Discover the Best of Myrtle Beach Living: Your Comprehensive Guide
Myrtle Beach is a picturesque coastal city located in South Carolina. It is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, warm weather, and exciting attractions. However, it is also a great place to call home for those looking to relocate.
If you are considering moving to Myrtle Beach, there are several things you should know to make the transition smoother.
Tourism Impact: Myrtle Beach experiences significant tourism, particularly from April to August, with around 19 million visitors. This influx makes simple daily tasks like commuting and shopping more challenging due to traffic congestion, especially since there are only two major highways.
Dining Options: The area boasts over 2,000 restaurants, offering a wide variety of cuisines, including local southern dishes. This diversity in dining was a pleasant surprise and is a highlight of living in Myrtle Beach.
Recreational Activities: Myrtle Beach is renowned for its golf courses, with over 100 options available. Additionally, there are numerous outdoor activities like parasailing and events like the Carolina Country Music Festival which attract locals and tourists alike.
Weather and Maintenance Costs: The local weather contributes to higher maintenance needs and insurance costs. Humidity and salt air require more frequent vehicle maintenance, and the hurricane season (August to December) increases the need for home and flood insurance.
Housing and Lifestyle: Housing options vary from oceanfront condos to family homes on golf courses. The lifestyle in Myrtle Beach is laid-back, emphasizing relaxation and leisure, which is ideal for those looking to de-stress and enjoy a slower pace of life.
Firstly, Myrtle Beach has a strong job market and economic growth. According to Redfin, as of May 2024, housing costs in Myrtle Beach are about 32% lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for those looking for an affordable place to live. The city also has top-rated schools, positive job growth, and a low unemployment rate, making it a great place for young professionals, families, and retirees alike. Furthermore, the city has a thriving business community, with several industries such as healthcare, tourism, and manufacturing, providing ample job opportunities.
Why Move to Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach is a city located in the northeastern part of South Carolina, USA. It is known for its beautiful beaches, a wide range of entertainment options, and a warm climate that attracts thousands of visitors every year. If you are considering relocating to Myrtle Beach, here are some reasons why you should:
Weather and Climate
Myrtle Beach has a subtropical climate, which means that it enjoys warm weather throughout most of the year. The average temperature in Myrtle Beach ranges from 57°F to 61°F during the winter months and from 82°F to 87°F during the summer months. The city receives plenty of sunshine, and the humidity levels are relatively high. The warm weather and mild winters make Myrtle Beach an ideal location for people who enjoy outdoor activities.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Myrtle Beach is relatively low compared to other cities in the United States. According to Redfin, the cost of living in Myrtle Beach is 8% lower than the national average. The median home price in Myrtle Beach is $237,000, which is affordable for most people. The city also has a low tax rate, which makes it an attractive destination for retirees.
Quality of Life
Myrtle Beach is a vibrant city that offers a wide range of entertainment options. The city has over 60 miles of beaches, which are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. The city also has several golf courses, shopping centers, and restaurants. The healthcare system in Myrtle Beach is excellent, and the city has several hospitals and medical centers. The crime rate in Myrtle Beach is relatively low compared to other cities in the United States, which makes it a safe place to live.
In summary, Myrtle Beach is an excellent place to live for people who enjoy warm weather, outdoor activities, and a low cost of living. The city offers a high quality of life, and it is an attractive destination for retirees and families.
Preparing for the Move
Moving to a new city can be both exciting and daunting. Preparing for the move is an essential step to ensure a smooth transition. Here are some things to consider before moving to Myrtle Beach.
Budgeting for the Move
One of the first things to consider when preparing for a move is the budget. Moving can be expensive, and it is essential to have a clear understanding of the costs involved. Some of the costs to consider include:
Moving company fees
Packing supplies
Transportation costs
Utility deposits
Rent or mortgage payments
Creating a budget and sticking to it can help alleviate stress and prevent overspending.
Finding a Place to Live
Finding a place to live is another critical step in preparing for a move to Myrtle Beach. The city offers a variety of housing options, including apartments, condos, and houses. It is important to consider factors such as location, amenities, and cost when searching for a place to live.
One helpful resource for finding a place to live is online rental websites such as Home & Money and Sanelo. These websites offer a variety of listings and can help narrow down the search.
Moving Logistics
Once a budget has been created and a place to live has been secured, it is time to consider the logistics of the move. Hiring a reputable moving company can help alleviate stress and ensure that belongings arrive safely and on time.
