If you've been considering buying a home along the South Carolina coast, you're not the only one, and now there's even more evidence that the Grand Strand continues to stand out.
Recently, Travel + Leisure named Myrtle Beach the #3 most affordable beach town in America to buy a home, making it the only South Carolina destination to earn a spot on the list. According to the publication, the area stood out for its relatively affordable home prices, expanding amenities, healthcare options, outdoor recreation, and family-friendly communities.
Link to full Post and Courier article.
As someone who has lived in Murrells Inlet forever and helps buyers relocate here every week, I wasn't surprised by the recognition!
In fact, these are many of the same reasons my clients choose the Grand Strand over other coastal destinations.
More Than Just a Beach Town
Many people think of Myrtle Beach as simply a vacation destination, but locals know the Grand Strand offers so much more.
Beyond 60 miles of beautiful beaches, you'll find:
- Award-winning golf courses (designed by Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus; a Dustin Johnson Golf School, etc!)
- Excellent boating, fishing, and water recreation
- Expanding healthcare facilities
- Great restaurants and entertainment (ask me for my favorites!)
- Family-friendly neighborhoods
- Top-rated retirement communities
- A wide variety of home styles and price points
Whether you're relocating permanently, buying a second home, or planning for retirement, there truly is something for almost every lifestyle.
A Better Value Than Many Coastal Markets
According to Zillow, the average home value in the Myrtle Beach area is just over $320,000—considerably lower than other popular South Carolina coastal markets such as Charleston and Hilton Head Island.
While home prices have appreciated significantly over the past several years, buyers can still find opportunities ranging from:
- Beachfront condos
- Golf course communities
- New construction neighborhoods
- Waterfront homes
- Luxury oceanfront properties
- Homes with private boat access
One of the reasons I enjoy working in this market is that buyers have options. Browse Homes For Sale.
Don't Limit Yourself to "Myrtle Beach"
One thing I always tell my relocation clients is this:
Don't search only for homes with a Myrtle Beach address... Myrtle Beach isn't 60 miles long!
Some of the area's most desirable communities are actually located throughout the South Strand, including:
- Murrells Inlet
- Garden City Beach
- Surfside Beach
- Pawleys Island
- Georgetown
Each community offers a different lifestyle, and finding the right fit is often more important than simply finding the right house.
If you love boating, your ideal neighborhood may look very different from someone who wants to walk to the beach, live on a golf course, or enjoy a quiet retirement community.
Neighborhood with Private Boat Ramp
What the Headlines Don't Tell You
National rankings are a great starting point, but they're only part of the story.
Before purchasing a home near the coast, buyers should also consider:
- Flood zones
- Wind and homeowners insurance
- HOA fees
- Rental restrictions
- Commute times
- Future development
- Neighborhood amenities
These factors can have a significant impact on both your monthly expenses and your long-term enjoyment of your home. That is why you need my knowledge and expertise.
My Local Perspective
It's always exciting to see national publications recognize the value our area offers.
But what I love most isn't that Myrtle Beach ranked highly—it's that more people are discovering what locals have known for years.
The Grand Strand isn't just a great place to vacation.
It's an incredible place to call home. I live where my friends vacation!
Whether you're searching in Murrells Inlet, Garden City Beach, Surfside Beach, Pawleys Island, or anywhere along the South Carolina coast, I'd love to help you explore your options and find the neighborhood that best fits your lifestyle.