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Myrtle Beach has long been recognized as one of America’s favorite vacation destinations, but in recent years it has begun to evolve into something much bigger, a thriving, year-round community and an increasingly attractive investment market. With population growth outpacing most of the country, one of the strongest destination marketing engines in the U.S., major national brands moving in, and significant redevelopment underway, the region is no longer just a place to visit. It’s becoming a place to live, work, and build.
For investors, that shift translates into expanding demand, stronger fundamentals, and long-term growth opportunities that are hard to ignore.
Here are the biggest drivers fueling Myrtle Beach’s evolution.
1. Rapid Population Growth & Relocation Trends
- The Myrtle Beach–Conway–North Myrtle Beach metro area has seen nearly 30% population growth over eight years.
- Particularly strong growth among retirees: the 65+ population rose 6.3% last year, and has grown 22%+ since 2020. Seniors now make up over 25% of the metro’s population.
- Domestic migration (people moving from other states) is fueling much of this growth.
Why it matters to investors: More permanent residents (families, retirees) means more year-round attraction demand, stability, and potential for long-term asset appreciation.
2. Strong Destination Marketing & High ROI for Tourism Investment
- Visit Myrtle Beach campaigns continue to deliver among the highest ROI in the industry: every $1 spent in their advertising campaign in 2023 generated $143 in direct visitor spending.
- That kind of return highlights how well the destination is being marketed and how committed the community is to pushing awareness and visitation.
Why it matters: Strong destination marketing amplifies all other investments: hotels, restaurants, entertainment. It helps ensure that demand keeps rising, which supports occupancy and rates, especially in shoulder seasons.
3. Demographic Shifts Favor Long-Term & Year-Round Residency
- Seniors are relocating in large numbers for climate, affordability, and lifestyle.
- More people are seeing Myrtle Beach not just as holiday or seasonal homes, but as places they live: work-from-home-friendly infrastructure, lower taxes, access to amenities.
Why it matters: Investors can count on less seasonality, steadier demand, less friction from “off-season” risk, and more consistent cash flow.
4. Demand for Branded Hotels & Underrepresented Flagged Inventory
- Myrtle Beach still has mostly independent hotels. Branded / flagged hotel presence is not yet saturated. This means new major brand entrants have a chance to differentiate and own corner markets.
- New branded hotels launched recently have been successful, suggesting strong market receptivity.
Why it matters: Branded hotels often attract different segments (loyalty program members, business travelers, event groups). They can command higher ADRs if managed well. Early movers in areas with underrepresented brands can capture a premium.
5. Downtown Redevelopment & Growing “Work‐Live‐Play” Amenities
- Plans are underway (or being accelerated) to revitalize downtown Myrtle Beach into a destination with world-class facilities for sports, concerts, festivals, etc.
- Growing amenity mix: more high-end dining, retail, cultural attractions, entertainment all clustered downtown and close to the beach.
Why it matters: These add-ons make the area more attractive not just for tourists but for relocation, second homes, extended stays. They improve walkability, lifestyle appeal, factors that increasingly drive where people want to live and stay.
Bonus Reason: Visitor Volume & Destination Ranking Momentum
- Myrtle Beach continues to rank extremely high in national travel rankings. For example, it’s among the top U.S. beach destinations and receives well over 18 million annual visitors.
- The average length of stay in the area is higher than national averages.
Why it matters: Strong visitor volume supports demand for lodging, food & beverage, entertainment, and services. The more people coming, and staying longer, the more opportunity for revenue.
Want to learn how Myrtle Beach’s growth can translate into stronger returns for your portfolio? Connect with Brittain Resorts & Hotels to explore management and investment opportunities in this evolving market.