Let the numbers do the talking.
Myrtle Beach, SC vs Summerville, SC
Myrtle Beach, SC vs Summerville, SC: What the data shows
Myrtle Beach, SC is in Myrtle Beach, SC while Summerville, SC is in Summerville, SC — both in the same state. On home prices, Myrtle Beach, SC is the more affordable option at $247,400 median — $30,700 less than Summerville, SC's $278,100. WYLT rates Myrtle Beach, SC as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Summerville, SC as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Myrtle Beach, SC has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Summerville, SC has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Myrtle Beach, SC has Low flood risk and Summerville, SC has Low flood risk.
Summerville, SC is the more walkable neighborhood. Myrtle Beach, SC scores 11/100 (car-dependent) versus Summerville, SC's 43/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Myrtle Beach, SC has the higher school rating — Myrtle Beach, SC rates 8.5/10 and Summerville, SC rates 8.3/10.
| Category | Myrtle Beach, SC | Summerville, SC |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Good for now |
| Median Price | $247K ✓ Lower price | $278K |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $47K | $76K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 11/100 | 43/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 10/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 40/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 30 min ✓ Shorter commute | 35 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 | 8.5/10 ✓ Better schools | 8.3/10 |
| Best for | Vacation homeownersRetirees seeking beach lifestyleTourism industry workers | Families with childrenFirst‑time homebuyersCommuters to Charleston |
Bottom line
If you prioritize being close to a beach and don't mind high costs and traffic, Myrtle Beach might work for you. However, if you prefer a quieter lifestyle, don't prioritize beach access, and can handle a longer commute, Summerville could be a better fit. Families with kids might also prefer Summerville for its comparable schools and slightly lower costs.
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