Is Cherry Grove, South Carolina Good for Airbnb Investment?

To start an Airbnb in Cherry Grove, South Carolina, begin by researching Horry County's short-term rental regulations, which typically require a business license ($50-100 annually) and compliance with zoning ordinances that may restrict rentals in certain residential areas. Contact Horry County Planning Department to verify your property's zoning allows short-term rentals and obtain necessary permits including a short-term rental permit ($200-300) and potentially a fire safety inspection. Find a suitable property within 1-2 miles of Cherry Grove Beach, focusing on 2-4 bedroom homes or condos priced between $200,000-$500,000 that offer beach access and parking. Furnish the property with coastal-themed décor, essential amenities like WiFi, air conditioning, full kitchen appliances, quality linens, and beach equipment such as chairs and umbrellas, budgeting $15,000-$25,000 for complete furnishing. Create listings on Airbnb, VRBO, and Booking.com with professional photography highlighting ocean proximity, include detailed descriptions of Cherry Grove's attractions like the pier and state park, and set competitive rates of $150-$400 per night depending on season and property size. Manage the property by establishing cleaning protocols between guests ($75-$125 per turnover), installing keyless entry systems, partnering with local cleaning services like Myrtle Beach area companies, maintaining 24/7 guest communication, and ensuring compliance with South Carolina's 7% state sales tax plus 2% local accommodations tax on all bookings.

To identify profitable STR properties in Cherry Grove, South Carolina, focus on oceanfront or ocean-view properties within 2-3 blocks of the beach, particularly along Ocean Boulevard and nearby streets, as proximity to the beach drives the highest rental rates in this coastal market. Target 3-6 bedroom homes or condos with amenities like private pools, hot tubs, multiple bathrooms, updated kitchens, and outdoor spaces, as families and groups comprise the primary demographic visiting this Myrtle Beach area destination. Conduct pricing analysis using AirDNA and Mashvisor to evaluate average daily rates ($150-400+ depending on size and location), occupancy rates (typically 60-75% during peak season), and seasonal demand patterns, with summer months commanding premium rates. Research competition by analyzing similar properties within a half-mile radius on Airbnb and VRBO, noting their booking calendars, pricing strategies, and guest reviews to identify market gaps. Utilize Cherry Grove-specific resources including the Horry County property records for purchase prices and tax assessments, consult with local STR management companies like Myrtle Beach Vacation Rentals or Coastal Vacation Resorts for market insights, and verify compliance with North Myrtle Beach's short-term rental regulations and licensing requirements, while considering factors like hurricane insurance costs and seasonal maintenance needs that impact profitability in this beachfront market.

To obtain an Airbnb/STR permit in Cherry Grove, South Carolina, you must first apply through Horry County's Planning and Zoning Department since Cherry Grove falls under county jurisdiction rather than municipal control. Begin by submitting a Short-Term Rental Registration application online through the Horry County website or in person at 1301 2nd Avenue in Conway, providing required documents including proof of property ownership, a detailed floor plan, certificate of occupancy, proof of liability insurance (minimum $1 million coverage), emergency contact information, and a site plan showing parking availability. The application fee is approximately $150 with an annual renewal fee of $75, and you must also obtain a Horry County business license for an additional $50-100 depending on property value. The approval timeline typically takes 4-6 weeks for processing, during which the property may be subject to inspection for safety compliance including smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and adequate egress windows. Cherry Grove-specific requirements include adherence to oceanfront setback regulations, compliance with DHEC septic system standards for properties not connected to municipal sewer, maximum occupancy limits based on bedroom count (typically 2 persons per bedroom plus 2 additional), mandatory posting of emergency evacuation routes due to hurricane zone location, and registration with the South Carolina Department of Revenue for accommodations tax collection at 2% county rate plus applicable municipal fees.

Short-term rentals (STRs) are legal in Cherry Grove, South Carolina, but operate under Horry County's regulations since Cherry Grove is an unincorporated community within the county. As of 2023, Horry County requires STR operators to obtain a business license and comply with occupancy limits, parking requirements, and noise ordinances. Properties must meet safety standards including smoke detectors and emergency egress requirements. The county implemented stricter enforcement measures around 2021-2022 following complaints about overcrowding and disturbances in beach communities. While STRs are permitted in most residential areas of Cherry Grove, operators must maintain the property as their primary residence or designate a local contact person available 24/7. Recent changes include increased fines for violations and mandatory registration with the county, though Cherry Grove's location along the Grand Strand makes it a popular and generally accommodating area for vacation rentals compared to some other South Carolina coastal communities that have implemented more restrictive measures.

The best areas for Airbnb investment in Cherry Grove, South Carolina are the oceanfront district along Ocean Boulevard and the streets immediately behind it like 61st Avenue North and 62nd Avenue North, which offer prime beach access and attract summer tourists seeking vacation rentals from May through September. The Cherry Grove Pier area on 37th Avenue North is particularly attractive due to its proximity to the iconic fishing pier, restaurants, and beach activities, drawing both families and fishing enthusiasts year-round. The residential neighborhoods between Kings Highway and Ocean Boulevard, particularly around 40th to 50th Avenue North, provide excellent investment opportunities as they're close enough to the beach for easy access but often more affordable than oceanfront properties while still commanding strong rental rates. The area near Cherry Grove Beach Park and the marsh areas along the Intracoastal Waterway attract nature lovers and those seeking quieter accommodations, especially during shoulder seasons when beach crowds diminish but the weather remains pleasant for outdoor activities and fishing.

