Jul 26 2025

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.

Top neighborhoods: The Farm, Waterford Plantation, Traditions, and Plantation Lakes
For luxury buyers: Check out Waterway Palms Plantation and The Bluffs on the Waterway—gated, custom-home communities with Intracoastal access
Why people love it: A strong sense of community, excellent amenities, and something for every budget

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.

Jul 23 2025

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.

Jun 18 2025

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!

Dec 02 2014

Plantation Lakes Home Market Report November 2014

Plantation Lakes is one of the more popular home communities in the Carolina Forest area of Myrtle Beach. Currently, Plantation Lakes has 39 homes for sale ranging in price from a low of $329,900 up to $1,150,000. The current average listing price is $523,786 and median listing price in Plantation Lakes is currently $474,900.

Of the current 39 homes for sale in Plantation Lakes, surprisingly only six of the listings are 3 bedroom homes. In contrast, there are currently twenty-six listings in Plantation Lakes that are 4 bedroom homes. In addition, there are five 5 bedroom and two 6 bedrooms currently for sale.

Here are the 6 most expensive homes currently for sale in Plantation Lakes:

Plantation Lakes Homes That Have Sold

While it’s great to see so many Plantation Lakes homes for sale, the question sellers want answered is: What Plantation Lakes Homes Are Selling & For How Much? According to the MLS, in the past two months, three homes have sold in Plantation Lakes ranging in price from a low price of $359,900 to a high sold price of $422,000. The average price for homes sold in Plantation Lakes is $390,300 and the median price is $389,000.

If you are needing to sell your home in Plantation Lakes quickly, pricing your home aggressively will be key. The current days on the market ranged from a low of 105 to a high of 165 days.

If you would like more information on homes for sale in Plantation Lakes, I’ve already done some custom searches to help make your job easier on finding the perfect home or lot for sale in Plantation Lakes below:

If you are thinking of selling your Plantation Lakes home and would like more information on the current value of your home, fill out this form to find out what your home is worth and receive a free market analysis for your home in Plantation Lakes.

Jun 24 2014

Plantation Lakes Home Market Report June 2014

Plantation Lakes is one of the more popular home communities in the Carolina Forest area of Myrtle Beach. Currently, Plantation Lakes has over 40 homes for sale ranging in price from a low of $329,500 up to $1,150,000. The current average listing price is $512,016 and median listing price in Plantation Lakes is currently $459,000.

Of the current 40+ homes for sale in Plantation Lakes, surprisingly only four of the listings are 3 bedroom homes. In contrast, there are currently twenty-five listings in Plantation Lakes that are 4 bedroom homes. In addition, there are ten 5 bedroom and two 6 bedrooms currently for sale.

Here are the 6 most expensive homes currently for sale in Plantation Lakes:

Plantation Lakes Homes That Have Sold

While it’s great to see so many Plantation Lakes homes for sale, the question sellers want answered is: What Plantations Lakes Homes Are Selling & For Home Much? According to the MLS, in the past two months, eleven homes have sold in Plantation Lakes ranging in price from a low price of $285,000 to a high sold price of $600,000. The average price for homes sold in Plantation Lakes is $404,008 and the median price is $395,900.

One thing I found interesting about the data I reviewed on homes in this community was the Days on Market (DOM). There was a huge range in days DOM that went from a low of 30 days to a high of 877 days! The median DOM however was still rather high at 230 days.