Leaving a landlocked or non‑beachfront town for the Myrtle Beach area is a big lifestyle upgrade—but it also comes with new logistics, costs, and expectations. Whether you’re coming from a small rural community or a big inland city, this guide walks through what changes, what stays familiar, and how to make your move as stress‑free as possible.
Quick Answer: Is Moving to Myrtle Beach from a Non‑Beach Town Worth It?
Moving to the Myrtle Beach area from a non‑beachfront town can offer a lower cost of living than many coastal markets, plus year‑round beach access, golf, and entertainment—but you’ll want to prepare for humidity, tourist traffic, hurricane season, and higher insurance in some areas. The key to a smooth transition is choosing the right neighborhood (oceanfront vs. west of the Intracoastal), understanding local costs, and planning ahead for utilities, licensing, and schools so you can actually enjoy the coastal lifestyle you’re chasing.
What Makes Myrtle Beach Different from Non‑Beach Towns?
The Myrtle Beach area (often called the Grand Strand) stretches along 60 miles of coastline, with beach communities on the ocean side and more suburban and rural neighborhoods west of the Intracoastal Waterway. If you’re used to a typical suburban or small‑town feel, you’ll find a unique mix of resort energy, beach town charm, and fast‑growing residential areas.
Major lifestyle differences you’ll notice:
- Tourism is a year‑round factor now, not just a vacation you take once a year.
- The beach, waterways, and outdoor recreation become part of everyday life instead of a special occasion trip.
- You’ll plan around peak visitor seasons, especially if you work near or travel through resort corridors.
FAQ: Is Myrtle Beach super “touristy” all the time?
The central Myrtle Beach strip is heavily tourist‑oriented, but many locals live in quieter residential pockets like Carolina Forest, Forestbrook, Socastee, and other west‑of‑the‑waterway or neighboring communities. If you want more “everyday life” and less neon, choosing the right neighborhood makes a huge difference.
Cost of Living: How Does It Compare?
If you’re moving from a high‑cost inland city or expensive metro, the Myrtle Beach area often feels surprisingly affordable—especially for a coastal region. Overall cost of living sits below the national average, with housing still more attainable than many East Coast beach markets.
Key cost notes when coming from a non‑beachfront area:
- Housing: Median home prices in the Myrtle Beach area are generally in the low‑to‑mid $300,000s, often lower than similar East Coast coastal destinations. Prices trend higher east of the Intracoastal (closer to the ocean) and more budget‑friendly west of it.
- Utilities & Everyday Expenses: Utility costs are in line with or slightly below national averages, while groceries can run a bit higher than average, which is common in coastal markets.
- Property Taxes: South Carolina property taxes are typically lower than many northern and western states, and local residents can take advantage of exemptions that reduce the bill further.
FAQ: Is it really cheaper to live at the beach?
Compared to many coastal cities, yes—the Myrtle Beach area often offers lower housing and tax costs, but insurance, flood risk, and certain oceanfront premiums can raise your overall budget if you insist on being right on the water.
Neighborhoods: Oceanfront vs. West of the Waterway
Coming from a non‑beachfront town, you’ll face a decision you likely haven’t dealt with before: whether to live right by the ocean, near it, or comfortably inland.
Broadly, you can think of the area in zones:
- Oceanfront and East of the Intracoastal: Closer to the sand, more tourist traffic, more short‑term rentals nearby, generally higher home and insurance costs, and more walkable beach access.
- West of the Intracoastal (Carolina Forest, Conway‑side communities, etc.): More traditional suburban feel, master‑planned neighborhoods, often better value per square foot, and still within a short drive of the beach.
Many relocation guides highlight master‑planned communities, townhome developments, and mixed‑use neighborhoods with amenities like pools, walking trails, and clubhouses, which can feel familiar if you’re coming from a modern suburban development.
FAQ: Where do “real locals” live?
Long‑time residents and full‑timers are spread throughout the area—from neighborhoods within Myrtle Beach city limits to surrounding areas like Carolina Forest, Socastee, Conway, Surfside Beach, Murrells Inlet, and beyond. Choosing between these often comes down to commute needs, school preferences, budget, and how close you truly want to be to the ocean.
