More than ever, are you wondering about living in Myrtle Beach? Discover the 2025 cost of living, including housing, utilities, and lifestyle expenses in this popular coastal city.
This article gives you a real look at the cost of living in Myrtle Beach to help you figure out if it’s right for your lifestyle and budget. From home prices and food costs to entertainment and healthcare, we’re breaking it all down. So, if you’re thinking of relocating, this guide might be just what you want.
Is Living in Myrtle Beach, SC, Affordable in 2025?
In 2025, the cost of living in Myrtle Beach is expected to remain among the lowest compared to most parts of the country. That’s one big reason retirees and people leaving expensive cities keep getting drawn to it. Prices have gone up a little since 2024, but the value you get still makes it a smart move.
Thanks to low taxes, a wide range of housing, and lots of new neighborhoods, living in Myrtle Beach South Carolina draws retirees, young families, and remote workers alike. It’s not just about affordability. It’s also about lifestyle. That combo is why this beach town continues to grow year after year.
2025 Cost Breakdown – Living in Myrtle Beach
1. Housing Costs in Myrtle Beach
Housing is one of the main reasons people choose to relocate here. As of 2025, the median home price is around $320,000, which is well below many East Coast beach towns (Source: Zillow). That means you can live by the ocean without paying Charleston or Hilton Head prices.
A major perk of living in Myrtle Beach is, you can choose from a variety of houses. From easy-to-manage beachfront condos to spacious houses in golf communities, there’s something for everyone. It’s often easier to find a good match here than in most other coastal towns.
2. Utilities and Internet
For most households, monthly utility bills typically range from $180 to $220 per month (Source: Numbeo). It includes electricity, water, and gas for a typical two-bedroom apartment or house. Myrtle Beach utility rates have remained relatively stable compared to national averages.
Internet plans average $80 per month and offer decent speeds for working from home or streaming. Most providers offer bundled services with cable and streaming platforms. The availability of high-speed internet also adds to the city’s appeal for digital nomads.
3. Grocery and Food Costs
Grocery prices in Myrtle Beach haven’t shifted too much through 2025, which kinda keeps weekly shopping from feeling like a burden (Source: Numbeo). You’ll still find milk around $3.40 a gallon, bread for $2.50 or so, and chicken near $4.20 a pound. A dozen eggs? Usually about $2.90, give or take.
Spots like Aldi and Food Lion help a lot when folks try to stick to a budget, and the farmers’ markets are still real good for fresh stuff that doesn’t cost too much. Some people buy in bulk, others use grocery apps to catch deals. Everyone’s kinda just trying their best to make things stretch.
4. Transportation Costs
Gas is averaging $3.20/gallon in 2025, which is slightly above last year’s price (Source: AAA Fuel Prices). Car insurance runs around $1,300–$1,400 annually, depending on age and driving history. These costs are still lower than in other major metro areas.
While public transportation is limited, many retirees rely on golf carts in certain neighborhoods. Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft are widely available and often used for short commutes. Biking has also gained popularity in many of the coastal communities.
5. Healthcare and Insurance
Health coverage is accessible and affordable across the region. Most individuals pay between $400 and $450/month for premiums, while families pay around $1,100–$1,300. Doctor co-pays remain low at around $30 per visit.
Myrtle Beach has seen growing investment in clinics and care centers, especially those that cater to seniors. Many practices are now accepting new patients, including Medicare and private insurance holders. The city is becoming a retirement health hub for the Southeast.
6. Entertainment, Dining, and Lifestyle Expenses
The lifestyle is a big draw for those living in Myrtle Beach. From beach days and golf to local dining, there’s always something to enjoy, and often at a low cost. You don’t need a big budget to live well here.
Retirees especially benefit from the variety of affordable recreation. Myrtle Beach offers pickleball, art classes, clubs, and outdoor trails designed for relaxed living. It’s a major advantage when weighing the living in Myrtle Beach pros and cons.
Living in Myrtle Beach – Pros and Cons
When people ask about living in Myrtle Beach pros and cons, we always encourage them to look at the full picture. Here’s a snapshot of both sides:
Pros:
Beach lifestyle
Mild winters
No state income tax on Social Security
Lower housing costs (vs. coastal peers)
Cons:
Summer tourism crowds
Limited public transportation
Higher hurricane insurance premiums
Who Is Myrtle Beach Ideal For in 2025?
Retirees love the sunshine, low cost of living, and tax-friendly setup. Many from New York, Pennsylvania, and Ohio come to downsize or get a second home. Since Social Security isn’t taxed, Myrtle Beach feels like the right fit.
Families are drawn to Myrtle Beach for its growing schools, safer areas, and active lifestyle. Forestbrook and Carolina Forest stay top picks thanks to strong schools and community feel. Parks, restaurants, and year-round events make it even better.
Investors are taking notice of the buzz around the place. Whether it’s for a vacation spot or something long-term, Myrtle Beach’s real estate keeps pulling attention. With tourism going up, a lot of these properties earn well most months of the year.
Related Resources on Living in Myrtle Beach
Best places to live in South Carolina – Explore top cities in the Palmetto State
Is Myrtle Beach a good place to live – A moving guide for 2025
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is Myrtle Beach affordable to live in 2025?
Yes, Myrtle Beach still ranks as one of the most affordable coastal spots in the U.S. Home prices are lower than most similar cities, and there’s no tax on Social Security either. That’s why a lot of retirees and folks from major metros keep moving here.
Q2: How much money do you need to live comfortably in Myrtle Beach?
For a single person, living comfortably in Myrtle Beach can be done on around $3,000 each month. Couples or families need somewhere between $4,500 $6,000, depending on where they stay and how they live. It depends on housing, lifestyle and what you consider “comfortable.”
Q3: Are housing prices rising in Myrtle Beach?
Yes, but only slightly. Prices have gone up 4–6% since last year, driven by demand in oceanfront and planned communities.
Q4: What’s the average rent in Myrtle Beach in 2025?
A one-bedroom rents for around $1,250; a two-bedroom averages $1,600–$1,700 (Source: Rentcafe). Beachfront or amenity-rich areas may be more expensive.
Q5: Is Myrtle Beach more expensive than Charleston or Greenville?
No. Living in Myrtle Beach South Carolina is more affordable than Charleston and Greenville, while similar, doesn’t offer beach access.
Q6: Does Myrtle Beach have a state income tax?
South Carolina does, but it doesn’t tax Social Security income. That makes living in Myrtle Beach even more appealing for retirees (Source: U.S. News).
