Let the numbers do the talking.
Hilton Head Island, SC vs Pawleys Island, SC
Hilton Head Island, SC vs Pawleys Island, SC: What the data shows
Hilton Head Island, SC is in Hilton Head Island, SC while Pawleys Island, SC is in Pawleys Island, SC — both in the same state. On home prices, Hilton Head Island, SC is the more affordable option at $713,700 median — $6,300 less than Pawleys Island, SC's $720,000. WYLT rates Hilton Head Island, SC as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Pawleys Island, SC as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Hilton Head Island, SC has Low violent crime and Low property crime. Pawleys Island, SC has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Hilton Head Island, SC has Low flood risk and Pawleys Island, SC has Low flood risk.
For families weighing school quality, Pawleys Island, SC has the higher school rating — Hilton Head Island, SC rates 8/10 and Pawleys Island, SC rates 8.9/10.
| Category | Hilton Head Island, SC | Pawleys Island, SC |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Settle here |
| Median Price | $714K ✓ Lower price | $720K |
| Median Rent | $2K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $95K ✓ Higher income | $80K |
| Price Volatility | High | Moderate ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | Minimal transit ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | N/A | N/A |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | A | A |
| Violent Crime | Low | Low |
| Property Crime | Low | Low |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8/10 | 8.9/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | RetireesBeach loversRemote workers | familiesbeach loversnature enthusiasts |
Bottom line
Both Hilton Head Island and Pawleys Island offer excellent schools and a beautiful beach lifestyle, but they cater to different needs and budgets. If you're a retiree or remote worker looking to pay a premium for a quiet coastal lifestyle, Hilton Head might be a good fit, but otherwise consider Pawleys Island for a more affordable and peaceful option. For families with good schools and a strong preference for beach living, Pawleys Island is the more practical choice.
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