Move to Myrtle Beach: What You Need To Know

Are you looking to move to Myrtle Beach, SC.

Myrtle Beach is one of the most popular coastal cities in South Carolina. Known for its endless stretch of beaches, lots of tourism and entertainment, and a ton of outdoor activities year-round, it’s no wonder it is one of the fastest-growing areas of the country.

Whether you’re looking for an oceanfront condo, a golf course community, or a family-friendly neighborhood, Myrtle Beach offers a wide range of options to fit your lifestyle.

Picture this: You wake up to the gentle sound of waves crashing, the sun streaming through your windows, and a salty breeze wafting in as you finish your coffee. This is what life in Myrtle Beach could mean for you.

Before you pack your bags, let’s dive into everything you should know about relocating to Myrtle Beach, from the laid-back lifestyle to insider tips for becoming a true local.

Why You Should Move to Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is more than just a tourist hotspot. It is a vibrant community where life feels like a permanent vacation. Here’s why so many of my clients have made the move:

Affordable Coastal Living

Compared to other beach towns, Myrtle Beach offers budget-friendly housing options without sacrificing the perks of living by the ocean. You’ll find a range of options from condos near the ocean to homes in quieter, inland neighborhoods. You can enjoy the beach life without breaking the bank!

You Get Beach Days Whenever You Want

When you live in Myrtle Beach, the beach is basically your backyard. Want to catch the sunrise with your morning coffee? Go for it. Need to unwind after work with a sunset walk? You can. Sure, the summer crowds roll in, but as a local, you’ll quickly learn when and where to go for a quieter stretch of sand. Whether you’re swimming, building sandcastles, or just lounging with a book, you’ve got 60 miles of coastline to choose from—including gems like Myrtle Beach State Park and the beach access near Golden Mile.

Always Something To Do

Myrtle Beach is packed with things to do, no matter the season. From big-name concerts and dinner shows to festivals and fireworks on the boardwalk, there’s never a dull moment. Catch a show at the Carolina Opry or head to Broadway at the Beach for live music, events, and seasonal celebrations. Summer nights feel extra magical with ocean breezes and live entertainment echoing down the boulevard.

Outdoor Adventures Galore

Beyond the beach, you’ll find golf courses, state parks, and plenty of trails for hiking and biking. You won’t have to look far to stay active here. Walk or bike the trails at The Market Common or cast a line off the iconic 2nd Avenue Pier. Golfers will love the options too—with over 80 courses in the area, it’s a golfer’s dream come true.

A Friendly Community

Life in Myrtle Beach is all about coastal charm and friendly vibes. The neighborhoods here range from peaceful and residential to lively and walkable, so you can find your perfect pace. Grab brunch at Croissants Bistro & Bakery, meet friends for tacos at Taco Mundo, or enjoy an evening stroll down the boardwalk with a scoop of homemade ice cream.

You’re in the Heart of it All

Living in Myrtle Beach means having everything within reach. Need groceries, a great dinner, or a quick shopping trip? It’s all just a short drive (or walk) away. You can hit the Tanger Outlets in the morning, take the kids to Ripley’s Aquarium after lunch, and catch a fireworks show at Broadway at the Beach that night. Whether you want excitement or downtime, it’s all right here.

What are the Best Areas to Call Home in Myrtle Beach?

One of the most exciting parts of moving to Myrtle Beach is choosing your neighborhood and community. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly vibes, a peaceful retreat, or a lively community, there’s a spot for everyone.

Carolina Forest

Carolina Forest is one of the fastest-growing areas in Myrtle Beach—and for good reason. It’s just a short drive to the beach, but feels a little more peaceful and tucked away. You’ll find tons of newer homes and lots of local parks and walking trails. It’s perfect if you want that community feel without being right in the middle of all the tourist craziness.

Check out homes for sale in Carolina Forest: CAROLINA FOREST HOME SEARCH

Market Common

Market Common is all about lifestyle. It’s super walkable with shops, restaurants, parks, and even a movie theater all right there. You can ride your bike to the beach, hit up the farmers market, or hang out at community events. It’s modern, fun, and has a totally different feel than the rest of Myrtle Beach—in a good way!

Check out homes for sale in Market Common: MARKET COMMON HOME SEARCH

Grande Dunes

Grande Dunes is where luxury meets the beach. This neighborhood has gorgeous homes, golf courses, a private marina, and access to the exclusive Ocean Club right on the ocean. It’s super close to the waterway too, which makes boating and water views a big part of life here. If you want a more high-end, resort-style vibe, this is the place.

NEARBY COMMUNITIES TO CHECK OUT:

Living in Conway, SC

Living in North Myrtle Beach, SC

What’s Life Like When You Move to Myrtle Beach?

