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The Ultimate Senior Resource

Senior Living in Myrtle Beach, SC

Discover quality senior care options in this coastal city where nearly 24% of residents are age 65 and older.

9 Communities
37,214 Population
8,766 Seniors (65+)

Myrtle Beach has evolved beyond its reputation as a tourist destination to become a popular retirement community, with 8,766 seniors representing 23.6% of the city's population of 37,214. The coastal city's warm climate, beach lifestyle, and growing healthcare infrastructure make it an attractive option for retirees seeking an active, affordable lifestyle. With a median household income of $53,679 and a median age of 47, Myrtle Beach offers a mature community atmosphere that many seniors find welcoming.

The area currently features 9 senior living communities offering various levels of care, from independent living to skilled nursing. Three CMS-certified nursing facilities serve the region with an average rating of 3.3 out of 5 stars. Whether you're looking for beachfront retirement living, memory care support, or comprehensive assisted living services, Myrtle Beach provides options that balance coastal living with quality healthcare access. The city's relatively affordable cost of living compared to other coastal retirement destinations makes it particularly appealing for seniors on fixed incomes.

Cost of Senior Living in Myrtle Beach

Senior living in Myrtle Beach is notably more affordable than the national average. Assisted living costs approximately $5,015 per month, which is about 15% below the national average of $5,900. Skilled nursing care in a semi-private room averages $7,885 monthly, significantly lower than the national average of $9,277. These competitive rates make Myrtle Beach an attractive option for seniors seeking coastal living without the premium prices found in other beach communities. Actual costs vary based on the level of care required, community amenities, location within the city, and room size or apartment type selected.

Assisted Living
$5,015
per month
Nursing Home (Semi-Private)
$7,885
per month
Home Health Aide
$5,313
per month

Neighborhoods in Myrtle Beach for Seniors

Grande Dunes

Grande Dunes represents Myrtle Beach's upscale waterfront living, featuring luxury condominiums, resort-style amenities, and proximity to top-rated golf courses. This master-planned community offers excellent walkability within its boundaries, with paved pathways connecting residential areas to shopping and dining. Seniors appreciate the 24-hour security, well-maintained landscaping, and access to the marina. The neighborhood is approximately 15 minutes from Grand Strand Medical Center, making healthcare readily accessible. The peaceful atmosphere and low crime rates create an ideal environment for active retirees seeking both recreation and tranquility along the Intracoastal Waterway.

Carolina Forest

Carolina Forest is one of Myrtle Beach's fastest-growing residential areas, located inland about 10 miles from the beach. This family-friendly neighborhood has attracted many retirees due to its newer construction, planned community feel, and abundance of amenities including parks, shopping centers, and restaurants. The area features several senior living facilities and is close to Tidelands Health at Carolina Forest, providing convenient medical care. Wide sidewalks and well-lit streets make it relatively walkable, though a car is generally necessary for daily errands. The community's active homeowners association organizes social events that help seniors stay connected.

The Market Common

The Market Common is Myrtle Beach's premier mixed-use, walkable neighborhood built on the former Myrtle Beach Air Force Base. This thoughtfully designed community features tree-lined streets, a central park, boutique shopping, diverse restaurants, and cultural venues within walking distance. Seniors particularly appreciate the European-inspired town center layout that encourages pedestrian activity and social interaction. The neighborhood hosts farmers markets, outdoor concerts, and community events throughout the year. With Grand Park and Crabtree Memorial Gym nearby offering fitness activities, plus proximity to medical facilities, The Market Common provides an urban lifestyle rare in Myrtle Beach.

Surfside Beach

Just south of Myrtle Beach proper, Surfside Beach offers a quieter, small-town coastal atmosphere that many seniors prefer over the busier Grand Strand area. Known as "The Family Beach," this neighborhood features a charming pier, beachfront parks, and a relaxed pace of life. The flat terrain and compact downtown area make it one of the most walkable beach communities for seniors with mobility considerations. Several assisted living communities have established themselves here due to the peaceful environment. While medical facilities require a short drive to nearby Murrells Inlet or Myrtle Beach, the lower density and strong sense of community make Surfside Beach appealing for retirees seeking coastal tranquility.

