Are you ready for a change of pace? If you've paid your dues in the snow and freezing cold, it might be time to consider migrating south for some warmer days. After all, birds do it, so why can't you?
Myrtle Beach is home to palm trees, mild weather, and great beaches. You can enjoy it year-round, or for a getaway with your family. No doubt, your grandkids will also love all of the activities they can do in the surrounding area.
If you want to change your way of life, or simply just find an investment property to rent out, Myrtle Beach might just be your answer.
Read on to find out why Myrtle Beach Retirement Living could be the answer to all of your daydreams.
Warmer Weather: Mild Winters and Delightful Summers
Myrtle Beach's summers might be somewhat hot and humid, but you can't beat their mild winters. If you decide to spend the winter there, you can kiss your snow shovel and winter boots goodbye and enjoy the mild days.
In fact, Myrtle Beach has more days of precipitation in the summer than it does in the fall. This means you can actually enjoy outdoor activities as they're meant to be: out of doors. And you can do them all year-round. It's not a fantasy to go golfing or fishing just as often in February as you do in June.
In January, the city's coldest month, you can expect just six days of rain. Although the average temperature isn't exactly hot, 50 degrees in January isn't too bad. It's especially refreshing if you've come from a place where the snow piles up and your winter consist of single-digit thermostat readings.
The summers in Myrtle Beach can be hot and humid, but thanks to the ocean, temperatures rarely soar above 90 degrees. If the heat ever does get to be too much, you can always take a dip in the ocean to cool off.
Myrtle Beach is One of the Fastest Growing Retirement Communities
When many people retire, they think of wiling away their Golden Years in Florida. In fact, the aging population there has grown so rapidly that it has earned the nickname "Heaven's Waiting Room."
While Florida is certainly a lovely place to visit, it is becoming increasingly congested, thanks to its reputation as one of the best places for seniors to go.
South Carolina, in particular, has been referred to as an "undiscovered gem", thanks to the mild weather and cultural offerings. Because of the mild weather, loads of activities and things to do and a wide array of restaurants, people are literally flocking there in droves.
Because it is such a hot commodity at the moment, purchasing a property to rent out or to live in part-time is a great investment. Getting in on the ground floor before it becomes overly pricey is always the way to go. And who knows how much your property might be worth in the upcoming years?
Thanks to relatively low market prices at the moment, but an increase in interest, you can develop a nice little nest egg for yourself and your family. You can also enjoy yourself in the process.
South Carolina is Tax-Friendly, Especially for Retirees
As you grow older, you may increasingly rely on savings to get by, in addition to social security cheques. Obviously, money matters are very important when deciding where to set down roots.
South Carolina is listed as an exceptionally tax-friendly state, which extends to retirees as well. This is mostly due to the fact that the state does not tax social security benefits.
There is also a fairly high deduction on taxes for retirement-income, which can make the state very attractive. Additionally, ex-servicemen and women will see extra benefits. A tax-deduction, especially for them, is currently in the works. If you're still working and over the age of 65, you can have up to $10,000 of your income tax-free.
Even if you can afford to outright purchase a condo or want to rent it out, you might be hesitant to do so because of high property taxes. South Carolina's property taxes are incredibly low compared to the rest of the nation, and seniors qualify for some exemptions.
Sales tax is also lower than the national average, clocking in at 7.2 percent.
For those still working and looking to phase into retirement, income tax is between 3 percent and 7 percent, depending on the amount of money you're earning.
Love Golf? Myrtle Beach is the Place for You
If you love golf, there is no question that you should be in Myrtle Beach. The city and surrounding area boasts over 100 golf courses. Many of these courses are open all year long, thanks to the relatively mild weather. You don't have to wait until the days get warmer to brush up on your swing.
You'll be treated to breathtaking views as you tee off. You also won't break the bank while playing the game, as you can play at almost any course for under $40 at any time of the day.
May golf facilities have hotels, restaurants, and spas attached to them, making it a great day out for your family. If your children or grandchildren come to visit, you can keep everyone entertained, even if they're not hardcore golf fans.
As a retiree, you can also make friends with others in the same life stage while on the golf course, increasing your social circle. This can help you stave off depression and memory issues that come with aging.
Myrtle Beach Retirement Communities
Myrtle Beach offers a large selection of retirement communities. While you may move to Myrtle Beach initially as a homeowner or living fully independently, it is useful to think about a time when you might need a little more care.
Some retirement communities also allow you to purchase property on them, enabling you to continue to live independently. With a retirement community, you'll have the benefit of having ongoing activities as well as the opportunity to always be meeting others who are around your age.
