Is North Myrtle Beach Safe, Pros and cons of living in North Myrtle Beach

North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, offers a coastal lifestyle with a strong tourism presence. This vibrant city along the Grand Strand attracts residents and visitors alike with its beaches and recreational opportunities. Understanding the various facets of life in North Myrtle Beach, from safety and cost of living to employment and climate, is essential for anyone considering a move to this popular South Carolina destination.

The city was established in 1968, consolidating four existing municipalities, and has since grown into a notable tourist hub. Its location, approximately 15 miles northeast of Myrtle Beach, positions it as a key part of the Myrtle Beach-Conway-North Myrtle Beach metropolitan area.

Is it Safe to Live in North Myrtle Beach?

North Myrtle Beach presents a mixed picture regarding safety, with crime rates that warrant consideration. The city has a crime rate of 36 per one thousand residents, which is considered high when compared to communities of all sizes across the United States (NeighborhoodScout). This means that your chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime is approximately one in 28.

Violent crime poses a risk, with a chance of becoming a victim of armed robbery, aggravated assault, rape, or murder at 1 in 277, equating to a rate of 4 per one thousand inhabitants (NeighborhoodScout). Property crime is more prevalent, with a one in 31 chance of victimization, translating to a rate of 32 per one thousand population (NeighborhoodScout). While these statistics indicate a higher crime rate than many other communities, it is important to note that North Myrtle Beach’s crime rate is lower than that of nearby Myrtle Beach, which has a violent crime rate of 76.3 per 1,000 residents (Axelrod & Associates, P.A.). Some residents express a general feeling of safety, with 50% of students reporting feeling “pretty safe” or “very safe,” while 33% feel “somewhat safe” with noticeable concerns (Niche).

What is the Cost of Living in North Myrtle Beach?

The cost of living in North Myrtle Beach is slightly lower than the national average. The overall cost of living index is reported as 2% less than the national average (ERI Economic Research Institute). This index is determined by various factors including housing, utilities, groceries, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous goods and services (ERI Economic Research Institute).

Housing costs are a significant component of the cost of living. The median home price in North Myrtle Beach was approximately $416,000 in March 2026 (Redfin). Renting an apartment in North Myrtle Beach averages around $1,800 per month (Zillow). This figure is comparable to the national average rent of $1,910 per month as of March 31, 2026 (Zillow).

Housing Market Trends

The North Myrtle Beach housing market is characterized by a moderate pace. The average home sells after approximately 140 days on the market, with homes selling for about 3% below the list price (Redfin). The median listing price for homes for sale is around $419,000, with new listings often priced at $424,000 (Redfin).

The rental market also shows trends that can impact affordability. The average rent for all property types in North Myrtle Beach is $1,800 per month (Zillow). This average rent has seen a slight decrease of $50 month-over-month and an $80 decrease year-over-year (Zillow). There are typically around 95 rentals available in the city (Zillow).

What is the Job Market Like in North Myrtle Beach?

The job market in North Myrtle Beach is influenced by its strong tourism sector, which is a major driver of employment. The average hourly wage for workers in the Myrtle Beach-Conway-North Myrtle Beach metropolitan area was $22.19 in May 2023, which is lower than the national average of $31.48 (Bureau of Labor Statistics). This indicates a potential disparity in earning potential compared to national figures.

Key employment sectors include food preparation and serving, sales and related occupations, and office and administrative support (Bureau of Labor Statistics). These sectors represent a significant portion of the local job market, offering numerous opportunities for those seeking employment in the service and retail industries.

Major Employers and Salaries

Major employers in the greater Myrtle Beach area include Horry County School District, Horry Telephone Cooperative, Coastal Carolina University, Horry County Government, Conway Medical Center, and Walmart (Myrtle Beach Regional Economic Development Corporation). These organizations provide a substantial number of jobs and contribute significantly to the local economy.

Salaries can vary widely depending on the role and experience. For example, the average annual salary in North Myrtle Beach was reported as $36,291 in May 2026, with an approximate hourly wage of $17.45 (ZipRecruiter). However, other sources indicate a higher median annual salary of $52,362 (ERI Economic Research Institute), with some roles, like Physician, earning a median salary of $239,200 (ERI Economic Research Institute).

Unemployment Rate

The unemployment rate in the Myrtle Beach-Conway-North Myrtle Beach metropolitan area was 5.0% in October 2025, with preliminary data indicating a slight increase to 5.8% and 5.9% in subsequent months (Bureau of Labor Statistics). This rate fluctuates, and it’s important to consult the most current data for the most accurate picture of the local job market’s health.

What is the Climate Like in North Myrtle Beach?

