Why Live in North Myrtle Beach
North Myrtle Beach, SC, nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the intracoastal waterway, boasts a 60-mile stretch of coastal beachfront known as the Grand Strand. With a population of about 20,000, the area features art deco resorts and pastel-hued coastal homes along Ocean Boulevard. Major employers include the healthcare and hospitality industries, as well as Horry County Schools. The city offers numerous attractions, including the Tidewater Golf Club, named South Carolina's Golf Course of the Year in 2022, and the North Beach Park and Sports Complex, which hosts events like the Sounds of Summer Concert Series and The Great Christmas Lights Show. Retail plazas and dining options line Main Street and Highway 17, while Barefoot Landing features local shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues such as House of Blues and the Alabama Theatre. Housing options range from coastal Mediterranean homes to modern condos, often purchased as vacation homes or rentals. The median price for single-family homes is around $605,000, with two-bedroom condos at $268,000. Highway 17 and Ocean Boulevard are key thoroughfares, with Myrtle Beach International Airport 20 miles away. The city experiences hot summers and mild winters, but storm surges and tidal flooding are common, necessitating evacuation routes and flood insurance for homes in Special Flood Hazard Areas. Crime rates are lower than the national average, making it a safer area for residents.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to rent a home in North Myrtle Beach, SC?
The median rent for a home in North Myrtle Beach, SC is $1,585 per month, though prices vary by neighborhood, size, and property type. As of July 2026, condos tend to be the most affordable option while townhouses and single-family homes are currently more expensive.
How much do you need to make to afford rent in North Myrtle Beach, SC?
To comfortably afford the median rent in North Myrtle Beach, SC, a household needs to earn roughly $63,400 per year. This is based on the common guideline that households should spend no more than 30% of gross income on housing. Most landlords require monthly household income of at least 3x the monthly rent, and with a median rent of $1,585 per month in North Myrtle Beach, SC, renters typically need to show $4,755 per month in gross income to qualify. Actual affordability will vary depending on household debts, other living expenses, and overall budget.
Is it more affordable to rent or buy in North Myrtle Beach, SC?
In North Myrtle Beach, SC, the price-to-rent ratio is 22.1, which generally favors renting. This ratio divides the median home price by the annual median rent: below 15 typically favors buying, 15 to 20 is balanced, and above 20 typically favors renting. Your finances, how long you plan to stay, and costs like mortgage rates, taxes, and maintenance all factor into the decision.
There are currently 2 homes available for rent in North Myrtle Beach, SC. The median rent is $1,585 per month, with single-family homes renting at $1,950, townhouses at $1,600 and condos at $1,495.
Number of Homes for Rent
2
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Median Single Family Home Rent
$1,950
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Median Townhouse Rent
$1,600
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