Myrtle Beach Living: Best Areas for Lifestyle & Value

Myrtle Beach is known globally as a premier vacation spot, what many people discover when they decide to stay for good is that the Grand Strand offers far more than just tourist attractions—it provides a remarkable quality of life and exceptional value, making it one of the most popular retirement and relocation destinations in the Southeast.

If you’re dreaming of the ideal coastal lifestyle, your search for the best places to live in Myrtle Beach SC should extend beyond the bustling heart of the city to the charming, diverse surrounding communities. These areas combine low South Carolina taxes, lower cost of living, and proximity to the ocean with a quieter, more local atmosphere.

Dream Finders Homes understands that choosing where you live is all about balancing convenience, tranquility, and value. That's why we build new construction communities in the most desirable areas along the Grand Strand.

For those who want to be in the center of the action, there's no substitute for Myrtle Beach, SC itself. This area is the beating heart of the Grand Strand and the ultimate choice for residents who thrive on energy and accessibility.

Unrivaled Entertainment: From the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade to Broadway at the Beach, you’ll find endless options for dining, shopping, and entertainment year-round. Live music venues, theaters, and a constant stream of festivals ensure there’s never a dull moment.

Job Opportunities: The tourism, hospitality, and healthcare sectors offer robust employment opportunities, contributing to a vibrant local economy.

Beach Access: Simply put, living in the city means you're moments away from putting your toes in the Atlantic Ocean. Easy access to public beaches and the famous shoreline is the top draw.

Variety of Housing: While often associated with condos and vacation properties, the greater Myrtle Beach area also offers quiet residential communities tucked away from the main thoroughfares.

Just north of the primary hustle, right near the North Carolina border, lies the picturesque fishing village of Little River, SC. This area is often cited as one of the best places to live in Myrtle Beach South Carolina for its laid-back, nautical atmosphere.

Nautical Charm: Little River is famous for its busy waterfront, which hosts the area's best fishing charters, marinas, and seafood restaurants. The annual Blue Crab Festival is a highly anticipated local event that captures the town's unique personality.

Lower Keys Vibe: It offers a quieter, more local feel compared to its southern neighbor. Many residents choose Little River to maintain easy beach access (it's only a few minutes' drive) while enjoying a more relaxed, community-focused lifestyle.

Golf Haven: This area is surrounded by some of the Grand Strand’s most prestigious golf courses, making it a dream destination for golfers.

Proximity to North Carolina: Being right on the border provides residents with easy access to the resources and attractions of Calabash and Wilmington, NC.

Stepping inland from the coast, the historic city of Conway, SC, offers a different kind of southern charm and some of the best overall value in the region. Situated along the Waccamaw River, Conway is perfect for those who prioritize space, affordability, and history while still being a manageable 20-30 minute drive from the ocean.

Historic Downtown: Conway boasts a beautifully preserved historic downtown area. Its Riverwalk along the Waccamaw River is a popular spot for relaxing, dining, and enjoying community events.

Educational Hub: Home to Coastal Carolina University (CCU), Conway has a vibrant, educated local feel, benefiting from the university's arts, culture, and sports programs.

Affordable Living: For many buyers looking for the best places to live in Myrtle Beach, Conway is the answer due to its more favorable home prices and lower cost of living compared to the immediate coastline. You get significantly more home for your money here.

Small-Town Feel: Residents enjoy a genuine, tight-knit community atmosphere with local shops, farmers' markets, and festivals that give it a distinct identity separate from the tourist crush.

For those seeking true affordability and a peaceful, agricultural environment, Loris, SC, stands out as an excellent option just northwest of Conway. Loris is a smaller, rural town with a welcoming spirit, making it a hidden gem for buyers looking to maximize their home value and enjoy a slower pace of life.

Unmatched Affordability: Loris offers some of the most competitive housing prices in the entire Grand Strand area, which is a major draw for first-time buyers and those seeking larger lots or retirement value.

Genuine Community Spirit: The town is known for its strong community values and friendly residents. It hosts the annual Loris Bog-Off Festival, a famous local tradition celebrating chicken bog, a regional culinary staple.

Quiet Lifestyle: Life in Loris is centered around comfort and tranquility. It provides a peaceful country retreat, yet the area continues to grow, attracting new businesses and amenities.

Access to Nature: Surrounded by beautiful farmland and natural preserves, it's a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy hunting, fishing, and simple, unspoiled nature.

Choosing the right town in the Myrtle Beach area is an exciting step, and Dream Finders Homes is here to help you navigate the diverse options. Whether your perfect South Carolina life involves the energetic atmosphere of Myrtle Beach, SC, the peaceful marinas of Little River, SC, the historic charm of Conway, SC, or the incredible affordability of Loris, SC, we offer quality-built, personalized homes throughout these locations.