter of General William W. Harllee, first president of the Wilmington and Manchester Railroad. Florence, the same city that was founded as a railroad town, is now a bustling center of industry, healthcare, education, retail, culture and recreation.

In Florence, you'll find that there is something for everyone. From shopping malls, such as Magnolia Mall and the Florence Mall to the fine restaurants and clubs, to the many parks and cultural events, Florence prides itself on providing numerous opportunities for all walks of life.

Transportation is a major advantage for business and industry, not only in Florence, but also around the world. Florence has a major switching yard for CSX Railroad, and direct rail service to two major seaports in Charleston, S.C., and Wilmington, N.C.The city is strategically located at the intersection of two main thoroughfares, I-95 and I-20, and is also located near several other main highways, which allow for quicker travel for Florentines. The Florence Regional Airport provides daily commercial connections to major southeastern and international hub airports in Atlanta and Charlotte.

When it comes to healthcare, Florence provides its residents with top-notch facilities that meet the needs of local residents, as well as the residents of surrounding communities. McLeod Health, Carolinas Hospital System, Regency Hospital and HopeHealth provide Florence citizens with professional, round the clock, healthcare, technology and service.

The opportunities for academic excellence thrive in Florence. There are numerous elementary and secondary schools, both private and public, which provide quality education opportunities. Francis Marion University, Coker College, a branch of Limestone College, Florence- Darlington Technical College and the Southeastern Institute for Manufacturing Technology provide exceptional academic facilities for post secondary education. The Governor's School for Science and Mathematics, which selects gifted students from throughout the state for a challenging, residential high school program and The International Baccalaureate program at Wilson High School, call this area home.

The opportunities for cultural events, the arts and entertainment abound in Florence. With a local community theatre, local plays showcase community talent throughout the year. The appreciation of the arts abounds in Florence with the South Carolina Dance Theatre, the Florence Symphony Orchestra and Masterworks Choir. Additionally, area schools and colleges provide numerous cultural opportunities for local audiences. The 10,000-seat Florence Civic Center is host for all kinds of excitement and variety in Florence. New to downtown are the homes of the Florence Little Theater and the Francis Marion University Performing Arts Center.

The weather of Florence allows for a higher quality of life for residents by giving them the opportunity for outdoor recreation year round. Lovers of the outdoors truly appreciate the many scenic parks, lakes, rivers and creeks in the Pee Dee region. Golf enthusiasts welcome the traditional Southern climate, which gives them the opportunity for year round play on some of the outstanding courses that call the Florence area home. And, if you are a fan of NASCAR, you will certainly want to visit the excitement at the nearby Darlington Raceway at the annual spring race and at the NASCAR museum.

While Florence County residents enjoy some of the lowest property taxes in South Carolina, they appreciate the gracious lifestyle and affordable housing options located throughout town. With all the advantages of a growing metropolis but with the charm of Southern hospitality, the Greater Florence area blends rural, suburban, commercial and industrial advantages for the 125,000+ lucky people who have chosen to call our community home.

Visit Florence and we think you'll agree that our area is a great place to live. For more information, contact the Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce at 843-665-0515 or email us at info@flochamber.com.