Do you dream of Southern charm and coastal living but can’t decide between buying a Homes in Myrtle Beach again to rent in Charleston? Both cities offer stunning beaches and welcoming communities, but their lifestyles differ. Myrtle Beach is known for its vibrant tourist attractions and affordable housing options, while Charleston shines with its historic beauty, culinary scene, and neighborhoods.
Whether you’re looking for the buzz of a vacation hotspot or the charm of a historic beach town, this Redfin article will help you weigh the key differences and find the perfect fit.
Accommodations in Myrtle Beach vs Charleston
Myrtle Beach and Charleston are two of the most desirable areas in South Carolina, offering unique housing opportunities that reflect their unique lifestyle. Let’s break down the key differences in the real estate markets between these coastal cities.
Places to stay in Myrtle Beach
The Myrtle Beach real estate market caters to those looking for affordable beach living. Options range from oceanfront condos perfect for retirees and vacationers to single-family homes in quiet neighborhoods. The location offers great value, especially for buyers looking to maximize square footage or be close to the beach.
Places to stay in Charleston
The Charleston real estate market is a blend of historic charm and modern convenience. From houses restored to neighbors like The French Quarter to promote suburban development Mount PleasaetcThe city’s real estate reflects its rich history and high appeal. Homes are more expensive than Myrtle Beach but offer a unique architectural and cultural value.
Cost of living in Myrtle Beach vs Charleston
I cost of living in Charleston, SC9% higher than Myrtle Beach, SC, driven by differences in housing, dining, and cost of living. Here’s a closer look:
1. Resources
Utilities in Charleston are 1% less expensive than Myrtle Beach. Despite Charleston’s larger homes and older infrastructure contributing to higher utility costs, Myrtle Beach’s seasonal demand for cooling slightly increases overall utility costs.
2. Groceries
Grocery in Charleston is 1% more expensive than in Myrtle Beach. Charleston’s high demand for specialty foods and locally sourced foods drives up prices, while Myrtle Beach’s budget-friendly grocery options keep costs down.
3. Transportation
The cost of transportation in Charleston is 16% less than in Myrtle Beach. Myrtle Beach’s small size makes gas and parking cheaper, while Charleston’s urban areas see higher costs due to higher gas prices and parking fees.
4. Health care
Healthcare in Charleston is 7% less expensive than in Myrtle Beach. Charleston’s larger hospitals and broader health care options partially offset the higher costs seen in Myrtle Beach’s limited network.
5. Lifestyle
Cost of living in Charleston is 3% less expensive than Myrtle Beach. Charleston’s fine dining, historical tours, and cultural events cost more, while Myrtle Beach focuses on casual dining and entertainment, resulting in a slightly lower cost of living.
Myrtle Beach vs Charleston in size and population
Myrtle Beach and Charleston, both popular beach destinations in South Carolina, vary in size and population. Myrtle Beach is a small town, covering 23 square kilometers with surrounding people 36,000making it feel intimate and guest-centric. Charleston, by contrast, covers 128 square miles with a population of approx 150,000it combines historical beauty with urban sophistication. While Myrtle Beach thrives on its beaches and resorts, Charleston offers a mix of walkable historic districts and suburbs, providing a very different urban experience.
Weather and weather in Myrtle Beach vs Charleston
Myrtle Beach weather again Charleston weather both enjoy a tropical climate with warm, sunny summers and mild winters, although Myrtle Beach is slightly cooler due to its coastal location. Charleston often sees high summer humidity and occasional inland heat waves, while Myrtle Beach benefits from ocean breezes. Both cities are vulnerable to hurricanes in the late summer and fall months, with Charleston historically experiencing the most significant hurricane impacts.
The job market in Myrtle Beach vs Charleston
Charleston: A hub for tourism, technology, and manufacturing
Charleston’s economy is diverse and growing, with tourism, technology, and manufacturing leading the way. The city’s employment rate stands at 67%and median family income $95,000supported by a strong labor market. With major employers like Boeing and Joint Base Charleston, opportunities in transportation, aerospace, and healthcare continue to expand. The average hourly wage of $28.29 reflects Charleston’s balance of economic growth and quality of life.
Myrtle Beach: Opportunities driven by tourism
Myrtle Beach’s economy revolves around its thriving tourism industry, with hospitality and retail being the main source of employment. The city’s employment rate 57%and median family income $54,000reflecting its reliance on seasonal and service-oriented industries. The average hourly wage of $22.19 caters to those in hospitality, entertainment, and real estate. Large employers like Horry County Schools and Grand Strand Health support the local economy, providing stable opportunities for a small, tourism-oriented market.
