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Information on homes for sale in Myrtle Beach, Carolina Forest Properties, Myrtle Beach Condos and Golf Properties.

Coastal Corners of Myrtle Beach You’ll Love Living In (2025)

Why Move to Myrtle Beach?

Moving to Myrtle Beach isn’t just about changing your view—it’s about upgrading your lifestyle. With miles of sandy beaches, a low cost of living, and over 200 sunny days each year, it’s easy to see why more people are swapping snow boots for flip-flops and heading to South Carolina’s Grand Strand.

So, where should you live? That’s the big question. Myrtle Beach has many different neighborhoods, each offering something special. From luxury homes on the water to quiet small towns full of charm, there’s truly something for everyone.

In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at the top areas to live near Myrtle Beach in 2025. We’ll focus on lifestyle, convenience, local amenities, and what makes each place unique—so you can find the perfect fit for your next move.

Carolina Forest: Master-Planned & Convenient

Located just west of the Intracoastal Waterway, Carolina Forest is one of the most in-demand places to live in Myrtle Beach. With shopping centers, restaurants, top-rated schools, and plenty of parks. Additionally it feels like its own city—yet it’s only a short drive to the beach.

Whether you’re seeking a starter home, lakefront living, or a gated neighborhood with all the extras, Carolina Forest continues to be a top pick for year-round residents.

Market Common: Walkable, Stylish, and Urban

Market Common redefines beach living with its urban village vibe. Additionally, it is built on a former Air Force base, it blends modern design with classic southern charm. You’ll find tree-lined streets, boutique shopping, great restaurants, and miles of walking trails.

  • Popular neighborhoods: Emmens Preserve, Sweetgrass Square, Cresswind (55+), and The Battery
  • What makes it unique: Walkability, architecture, community events, and proximity to Myrtle Beach State Park
  • Ideal for: Anyone who loves low-maintenance, high-style living with convenience to everything.

It’s not just a place to live—it’s a place to be.

North Myrtle Beach: Coastal Living Without the Crowds

If you want beach access and charm without the bustle of central Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach is the perfect option. This separate city has a more relaxed, local feel.

  • Neighborhood highlights: Cherry Grove (canal-front homes), Ocean Drive (beach music and golf carts), Seabrook Plantation, Robber’s Roost, and Grande Dunes North Village
  • Who it’s for: Those craving a quieter lifestyle
  • Best features: Quieter beaches, more residential neighborhoods, and a strong sense of community

North Myrtle gives you all the coastal benefits without the constant tourist traffic.

Surfside Beach: Family-Friendly Beach Town

Nicknamed “The Family Beach,” Surfside is all about community and comfort. With its own pier (currently being rebuilt), laid-back neighborhoods, and strong local culture, it’s a favorite for year-round living and second homes alike.

  • Top picks: Deerfield, Mallard Landing Village, Ocean Pines, Lakewood Heights
  • Why people choose Surfside: Easy beach access, affordable housing, and strong community pride
  • Bonus points: Golf cart-friendly, low-key atmosphere

If you want that “old-school” beach-town vibe with modern convenience, this is it.

Little River: Coastal Living at a Slower Pace

Just north of North Myrtle Beach is Little River which offers peaceful surroundings and a historic marina. As well as a mix of old charm and new development.

  • Hot neighborhoods: Bridgewater, Cypress Village, Lighthouse Cove
  • Lifestyle: Laid-back, fishing village meets modern suburbia
  • Appeals to: Boaters and anyone seeking tranquility close to the action

With marinas, waterfront restaurants, and scenic marshland, Little River is one of the Grand Strand’s best-kept secrets.

Conway: Historic Charm & Affordable Living

Head inland just a bit, and you’ll find Conway, a riverfront town with mossy oaks, a walkable downtown, and plenty of Southern character.

  • Best communities: Ridge Pointe, Coastal Point West, Tiger Grand, and The Reserve at Wild Wing
  • Great for: Budget-conscious buyers and folks who want a slower pace
  • Features: Farmer’s market, riverwalk, festivals, and a blossoming local scene

Yes, the drive to the beach can be longer (especially in summer), but the value and charm Conway offers are hard to beat.

