55+ communities, or active adult communities, are residential areas designed for individuals aged 55 and older. These communities offer a lifestyle tailored to older adults, featuring low-maintenance housing and various amenities such as fitness centers, swimming pools, and walking trails. Social interaction is encouraged through organized events, hobby groups, and recreational activities. Many communities provide additional services like healthcare facilities, transportation, and dining options. Located in desirable climates and scenic areas, they offer a serene and enjoyable living environment. The primary goal is to foster a vibrant, supportive atmosphere where residents can enjoy their retirement years with a focus on health, wellness, and social connections.

Myrtle Beach and Coastal South Carolina Area  & Geography

Myrtle Beach and Coastal South Carolina offer an idyllic setting for an active 55+ community lifestyle, blending natural beauty with a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere. This coastal region is renowned for its stunning beaches, temperate climate, and scenic waterways, providing ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy numerous championship courses, while nature lovers can explore parks, wildlife preserves, and the picturesque Intracoastal Waterway. The area’s geography features a mix of sandy shores, lush marshlands, and verdant landscapes, perfect for activities like boating, fishing, and bird watching. Myrtle Beach itself is a lively hub with a rich cultural scene, offering entertainment, dining, and shopping options. Coastal South Carolina's charm is further enhanced by quaint seaside towns and historic sites, making it a desirable destination for retirees seeking an active, community-oriented lifestyle in a beautiful, serene environment.

Myrtle Beach and Coastal South Carolina Climate 

Myrtle Beach and Coastal South Carolina boast a delightful subtropical climate, perfect for the active 55+ community. With mild winters and warm, humid summers, residents enjoy year-round outdoor activities. Winter temperatures average in the 50s and 60s, allowing for comfortable golfing, walking, and biking. Summer highs reach the 80s and 90s, ideal for beach outings, boating, and swimming. The region experiences over 200 sunny days annually, encouraging a vibrant, active lifestyle. Spring and fall bring moderate temperatures and blooming landscapes, perfect for gardening and outdoor social events. Occasional thunderstorms and mild hurricane risks in late summer are balanced by the overall pleasant weather, making Myrtle Beach a popular retirement destination for those seeking an engaging, outdoor-focused lifestyle.

Recreation, Culture, & Entertainment in Myrtle Beach and Coastal South Carolina

Myrtle Beach and Coastal South Carolina offer a vibrant lifestyle for the active 55+ community, blending recreation, culture, and entertainment seamlessly. The area boasts over 100 golf courses, providing ample opportunities for golf enthusiasts. Beautiful beaches along the Grand Strand invite residents to indulge in sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore numerous parks and nature reserves, such as Huntington Beach State Park, ideal for hiking, bird-watching, and picnicking. Cultural attractions abound, with the Myrtle Beach Art Museum and the Carolina Opry showcasing local art and live performances. The area also hosts a variety of festivals and events, like the Myrtle Beach Jazz Festival and the Brookgreen Gardens' Night of a Thousand Candles, offering year-round entertainment. For those seeking a vibrant social scene, numerous 55+ communities offer organized activities, fitness classes, and social clubs, fostering a close-knit, active lifestyle amidst the coastal beauty of South Carolina.

Myrtle Beach and Coastal South Carolina Cost of Living & Taxes

Myrtle Beach and Coastal South Carolina offer a desirable cost of living for active 55+ communities. The region features affordable housing options, with the median home price around $250,000, which is lower than the national average. Retirees benefit from low property taxes, averaging 0.5% of the home’s value, and the state exempts Social Security benefits from income taxes, providing further financial relief. Groceries, utilities, and healthcare costs are also competitively priced, enhancing affordability. Myrtle Beach has a relatively low sales tax rate of 8%, and residents over 65 may qualify for additional homestead exemptions. The area’s mild climate, recreational amenities, and robust healthcare infrastructure make it ideal for retirees seeking an active lifestyle. With numerous golf courses, beachfront activities, and vibrant community events, Myrtle Beach and Coastal South Carolina offer an appealing and budget-friendly retirement destination.

Health Care in Myrtle Beach and Coastal South Carolina

Myrtle Beach and Coastal South Carolina offer excellent healthcare options, particularly catering to the active 55+ community. The region is home to several top-rated hospitals, including Grand Strand Medical Center and Tidelands Health, providing comprehensive services from primary care to specialized treatments. Active adults have access to numerous wellness programs, preventative care, and rehabilitation services designed to maintain their health and vitality. Myrtle Beach features a plethora of fitness centers, yoga studios, and recreational facilities, encouraging a healthy and active lifestyle. Additionally, the area offers many senior-friendly amenities, including dedicated healthcare navigators and community health fairs that provide valuable resources and screenings. For those seeking a continuum of care, there are also high-quality assisted living and skilled nursing facilities. The combination of advanced medical services and a vibrant, health-focused community makes Myrtle Beach and Coastal South Carolina an ideal destination for retirees prioritizing wellness and active living.