Let the numbers do the talking.
Columbia, SC vs Myrtle Beach, SC
Columbia, SC vs Myrtle Beach, SC: What the data shows
Columbia, SC is in Columbia, SC while Myrtle Beach, SC is in Myrtle Beach, SC — both in the same state. On home prices, Columbia, SC is the more affordable option at $234,500 median — $12,900 less than Myrtle Beach, SC's $247,400. WYLT rates Columbia, 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. Columbia, SC has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Myrtle Beach, SC has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Columbia, SC has Low flood risk and Myrtle Beach, SC has Low flood risk.
Columbia, SC is the more walkable neighborhood. Columbia, SC scores 84/100 (very walkable) versus Myrtle Beach, SC's 11/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Myrtle Beach, SC has the higher school rating — Columbia, SC rates 8.3/10 and Myrtle Beach, SC rates 8.5/10.
| Category | Columbia, SC | Myrtle Beach, SC |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $235K ✓ Lower price | $247K |
| Median Rent | $1K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $34K | $47K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 84/100 ✓ More walkable | 11/100 |
| Transit Score | 46/100 ✓ Better transit | 10/100 |
| Bike Score | 80/100 ✓ More bikeable | 40/100 |
| Commute | 30 min | 30 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8.3/10 | 8.5/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | young familiesbike enthusiastsstudents | Vacation homeownersRetirees seeking beach lifestyleTourism industry workers |
Bottom line
Both neighborhoods have distinct trade-offs — review the data above to find your best fit.
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