Final Thoughts: Choose a Community That Fits Your Lifestyle

From the master-planned convenience of Carolina Forest to the walkable charm of Market Common, the beachy calm of North Myrtle to the classic coziness of Conway, Myrtle Beach offers a wide range of places to call home.

Ask yourself:

  • Do I want to be close to the beach or farther inland?
  • Do I prefer a gated community or a neighborhood with more freedom?
  • Is walkability or golf cart access important?
  • Do I want a strong social scene or more peace and quiet?

Whatever your goals, there’s a spot here waiting for you.

Ready to Explore Homes in These Myrtle Beach Areas?

Visit MyrtleBeachHomesBlog.com to explore detailed community guides, browse current listings, and get insider tips on relocating to the Grand Strand. Additionally, if you’re considering a move to the Myrtle Beach area and want personalized guidance, head over to JeremyBlanton.com to schedule a call and start planning your relocation with confidence.

What Retirees LOVE About Myrtle Beach Living

Why Retire in Myrtle Beach? Sunshine, Savings & a Laid-Back Lifestyle

When it’s time to enjoy the next chapter of life, more and more retirees are choosing Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. In fact, it’s easy to see why. With its warm weather, low taxes, active lifestyle, and coastal charm, this beach town offers much more than just ocean views.

Stretch Your Retirement Dollars

One of the top reasons retirees love Myrtle Beach? Your money goes a lot further here. South Carolina doesn’t tax Social Security income, and if you’re 65 or older, you can deduct up to $15,000 of other retirement income. Plus, property taxes are some of the lowest in the country.

Additionally, homeowners over 65 get a big break thanks to the Homestead Exemption, which cuts property taxes on the first $50,000 of your home’s value. As a result, there’s more room in the budget for fun—like eating out, golfing, or enjoying the good life at the beach.

Say Goodbye to Harsh Winters When Retiring To Myrtle Beach

The weather in Myrtle Beach is a huge draw. With over 200 sunny days a year and mild winters (rarely dipping into the 30s), you can enjoy four seasons without shoveling snow. Though summers do get hot, but the ocean breeze helps cool things down. You’ll find that beach walks, patio dining, and early morning tee times are part of everyday life.

Golf, Beaches & Outdoor Fun

Known as the Golf Capital of the World, Myrtle Beach is home to over 80 golf courses. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, there’s a course for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slower pace, there are also miles of beaches, scenic walking trails, and peaceful parks like Myrtle Beach State Park—perfect for fishing, birdwatching, or simply relaxing under the trees.

Quality Healthcare Close to Home

Healthcare is a major concern for retirees, and Myrtle Beach doesn’t disappoint. The area is served by trusted hospitals like Tidelands Health, McLeod Health, and Grand Strand Medical Center. There are also clinics, specialists, wellness centers, and VA facilities nearby, making it easy to stay on top of your health.

A Lifestyle That Fits You

Living by the beach isn’t just about sand and waves. Myrtle Beach offers a fun and easy lifestyle, with great restaurants, shopping at Market Common, Tanger Outlets, and Coastal Grand Mall, plus plenty of ways to stay active. From pickleball and yoga to art classes and social clubs, there’s something for everyone.

Community That Feels Like Home

While Myrtle Beach can be busy with tourists in summer, the local community still feels like a small town. In neighborhoods just a few miles inland in places like Carolina Forest, you’ll find friendly people, regular events, and welcoming groups for newcomers. Whether it’s joining a book club, attending a local festival, or volunteering, it’s easy to feel at home.

Myrtle Beach: Retirement, Your Way

With low taxes, warm weather, quality healthcare, and tons of ways to enjoy life, Myrtle Beach is a top spot for retirees. But the real magic? You get to live the life you want—whether that means golfing every week, relaxing on the porch, or trying something new like painting or gardening.

If a relaxed, affordable, and coastal lifestyle sounds like your dream retirement, Myrtle Beach might just be calling your name.

