The Myrtle Beach housing market spans the heart of the Grand Strand — a 60-mile stretch of Atlantic coastline in Horry County attracting over 20 million visitors annually, which drives one of South Carolina's most active short-term rental investment markets. Median prices for condos and single-family homes average around $285,000 citywide, though the range is wide: oceanfront condos start near $200,000 for studio units and extend past $1.5 million for penthouse flats, while golf community single-families inland from the beach run $280,000–$600,000. The market draws retirees, vacation home buyers, and investors in roughly equal measure, with year-round population growth from in-migration adding primary-résidence demand.
Myrtle Beach property types and STR investment data
Oceanfront and ocean-view condos in high-rise towers along Ocean Boulevard deliver the highest STR gross yields — 10–15% during summer, though annual averages are closer to 8–12% when fall and winter occupancy softness is factored in. Golf community single-families in Plantation Lakes, Grande Dunes, and Waterway Palms attract year-round buyers at $380,000–$700,000 with HOA amenities. Long-term residential rentals in the downtown corridor and western Myrtle Beach neighborhoods yield 6.5–9%, with vacancy rates of 4–6% for year-round rentals serving local hospitality, médical, and retail workers.
Myrtle Beach property taxes average 0.4–0.55% effective for primary residents under SC's 4% assessment ratio; vacation properties and investment purchases at 6% assessment add significant tax load. HOA fees in oceanfront high-rises range $400–$1,200 per month — a critical cost factor for STR investors. Rénovation costs average $70–$120 per square foot, with oceanfront properties requiring coastal construction standards and periodic storm hardening. Buyers should review Horry County STR ordinance requirements before purchasing as a short-term rental investment — registration and safety inspections are mandatory.