Myrtle Beach's retirement communities are often on golf courses and some even come with access to a common pool. Most also have game centers, movie theaters and other amenities to keep you busy.
One advantage to retirement communities is a smoother transition to further care. Many offer onsite assisted living or around-the-clock care, meaning if you or your spouse does require more care, it won't be such a shock. Instead, you'll be in the same area you were before, just with another room or location on-site.
Things to Do in Myrtle Beach for Retirees
We've covered the fact that Myrtle Beach has over 100 golf courses, but what if golf isn't your thing? There's nothing to worry about, as the city has plenty to do to account for almost any taste.
If you're a history buff, you're in luck, because Myrtle Beach has tons of historical and stately homes to enjoy. Get swept back in time with the Atalaya Castle, a Spanish-style home. Or learn about plantation life on Hopsewee Plantation.
You can also visit Horry County Museum for a free day out while you learn about the history of the area.
For those who like nature, you can visit Brookgreen Gardens and the Vereen Memorial Historical Gardens. In both venues, you can explore wildlife, as well as plants that are native to the area.
Most non-profits and museums will also have volunteer programs, that are often popular with retirees. Former history majors might find a niche for themselves on an extended vacation or while retiring near these plantations and museums.
Other activities for retirees include shopping, which Myrtle Beach has an abundance of. From modern indoor shopping malls to outlet centers, there is something for everyone and you can definitely find what you're looking for.
The area also an open-air flea market in addition to The Hammock Shops Village. The latter features 23 shops that are totally unique to the area. The Village has been an attraction for many years, and you can enjoy discovering the work of local artists and craftsmen.
Cultural events are in no short supply for those living in Myrtle Beach Retirement Communities. Bands and live acts, from big names to local talent, often stop by Myrtle Beach. You can also take in the Carolina Opry, a show that permanently plays in the city.
Broadway shows often tour to Myrtle Beach, and professional theatre companies are in residence in the city. Even if you're used to high-quality entertainment, you won't miss it by moving to Myrtle Beach.
Fishing is also incredibly popular in the area, and there are several piers where you can try your luck. It is a fantastic retiree activity, as it doesn't require too much physical activity, yet allows you to spend time with your friends and family.
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Activities to Do With Your Family
When moving to a new location, it is important to take into account the activities you can do with your extended family. Your grandchildren will certainly never be bored at Myrtle Beach, as there are so many things to do.
In addition to fishing, golfing, shopping, theater and history sites, Myrtle Beach is home to a wide array of restaurants to suit any taste. From cheap eats to gourmet dishes, you can spend quality time with your family over any type of meal.
Myrtle Beach also has its share of amusement parks that your grandchildren will enjoy. Family Kingdom Amusement Park offers 38 rides right on the beach for everyone to enjoy. The park only opens in the evenings, so it is a perfect way to end a hot day at the beach.
The park is only open during the spring and summer months, but it is a great way to keep your grandchildren entertained when they visit.
During the day, you can take your grandchildren (and adult children) to Splashes Oceanfront Park. The little swimmers in your family will enjoy the wide variety of water slides and attractions offered.
Medieval Time, the famous dinner show venue, also has a location in Myrtle Beach. Be transported to the land of knights and princesses with your grandchildren and have a memorable meal.
Myrtle Beach Pinball Museum, looking for fun things to do in Myrtle Beach, SC? Retro and pinball lovers this is for you!
Crime Statistics for Myrtle Beach Retirement Living
Crime statistics are a great way to gauge whether you want to live somewhere new, but Myrtle Beach's might scare you a little bit if you disregard context.
According to Neighborhood Scout, Myrtle Beach has one of the highest rates of crime in the nation. Admittedly, just looking at this statistic might make you think twice about relocating or vacationing there.
However, if you analyze the statistics, you can easily come to the conclusion that violent crime isn't a huge issue. Mark Kruea, spokesman for the City of Myrtle Beach, said the city often lands on “most dangerous” lists because its “low permanent population skews the results.”
“The FBI provides per capita crime statistics based on permanent population,” Kruea said. “Obviously, our average daily population is much greater than 100,000, but because our Census population is so small, it dramatically skews the numbers. Other cities with lots of tourism have their numbers skewed, too, but ours is especially noticeable since our permanent population is so small.
Why Choose Myrtle Beach?
While there are many places you could choose to retire, Myrtle Beach retirement living offers nonstop entertainment, endless rounds of golf and great fun for your family. The weather is phenomenal, and you'll never have to shovel snow from the driveway again.
In Myrtle Beach, you can truly stay as active or as quiet as you wish as you live out your Golden Years.
Check out our blog for even more ideas on things to do and advice on purchasing property.
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