Let the numbers do the talking.
Aiken, SC vs Myrtle Beach, SC
Aiken, SC vs Myrtle Beach, SC: What the data shows
Aiken, SC is in Aiken, SC while Myrtle Beach, SC is in Myrtle Beach, SC — both in the same state. On home prices, Aiken, SC is the more affordable option at $145,900 median — $101,500 less than Myrtle Beach, SC's $247,400. WYLT rates Aiken, SC as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Myrtle Beach, SC as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Aiken, SC has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Myrtle Beach, SC has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Aiken, SC has Low flood risk and Myrtle Beach, SC has Low flood risk.
Aiken, SC is the more walkable neighborhood. Aiken, SC scores 18/100 (car-dependent) versus Myrtle Beach, SC's 11/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Myrtle Beach, SC has the higher school rating — Aiken, SC rates 8/10 and Myrtle Beach, SC rates 8.5/10.
| Category | Aiken, SC | Myrtle Beach, SC |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $146K ✓ Lower price | $247K |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $53K ✓ Higher income | $47K |
| Price Volatility | Low ✓ More stable | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 18/100 ✓ More walkable | 11/100 |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 10/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 40/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | N/A | 30 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8/10 | 8.5/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | familiesremote_workersbudget_conscious | Vacation homeownersRetirees seeking beach lifestyleTourism industry workers |
Bottom line
Aiken offers the lower price and quieter, family‑friendly feel of a small town with decent schools, but its walkability is very limited. Myrtle Beach attracts those who want a beach lifestyle and tourism‑based jobs, yet the higher cost, traffic congestion, and seasonal crowds make long‑term residency more challenging. Choose Aiken if you value affordability and a quieter home life, or Myrtle Beach if you need a beachfront setting and don’t mind the higher price and traffic.
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