Moving to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina: Your 2025 Relocation Guide

Meta Description: Discover everything about moving to Myrtle Beach, SC in 2025. From housing costs to job markets, beaches to healthcare—your complete guide to relocating to the Grand Strand.

Why People Are Moving to Myrtle Beach

Are you considering moving to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina? You’re not alone. This coastal gem has become one of the Southeast’s fastest-growing destinations, attracting retirees, young families, and remote professionals alike. With 60 miles of pristine beaches, year-round mild weather, and a cost of living that won’t break the bank, Myrtle Beach offers an appealing alternative to pricier coastal markets like Charleston or Florida’s Gulf Coast.

Furthermore, the Grand Strand region combines small-town charm with big-city amenities. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, or simply a relaxed beach lifestyle, this comprehensive guide will help you understand what to expect when relocating to Myrtle Beach in 2025.

Understanding Myrtle Beach’s Population and Demographics

Myrtle Beach proper has approximately 38,000 residents, but don’t let that number fool you. The greater Myrtle Beach metro area—spanning Horry and Georgetown counties—exceeds 500,000 people, making it South Carolina’s third-largest urban area.

The population has experienced steady growth over the past decade. In fact, Horry County ranks among the fastest-growing counties in the entire United States. This growth is driven by several factors: retirees seeking warm weather and affordable living, entrepreneurs capitalizing on tourism opportunities, and remote workers who can now live anywhere they choose.

Additionally, the demographic mix is diverse. You’ll find young families attracted by the school systems, middle-aged professionals working in healthcare and hospitality, and a significant retiree population drawn by the coastal lifestyle. The median age hovers around 41, slightly higher than the national average, reflecting the area’s popularity with those in their peak earning years and beyond.

The Cost of Living: What Your Dollar Buys

One of the most compelling reasons for moving to Myrtle Beach is affordability—especially compared to other coastal destinations. Here’s what you can expect financially in 2025.

Housing Costs

The median home price in Myrtle Beach sits near $360,000, which represents excellent value for a beachside community. Compare this to nearby Charleston (median $550,000+) or popular Florida beach towns where prices often exceed $500,000.

Rental prices are equally reasonable, ranging from $1,400 to $2,200 per month depending on location and amenities. Naturally, properties closer to the ocean command premium prices, while neighborhoods 5-10 miles inland offer significant savings without sacrificing convenience.

Overall Living Expenses

Beyond housing, Myrtle Beach residents benefit from South Carolina’s relatively low tax burden. The state has no tax on Social Security benefits, making it particularly attractive for retirees. Property taxes remain moderate, and the overall cost of living index typically runs 5-10% below the national average.

Groceries, utilities, and transportation costs align closely with national averages. However, dining out and entertainment can be surprisingly affordable when you avoid the tourist-heavy areas during peak season.

Job Market and Economic Opportunities

While tourism drives the economy, moving to Myrtle Beach doesn’t mean limiting yourself to hospitality work. The job market has diversified considerably in recent years.

Major Employers and Industries

Tourism and hospitality remain the largest sectors, employing thousands in hotels, restaurants, attractions, and retail establishments. However, other industries have gained prominence:

• Healthcare: Tidelands Health and Grand Strand Medical Center are major employers, offering positions from nursing to administration
• Education: Horry County Schools (the district educates over 43,000 students) and Coastal Carolina University provide stable employment opportunities
• Finance and Insurance: Several regional banks and insurance companies maintain significant operations here
• Construction and Real Estate: The ongoing population growth fuels continuous demand in these sectors

Moreover, the remote work revolution has brought thousands of well-paid professionals to the area. These individuals work for companies nationwide while enjoying Myrtle Beach’s lifestyle benefits.

Economic Growth Trajectory

The Grand Strand’s economy has proven resilient. Even during economic downturns, the region’s tourism appeal and low cost of living help maintain stability. Business incentives, pro-growth policies, and infrastructure investments signal continued expansion through 2025 and beyond.

Education Options for Families

For families moving to Myrtle Beach, education quality is understandably a top concern.

K-12 Education

Horry County Schools operates over 50 schools serving the area. The district offers traditional public schools, magnet programs, and specialized academies focusing on STEM, arts, and other disciplines. While standardized test scores vary by school, several institutions consistently rank among South Carolina’s best, including Myrtle Beach High School and Academy for Arts, Science and Technology.