Transportation in Myrtle Beach vs Charleston
Charleston: Walkable historic districts with walking options
Charleston is known for its downtown area, where cobblestone streets and historic attractions make walking a popular way to explore. The city also offers bus services through the Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA), although public transportation is limited compared to larger cities. Cycling is popular in some areas, and car travel remains essential for getting around the suburbs and surrounding areas.
Myrtle Beach: Car-dependent with limited transportation
Myrtle Beach is highly dependent on automobiles, with limited public transportation available via Coast RTA buses. Walking and cycling are common around the beach and tourist areas, but many residents rely on cars for their daily commute. The layout of the city and the feel of the city make driving the most practical choice for getting around.
Go and out in Myrtle Beach vs Charleston
Charleston offers a wide variety of tour options with international connections, while Myrtle Beach focuses on local and regional tours.
- Charleston: Charleston International Airport, Amtrak service connecting to destinations on the East Coast, Greyhound and regional bus services, and cruise centers in the harbor.
- Myrtle Beach: Myrtle Beach International Airport, limited regional bus services by Greyhound, and seasonal ferries for recreational and tourist purposes.
Lifestyle and things to do in Myrtle Beach vs Charleston
A day in the life of a Charlestonian
Living in Charleston combines historic charm with modern Southern charm. Start your morning with a stroll along the city’s cobblestone streets or along the Charleston Waterfront Park. The city’s rich dining scene is a highlight, with opportunities to explore local markets and world-class restaurants. Weekends may include visiting a historic farm, relaxing on nearby beaches, or attending one of the city’s many festivals.
Things to do in Charleston
Google Street View of Charleston City Market
More places to stay in Charleston Park:
Google Street View of Waterfront Park
More places to stay in Charleston:
- Boone Hall Plantation
- Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum
- Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
- The Rainbow Line
- Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge
A day in the life of the Myrtle Beach area
Life in Myrtle Beach is all about enjoying the outdoors and embracing the beach town vibe. Mornings often start with a sunrise stroll along the beach or breakfast at a beachside restaurant. A day may include exploring local attractions such as the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk or shopping Broadway on the beach. Nights are perfect for catching live entertainment or enjoying fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant.
Things to do in Myrtle Beach
Google Street View of Myrtle Beach State Park
More places to stay in Myrtle Beach:
Google Street View of Huntington Beach State Park
More places to stay in Myrtle Beach:
- SkyWheel Myrtle Beach
- Broadway on the beach
- Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade
- Barefoot Landing
- Family Fun Park
Food and culture in Myrtle Beach vs Charleston
Charleston: The Holy City
Charleston’s culinary scene combines Lowcountry traditions with modern Southern innovation. Seafood staples like shrimp and grits and crab soup are a must-try, along with a fine dining experience King Street places to eat. The city’s rich culture is reflected in its historic architecture, Gullah heritage, and events like this one. Spoleto Festival USAcelebrating music, dance, and theater. Charleston’s beauty lies in its seamless blend of history, food, and art.
Myrtle Beach: The Grand Strand
Myrtle Beach offers a casual, beach town dining experience that specializes in fresh seafood and Southern comfort classics. Calabash-style buffets, waterfront crab shacks, and barbecue joints dominate the dining scene. The city’s culture is centered around tourism-driven attractions, and friendly entertainment such as Carolina Opry and outdoor festivals that add to its laid-back beach vibe.
Sports venue Myrtle Beach vs Charleston
Charleston: Southern sports passion
Charleston’s sports scene focuses on minor league teams and outdoor recreation. The Charleston RiverDogs bring the excitement of baseball Joe Riley Stadiumwhile i Charleston Battery provides soccer action. The city’s proximity to the coast means that water sports, golf, and tennis play a large part in the athletic culture. Events like Volvo Car Opena major tennis tournament, adds to the city’s sporting appeal.
Myrtle Beach: Golf and outdoor recreation
Myrtle Beach’s sporting culture is built around its position as a golf mecca, with more than 80 championship courses catering to all skill levels. Baseball fans can enjoy games from the Myrtle Beach Pelicans, a minor league organization. The city’s passion for the outdoors is reflected in water sports, fishing, and student tournaments, making it an active destination for sports enthusiasts.
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