Senior Care Options in Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach's 9 senior living communities offer a comprehensive range of care options tailored to different needs and preferences. Available services include independent living for active seniors, assisted living facilities providing daily living support, memory care units specializing in Alzheimer's and dementia care, and skilled nursing facilities offering 24-hour medical supervision. Many communities feature continuum of care models, allowing residents to age in place as their needs change over time.

Healthcare & Transportation

Myrtle Beach offers solid healthcare infrastructure for seniors, anchored by Grand Strand Medical Center, a comprehensive facility with emergency services and specialized care for cardiac, orthopedic, and cancer treatment. Tidelands Health also operates multiple facilities throughout the area, including urgent care centers and primary care practices. Conway Medical Center is located nearby for additional healthcare options. Transportation options include Coast RTA public bus service, though routes and frequency are limited compared to larger cities. Many senior living communities provide scheduled transportation to medical appointments and shopping. The flat terrain makes some neighborhoods suitable for golf carts, a popular transportation alternative for active seniors in certain areas.

Activities & Recreation Near Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach offers abundant recreational opportunities for active seniors, from the iconic 60-mile Grand Strand beaches to over 100 championship golf courses. Brookgreen Gardens provides beautiful sculpture gardens and nature trails perfect for leisurely walks. The historic downtown area hosts art galleries, live entertainment venues like the Alabama Theatre and Carolina Opry, and restaurants along the MarshWalk. Broadway at the Beach and The Market Common offer shopping and dining with regular community events that encourage social engagement among residents.

Weather & Climate in Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach enjoys a humid subtropical climate with mild winters and warm summers. Average winter temperatures range from the mid-40s to upper 50s, while summers can be hot and humid with temperatures in the upper 80s to low 90s. The year-round temperate weather allows seniors to stay active outdoors most of the year, though summer heat may require indoor activities during peak afternoon hours, and hurricane season brings occasional weather concerns from June through November.

Frequently Asked Questions About Senior Living in Myrtle Beach

What is the average cost of senior living in Myrtle Beach, SC?
Assisted living in Myrtle Beach averages around $5,015 per month, while skilled nursing care in a semi-private room costs approximately $7,885 monthly. These rates are below national averages, making Myrtle Beach one of the more affordable coastal retirement destinations. Independent living and memory care options vary widely based on amenities and services provided.
How many senior living communities are in Myrtle Beach?
Ultimate Senior Resource currently lists 9 senior living communities in Myrtle Beach, offering various levels of care from independent living to skilled nursing. Additionally, there are 3 CMS-certified nursing facilities in the area with an average rating of 3.3 out of 5 stars. This selection provides families with multiple options when searching for the right care environment for their loved ones.
Is Myrtle Beach a good place for seniors to retire?
Myrtle Beach has become increasingly popular for retirement, with nearly 24% of the population age 65 or older. The coastal climate, affordable cost of living compared to other beach towns, and growing healthcare infrastructure appeal to many retirees. However, the summer tourist crowds and hurricane risk are considerations families should weigh when making retirement decisions.
What types of senior care are available in Myrtle Beach?
Myrtle Beach offers the full spectrum of senior care including independent living communities for active seniors, assisted living facilities for those needing daily support, specialized memory care units for dementia patients, and skilled nursing facilities for complex medical needs. Many communities offer continuum of care models, allowing residents to transition between care levels without relocating to a different facility.
How does Myrtle Beach's climate affect senior living?
Myrtle Beach's mild subtropical climate features warm winters and hot, humid summers, which many seniors find appealing for year-round outdoor activities. The absence of harsh winters eliminates snow-related mobility concerns that plague northern states. However, summer heat and humidity can be challenging for seniors with respiratory conditions, and hurricane season (June through November) requires emergency preparedness planning that senior living communities typically address with comprehensive evacuation protocols.

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