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Myrtle Beach and North Myrtle Beach share a coastline, a county, and an airport, but they feel different day to day. This Homes Myrtle guide compares the two cities with Census and city data so you can decide which fits.
Figures are dated and come from the US Census Bureau and the two city governments. Anything we could not confirm is labeled. Information is as of October 2026.
Myrtle Beach vs North Myrtle Beach at a Glance
Myrtle Beach is the larger, busier city; North Myrtle Beach is smaller and older on average.
- Population: Myrtle Beach had an estimated 40,937 residents as of July 1, 2025. North Myrtle Beach had an estimated 21,346 (US Census Bureau).
- Residents 65 and older: about 23.7% in Myrtle Beach and 41.6% in North Myrtle Beach (Census QuickFacts, as of October 2026).
- Median owner-occupied home value: $388,800 in Myrtle Beach and $416,900 in North Myrtle Beach (ACS 2020–2024).
Census medians are survey estimates for owner-occupied homes, not current list prices. For today's market, search listings or talk to our team.
Beach Proximity and Access in Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach has many public beach accesses along its oceanfront, at street ends, parks, and other public spots. The city lists accessible beach accesses on its website, including Hurl Rock Park and Gardens by the Sea.
Parking near the beach is metered in much of the city. As of October 2026, the city's parking page lists $3 per hour or $15 per day, with enforcement March 1 through September 30 and free parking from October through February in designated areas. Confirm current rates and resident permit options with the city.
Neighborhoods east of Kings Highway put you closest to the sand. Inland subdivisions trade a short drive for more space. See Pros and Cons of Living in Myrtle Beach.
Beach Proximity and Access in North Myrtle Beach
North Myrtle Beach's public beach accesses run from 6204 N. Ocean Blvd. south to 47th Avenue South, according to the city. The city lists more than 50 public parking lots near the beach, so check nmb.us for current parking rules and fees.
The city's sections, including Cherry Grove, Ocean Drive, Crescent Beach, and Windy Hill, each have their own feel. Our Top 10 Neighborhoods in North Myrtle Beach and Barefoot Resort guide go deeper.
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Lifestyle and Pace
Myrtle Beach is the region's tourism and business center, with more attractions, nightlife, and year-round activity. North Myrtle Beach has a reputation for a quieter, more residential pace, which fits its older age profile in Census data. Both cities draw large summer crowds. Retirees comparing the two should read Retiring to Myrtle Beach.
Taxes, Utilities and Insurance
Both cities are in Horry County, so the same 4% legal residence and 6% second-home assessment ratios apply. City millage differs, so ask the Horry County Auditor for the total in each tax district. Water and sewer are city-run inside each city's limits, and electric service is assigned by territory. Flood and wind insurance depend on the specific address, so talk to a licensed insurance agent. Our Cost of Living in Myrtle Beach guide covers more.
Hurricane Evacuation in Both Cities
Both cities fall within Horry County's evacuation Zones A, B and C. North Myrtle Beach's evacuation routes include SC 9 toward I-95, according to the city. Look up any address with SCEMD's Know Your Zone tool.
Which One Fits You
Choose Myrtle Beach if you want the most amenities and activity close by. Choose North Myrtle Beach if you prefer a quieter, more residential feel with distinct beach neighborhoods. Many buyers tour both on the same weekend. For more context, see Moving to Myrtle Beach and Best and Worst Things About Living on the Grand Strand.
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