Moving to Myrtle Beach? Some things you should know!
Thinking of moving to the Myrtle Beach area? You’re not alone. In recent years, this South Atlantic coastal city has become a popular destination for families, retirees, and anyone seeking a laid-back lifestyle with an affordable cost of living. Its marvelous beaches, lively downtown area, and easy access to outdoor activities make Myrtle Beach a desired destination. Before you pack your bags to move to Myrtle Beach, here are 21 things you need to know about life in Myrtle Beach, SC.
1. The Grand Strand: 60 Miles of Coastal Paradise
The Grand Strand stretches for 60 miles along the gorgeous South Carolina coast, including Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, and smaller towns like Murrells Inlet. This area is known for its easy access to beautiful beaches, a variety of water activities, and a laid-back lifestyle. The Grand Strand is more than just a vacation spot. If you move to Myrtle beach, you'll have a good place to truly enjoy beach life year-round.
2. The Beaches: More Than Just Sand and Surf
Myrtle Beach is famous for its wide, sandy beaches that attract millions of visitors each year. But if you're moving to the area, you’ll want to know the ins and outs of beach life beyond just the typical tourist experience. Here’s what you can expect:
- Myrtle Beach: The heart of the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s central beachfront is a happening place. Miles of boardwalk, shops, restaurants, and live music venues make up a vibrant area perfect for people-watching and entertainment. The beaches are clean, well-maintained, and have all the amenities you'll need like beach rentals, lifeguard services, and public restrooms.
- Myrtle Beach State Park: Just south of the main strip, Myrtle Beach State Park offers a quieter beach experience. It’s a great place for fishing, birdwatching, or simply enjoying a peaceful day by the water. The park also features picnic areas and hiking trails, making it a fantastic spot for outdoor lovers who enjoy more nature and fewer people.
- Huntington Beach State Park: Located further south near Murrells Inlet, this park is a local favorite. A great beach with fewer crowds so it's ideal for beachgoers looking for a more tranquil spot. Huntington Beach State Park is also a great place for camping and birdwatching, with plenty of opportunities to spot native species.
- North Myrtle Beach: For a more relaxed beach experience, head to North Myrtle Beach. The beaches here are wider and less crowded than those in central Myrtle Beach, and they offer a mix of family-friendly attractions, live music, and excellent dining options. Barefoot Landing, a popular waterfront shopping and dining complex, is located here and is a must-visit for residents and visitors alike.
- Murrells Inlet: While Murrells Inlet may not have its own beachfront, it’s a charming town known for its waterfront dining and the scenic MarshWalk. The nearby beaches, like those at Huntington Beach State Park, are easily accessible and offer a quieter alternative to the busier Myrtle Beach shores.
3. Coastal Weather: Mild, But Stormy at Times
Myrtle Beach’s humid subtropical climate is characterized by hot, humid summers, but the mild winters are amazing. The average temperatures range from the 50s in winter to the 80s and 90s in the summer months. The Atlantic ocean breezes help to keep things comfortable, but tropical storms and hurricanes are a reality during the June to November hurricane season. It’s important to be prepared and consider flood insurance if you’re living close to the water. Nonetheless, if you move to the area, the coastal summers and mild winters will delight you.
4. The Low Cost of Living: Affordable Beach Living
The cost of living in the area varies significantly. North Myrtle Beach is about 12% higher than the national average, with housing being a primary factor. In contrast, Myrtle Beach has a lower cost of living overall, especially in terms of housing, which remains about 32% cheaper than the national average. The slower pace in North Myrtle Beach, coupled with higher home prices, appeals more to retirees and those looking for second homes, whereas Myrtle Beach attracts younger families and tourists drawn by the lower housing costs and lively atmosphere.
5. The Job Market: Tourism, Hospitality, and More
Tourism drives much of the local economy, so the tourism industry provides many jobs and brings in many visitors. But there are also opportunities in healthcare, retail, and education. While the job market is seasonal in some sectors, especially in hospitality, year-round opportunities are growing as the Myrtle Beach metro area continues to expand.
6. Tourism Impact: Navigating Crowded Summers
As a very popular vacation destination on the east coast, Myrtle Beach sees millions of tourists each year. This means crowds. During the summer traffic can get heavy, and popular spots like the boardwalk and beaches can be overrun. However, locals quickly learn the quieter spots and best times to enjoy this popular tourist destination without the influx of visitors.
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7. Outdoor Activities: More Than Just the Beach
Beyond the beach and due to it's mild climate, Myrtle Beach has a wide range of outdoor activities to enjoy. From fishing and boating along the Intracoastal Waterway to golfing at one of the area’s 80+ courses, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the great outdoors. Water parks, hiking trails, and biking paths also provide family-friendly fun throughout the year.
