Let the numbers do the talking.
Myrtle Beach, SC vs North Charleston, SC
Myrtle Beach, SC vs North Charleston, SC: What the data shows
Myrtle Beach, SC is in Myrtle Beach, SC while North Charleston, SC is in North Charleston, SC — both in the same state. On home prices, North Charleston, SC is the more affordable option at $221,100 median — $26,300 less than Myrtle Beach, SC's $247,400. WYLT rates Myrtle Beach, SC as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and North Charleston, SC as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Myrtle Beach, SC has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. North Charleston, SC has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Myrtle Beach, SC has Low flood risk and North Charleston, SC has Low flood risk.
North Charleston, SC is the more walkable neighborhood. Myrtle Beach, SC scores 11/100 (car-dependent) versus North Charleston, SC's 16/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Myrtle Beach, SC has the higher school rating — Myrtle Beach, SC rates 8.5/10 and North Charleston, SC rates 7.9/10.
| Category | Myrtle Beach, SC | North Charleston, SC |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $247K | $221K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $47K | $48K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 11/100 | 16/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 10/100 ✓ Better transit | 2/100 |
| Bike Score | 40/100 ✓ More bikeable | 2/100 |
| 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 | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8.5/10 ✓ Better schools | 7.9/10 |
| Best for | Vacation homeownersRetirees seeking beach lifestyleTourism industry workers | Families wanting good schoolsCommuters to the Boeing plantPeople looking for affordable home prices |
Bottom line
If you're looking for a traditional beach lifestyle with quality schools, Myrtle Beach might be preferable, but keep in mind its high cost of living and seasonal crowds. However, North Charleston is a more practical choice for families seeking good schools without breaking the bank and for commuters to the Boeing plant. Overall, North Charleston edges Myrtle Beach as a more suitable long-term residence due to its somewhat more affordable housing and lower flood risk.
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