Myrtle Beach: Fastest-Growing U.S. Metro for Seniors
Once jokingly called “Dirty Myrtle” for its party-heavy nightlife and wild beach crowds, Myrtle Beach has managed quite the U-turn.
These days, it’s not biker rallies or DJs drawing attention. It’s the wave of retirees trading in city life for a laid-back, coastal chapter.
Myrtle Beach retirement is no longer just a dream for snowbirds. It’s a booming reality. The area is now recognized as the fastest-growing senior metro in the entire country.
According to new data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the Myrtle Beach metro area saw its 65+ population grow by 6.3% last year alone.
That puts it ahead of every other metro area in the nation for senior growth. In fact, folks 65 and older now make up over 25% of the area’s 413,000 residents, and the trend shows no sign of slowing down.
Myrtle Beach: America's Fastest-Growing Metro for Seniors
The pandemic was a turning point for many people, especially those in the Northeast and Midwest who loved vacationing in Myrtle Beach.
And, with remote work becoming a lasting reality, more people began to realize they didn’t have to wait for retirement to enjoy coastal living. Some moved down early, while others finally made good on those long-standing plans to retire in South Carolina.
Myrtle Beach makes a strong case because it has the trifecta: mild winters, low taxes, and plenty of recreational options. There are golf courses galore, great restaurants, and, nowadays, the pickleball courts outnumber the biker bars.
Longtime city spokesperson (and current mayoral candidate) Mark Kruea summed it up well when he said people are turning vacation habits into permanent lifestyles.
What the Myrtle Beach Senior Population Boom Says About National Trends
While the U.S. senior population rose 3.1% overall last year, Myrtle Beach’s senior growth more than doubled that rate.
The city’s 65+ group has grown by over 22% since 2020, the highest jump in the nation for that age range. And that’s not just a blip; it’s part of a larger shift in Myrtle Beach demographics and a reflection of how America is aging.
Nationally, older adults are making up a larger portion of the population, and Myrtle Beach is at the forefront of this trend.
While the city once catered mostly to budget-conscious beachgoers, it’s now leaning into a different kind of coastal charm – one that offers quieter streets, better infrastructure, and more amenities geared toward senior living.
From Biker Rallies to Boardwalk Strolls: The City’s Remarkable Makeover
Not too long ago, Myrtle Beach was known for its noisy motorcycle rallies and neon-lit party strips. But, over the last two decades, that scene has evolved dramatically. Today, you’re more likely to hear the whir of mobility scooters than the roar of Harleys.
The city has also invested in beautifying its famous mile-long boardwalk, and the towering 200-foot ferris wheel now provides scenic rides rather than adrenaline-fueled chaos.
With more peaceful neighborhoods and an uptick in healthcare facilities and age-friendly amenities, Myrtle Beach has rebranded itself without losing its beach-town charm. The focus now is on senior living in Myrtle Beach and, judging by the numbers, the strategy is working.
Why Myrtle Beach Retirement Makes Sense
When it comes to retirement, most people are looking for the same things: good weather, affordable living, and things to do. Myrtle Beach checks all those boxes.
Property taxes are low, the cost of living is reasonable, and retirees can enjoy everything from sunrise walks on the beach to live shows and fresh seafood dinners.
More importantly, it offers a sense of community. As the fastest-growing senior metro in the country, it’s become a place where retirees don’t just fade into the background. From volunteer groups, to dance classes, to community gardens, there’s no shortage of ways to stay active and engaged.
Myrtle Beach Retirement: No Longer a Secret
While Myrtle Beach may have once had a wild reputation, these days, it’s a haven for retirees seeking sunshine, savings, and a strong sense of community.
With a 6.3% jump in its senior population just last year and the title of fastest-growing senior metro in America, it’s clear that Myrtle Beach retirement isn’t just a trend. So, if you’ve ever dreamed of swapping snow boots for sandals, this slice of South Carolina just might be calling your name.