8. The Grand Dunes: Luxury Living by the Water
If you’re looking for luxury living, the Grand Dunes area is one of the most sought-after places to live in Myrtle Beach. With stunning waterfront homes, private golf courses, and marina access, it’s a premier community for those seeking an upscale lifestyle.
9. North Myrtle Beach: A Laid-Back Alternative
North Myrtle Beach offers a slightly slower pace than central Myrtle Beach. It’s a great place for families and retirees who want to enjoy the beach lifestyle without the hustle and bustle of the main tourist areas. The smaller crowds, excellent restaurants, and live music venues make it a favorite among locals.
10. Proximity to Major Cities: Convenient Access to North Carolina and Beyond
Myrtle Beach’s location makes it easy to travel to nearby metro areas. Wilmington, North Carolina, is just a 90-minute drive to the north, and Charleston, SC, is about two hours to the south. For those looking to explore beyond the beach, these cities offer historical sites, shopping, and dining.
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11. Community Events: Year-Round Fun for All Ages
Myrtle Beach is well-known for its lively community events that take place throughout the year. From seafood festivals in Murrells Inlet to live music events along the boardwalk, there’s always something happening. The area also hosts annual events like the Carolina Country Music Festival and the Myrtle Beach Marathon, which draw visitors and locals alike. The events calendar tends to be full, so residents have lots of opportunities to mix and mingle and have fun.
12. Schools: A Growing Education System
Families moving to Myrtle Beach will find a range of educational options. The Horry County School District is the third-largest in the state of South Carolina and continues to expand as the population grows. In addition to public schools, there are private and charter school options. Coastal Carolina University, located in nearby Conway, provides higher education opportunities and contributes to the growing educational landscape.
13. Traffic and Infrastructure: Peak Season Congestion
During peak tourism months, traffic congestion can be a challenge, especially along Highway 17 and around popular tourist spots. The city has been working to improve infrastructure with new road projects and expansions, but it’s something to consider when planning your daily commute or errands. Outside of tourist season, however, the traffic tends to be much lighter.
14. Healthcare: Quality Services Close to Home
Myrtle Beach is home to several healthcare facilities, including Grand Strand Medical Center and Conway Medical Center, providing quality healthcare services for residents. The area has also seen growth in specialized medical services catering to retirees and families, ensuring that all age groups have access to top-notch care.
15. Utilities and Services: Coastal Considerations
Living near the ocean means being mindful of utility services, particularly water and electricity. Residents in flood-prone areas may need flood insurance, and some coastal homes rely on septic systems instead of city sewer services. Additionally, utility rates in the region are generally affordable, with several companies offering competitive services.
16. Wildlife: Sharing the Coast with Nature
The Myrtle Beach area is home to a variety of wildlife, including alligators, turtles, and numerous bird species. While these animals are part of the charm of coastal living, residents should be aware of the potential for encounters, especially near marshes and water sources. Alligators, in particular, can occasionally be seen in residential areas, so it’s important to stay cautious and respectful of their habitat.
17. Shopping and Dining: Plenty of Choices
Myrtle Beach offers a diverse shopping and dining scene, with everything from upscale malls like The Market Common to local boutiques and seafood shacks. Barefoot Landing in North Myrtle Beach and Broadway at the Beach are two popular shopping and entertainment complexes that feature restaurants, live shows, and unique retail experiences.
18. Recreation and Fitness: Stay Active Year-Round
For those who love to stay active, Myrtle Beach is a great place to be. Golf is a huge draw, with over 80 courses to choose from, including some that are nationally recognized. There are also numerous fitness centers, yoga studios, and community centers offering activities for all ages. The beach itself is a perfect spot for walking, jogging, and beach volleyball.
19. Murrells Inlet: A Seafood Lover’s Paradise
Just a short drive south of Myrtle Beach, Murrells Inlet is known as the “Seafood Capital of South Carolina.” Its charming waterfront MarshWalk offers some of the best seafood restaurants in the state, along with live music and stunning views of the marshlands. It’s a must-visit spot for any new resident who loves fresh seafood and a relaxing evening out.
20. Humid Subtropical Climate: Warm, but Manageable
Myrtle Beach’s climate is classified as humid subtropical, which means warm, humid summers and mild winters. While the humidity can be intense during the summer months, ocean breezes help keep things comfortable. Average daytime highs in the summer reach the 80s and 90s, while winters are mild with temperatures often in the 50s and 60s.
21. Laid-Back Lifestyle: The Key to Beach Living
Above all, what makes Myrtle Beach such a desirable place to live is its laid-back, easy-going lifestyle and Southern Hospitality. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet evening on the beach, taking in live music at a local venue, or exploring the small towns and communities that make up the Grand Strand, there’s a sense of relaxation here that’s hard to find elsewhere. It’s the perfect place for those looking to slow down, soak up the sun, and enjoy life by the water.
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Up close enounters with Myrtle Beach dolphins - Click to learn more.
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