Ready to explore available homes, learn more about 55+ communities, or get tips on relocating to the coast?
Visit http://jeremyblanton.com to schedule a call with Jeremy Blanton to take the first step toward your beachside retirement.

Living in Myrtle Beach: Hurricane Prep Guide

living in myrtle beach during a hurricane

Hurricane Season in Myrtle Beach: How to Be Prepared

Living in Myrtle Beach means enjoying ocean breezes, world-class beaches, and a relaxed coastal lifestyle. But if you call this slice of paradise home, it’s important to understand what comes with it—including hurricane season. From June 1 to November 30 each year, residents must stay alert, informed, and prepared to protect their homes, families, and peace of mind.

Whether you’re new to the Grand Strand or a long-time homeowner, this guide will walk you through exactly how to prepare for hurricane season while enjoying the benefits of living in Myrtle Beach.

How to Prepare for Hurricane Season in Myrtle Beach

Step 1: Create a Hurricane Preparedness Plan

Start with the basics: determine your Horry County evacuation zone (A, B, or C). Authorities will issue zone-based evacuation orders depending on storm strength. Know your zone in advance, map out your evacuation route, and have a destination ready if you need to leave quickly. If you have pets, make arrangements for pet-friendly accommodations early, as most emergency shelters do not allow animals.

Step 2: Assemble a Complete Emergency Kit

Every home in Myrtle Beach should have a stocked emergency kit ready before a storm is even on the radar. Your kit should include:

  • Three days’ worth of non-perishable food and two gallons of water per person, per day
  • Flashlights, batteries, a battery-operated radio, and phone chargers
  • First-aid kit, prescription medications, and hygiene items
  • Cash, important documents in waterproof containers, and clothing
boarding your myrtle beach home for hurricane

Step 3: Secure Your Home and Property

Protecting your home from high winds and flooding is crucial. Trim trees, clean gutters, and secure or store outdoor furniture and decorations. Install storm shutters or board up windows with plywood if a storm is approaching. Check the roof for loose shingles and secure entry points, especially garage doors, to reduce wind intrusion.

Step 4: Review Your Insurance Coverage

If you’re living in Myrtle Beach full-time, understanding your home insurance is a must. Standard policies typically don’t include flood coverage. Look into a separate flood insurance policy and make sure your coverage limits reflect current property values. Take photos or videos of your home’s interior and exterior in advance for claims documentation.

Step 5: Know When to Evacuate

When evacuation orders are issued, don’t wait. Leave early to avoid traffic and worsening weather conditions. Fuel up your vehicle in advance, and have a go-bag ready. If you’re not required to evacuate and choose to shelter in place, stay indoors, monitor local news, and avoid driving through flooded roads.

Step 6: Stay Safe After the Storm

After the storm has passed, proceed with care. Watch for downed power lines, broken glass, and flood-contaminated water. Wear protective gloves and boots when cleaning debris. Take photos of any damage before beginning repairs, and work only with licensed contractors to avoid scams.

Living in Myrtle Beach Means Being Prepared

Part of living in Myrtle Beach is learning how to balance paradise with preparedness. While hurricanes aren’t guaranteed each season, being ready gives you confidence and peace of mind. A little planning now will protect your property, your family, and your lifestyle on the coast.

Final Thoughts

Hurricane season is simply a part of coastal living, and with the right steps in place, you can continue enjoying everything Myrtle Beach has to offer without worry. Make your preparations early, review your plan regularly, and stay connected to local alerts and weather forecasts.

If you’re relocating or considering a move, our team at Myrtle Beach Homes Blog is here to help you find a safe, beautiful home that fits your lifestyle and your long-term plans for coastal living.

Thinking of making a move to Myrtle Beach in the near future? Book a Call with Jeremy to discuss your upcoming move to Myrtle Beach!

Insuring Your Home In Myrtle Beach During Hurricane Season

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We are now a little past halfway through hurricane season here in Myrtle Beach for 2019 and I thought it would be good today to share some tips to help you with purchasing a home in Myrtle Beach during hurricane season. If you follow these tips, it will make your home buying process much easier during this hurricane season.

