Introduction
Located along the Atlantic Ocean, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina is one of the most famous coastal cities in the southeastern United States. Known for its long sandy beaches, vibrant boardwalk, and resort lifestyle, the city attracts millions of visitors each year. Over time, Myrtle Beach has also become a popular destination for retirees, families, and remote workers looking to enjoy a relaxed coastal lifestyle.
Myrtle Beach has a population of around 40,000 residents, while the larger Grand Strand metropolitan area is home to more than 400,000 people. The local economy is heavily influenced by tourism, hospitality, and real estate development. The region hosts numerous resorts, entertainment venues, golf courses, and beachfront communities that support the local economy.
Many people researching living in Myrtle Beach South Carolina are attracted by the warm climate, ocean views, and relatively affordable housing compared to other coastal cities. Retirees in particular often relocate here because of the relaxed lifestyle and access to beachside recreation.
The city offers a unique lifestyle where residents can enjoy oceanfront living, entertainment, and outdoor activities year-round. From fishing and boating to waterfront dining and festivals, Myrtle Beach provides a laid-back coastal environment.
Watch a recent video by a popular vlogger to understand daily life and vibes in Myrtle Beach.
Information in this guide is compiled from publicly available data, official city resources, economic reports, and local housing databases to ensure accuracy and reliability.
Last updated: March 2026
What Makes Myrtle Beach So Popular?
Myrtle Beach is widely known for its beautiful coastline, world-class golf courses, and lively entertainment scene. The city’s long beaches, warm weather, and resort atmosphere attract both tourists and new residents looking for a relaxed coastal lifestyle.
👉 If this city is new to you, use the map below to see exactly where it’s located and what’s nearby.
🌟 Famous Personalities, Sports & Major Brands
Myrtle Beach has connections to several well-known personalities and hosts major tourism brands.
Famous Personalities
One notable figure associated with the Myrtle Beach area is Vanna White, the famous television personality from Wheel of Fortune, who grew up nearby.
Sports Presence
Myrtle Beach hosts the Myrtle Beach Pelicans, a Minor League Baseball team affiliated with the Chicago Cubs. Their stadium, Pelicans Ballpark, is a popular entertainment venue for residents and visitors.
Major Brands & Businesses
Tourism companies, resorts, and entertainment businesses dominate the local economy. Large hospitality brands such as Hilton, Marriott, and Wyndham Resorts operate multiple properties in the area.
Best Neighborhoods in Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach offers several neighborhoods that cater to different lifestyles and budgets.
Market Common
Market Common is one of the most modern and desirable neighborhoods in Myrtle Beach. It offers walkable streets, restaurants, shops, and residential communities.
Carolina Forest
Carolina Forest is a fast-growing suburban area with family-friendly neighborhoods, schools, and shopping centers.
North Myrtle Beach
Located just north of the main city area, North Myrtle Beach offers quieter residential communities and easy beach access.
These areas highlight the variety of living options available for people moving to the Myrtle Beach region.
Housing & Rent in Myrtle Beach
Housing costs in Myrtle Beach are generally moderate compared to many coastal cities in the United States.
Typical rent ranges include:
Studio apartments: $1,000 – $1,300
1-bedroom apartments: $1,200 – $1,600
Family homes: $1,800 – $2,800+
Oceanfront properties and condos often command higher prices due to their location and views.
For individuals researching living in Myrtle Beach South Carolina, affordable coastal housing is one of the biggest advantages compared with other beach destinations.
Rental figures are based on aggregated listing data and recent market trends.
Read our detailed guide on Best Neighborhoods in Myrtle Beach.
Job Market & Business Opportunities
The Myrtle Beach economy is strongly tied to tourism and hospitality.
Major industries include:
Tourism and hospitality
Real estate and property development
Retail services
Healthcare
Entertainment
Large employers in the region include Grand Strand Medical Center, Coastal Carolina University, and numerous resort and hospitality companies.
Average salaries typically range between $45,000 and $70,000 depending on industry and experience.
Economic data is often referenced through the South Carolina Department of Commerce.
What It’s Really Like Living in Myrtle Beach
Daily life in Myrtle Beach revolves around coastal activities and tourism-driven energy. Many residents begin their mornings with walks along the beach or coffee at oceanfront cafes.
The city has a relaxed atmosphere where outdoor recreation plays a major role in everyday life. Residents often spend their free time boating, fishing, golfing, or enjoying waterfront restaurants.
Weekends may include exploring the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, visiting local festivals, or attending baseball games at Pelicans Ballpark.