Additionally, private school options exist for families seeking alternative educational approaches or religious-based instruction.

Higher Education

Coastal Carolina University, with over 10,000 students, provides four-year degree programs and has gained national recognition for its business and marine science programs. Horry-Georgetown Technical College offers associate degrees and vocational training for those pursuing technical careers or looking to transfer to four-year institutions.

Recreation, Entertainment, and Lifestyle

This is where Myrtle Beach truly shines. The recreational opportunities seem endless, ensuring you’ll never lack things to do.

Beach and Water Activities

Naturally, the 60 miles of sandy beaches are the main attraction. From swimming and sunbathing to surfing, paddleboarding, and fishing, water sports enthusiasts find paradise here. The warm season extends from May through October, though even winter days often reach comfortable temperatures.

Golf Paradise

With over 100 golf courses in the area, Myrtle Beach claims the title “Golf Capital of the World.” Courses range from championship layouts designed by legends like Arnold Palmer to affordable municipal options. Moreover, year-round golfing is possible thanks to mild winters.

Entertainment Venues

Broadway at the Beach, a 350-acre entertainment complex, offers shopping, dining, attractions, and nightlife all in one location. The Boardwalk and Promenade provides a classic seaside experience with rides, arcades, and oceanfront dining.

Live entertainment thrives here as well. The Carolina Opry, Alabama Theatre, and Palace Theatre present shows year-round, from country music to comedy and magic acts.

Family Attractions

Families love attractions like Ripley’s Aquarium, Family Kingdom Amusement Park, and Myrtle Waves Water Park. Additionally, nearby state parks and nature preserves offer hiking, wildlife viewing, and educational programs for nature enthusiasts.

Healthcare Services and Medical Facilities

Access to quality healthcare is essential when relocating to any new area, and Myrtle Beach delivers comprehensive medical services.

Grand Strand Medical Center, a 278-bed facility, serves as the region’s primary acute care hospital, offering emergency services, surgical care, cardiac treatment, and specialized medicine. Tidelands Health operates multiple locations throughout the area, providing primary care, urgent care, and specialty services.

Furthermore, the concentration of retirees has driven investment in geriatric care, rehabilitation services, and specialized senior health programs. Most major insurance plans have robust provider networks in the area, ensuring continuity of care for those moving from other states.

Transportation and Accessibility

Getting to, from, and around Myrtle Beach is straightforward, despite the area’s growth.

Air Travel

Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) offers nonstop flights to over 50 destinations, connecting the Grand Strand to major U.S. cities. Airlines including American, Delta, United, Spirit, and Allegiant provide service, making weekend getaways and business travel convenient.

Road Access

US Highway 17 runs through the heart of Myrtle Beach, connecting to Charleston to the south and Wilmington, North Carolina to the north. Interstate 95 sits roughly an hour inland, providing quick access to major East Coast cities. Beach traffic can be heavy during summer, but locals learn to navigate efficiently.

Local Transportation

While the area is car-dependent like most suburban coastal communities, a public bus system (Coast RTA) serves major routes. Many neighborhoods are increasingly walkable, and bike lanes continue expanding.

Climate and Weather Considerations

Before moving to Myrtle Beach, understanding the climate helps you prepare appropriately.

The area enjoys a humid subtropical climate with four mild seasons. Summers (June-August) bring hot, humid weather with temperatures often reaching the low 90s°F. However, ocean breezes provide relief, and indoor spaces are universally air-conditioned.

Winters remain mild, with average highs in the 50s and 60s°F. Snow is extremely rare—many years see none at all. Spring and fall offer particularly pleasant weather, with comfortable temperatures and lower humidity.

Hurricane season (June-November) requires awareness. While direct hits are infrequent, coastal residents should maintain insurance and emergency preparedness plans.

Making Your Move to Myrtle Beach

Relocating to Myrtle Beach in 2025 means embracing coastal living without the astronomical costs associated with many beach communities. You’ll find affordable housing, diverse job opportunities, endless recreation, and a welcoming community that blends permanent residents with seasonal visitors.

Whether you’re a retiree seeking warm weather and beach access, a family wanting quality schools and outdoor activities, or a professional escaping cold climates and high costs, Myrtle Beach offers compelling advantages on South Carolina’s beautiful Grand Strand.