Myrtle Beach, South Carolina – In the year 2023, Myrtle Beach and South Carolina witnessed a remarkable influx of new residents, particularly attracting a significant number of retirees. This coastal city, known for its scenic beaches and welcoming community, has become a top destination for those seeking a peaceful retirement lifestyle.
According to Move Buddha, an online resource for finding and comparing moving services, Myrtle Beach ranked second on the list of cities with the highest inflow in the United States. This impressive ranking indicates a substantial population shift, with nearly three times more people moving into Myrtle Beach than leaving. Specifically, for every 100 individuals leaving, a whopping 282 people chose to make Myrtle Beach their new home.
The state of South Carolina as a whole mirrored this trend, recording twice as many people moving in compared to those moving out. This surge in newcomers positioned South Carolina at the top of Move Buddha’s list for states with the most incoming residents.
Horry County, where Myrtle Beach is located, has experienced a boom in population growth over the last quarter of a century. According to USA Facts, the county’s population has nearly doubled since 2000. From around 198,000 residents at the turn of the millennium, the number soared to over 380,000 by 2022. This dramatic increase reflects the area’s growing popularity and appeal.
Several factors contribute to South Carolina’s allure, especially for retirees. The state’s lower cost of living, mild climate, and abundance of beaches make it an attractive option for those looking to enjoy their golden years in a serene and budget-friendly setting.
Hire a Helper, another moving service, found that approximately 16,000 retirees, mostly aged above 55, chose the Myrtle Beach area as their retirement destination in 2023. This area includes Myrtle Beach itself, along with Conway and North Myrtle Beach.
In Horry County, the demographic of residents over 65 years old is higher than the national average. About 26% of the county’s population is over the age of 65, compared to 17% across the United States, based on data from USA Facts. Over the past decade, there has been a notable increase in this age group.
Interestingly, 2023 also saw a trend where people retired younger. Move Buddha observed that 23% of Americans moving for retirement were under the age of 55, and many of these individuals were unmarried. This shift indicates a changing perspective on retirement, with people choosing to retire earlier and often as single individuals.
Myrtle Beach and South Carolina, with their welcoming communities and ideal living conditions, continue to draw people from all walks of life, particularly those seeking a peaceful and enjoyable retirement. As these trends continue, the region is likely to see further growth and diversification in its population.