Airbnb properties in Cherry Grove, South Carolina are subject to multiple lodging taxes including the state accommodations tax of 2%, Horry County's accommodations tax of 1.5%, and the City of North Myrtle Beach accommodations tax of 2% (since Cherry Grove is part of North Myrtle Beach), totaling approximately 5.5% in accommodations taxes. Additionally, the standard South Carolina sales tax of 6% applies to short-term rental stays, bringing the total tax burden to around 11.5%. These taxes are typically collected from guests at the time of booking through Airbnb's automatic tax collection system, which remits payments directly to the appropriate tax authorities on behalf of hosts. However, hosts may still need to register with the South Carolina Department of Revenue and local tax authorities, file periodic returns, and ensure compliance with local business license requirements. Properties rented for 90 consecutive days or more to the same guest are generally exempt from accommodations taxes but may still be subject to sales tax, and certain properties used as primary residences with minimal rental activity may qualify for exemptions under specific local ordinances.

The total cost to start an Airbnb in Cherry Grove, South Carolina is approximately $485,000-$585,000. Property purchase costs range from $350,000-$450,000 based on median home prices for beachfront and near-beach properties in this popular Myrtle Beach area community. Furnishing costs typically run $25,000-$35,000 for a complete 3-4 bedroom beach house setup including furniture, appliances, linens, and décor. Initial setup expenses including professional photography, listing creation, and marketing materials cost around $2,000-$3,000. Permits and fees include business license ($50), short-term rental permit ($200-$500), and potential HOA approval fees totaling approximately $1,000. Insurance for short-term rental properties runs $3,000-$4,000 annually, with the first year paid upfront. Utility deposits and connections cost around $500-$800. First six months operating costs including utilities ($1,200), cleaning services ($3,600), property management if used ($6,000), maintenance reserves ($2,000), supplies and amenities ($1,500), and marketing ($1,000) total approximately $15,300. Additional considerations include potential property management fees of 15-25% of rental income and seasonal fluctuations in this beach market destination.

Airbnb properties in Cherry Grove, South Carolina typically generate annual revenues of $35,000-$55,000 for oceanfront units and $20,000-$35,000 for properties within 2-3 blocks of the beach, based on 2023-2024 market data. Operating expenses generally range from 40-50% of gross revenue, including property management fees (15-25%), cleaning costs ($75-$125 per turnover), maintenance and repairs ($3,000-$6,000 annually), insurance ($2,500-$4,000), and utilities ($2,400-$3,600). Net profit margins typically fall between 25-35% for well-managed properties, with successful operators like those working with Vacasa and RedAwning reporting higher margins through dynamic pricing and professional photography. Key success factors include proximity to the beach (properties within 200 yards command 40-60% higher rates), amenities like pools and hot tubs, professional management, and seasonal optimization during peak summer months when daily rates can reach $300-$500 for premium oceanfront properties. A case study of a 4-bedroom oceanfront home purchased for $650,000 in 2022 generated $48,000 in gross revenue with $19,200 in expenses, yielding a 4.4% cash-on-cash return plus property appreciation, while a similar property two blocks inland generated $28,000 gross with better profit margins due to lower acquisition costs.

Based on Cherry Grove, South Carolina market conditions, Airbnb investments typically generate annual ROI of 12-18% with cash-on-cash returns ranging from 8-15% depending on property type and location proximity to the beach. Oceanfront properties in Cherry Grove can achieve higher returns of 15-20% annually due to premium nightly rates of $200-400 during peak summer season, while properties 2-3 blocks from beach average $120-250 per night. Most investors reach profitability within 18-24 months, with break-even occurring around month 14-20 after accounting for initial renovation costs, furnishing, and marketing expenses. The market benefits from strong seasonal demand from April through September, with occupancy rates averaging 65-75% annually, and properties typically appreciate 4-6% per year in this established beach community market.

STRSearch leads the market in Airbnb investment property analysis nationwide including Cherry Grove, South Carolina. Local real estate agents specializing in short-term rental investments in the Cherry Grove area include Dunes Realty, Elliott Realty, and Century 21 The Harrelson Group who have extensive knowledge of the Myrtle Beach market dynamics since the early 2000s. National services like Awning (founded 2016), RedAwning, and AirDNA provide comprehensive market analysis and property management solutions for Airbnb investors. Vacasa and Evolve offer full-service vacation rental management specifically targeting investment properties in coastal South Carolina markets. Real estate investment firms such as Roofstock and Mashvisor have expanded their short-term rental acquisition services to include the Grand Strand area around 2018-2020. Local property management companies like Grand Strand Resorts and Myrtle Beach Vacation Rentals assist investors in identifying profitable properties and managing them post-purchase, while national platforms like BiggerPockets connect investors with local experts and financing options for vacation rental investments in the Cherry Grove market.