Waterfront at Briarcliffe Commons

Myrtle Beach takes its name from the native wax myrtle trees that once lined its Atlantic shore, and that coastline still sets the tone for daily life across this 24-square-mile South Carolina resort city. The Grand Strand, one of the longest continuous stretches of beach on the East Coast, is more than a backdrop here. It anchors the economy, shapes the calendar, and gives the city its distinct coastal rhythm. Tourism drives much of that economy, with healthcare, hospitality, and retail rounding out a broad employment base. Coastal Carolina University, about 11 miles away in Conway, adds an academic presence to the wider region. Neighborhood variety gives Myrtle Beach real range as a place to call home. The Market Common, developed on a former Air Force base, delivers a walkable, park-lined residential setting. Grande Dunes offers a quieter feel near the Intracoastal Waterway, while the Boardwalk area keeps residents close to the city's coastal energy.