Buying a home in Myrtle Beach comes with making many decisions, but one of the most important ones has to be the property insurance. You are obtaining a huge asset and often taking a mortgage to purchase. So, insuring the property and covering the debt are not just required by the lender but should be taken very seriously by the buyer. When buying a home, here are 7 important tips to remember when buying a home in Myrtle Beach during hurricane season:

  1. Choose an experienced local Myrtle Beach insurance agent.
  2. Obtain quotes prior to contract.
  3. Don’t just go with the cheapest quote.
  4. Watch for tropical storm and hurricane warnings during the purchase.
  5. Consider binding insurance as soon as possible.
  6. Discuss The Addition of Flood Insurance, Even When Not Required
  7. Perform a walk through right before closing.

Choose a Local Myrtle Beach Insurance Agent Early

Do your homework and discuss insurance coverage, exclusions, and premiums early with a local Myrtle Beach agent. Even if there isn’t a property chosen yet, get educated on the process, terms, and products. As mentioned, consider flood insurance even if not in a high risk area.

A local insurance agent can discuss this and all other insurance related areas areas. Also, one of the most common delays just before closing is waiting on the insurance binder.  This happens typically, when someone wait until the last second to decide on coverage or even tell the agent about the purchase. Don’t be that buyer because lenders will not approve your loan until you have insurance in place and your closing will be delayed!

Image from rawpixel.com / NASA (Source)

Obtain Insurance Quote Prior to Contract

Knowing the costs up-front could make or break a purchase. The insurance premium(s) are part of a housing and closing expense. So, it will effect the mortgage payment and the cash to close.  Depending on the area and the property, the insurance cost could vary widely.  For example, there have been buyers who find that a particular home requires $3,000 per year in flood insurance when it was only expected to be about $500. 

That is a major factor in making a decision and could prohibit you from qualifying for the loan! I’ve seen many deals in the past fall apart because the buyer cannot afford the insurance premiums at the price they originally were approved to purchase at because the home required a high insurance premium.

Don’t Just Go With the Cheapest Quote

Of course, the premium and payment are very important, but do not sacrifice coverage for a super discounted premium. If a buyer cannot easily afford to pay an insurance claim shortage, why pay for coverage that won’t rebuild the home adequately? Foremost, make sure the property is covered against perils with a quality company and then get the premium as affordable as you can.

Pick a company that has been established and is familiar with Myrtle Beach area to help you so that if there is a disaster, they will be able to help you fix any damage quickly and get you back into your home. If you are having trouble finding a reasonable quotes, you can always ask your agent to contact the listing agent to find out who the sellers have their insurance currently with.

Tropical Storm and Hurricane Warnings

Be aware when a named storm is approaching Myrtle Beach.  Once a named storm is within a certain distance of the coast, insurance companies will not bind or increase insurance coverage.  So, with an imminent storm during hurricane season, insurance companies know the risk is much increased. 

Thus, no insurance will be written until the property is out of harm.  So, buyers need to be proactive and know the options, potential issues, and process early.

Consider Binding Insurance Early

Typically, insurance companies will bind an insurance policy very early with an effective date of the closing. “Binding insurance” means to put the policy in force or to have an effective date. This can be particularly helpful in times where storms are on the way. Keep in mind once the insurance is bound for a certain date, you cannot close prior to the insurance effective date. Make sure to stay in constant communication with your mortgage lender, closing attorney, REALTOR®, and insurance agent on binding the insurance.

Nothing is worse than having a proposed closing date coming and you have to delay everything because the buyer has not yet secured financing. If the binder has been written before the storm is named, they will cover you and you can close on your property on time.

Discuss The Addition of Flood Insurance, Even When Not Required

While many areas of Myrtle Beach do not require flood insurance to close on the home, it is always my recommendation to consider purchasing flood insurance when buying a home as an added level of security.

