Moving to the Grand Strand: The 2026 Relocation & Neighborhood Guide
Updated: 2 days ago
Thinking about moving to Myrtle Beach or the surrounding areas? You aren't alone. Migration data shows the Myrtle Beach-Conway-North Myrtle Beach region is one of the fastest-growing in the country.
As a family-owned moving company serving this coast since 1987, we know the Grand Strand is more than just one destination, it’s a collection of unique communities. Whether you are looking for the urban walkability of Market Common or the historic charm of Conway, this guide (and our upcoming deep-dive series) will help you find your perfect home.
Note: This is the first part of our Grand Strand Series. Click the links in each section below to read our dedicated "Insider Guides" for each city.
The Neighborhood | Best for... | Known for... |
Young Professionals & Active Retirees | Golf Capital & Arts District | |
Active Families & Walkable Lifestyle Seekers | Urban-Suburban" Design & Air Force Base History | |
Familes & Young Professionals | Award-Winning Schools & Everything's Nearby | |
Retirees & Vacation Homeowners | Shag Dancing & Cherry Grove Pier | |
Families & Retirees | The "Family Beach" & The New Pier | |
Foodies & Boaters | The Marshwalk & Seafood Capital | |
No-HOA Lovers & First-Time Homebuyers | "Halloween Town" & Historic Riverwalk | |
Retirees & Boaters | Blue Crab Festival & Intracoastal Access |
Yarborough's Good To Know: Most people moving to the Myrtle Beach area from out-of-state are looking for Flat Rate Movers. In the industry, we call this a Binding Estimate. Because we are a licensed SC mover (not a broker), we provide guaranteed pricing for interstate relocations and include $50,000 in Full Valuation Coverage on our local hourly moves.
Living in Myrtle Beach: Where Tourism Meets Tech
As the vibrant heart of the Grand Strand, moving to Myrtle Beach offers an unmatched blend of oceanfront beauty and urban growth. With the new Arts & Innovation District revitalizing downtown and the DC BLOX subsea cable positioning the city as a global tech hub, it’s a premier destination for young professionals and families alike. From the "Golf Capital of the World" to year-round festivals, the city offers a vacation lifestyle with a hometown spirit.
Living in Market Common: The Walkable Urban Oasis
The Market Common is the epitome of a thoughtfully designed, walkable community. Spanning 3.9 square miles, it blends urban convenience with suburban comfort. Rooted in history as the former Myrtle Beach Air Force Base, it honors its military past while offering modern amenities like Valor Memorial Garden and Savannah’s Playground.
Living in Surfside Beach: The Ultimate Family Sanctuary
Known as the “Family Beach,” moving to Surfside Beach offers a quiet, residential atmosphere that’s perfect for retirees and young families. With its newly rebuilt pier, "Leave Only Footprints" initiative, and walkable parks, it’s the Grand Strand's premier destination for peaceful coastal living
Living in Carolina Forest: The Heart of Family Life
Carolina Forest is the epitome of a family-oriented community. Known for its suburban charm and some of the best schools, CF is a favorite for families relocating to the Grand Strand. With continuous development, there is always a new place to explore.
The Vibe: Suburban, active, and centered around top-tier education.
Living in Murrells Inlet: The Seafood Capital of SC
Moving to Murrells Inlet means embracing the "Marsh Life." From world-class dining on the Marsh Walk to the high-end stilt houses of Garden City, the Inlet is a sanctuary for retirees and boaters seeking a true low-country lifestyle.
Living in North Myrtle Beach: Shag Dancing & Coastal Soul
Known as the birthplace of the Shag, moving to North Myrtle Beach offers a perfect blend of laid-back charm and modern growth. From the historic Boulineaus in Cherry Grove to the new Amazon facility, NMB provides a peaceful yet vibrant coastal lifestyle for families and retirees.
Living in Little River: Quiet Coastal Charm
As the oldest settlement on the Grand Strand, moving to Little River offers a peaceful maritime lifestyle. Known for its world-famous Blue Crab Festival and moss-draped oaks, it’s the perfect sanctuary for boaters and retirees seeking an authentic South Carolina experience.
Living in Conway: Historic Charm & "No-HOA" Freedom
If you’re looking for a slower pace and "Hallmark Movie" vibes, moving to Conway is the answer. As the county seat, it offers historic moss-draped oaks, a vibrant Riverwalk, and plenty of established neighborhoods without strict HOA fees. From its identity as "Halloween Town" to its festive Christmas spirit, Conway is where Southern hospitality truly lives.
Finding Your Place in the Grand Strand
Whether you’re drawn to the family-friendly streets of Carolina Forest, the historic charm of Conway, or the maritime soul of Murrells Inlet, the Grand Strand has a home for everyone. At Yarborough’s Moving Service, we’ve spent nearly four decades helping families discover these communities one move at a time.
Don't settle for "fly-by-night" movers or confusing quotes. Choose a local, family-owned authority that provides Binding Estimates for interstate moves and $50k in Free Valuation Coverage for local hourly moves. Moving to Myrtle Beach doesn’t mean you’re limited to the city of Myrtle Beach itself. The Grand Strand is a diverse region made up of unique communities, each with its own charm, vibe, and opportunities. By understanding what makes each community it's own special place, you'll come to learn that there’s truly something for everyone.
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