Weather, Hurricanes, and Coastal Reality
If your current hometown doesn’t deal with tropical systems, moving to Myrtle Beach adds a new weather vocabulary: hurricane season, storm surge, and flood zones. Summers are hot and humid with plenty of sunshine, while winters are milder than many inland or northern cities, often making outdoor living possible year‑round.
Coastal realities to plan for:
- Hurricane Season: Runs roughly from June through November; you’ll want an evacuation plan, storm prep kit, and solid insurance coverage if you’re in higher‑risk zones.
- Humidity & Salt Air: Vehicles, outdoor furniture, and even some building materials can wear faster near the ocean due to humidity and salt exposure, especially very close to the beach.
FAQ: Will my insurance be a lot higher?
Insurance costs often rise the closer you are to the water and in areas with higher wind or flood risk, so many buyers work with local agents to compare rates by neighborhood or even by street. If you’re coming from a non‑coastal region, budget for potential increases in homeowners, wind and hail, and flood insurance.
Jobs, Schools, and Everyday Life
If you’re used to a strictly “bedroom community” or a purely industrial inland town, Myrtle Beach’s economy will feel different—heavily influenced by tourism but also growing in healthcare, education, construction, and services. The population has surged over recent years, bringing more year‑round residents and expanding infrastructure and amenities.
Everyday life basics to keep in mind:
- Jobs: Many roles are tied to hospitality, retail, and tourism, but the broader Grand Strand also offers positions in healthcare, education, trades, and remote work hubs.
- Schools: Horry and Georgetown counties serve the region, with a mix of neighborhood schools and specialized programs; new residents are often advised to gather records and connect with the district before moving.
- Traffic & Growth: Rapid growth and heavy visitor seasons can mean congested roads, especially near major corridors and during peak tourism months, which can be an adjustment if you’re used to light traffic.
FAQ: Is Myrtle Beach family‑friendly or just for tourists?
Alongside the tourist attractions, you’ll find family‑oriented neighborhoods, parks, schools, youth sports, churches, and community events that support a full‑time, family‑driven lifestyle. Many families choose to live slightly off the main tourist strips to enjoy more space and quieter streets while still being close to the beach.
Logistics of Moving from Out of State (or Out of Area)
If you’re coming from a non‑beachfront town—especially from another state—there are a few extra administrative steps to handle once you land in the Myrtle Beach area. South Carolina has specific timelines for switching your license, registering vehicles, and handling property tax setup.
Key logistics to plan for:
- Driver’s License & Vehicle Registration: New residents typically have a set number of days to obtain a South Carolina driver’s license and transfer vehicle registration after establishing residency.
- Utilities: Set “end dates” with your current providers and start dates with Myrtle Beach area utilities about a month in advance to avoid gaps when you arrive.
- Medical & Professional Services: Locals often recommend lining up doctors, dentists, and other providers as early as possible, since some practices have waitlists for new patients.
FAQ: How far in advance should I start planning my move?
Many relocation resources suggest beginning serious planning at least 60–90 days out: research neighborhoods, consult with a local real estate pro, gather school and legal documents, schedule movers or portable containers, and pre‑book utilities and services.
Adjusting from “Occasional Beach Trip” to Everyday Coastal Living
If you’ve only known the beach as a once‑a‑year vacation, living near Myrtle Beach changes your relationship with the coast entirely. Rather than cramming everything into one packed week, you’ll start to find your own rhythm—quiet local beaches on weekday mornings, off‑season festivals, neighborhood hangouts away from the busiest strips, and favorite routes that dodge tourist traffic.
Coming from a non‑beachfront community, many new residents:
- Discover that simple everyday routines—dog walks, kids’ playtime, evening bike rides—suddenly involve marsh views, ocean breezes, and waterfront sunsets.
- Learn to balance the “vacation town” vibe with normal life responsibilities, from school drop‑offs to doctor appointments and grocery runs.
FAQ: How do I know if Myrtle Beach is right for me?
If you value outdoor living, don’t mind some seasonal crowds, and want more value than many other coastal cities offer, the Myrtle Beach area can be an excellent fit; a scouting trip during both peak and off‑peak times is often the best way to feel the day‑to‑day vibe before committing.