When you’re moving to Myrtle Beach, it’s not just about where you live—it’s about the lifestyle. Here’s what your day-to-day could look like:

Morning Beach Walks: Start your day with a sunrise stroll along the Grand Strand.
Afternoon Adventures: Explore local attractions like Brookgreen Gardens, Huntington Beach State Park, or the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk.
Evenings Under the Stars: Catch live music, enjoy outdoor dining, or simply relax with your toes in the sand.

Schools in Myrtle Beach, SC

Myrtle Beach is part of the Horry County School District and includes highly-rated schools:

Myrtle Beach Elementary School
Myrtle Beach Middle School
Myrtle Beach High School
Black Water Middle
Carolina Forest Elementary
Carolina Forest High
Ocean Bay Elementary
Ocean Bay Middle
Palmetto Bays Elementary
River Oaks Elementary
Ten Oaks Middle
Waccamaw Elementary
Risen Christ Christian Academy
Christian Academy

For higher education, Coastal Carolina University and Horry-Georgetown Technical College are within commuting distance.

This list isn’t exhaustive. For more information about all the schools, please visit HorryCountySchools.net

Check out Niche.com for more information about schools and other demographic information.

Insider Tips for Your Move to Myrtle Beach, SC

To make your move as smooth as a day on the waves, I recommend that you:

Pick the Right Neighborhood

Like I have already mentioned earlier, each area of Myrtle Beach has its own vibe, so take time to explore what fits your lifestyle best. Are you looking for a condo, golf course community, or a single-family home within walking distance to the beach? Make sure you are crystal clear on what you are looking for before you go house hunting. I would be happy to help you through this process to find an area that has the type of lifestyle you are dreaming about.

Plan for Traffic in Peak Season

Summer brings tourists, so plan routes and errands accordingly. The traffic starts to pick up in March, gets heavier between May and September, and decreases in October. However, it is all relative. It still is not the traffic you will get in a large city. Highway 17 can get crowded, but it pretty much is always moving. If you need to get to other areas of the Grand Strand like North Myrtle Beach or Murrells Inlet, I recommend taking Highway 31 instead.

Stay Hurricane Ready

Like any coastal town, Myrtle Beach experiences hurricane season, so have a plan in place. The city has a great hurricane resource if you visit their welcome center. It is important to know what your evacuation zone is in case you would every have to evacuate. I lived in the midwest before moving here, so from my perspective, it is nice that you typically have a week or more heads up with a hurricane unlike the tornadoes in the midwest. Just be aware.

FAQs About Your Move to Myrtle Beach

Q: Is Myrtle Beach a good place to retire? Absolutely! With its affordable cost of living, mild weather, and plenty of activities for active adults, Myrtle Beach is a top retirement destination.

Q: What’s the job market like? Tourism drives much of the economy, but there are also opportunities in healthcare, education, and real estate. The city has been doing a great job of recruiting other industries to the area.

Q: How’s the weather? Myrtle Beach enjoys a subtropical climate with warm summers and mild winters. It’s perfect for year-round outdoor fun.

Your Moving Checklist: What to Do Before You Move to Myrtle Beach

Connect with a Local Real Estate Expert: A knowledgeable agent can help you find the perfect home in Myrtle Beach. Me 🙋🏻‍♀️! I would be happy to help you in your move. I’ve been there, I know the stress of relocating and I want to be the one to make it easier on you.
Visit First: Spend time exploring neighborhoods, restaurants, and beaches to get a feel for the area. I would be happy to show you the ropes of life around here.
Plan Your Move Around the Off-Season: Moving in the fall or winter means less traffic and easier logistics.
Budget for Beach Living: Consider the costs of flood insurance and beachfront property upkeep. It is important to know the different areas of Myrtle Beach and where you money can go further. I know the area well and can help you navigate the hidden costs of location.
Embrace the Lifestyle: From beach yoga to shag dancing, dive into everything the community has to offer.

Ready to Call Myrtle Beach Home? Let’s Make It Happen

If you’re ready to start your coastal adventure in Myrtle Beach, I’m here to help. Whether you’re dreaming of a cozy beach bungalow or a luxurious waterfront property, I’ll guide you every step of the way.

Contact me today at 843-790-4450 (or schedule a time here), and let’s turn your dream of moving to Myrtle Beach, SC, into reality. Your perfect home by the ocean is waiting!

Download my MOVING TO MYRTLE BEACH guide, where I share the inside scoop on moving to the area…from DMV information and tax information to where the locals go for shopping and dining, I share what I have learned from when I relocated to the area.