North Myrtle Beach experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by long, warm summers and short, cool winters. The temperature typically ranges from 38°F to 87°F throughout the year, rarely dropping below 25°F or exceeding 92°F (Weather Spark). The city is wet and partly cloudy year-round.

Summers are hot and humid, with the season lasting from late May to late September. During this period, average daily high temperatures exceed 81°F (Weather Spark). July is the hottest month, with average highs of 87°F and lows of 74°F (Weather Spark). Winters are mild, with the cool season extending from early December to early March.

Average Temperatures and Rainfall

The average high temperature in July is 87°F, and the average low is 74°F (Weather Spark). Conversely, January is the coldest month, with average temperatures ranging from a low of 39°F to a high of 55°F (Weather Spark). The area receives a notable amount of rainfall throughout the year, with the highest precipitation typically occurring in August (Weather Spark).

The water temperature is also a significant factor for those enjoying the coastal environment. The warmer water season lasts from mid-June to late September, with average temperatures above 79°F. August offers the warmest water, averaging 82°F. Cooler water temperatures are present from early December to late April, with February averaging around 64°F (Weather Spark).

What are the Demographics of North Myrtle Beach?

North Myrtle Beach has a population of approximately 18,790 residents as of the 2020 census (US Census Bureau). The city’s demographics reveal a population with a significant senior demographic, as 43.5% of residents are 65 years of age or older (US Census Bureau). The median age in North Myrtle Beach is 62.5 years, which is considerably higher than the national median age (US Census Bureau).

The racial composition of North Myrtle Beach is predominantly White. As of the 2020 census, White residents made up 94.50% of the population (US Census Bureau). More recent estimates indicate the White population remains high, at 89.1% (Census Dots). Other racial groups include Black or African American, Asian, and Hispanic or Latino residents, though in smaller percentages (US Census Bureau).

Age and Gender Distribution

The age distribution shows a large segment of the population in older age brackets. Only 8.6% of residents are under 18, while a substantial 43.5% are 65 or older (US Census Bureau). This skews the median age significantly higher than the national average.

In terms of gender, there are slightly more females than males. For every 100 females, there are approximately 93.1 males (US Census Bureau). This ratio is consistent for adults as well, with 91.7 males for every 100 females aged 18 and over (US Census Bureau).

What are the Schools Like in North Myrtle Beach?

North Myrtle Beach is served by the Horry County School District, which is generally well-regarded. The district has an overall rating of 4.05 out of 5 stars based on analysis of key statistics and reviews from students and parents (Niche). This rating reflects the district’s performance in areas such as state test scores, college readiness, and graduation rates.

Individual schools also receive notable ratings. North Myrtle Beach High School has an overall Niche grade of B+ and is considered above average, with 74% of students proficient in math and 78% in reading (Niche). North Myrtle Beach Middle School also holds a highly rated A- status, with 55% of students proficient in math and 65% in reading (Niche).

School District Performance

The Horry County School District is recognized for its commitment to education, with a focus on academic achievement and student well-being. The district’s performance is evaluated through various metrics, including state test scores and student-teacher ratios. For instance, North Myrtle Beach High School maintains a student-teacher ratio of 18 to 1 (Niche).

The district’s overall rating of 4.05 out of 5 stars suggests a strong educational environment. Factors contributing to this rating include teacher quality and student outcomes, as evidenced by proficiency rates in core subjects like math and reading (Niche).

What are the Pros and Cons of Living in North Myrtle Beach?

Living in North Myrtle Beach offers a desirable coastal lifestyle with numerous amenities, but it also comes with certain drawbacks. The city’s beautiful beaches and numerous recreational activities are major draws for residents seeking a relaxed and enjoyable environment.

The cost of living is relatively low compared to national averages, particularly in housing costs, making it an attractive option for many. However, the higher-than-average crime rates and the significant presence of a senior population might be considerations for some individuals or families looking for a more youthful or crime-free environment.

Pros

The primary advantage of North Myrtle Beach is its appealing coastal environment, offering abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation and a relaxed pace of life. The generally lower cost of living, especially in terms of housing, makes it an accessible option for many.

The community is also home to well-regarded schools, such as North Myrtle Beach High School and North Myrtle Beach Middle School, which provide solid educational foundations. The city’s tourism industry also drives a consistent job market, particularly in the service and hospitality sectors.

Cons

A significant concern for potential residents is the higher-than-average crime rate, which impacts the overall sense of safety (NeighborhoodScout). Additionally, the median age is quite high, with a large percentage of the population being 65 or older (US Census Bureau), which may not appeal to those seeking a younger demographic or more diverse age mix.

While the average salary is lower than the national average (Bureau of Labor Statistics), and the job market is heavily reliant on tourism, these factors can present challenges for those seeking higher-paying or more diverse employment opportunities.