Back several months ago, I did a quick interview with a local insurance agency regarding flood insurance:

Perform a Walk Through Prior to Closing!

Yay it’s closing day! I know you are so excited and ready to move into your new home. You have made it through the purchase process and all you have to do is sign the paperwork. But, don’t forget to do a final walkthrough.

Just before closing, it is so important to check the home out again because there are so many things that could happen. We have seen movers damaging the home moving out the sellers, broken water lines damaging the home, flooding, and more. Once the home is yours, there are usually not many options for a remedy. Make sure you or at least your buyer’s agent checks it out thoroughly before signing the papers.

I hope you find these tips to buying a home during hurricane season in Myrtle Beach helpful. If you need help buying a home in Myrtle Beach, feel free to reach out!

Tax Refund Season Helps With Myrtle Beach Home Ownership

Living in or around Myrtle Beach is a dream to many.  Yet, a lot of renters think that owning a home on the coast is out of reach. Actually, during tax refund season, more buyers qualify over any other time of the year!  There are several ways that tax refunds create more approved Horry County homebuyers.  Let’s discuss these refund benefits as well as the home loans available for Myrtle Beach area buyers.

homeownership

Using Tax Refund for Down Payment

Buying a home may come with hurdles for some and down payment is usually a primary roadblock.  Although, tax refund season provides a solution for this potential issue.  Even though the funds may not be in the bank account yet or has just been deposited, they are considered the buyer’s own funds.  Plus, as soon as they are in the bank account, lenders consider the funds as usable immediately.  If a buyer has not received the refund yet, just provide the filed tax return as proof!

First time buyers that are maybe just starting out on their own or have a new job, are often short on down payment.  But, there are some great low down payment mortgage options where tax refunds may actually cover the full amount needed to buy.  Home loan programs include FHA, VA, USDA, Conventional, and SC down payment assistance.  Down payment requirement for these programs vary from 3.5% to zero down.

No Down Payment Loans Assisted by Tax Refunds Too

As mentioned above, there are no down payment loans as well.  So, how do buyers using a no down payment loan benefit from tax refunds?  Just because there is no down payment doesn’t mean these funds can’t be helpful.  Keep in mind that there are closing costs on buying a home.  Plus, buyers must pay the first year of insurance plus taxes and insurance escrow set up (if applicable).  Therefore, a refund could cover part or all of these costs for a buyer.

Keep in mind that there is an additional way to cover these closing costs.  The costs could be included in the price and home loan!  In order to finance these costs, a purchase contract could include seller paid closing costs.  Each loan type has certain limits to this assistance, although usually the limits will cover most or all costs.

Tax Refund Helps Buyers Qualify Easier

What if a buyer has a lower credit score, high debt to income ratio, or other issues which cause qualification problems?  A refund could be used to pay off debts, pay down a credit card for increasing credit scores, or just used to increase the assets for a buyer’s qualification.  These additional assets could take a buyer from a denial to a purchase loan approval.  While determining an approval, mortgage underwriters and automated systems weigh positives and negatives of a file.  Receiving a tax refund could bolster the buyer’s profile and could make a huge difference in qualification.

An important consumer message is not to withdraw a tax refund from a bank account and convert it to cash.  Lenders will not allow cash funds towards buying a home.  So rather than converting the refund to cash, keep the funds in the bank account.

Other Uses for Tax Refunds

Not only do refunds help in qualifying, but they also help in life.  After buying a home, the buyer could use a refund to set up an emergency savings account.  Things happen and having a savings cushion really helps in these areas.  Plus, after buying a home, there are usually items to buy.  These could include curtains, furniture, paint or buying a home warranty.  You may even choose to buy a really cool beach picture for your new coastal home!

So if you are have a tax refund coming your way in the next few weeks, feel free to reach out & get the home search process started.  You may be surprised what type of home you could afford in the Myrtle Beach market today!  You can either call Jeremy at 843-222-9402 or contact him here.

 

Jeremy Blanton
Myrtle Beach REALTOR- Jeremy Blanton
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RE/MAX Southern Shores