Many people arrive in North Myrtle Beach convinced that their future home must be east of Highway 17. Then they start touring properties.
They discover newer homes, larger floor plans, community amenities and convenient access to Highway 31 on the inland side of town. Suddenly the question changes from “How close can I get to the ocean?” to “How do I actually want to live every day?”
The beach is still close—but daily life can feel different
Living west of Highway 17 does not mean giving up the beach. In many communities, the Atlantic is still a relatively short drive away. What changes is the immediate environment. Instead of stepping into the busiest beach corridors, residents may have more of a suburban neighborhood experience while retaining easy access to restaurants, shopping and recreation.
For full-time residents, that trade can make sense. Most days of the year involve errands, appointments, work and ordinary routines—not carrying a beach chair across the sand.
Infrastructure is following the growth
Water Tower Road is one corridor worth watching. In 2026, the City of North Myrtle Beach advertised improvement projects involving new turn lanes there. Highway 31 also changes how residents think about regional access because it provides an inland north-south route that can be useful for trips beyond the immediate beach area.
Infrastructure work does not automatically make every nearby property a good investment. It does, however, show why buyers should study transportation and future development when comparing locations.
You may get a different kind of home for the money
Coastal proximity carries value. Moving inland can sometimes shift more of your budget toward the house itself: newer construction, additional square footage, garages, yards or community amenities. The exact comparison changes property by property, so buyers should resist broad assumptions that inland always means cheaper.
There are tradeoffs, too. If your dream is to walk to the ocean every morning, saving money inland may not compensate for losing that experience. If you own a boat, commute in a particular direction or want a low-maintenance condo, another location may serve you better.
Think about insurance and ownership costs, not just price
Distance from the ocean can influence some property risks, but never assume a home is outside a flood-risk area because it is inland. Flood zones follow topography and drainage, not a simple line measured from the beach. Verify the property and obtain insurance estimates during due diligence.
HOA fees, taxes, commuting costs and maintenance should also be part of the comparison. The best value is the home whose total cost and lifestyle fit your plans.
Expand the search before narrowing it
My advice to relocating buyers is simple: experience both sides of Highway 17 before deciding. Tour the oceanfront and established beach neighborhoods, but also see what newer inland communities offer. You may confirm your original preference—or discover an option you had not considered.
If you are planning a move to North Myrtle Beach, contact Kim Stevens, REALTOR® at (843) 222-9327 or KimStevens100@gmail.com. I can help you compare the lifestyle and real ownership costs behind the listings.