For many people considering living in Myrtle Beach South Carolina, the combination of ocean views, warm weather, and entertainment creates a lifestyle that feels like a permanent vacation.
Overall, the beach lifestyle is one of the biggest attractions of the city 😊
Cost of Living in Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared with many other coastal destinations.
Cost estimates are derived from official statistics and city-level cost databases.
Typical monthly expenses include:
Rent: $1,200 – $2,500 depending on housing
Utilities: $150 – $250
Groceries: $300 – $450 per person
Transportation: $150 – $300
Healthcare: $250 – $500
A comfortable salary typically ranges between $55,000 and $75,000 annually.
For individuals considering living in Myrtle Beach South Carolina, the relatively low cost of coastal living makes the city especially attractive.
Compared to Charleston, living costs in Myrtle Beach are generally lower in housing while similar in groceries and utilities.
See full salary breakdown in our Myrtle Beach Salary Guide.
Transportation & Traffic
Transportation in Myrtle Beach is primarily car-dependent.
Major highways connect the city to other parts of South Carolina and neighboring states. Public transportation is available through the Coast RTA bus system, though most residents rely on personal vehicles.
Average commute times typically range from 15 to 25 minutes.
The nearby Myrtle Beach International Airport provides domestic flight connections.
Weather & Environment
Myrtle Beach has a humid subtropical climate with warm summers and mild winters.
Summer temperatures often reach 85–90°F, while winters remain mild with temperatures around 50–60°F.
The city enjoys many sunny days throughout the year, making it ideal for beach activities.
However, the region can occasionally be affected by hurricanes during the Atlantic hurricane season.
Climate information is commonly referenced through the National Weather Service.
Popular Hotels, Cafes & Restaurants
Myrtle Beach has a strong hospitality and dining scene.
Popular Hotels
Well-known hotels include Hilton Myrtle Beach Resort, Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort, and Dunes Village Resort.
Cafes & Cultural Spots
Popular cafes include Beach Hippie Coffee and Boardwalk Coffee House.
Restaurants
Local dining favorites include Sea Captain’s House, Hook & Barrel, and several seafood restaurants along the coast.
Sightseeing & Tourist Attractions
Myrtle Beach offers numerous attractions for visitors and residents.
Popular destinations include the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, Broadway at the Beach, and the SkyWheel Myrtle Beach.
The area also features more than 80 golf courses, making it a major destination for golf enthusiasts.
Hostels & Budget Stay Options
Budget accommodations in Myrtle Beach include smaller hotels, motels, and affordable beachfront inns.
Many visitors and seasonal residents choose these options when looking for cheap stay in Myrtle Beach.
Quick Snapshot of Living in Myrtle Beach
Population: ~40,000
Metro population: ~400,000
Median household income: ~$63,000
Average rent: $1,200 – $2,500
Average commute time: ~20 minutes
Climate: Coastal humid subtropical climate
Education & Universities
Myrtle Beach residents have access to several educational institutions.
The nearby Coastal Carolina University, located in Conway, plays an important role in the region’s education and economy.
Public schools are operated by Horry County Schools, one of the largest school districts in South Carolina.
Pros and Cons of Living in Myrtle Beach
Pros
• Beautiful oceanfront lifestyle
• Affordable coastal housing
• Warm climate and outdoor recreation
• Tourism-driven entertainment options
• Strong retirement community
Cons
• Tourism crowds during peak seasons
• Hurricane risk in some years
• Limited job diversity outside tourism
• Summer humidity
• Traffic during tourist season
Despite these challenges, many residents enjoy the relaxed beach lifestyle 😊
Is Myrtle Beach a Good Place to Live in 2026?
Myrtle Beach continues to grow as both a tourism hotspot and a relocation destination. The city offers a relaxed coastal lifestyle, affordable housing compared to many beach towns, and access to entertainment and outdoor activities.
Retirees, families, and remote workers are increasingly choosing Myrtle Beach for its quality of life and warm climate.
For individuals considering living in Myrtle Beach South Carolina, the city offers a unique opportunity to enjoy oceanfront living while maintaining a relatively affordable lifestyle. 😊
🔗 Explore More Cities in South Carolina
If you’re considering options beyond Myrtle Beach, The Urban Living Guide has also explored several other well-known cities across South Carolina. You may also want to check:
Each of these guides highlights what daily life looks like in different cities, including insights on cost of living, housing trends, job opportunities, local neighborhoods, commute patterns, weather conditions, education options, popular areas, and major employers.
With The Urban Living Guide, all this information is organized in one place so you can easily compare cities and decide which one suits your lifestyle, budget, and future plans.