It is also important to consider the timing of the move. Myrtle Beach experiences peak tourist season during the summer months, and moving during this time can be more challenging. Planning the move during the off-season can help avoid traffic and crowds.
In conclusion, preparing for a move to Myrtle Beach involves budgeting, finding a place to live, and considering the logistics of the move. Taking these steps can help ensure a smooth transition to this beautiful coastal city.
Living in Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach is a beautiful coastal city located in South Carolina. It is a popular tourist destination due to its stunning beaches, warm weather, and numerous attractions. However, it is also a great place to live for those who are looking for a relaxed lifestyle with plenty of amenities. Below are some of the key aspects of living in Myrtle Beach.
Education System
Myrtle Beach has a good education system, with several public and private schools to choose from. The Horry County School District is the largest school district in the area, serving over 45,000 students. There are also several private schools in the area, including Christian Academy and Myrtle Beach Christian School. For higher education, Coastal Carolina University is located in Conway, just a short drive from Myrtle Beach.
Employment Opportunities
Myrtle Beach has a thriving economy, with a variety of employment opportunities available. The tourism industry is the largest employer in the area, with many jobs in hotels, restaurants, and other attractions. There are also opportunities in healthcare, education, and retail. Some of the largest employers in the area include Horry County Schools, Tidelands Health, and Coastal Carolina University.
Healthcare Facilities
Myrtle Beach has several healthcare facilities to choose from, including hospitals, clinics, and urgent care centers. The largest hospital in the area is Grand Strand Medical Center, which has over 300 beds and offers a wide range of services. Other hospitals in the area include Tidelands Waccamaw Community Hospital and Conway Medical Center.
Transportation Options
Myrtle Beach has several transportation options available, including public transportation, taxis, and ridesharing services. The Coast RTA is the public transportation system in the area, offering bus service throughout Horry County. Taxis and ridesharing services such as Uber and Lyft are also available. For those who prefer to drive, Myrtle Beach has several major highways that connect the city to other parts of South Carolina and beyond.
Overall, Myrtle Beach is a great place to live with plenty of amenities and attractions. The education system is good, there are many employment opportunities available, healthcare facilities are easily accessible, and transportation options are abundant.
Real Estate in Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach is a popular destination for those looking to buy or rent a property. With its beautiful beaches, warm weather, and vibrant community, it's no surprise that many people are interested in living here. In this section, we'll take a closer look at the real estate market in Myrtle Beach and what you need to know before making a decision.
Buying vs. Renting
One of the first decisions you'll need to make when looking for a property in Myrtle Beach is whether to buy or rent. Both options have their pros and cons, and the right choice will depend on your personal circumstances.
Buying a property can be a good investment in the long run, and you'll have more control over your living space. However, it also comes with additional responsibilities such as property taxes, maintenance, and repairs. On the other hand, renting can be a more flexible option, and you won't have to worry about these additional costs.
Property Market Trends
The Myrtle Beach real estate market has been growing steadily over the past few years, with a wide range of properties available for buyers and renters. According to Realtor.com, the median home price in Myrtle Beach is $270,000. However, prices can vary widely depending on the location, size, and condition of the property.
In recent years, there has been a trend towards new construction, with many developers building new homes and condos in the area. This has led to a wider range of properties available for buyers and renters, as well as increased competition in the market.
Neighborhoods to Consider
When looking for a property in Myrtle Beach, it's important to consider the different neighborhoods and their unique characteristics. Some popular neighborhoods include:
North Myrtle Beach: Located just north of the city, this area is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and quieter beaches. It's a popular choice for those looking for a more relaxed lifestyle.
Downtown Myrtle Beach: This area is known for its vibrant nightlife and entertainment options. It's a popular choice for younger buyers and renters who want to be close to the action.
Surfside Beach: Located just south of Myrtle Beach, this area is known for its small-town feel and family-friendly atmosphere. It's a popular choice for those looking for a quieter, more laid-back lifestyle.
Overall, Myrtle Beach offers a wide range of real estate options for buyers and renters. Whether you're looking for a condo on the beach or a single-family home in a quiet neighborhood, there's something for everyone here.
Lifestyle and Recreation
Myrtle Beach is known for its vibrant and active lifestyle. With a plethora of cultural attractions, outdoor activities, and community events, residents of Myrtle Beach have plenty of options to keep them entertained.
