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

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, offers a vibrant coastal lifestyle, attracting many with its sunny shores and entertainment options. This popular tourist destination also serves as a home for a diverse population seeking its unique blend of relaxation and activity. Understanding the various facets of life in Myrtle Beach is essential for anyone considering a move to this dynamic city.

The city presents a mixed economic landscape, with a strong emphasis on tourism and hospitality, which shapes much of its job market and daily life. While it offers a distinct coastal charm, potential residents should also consider practical aspects such as safety, cost of living, and community resources.

Is it Safe to Live in Myrtle Beach?

Myrtle Beach’s crime rate presents a complex picture, with property crimes being more prevalent than violent crimes. In 2024, reported burglary cases saw an increase of 33% compared to the previous year, with a rate of 456 per 100,000 people. Motor vehicle theft also occurred, though reported cases decreased from 2023 to 2024. Larceny-theft remains the most common crime type, accounting for 71% of incidents reported to the FBI (as reported by PlainCrime and FBI Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program). Overall, Myrtle Beach has a crime rate of 68 per one thousand residents, which is considered high compared to other communities of all sizes (as reported by NeighborhoodScout).

While overall crime rates may be a concern, it’s important to note that safety can vary significantly by neighborhood. Some areas are considered safer than others, and local law enforcement is actively engaged in crime prevention strategies. Residents and visitors are advised to remain aware of their surroundings, especially in areas frequented by tourists, and to take appropriate precautions to secure their belongings. Property crimes, in particular, have seen a spike during peak tourist seasons, prompting increased police patrols (as reported by Base Operations).

Cost of Living and Housing

The cost of living in Myrtle Beach is generally lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for many. Housing costs, in particular, are notably more affordable. As of March 2026, the median sale price for a home in Myrtle Beach was $270,000, which is 36% lower than the national median (as reported by Redfin). The average rent for an apartment in Myrtle Beach was $1,700 per month as of March 2026, which is 15% lower than the national average (as reported by Zillow and Apartments.com).

Rental prices can vary depending on the size and location of the property. For instance, a one-bedroom apartment averages around $1,358 per month, while a two-bedroom can be closer to $1,560 per month. The overall cost of living in Myrtle Beach is approximately 7.5% lower than the national average, with housing being a significant contributor to this affordability (as reported by Apartments.com).

Job Market and Economy

Myrtle Beach’s economy is heavily influenced by its status as a major tourist destination. The hospitality and tourism sectors are the largest industries, employing a significant portion of the workforce. Other key industries include healthcare, retail, government, and aerospace. Major employers in the area include Horry County School District, Walmart, Coastal Carolina University, and various healthcare facilities like Conway Medical Center and Grand Strand Regional Medical Center (as reported by MBREDC and Visit Myrtle Beach).

The average annual salary in Myrtle Beach was approximately $45,055 as of April 2026, which is lower than the national average. The unemployment rate in Myrtle Beach was reported at 7.30% in a recent period, which is higher than the long-term average for the area (as reported by YCharts and FRED). While the tourism industry provides numerous job opportunities, it also means that employment can be seasonal for some roles.

Climate and Weather

Myrtle Beach experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters. The warmest month is July, with average daily high temperatures around 87.5°F and lows of 73.5°F (as reported by NOAA). The coolest month is January, with average highs of 55.8°F and lows of 36.5°F.

Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, with August typically being the wettest month, averaging about 5.6 inches of rain. November tends to be the driest, with around 2.8 inches of precipitation. The city experiences a significant amount of sunshine, with the tourism season generally considered best from late May to mid-July and early August to late September, based on favorable temperatures and low precipitation (as reported by El Dorado Weather and Visit Myrtle Beach).

Education and Schools

Myrtle Beach is served by the Horry County School District, which encompasses numerous public schools. Myrtle Beach High School, for example, is rated as an above-average public school with a student-teacher ratio of 18:1 (as reported by Niche). State test scores indicate that about 60% of students are proficient in math and reading at Myrtle Beach High School.

Other schools in the area, such as Myrtle Beach Elementary School, also receive generally positive reviews, with Niche ratings reflecting a B-minus overall grade. The district as a whole is ranked among the best in South Carolina, with factors such as academics, diversity, and teacher quality being considered in its evaluation (as reported by Niche and Best School Districts).

Demographics

Myrtle Beach has a population of over 38,000 residents, showing growth since the 2020 Census (as reported by U.S. Census Bureau and World Population Review). The population is diverse, with approximately 65.6% identifying as White, 14.7% as Black or African American, and 13.2% as Hispanic (as reported by U.S. Census Bureau). The median age in Myrtle Beach is 47.3 years, which is older than the national median, indicating a significant senior population (as reported by World Population Review).

The city’s demographic makeup is slightly more diverse than South Carolina overall, though it is less diverse than some of its neighboring communities. The Hispanic population has seen notable growth in recent years. The gender distribution shows a slightly higher percentage of females compared to males (as reported by U.S. Census Bureau and World Population Review).

Pros and Cons of Living in Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach offers numerous advantages, including a lower cost of living compared to the national average, particularly in housing (as reported by Redfin and Zillow). The city boasts a pleasant climate with warm summers and mild winters, ideal for those who enjoy outdoor activities (as reported by NOAA). The strong tourism industry provides a lively atmosphere and a variety of entertainment and dining options.

However, Myrtle Beach also faces challenges. The crime rate, particularly property crime, is higher than national averages, which can be a concern for residents (as reported by NeighborhoodScout and PlainCrime). The job market, while robust in tourism, can be seasonal, and the average salary is lower than the national average (as reported by YCharts and ZipRecruiter). Additionally, the city’s median age is higher than the national average, suggesting a larger retiree population, which may influence community dynamics.