Top 3 Least Expensive Beach Towns in South Carolina (2024)

South Carolina's coastline stretches for 187 miles, offering an array of coastal towns to call home. Dreaming of living near the beach without breaking the bank? South Carolina delivers, with several budget-friendly options.

But what is the least expensive beach town in South Carolina?🏘️🌴

Let's dive into the data, comparing home prices and rents across South Carolina's coastal towns to find the hidden gems.

*Rent data from Rent Cafe, median list price from Realtor.com

Affordable Beach Town Rankings for South Carolina

Additionally, there are coastal towns situated along rivers or marshes, or just a short drive from the beach, such as Beaufort, Bluffton, Johns Island, McClellanville, Georgetown, and Little River. These might be worth a look as well, if you don't mind a short trip to the beach by car or boat.

Top 3 Least Expensive Beach Towns in South Carolina for 2024

According to data from Realtor.com and Rent Cafe, here are the top three cheapest beach towns in South Carolina:

#3. Surfside Beach, SC

• Median Home Price: $410,600 (up from $384,850 last year)
• Average Rent: $1,750

Situated just south of Myrtle Beach, Surfside Beach is a hidden gem along the Grand Strand. With a median home price of $410,600 and an average rent of $1,750, Surfside Beach offers affordability without compromising on coastal charm. Here, you'll find a diverse range of housing options, from extravagant beach homes to quaint beachside condos and stately brick residences. Whether you're looking for a permanent residence or a vacation home, Surfside Beach has something for everyone.

But it's not just the affordability that makes Surfside Beach special. The town boasts a rich coastal heritage and a laid-back atmosphere that's perfect for retirees and beach lovers alike. Plus, with a rebuilt fishing pier set to reopen in 2024, Surfside Beach offers ample opportunities for fishing, strolling, and enjoying breathtaking ocean views.

With easy access to nearby entertainment options and located in Horry County, Surfside Beach is an affordable destination for anyone looking to live near the beach.

#2. North Myrtle Beach, SC

• Median Home Price: $392,400 (down from $396,890 last year)
• Average Rent: $1,671

Surprising yet delightful, North Myrtle Beach emerges as the second most affordable beach town in South Carolina. With a median home price of $392,400 and an average rent of $1,671, North Myrtle Beach offers affordability without sacrificing coastal charm. This vibrant community is known for its picturesque coastline, proximity to Cherry Grove Beach and Pier, and bustling retail and entertainment scene at Barefoot Landing. From studio apartments to grand estates, North Myrtle Beach boasts a variety of housing options to fit every budget.

Beyond affordability, North Myrtle Beach enchants residents and visitors alike with its laid-back vibe and endless opportunities for outdoor recreation. Whether you're soaking up the sun on the beach, exploring nature trails, or indulging in fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants, North Myrtle Beach offers the perfect blend of relaxation and excitement.

With its coastal charm and budget-friendly housing, North Myrtle Beach is a top choice for those seeking the quintessential beach lifestyle without breaking the bank.

#1. Myrtle Beach, SC

• Median Home Price: $305,000 (down from $339,000 last year)
• Average Rent: $1,599

For the ultimate in affordability, look no further than Myrtle Beach, the least expensive beach town in South Carolina. With a median home price of $305,000 and an average rent of $1,599, Myrtle Beach offers unbeatable value for those dreaming of coastal living. Despite experiencing a real estate boom, Myrtle Beach has managed to maintain affordable housing options, including low-maintenance condos, affordable homes, and communities of duplex-style and row-home townhomes.

Living in Myrtle Beach means more than just finding a home that doesn't break the bank. Residents enjoy easy access to the beach, world-class golf courses, shopping destinations, and a thriving dining scene. Whether you're lounging on the sandy shores, teeing off at a championship golf course, or exploring the boardwalk, Myrtle Beach offers endless opportunities for fun and relaxation.

With its budget-friendly housing options and endless amenities, Myrtle Beach is the perfect place to call home for retirees and beach enthusiasts alike.

Bonus: Even Cheaper Options Inland!

If these top three beach towns are still a stretch for your budget, consider inland options like Conway and Loris. Just a short drive from the coast, these towns offer more affordable single-family homes without sacrificing easy weekend trips to the beach.

Conway, SC

• Median Home Price: $308,100
• Average Rent: $1,700
• Distance to the Beach: 25-minute drive

Loris, SC

• Median Home Price: $299.900
• Average Rent: $1,350
• Distance to the Beach: 30-minute drive

Final Thoughts

Ready to make your beachside dreams a reality? South Carolina offers an array of affordable beach towns, making coastal living attainable for retirees and budget-conscious buyers alike. Whether you're seeking sandy shores, coastal charm, or unbeatable affordability, South Carolina's beach towns have it all.

Ready to take the next step?Our experienced agents have a deep understanding of the local market and can provide invaluable insights to ensure your moving process is as smooth and successful as possible.

Reach out to a Right Find Homes agent for expert guidance and find your dream home in Myrtle Beach or the surrounding area.Contact us today!

Provided courtesy of the Coastal Carolinas MLS. Copyright2024 of the Coastal Carolinas MLS. All rights reserved. Information is provided exclusively for consumers' personal, non-commercial use, and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing, and that the data is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed accurate by the Coastal Carolinas MLS.

Listing information last updated on June 5, 2024 at 3:15 AM EST.