Cultural Attractions
Myrtle Beach is home to a variety of cultural attractions, including the Myrtle Beach Art Museum, the Franklin G. Burroughs-Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum, and the Carolina Opry. These attractions offer residents a chance to explore the arts and learn about the history of the area.
Outdoor Activities
Myrtle Beach is famous for its miles of pristine coastline, making it an ideal location for outdoor activities such as swimming, surfing, and fishing. Residents can also take advantage of the many parks and nature reserves in the area, including the Myrtle Beach State Park and the Huntington Beach State Park. These parks offer hiking trails, camping sites, and picnic areas, making them perfect for a day out with family and friends.
Community Events
Myrtle Beach is a tight-knit community that values its residents. Throughout the year, the city hosts a variety of community events, including the Myrtle Beach Bike Week, the Myrtle Beach Seafood Festival, and the Myrtle Beach Marathon. These events bring residents together to celebrate their community, enjoy local food and entertainment, and have fun.
Overall, Myrtle Beach offers residents a vibrant and active lifestyle with plenty of options for cultural exploration, outdoor activities, and community events.
Challenges and Considerations
Weather-Related Concerns
Myrtle Beach has a humid subtropical climate, which means that summers are hot and humid, and winters are mild. However, the city is prone to hurricanes and tropical storms, which can cause flooding and damage to homes and businesses. It is important for new residents to be aware of the potential risks and to take necessary precautions, such as having flood insurance and following evacuation orders if necessary.
Tourism Impact on Local Life
Myrtle Beach is a popular tourist destination, with millions of visitors each year. While this can bring economic benefits to the area, it can also have a significant impact on the daily lives of residents. During peak tourist season, traffic can be heavy and beaches and other attractions can be crowded. Additionally, some neighborhoods that are popular with tourists may experience noise and other disturbances. Residents should take these factors into consideration when choosing where to live in Myrtle Beach.
Overall, while there are certainly challenges and considerations to keep in mind when moving to Myrtle Beach, the city offers many benefits as well, including a lower cost of living compared to many other coastal areas, a strong job market, and a wide range of recreational activities. By doing their research and being prepared, new residents can make a smooth transition to life in this vibrant and exciting city.
About Samantha Marksberry SC Realtor:
Hello, I'm Samantha Marksberry, your local Realtor in Horry County, South Carolina, specializing in the Myrtle Beach area. With a decade of full-time residency and a lifetime of cherished vacations here, I am deeply committed to helping clients realize their dream of living in our vibrant beach community. My extensive background in sales and customer service, paired with my passion for interior design, uniquely positions me to guide you through buying your first home, upgrading to your forever home, or investing in a vacation property. As a dedicated mother of two who loves to travel, I value experiences that drive excellence. I'm excited to assist you in your real estate journey and look forward to meeting you soon!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the pros and cons of living in Myrtle Beach?
Moving to Myrtle Beach has its advantages and disadvantages. The city has a low cost of living, beautiful beaches, and a warm climate year-round. However, the city's population is growing rapidly, leading to increased traffic and congestion. Additionally, Myrtle Beach is a tourist destination, so the beaches can become crowded during peak season.
What should I consider before retiring in Myrtle Beach?
Myrtle Beach is a popular retirement destination due to its mild climate, low cost of living, and abundance of golf courses. However, retirees should consider the potential downsides of living in a tourist destination, such as increased traffic and noise during peak season.
How does the cost of living in Myrtle Beach compare to other coastal cities?
Compared to other coastal cities, Myrtle Beach has a lower cost of living. The city's housing prices are below the national average, and the cost of groceries and healthcare is also lower than in other coastal cities.
What are the common reasons people cite for moving to Myrtle Beach?
People move to Myrtle Beach for various reasons, including the warm climate, beautiful beaches, and abundance of outdoor activities. The city also has a low cost of living, making it an attractive destination for retirees and families.
What are the potential downsides of relocating to Myrtle Beach?
One potential downside of relocating to Myrtle Beach is the city's rapid population growth, which can lead to increased traffic and congestion. Additionally, the city's economy is heavily reliant on tourism, which can lead to job insecurity for some residents.
How do current residents describe their experience living in Myrtle Beach?
Current residents of Myrtle Beach generally enjoy the city's warm climate, beautiful beaches, and abundance of outdoor activities. However, some residents express frustration with the city's rapid growth and increased traffic. Overall, residents describe their experience living in Myrtle Beach as positive.
