For decades, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, has been synonymous with sun-soaked vacations and family getaways. But in recent years, this coastal gem has transformed into a retirement hotspot, drawing older Americans in record numbers.
From its affordable lifestyle to its welcoming community, living in Myrtle Beach offers retirees a blend of relaxation and opportunity.
Let’s unpack why seniors are flocking to this stretch of the Grand Strand and how it stacks up against nearby Charleston for those moving to coastal SC.
Affordability: A Budget-Friendly Coastal Haven
One of the most compelling reasons retirees choose to live in Myrtle Beach is its low cost of living. With a cost index 21% lower than Charleston’s, Myrtle Beach allows seniors to stretch their retirement savings further.
Housing is a standout: the median home price hovers around
315,000, nearly 100,000 below the national median. Affordable neighborhoods like Carolina Forest and Grande Dunes offer condos and single-family homes with amenities like pools and golf course access, often under $250,000.
Property taxes are among the lowest in the country at 0.53%, and South Carolina exempts Social Security benefits from state taxes. Additionally, seniors may qualify for a Homestead Exemption, reducing taxable home value by $50,000.
For retirees on fixed incomes, this financial flexibility means more funds for leisure whether golfing, dining, or exploring the coast.
Year-Round Sunshine and Mild Winters
Myrtle Beach’s subtropical climate is a major draw for seniors escaping harsh northern winters. With average temperatures ranging from 50°F in January to 89°F in July, outdoor activities like beach walks, fishing, and golf are accessible year-round. The area averages 215 sunny days annually, compared to Charleston’s 209.
While Charleston shares a similar climate, its higher summer humidity and historical vulnerability to hurricanes make Myrtle Beach’s breezy, coastal weather slightly more appealing. Myrtle Beach also invests in storm preparedness, with updated drainage systems and community alert programs, ensuring retirees feel secure during hurricane season.
Active Lifestyle Meets Relaxation
Retirement in Myrtle Beach is anything but sedentary. The city boasts over 80 championship golf courses, including the famed Dunes Golf and Beach Club. Beyond golf, the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk hosts festivals like the Carolina Country Music Fest, while Brookgreen Gardens offers serene walking trails.
For water enthusiasts, the Intracoastal Waterway provides opportunities for kayaking and boating.
Senior-specific programs, such as fitness classes at the Myrtle Beach Sports Center and art workshops at the Franklin G. Burroughs-Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum, foster engagement.
Charleston, by contrast, leans toward historical tours and upscale dining, catering to those seeking a slower, culturally rich pace.
Top-Tier Healthcare Access
Access to quality healthcare is non-negotiable for seniors, and Myrtle Beach delivers. Grand Strand Health, a 403-bed hospital, specializes in cardiac care and orthopedics, while Tidelands Health offers telehealth services for routine check-ups. The city also hosts senior wellness fairs, providing free screenings and resources.
Charleston’s healthcare costs are 7% lower due to larger systems like MUSC Health, but Myrtle Beach’s medical services remain affordable and highly rated. Retirees can access specialized care without the hassle of long wait times common in bigger cities.
55+ Communities: Tailored for Retirement
Myrtle Beach’s booming retirement communities, such as Del Webb at Grande Dunes and Cresswind Myrtle Beach, offer resort-style amenities like pools, fitness centers, and social clubs. Del Webb’s calendar features trivia nights, pickleball tournaments, and group excursions, fostering camaraderie among residents.
These neighborhoods emphasize maintenance-free living, with landscaping and repairs handled by HOA teams. Charleston, while offering historic charm in communities like Daniel Island, lacks the same concentration of age-restricted options, making Myrtle Beach a clearer choice for peer-focused retirees.
Tax Perks: Keeping More in Your Pocket
South Carolina’s tax-friendly policies amplify the appeal of living in Myrtle Beach. Beyond the lack of Social Security taxes, the state offers a $15,000 deduction on retirement income for those 65+ and a 1% sales tax cap on vehicles. Seniors can also defer property tax increases through the “Senior Citizens Property Tax Deferral Program.”
Charleston retirees face similar benefits, but Myrtle Beach’s lower property taxes and home prices create a more pronounced financial advantage. For example, a
300,000 homes in Myrtle Beach incur 1,590 annually in property taxes, versus $2,100 in Charleston.
Myrtle Beach vs Charleston: Coastal Rivals for Retirement
When moving to coastal SC, the choice between Myrtle Beach and Charleston often comes down to priorities:
- Cost: Myrtle Beach’s cost of living is 9% lower, with housing 30% cheaper than Charleston’s.
- Culture: Charleston’s historic districts and gourmet dining contrast with Myrtle Beach’s beachy, tourist-friendly vibe.
- Economy: Charleston’s diverse job market suits working retirees, while Myrtle Beach thrives on tourism and retiree-focused services.
- Lifestyle: Myrtle Beach prioritizes casual outdoor activities; Charleston blends sophistication with Southern tradition.
For retirees, Myrtle Beach often wins on affordability and leisure, while Charleston attracts those valuing history and urban amenities.
Community and Social Engagement
Myrtle Beach’s tight-knit senior community is a hidden gem. Organizations like the Myrtle Beach Senior Center host daily activities, from line dancing to book clubs.
Volunteer opportunities abound at local food banks or the Chapin Memorial Library, fostering purpose post-retirement.
Seasonal events, such as the Senior Summer Social and Winter Jazz Festival, ensure year-round connection. This sense of belonging is harder to find in Charleston, where the transient student population dominates social scenes.
Safety and Accessibility
Myrtle Beach’s low crime rate (15% below the national average) and senior-friendly infrastructure make it a safe choice. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and public transit options like Coast RTA offer discounted fares for seniors. Many grocery stores and medical centers provide shuttle services, reducing reliance on personal vehicles.
Charleston’s historic districts, while charming, often lack ADA-compliant sidewalks, posing challenges for those with mobility issues.
The Surge in Coastal Retirement Migration
The trend of moving to coastal SC reflects a broader shift among seniors toward warmer climates and lower costs. Myrtle Beach’s retiree population grew by 23.1% from 2020–2023, outpacing Charleston’s 15.7% increase.
This influx spurs developments like The Market Common, a mixed-use hub with senior-centric retailers and walkable clinics.
Local businesses, from pharmacies to golf cart dealerships, now cater explicitly to retirees, creating a seamless transition for newcomers.
Making the Move: Tips for a Smooth Transition
Relocating to Myrtle Beach requires careful planning. Partnering with a senior moving service Myrtle Beach can simplify logistics, especially for long-distance moves. Companies like Gentle Giant Movers specialize in senior relocations, offering packing services and storage solutions.
Downsizing? Host estate sales or donate furniture to local charities like Helping Hand of Myrtle Beach. Prioritize proximity to healthcare and amenities neighborhoods like Surfside Beach combine coastal views with easy access to hospitals.
Conclusion: Myrtle Beach A Retirement Paradise Realized
With its blend of affordability, sunshine, and community, living in Myrtle Beach has become a golden year's dream for thousands.
Whether you’re drawn to golf courses, tax savings, or the Atlantic’s tranquil waves, this coastal city offers a retirement lifestyle that’s both vibrant and relaxed.
For those weighing Myrtle Beach vs Charleston, the former’s focus on senior needs and its undeniable charm make it a standout choice. Ready to embrace coastal living? The sand, sun, and Southern hospitality await.