If it feels like Myrtle Beach has become the new “everyone’s moving here” destination—well, the data backs you up. The Grand Strand is seeing record inbound migration, and the newest 2025 Flow Mapper data shows exactly where those new residents are coming from. Whether you live in Market Common, Carolina Forest, Barefoot, or anywhere in between, chances are your newest neighbor may have just swapped winter weather or high housing costs for coastal sunshine.

In this report, we unpack the top inbound states feeding Myrtle Beach’s rapid population growth, what’s driving the migration surge, and why these moves continue to reshape local real estate trends heading into 2026.

Where Are Myrtle Beach’s New Residents Coming From? (2025)

1. North Carolina Still Tops the Charts

For the third consecutive year, North Carolina ranks as the #1 state sending the most new residents to the Myrtle Beach metro. This migration has grown thanks to three major factors:

• Quick relocations from Charlotte, Raleigh, and Fayetteville for lower taxes and easier coastal access.

• A steady stream of retirees transitioning from the Research Triangle or Lake Norman region into a second-act home along the Grand Strand.

• Families seeking larger homes for less, particularly compared to Wake and Mecklenburg counties where inventory and pricing remain competitive.

Neighborhoods like Carolina Forest and Socastee are among the most common landing spots due to their schools, affordability, and proximity to Highway 31—making the move feel like a simple lifestyle upgrade rather than a full reset.

2. New York & New Jersey Continue Their Coastal Exodus

Inbound migration from the Northeast remains strong, particularly from New York and New Jersey, which consistently rank in the Top 5 inbound states.

Motivations include:

• Lower property taxes and cost of living

• Relief from urban density and cold winters

• Remote work opportunities

• Downsizing from high-priced suburban markets

What’s notable in the 2025 data is the shift toward younger residents, not just retirees. Many newcomers are in their 30s and 40s, drawn by coastal lifestyle amenities and a lower cost path to homeownership.

Popular destinations include Market Common, Surfside Beach, and North Myrtle Beach—areas with strong walkability and community amenities.

3. Pennsylvania Moves Into a Top Migration Spot

Pennsylvania is becoming one of the fastest-rising inbound states for the Myrtle Beach area in 2025. The trend is especially notable in residents relocating from:

• Pittsburgh

• Harrisburg

• Philadelphia suburbs

The appeal is simple:

• More home for the money

• Warmer climate

• Access to year-round golf, beaches, and the Intracoastal Waterway

• A smoother retirement transition without crossing the country

Communities like Barefoot Resort, Little River, and Conway have become magnets for Pennsylvanians seeking HOA-managed neighborhoods, amenities, and turnkey living.

4. Virginia’s Steady Migration Pipeline

Virginia rounds out the group of major inbound states, particularly from the Hampton Roads, Richmond, and Northern Virginia regions. The attractions include:

• Quicker commute to Myrtle Beach than states farther north

• Lower median housing prices compared to NOVA

• A strong military-to-civilian transition population

• Lifestyle swaps for quieter coastal living

This population shift contributes to increased demand for new-construction communities—especially around Forestbrook, Highway 707, and the rapidly expanding Burgess area. Many Virginia transplants choose Myrtle Beach for its blended appeal: suburban pace, outdoor recreation, and proximity to major East Coast highways.

5. Ohio & Midwest Buyers Bring Strong Buying Power

Ohio, Michigan, and Illinois continue to send consistent inbound migration to Myrtle Beach—driven by retirees, remote professionals, and families looking for milder weather and lower cost of living.

The Midwestern buyer profile often includes:

• Second-home buyers planning future retirement

• Remote workers seeking coastal views at a reasonable budget

• Relocation families drawn to Horry County Schools and community amenities

Places like Cherry Grove, Murrells Inlet, and Pawleys Island often top their relocation lists due to calmer pace, nature access, and strong fishing, boating, and golf cultures.

6. Why Myrtle Beach Keeps Leading the Nation in Inbound Migration

Multiple sources—including Flow Mapper and Myrtle Beach Area Chamber data—point to the same demand drivers:

• Affordability: Median home prices remain competitive compared to coastal cities nationwide.

• Lifestyle perks: 60 miles of beaches, mild winters, and year-round recreation.

• Job growth: Hospitality, healthcare, construction, and remote-work migration continue to grow.

• Community diversity: Big-city transplants, retirees, military families, and young professionals all converge here.

• New development: Carolina Forest, Conway, and Market Common consistently deliver new inventory and amenities.

In many ways, Myrtle Beach offers a “best of both worlds” blend—affordable living with the vacation lifestyle many people only get for one week a year.

Thinking about making your move to Myrtle Beach—or curious how inbound migration affects your home’s value? Carolina Crafted Homes can help you understand neighborhood trends, new-construction opportunities, and what today’s buyers are looking for. Whether you’re moving in or moving up, our team is here to guide your next step along the Grand Strand. Reach out today to schedule a personalized consultation.

FAQS

1. What states are sending the most people to Myrtle Beach?

Based on 2025 Flow Mapper data, the biggest inbound states are North Carolina, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Ohio. These states consistently show the strongest migration patterns driven by affordability, warmer climate, and lifestyle upgrades. The Grand Strand’s expanding neighborhoods—especially Carolina Forest and Market Common—make the area attractive for both families and retirees relocating to the coast.

2. Why is Myrtle Beach attracting so many new residents?

People are drawn to Myrtle Beach for its affordable cost of living, coastal lifestyle, access to year-round recreation, and strong sense of community. Many also relocate for lower taxes and more home for their money. The region’s steady job growth, mild winters, and expanding new-construction options have helped Myrtle Beach become one of the top inbound migration markets in the Southeast.

3. Are retirees the main group moving to Myrtle Beach?

Retirees make up a significant portion of inbound migration, but they’re not the only group. Younger families, remote workers, and professionals from the Northeast and Midwest now represent a major share of new residents. Areas like Market Common and Carolina Forest attract younger households, while regions such as Little River and Murrells Inlet remain popular with retirees.

4. How does inbound migration affect Myrtle Beach home prices?

Increased inbound migration helps keep demand strong, especially in popular neighborhoods like Carolina Forest, Socastee, and North Myrtle Beach. Although home prices remain more affordable than many coastal markets, steady population growth contributes to rising property values. Buyers should expect ongoing competition for move-in-ready homes, while sellers benefit from consistent demand across most price points.

5. Which Myrtle Beach neighborhoods are most popular with new residents?

According to local trends and recent chamber insights, newcomers often choose Carolina Forest, Market Common, Barefoot Resort, North Myrtle Beach, and Conway. These areas provide a mix of affordability, amenities, good schools, and variety in home styles. Retirees often gravitate toward Murrells Inlet, Pawleys Island, and Little River for their quieter coastal pace and access to nature.