Let the numbers do the talking.
Florence, SC vs Myrtle Beach, SC
Florence, SC vs Myrtle Beach, SC: What the data shows
Florence, SC is in Florence, SC while Myrtle Beach, SC is in Myrtle Beach, SC — both in the same state. On home prices, Florence, SC is the more affordable option at $209,200 median — $38,200 less than Myrtle Beach, SC's $247,400. WYLT rates Florence, SC as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Myrtle Beach, SC as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Florence, SC has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Myrtle Beach, SC has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Florence, SC has Low flood risk and Myrtle Beach, SC has Low flood risk.
Florence, SC is the more walkable neighborhood. Florence, SC scores 33/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Myrtle Beach, SC's 11/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Myrtle Beach, SC has the higher school rating — Florence, SC rates 8/10 and Myrtle Beach, SC rates 8.5/10.
| Category | Florence, SC | Myrtle Beach, SC |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $209K ✓ Lower price | $247K |
| Median Rent | $922 ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $65K ✓ Higher income | $47K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 33/100 ✓ More walkable | 11/100 |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 10/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 18/100 | 40/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 20 min ✓ Shorter commute | 30 min |
| 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 | 8/10 | 8.5/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | budget familiesfirst‑time home buyerscommuters within 30 minutes | Vacation homeownersRetirees seeking beach lifestyleTourism industry workers |
Bottom line
For budget families who prioritize affordability and decent schools, Florence, SC, is a better fit. However, if you're specifically seeking a beach lifestyle and quality schools despite potential drawbacks, Myrtle Beach, SC, may be the better choice. Ultimately, it depends on your priorities: if you value beach access and don't mind higher costs, go to Myrtle Beach; if you prefer a more affordable, less crowded life, Florence is a solid suburb.
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