Is Conway, South Carolina Good for Airbnb Investment?

Potentially—Conway, South Carolina combines visitor demand with long-term real estate upside.

• Presents a potentially attractive opportunity, largely driven by its proximity to popular tourist destinations like Myrtle Beach and its own burgeoning local charm.
• Current market conditions in Conway show a steady real estate market with relatively affordable property values compared to coastal hotspots.
• Tourism trends indicate a consistent influx of visitors drawn to the wider Grand Strand area, with Conway benefiting from overflow and its appeal as a quieter.
• This consistent demand, coupled with manageable property values, suggests a positive investment potential for short-term rentals in Conway.

$800–$2,200, based on location, season, and property quality.

• Based on available market data and rental performance metrics, Airbnb properties in Conway, South Carolina typically generate average monthly revenues ranging from $800 to $2,200, with most hosts earning between $1,200 to $1,800 per month depending on property size, amenities, and location proximity to Myrtle Beach attractions.
• Seasonal variations show peak earnings during summer months (June through August) when revenues can increase by 40-60% above baseline rates.
• Spring and fall shoulder seasons maintain moderate performance with revenues approximately 10-15% above winter levels.
• Key factors significantly affecting earnings include distance from Myrtle Beach (properties within 15 miles command premium rates), property amenities such as pools or hot tubs which can boost revenues by 15-25%.
• The Conway market benefits from overflow demand from the saturated Myrtle Beach area, with successful properties maintaining occupancy rates between 60-75% annually, though hosts should account for seasonal fluctuations.

Potentially strong—typical annual ROI is 8–12%.

• Typically generate ROI between 8-12% annually, with properties averaging $85-120 per night and occupancy rates around 65-75% due to the area's proximity to Myrtle Beach attractions and Coastal Carolina University.
• The average payback period ranges from 8-12 years depending on initial investment and property type, with single-family homes near the university or historic downtown performing better than condos or properties in outlying areas.
• Compared to traditional long-term rentals in Conway that yield approximately 6-8% ROI with average monthly rents of $1,200-1,600, short-term rentals can outperform by 2-4 percentage points but require significantly more active management, higher turnover costs, and seasonal revenue fluctuations that can drop occupancy to 40-50% during slower winter months.
• Properties within 15 miles of Myrtle Beach or near major Conway attractions like the Riverwalk tend to achieve the higher end of ROI ranges.

Conway, South Carolina averages 65–70% annual occupancy, with seasonal variation.

• Conway, South Carolina Airbnb properties typically maintain an average annual occupancy rate of approximately 65-70%.
• Peak season occurs from May through September, when occupancy rates can reach 80-85%, particularly during summer months when families vacation along the Grand Strand.
• The shoulder seasons of April and October see moderate occupancy around 60-65%, while winter months from November through March experience the lowest rates at 45-55%.
• Conway's occupancy rates generally align closely with South Carolina's coastal average of 68% but fall slightly below the national Airbnb average of 72%.
• The city benefits from overflow demand from Myrtle Beach's saturated market, particularly during major events like bike weeks and golf tournaments.

The strongest opportunities balance visitor demand, nightly rates, and acquisition cost.

• The most promising Airbnb investment neighborhoods in Conway, South Carolina include downtown Conway's historic district.
• The Waccamaw River waterfront areas provide scenic views and water access that command premium nightly rates from visitors seeking peaceful retreats.
• Neighborhoods near Coastal Carolina University generate consistent demand from visiting families, prospective students, and event attendees.
• The Highway 501 corridor toward Myrtle Beach offers strategic positioning for guests wanting quieter accommodations while remaining within 20 minutes of beach attractions.
• Areas around Conway Medical Center attract medical tourists and visiting families, providing steady mid-week bookings that complement weekend leisure travel.
• The Riverfront Park vicinity combines recreational amenities with proximity to downtown dining and shopping, appealing to families and couples seeking authentic small-town experiences.
• Finally, established residential neighborhoods like Waccamaw Pines offer larger homes suitable for group bookings and family reunions.

Yes, but only where zoning permits short-term rentals and every required license is current.

• Conway, South Carolina requires short-term rental operators to obtain a business license and register their properties with the city, typically costing between $50-100 annually.
• Properties are generally limited to 8-10 occupants maximum, with parking requirements of one space per bedroom plus two additional spaces.
• Owner-occupancy is not required for most short-term rentals, though some residential zones may have restrictions on non-owner-occupied rentals operating more than 180 days per year.
• Short-term rentals are permitted in most residential zoning districts but may be prohibited in certain historic or conservation areas.
• The registration process involves submitting an application with property details, safety certifications.
• Recent changes implemented around 2022-2023 include stricter noise ordinances with quiet hours from 10 PM to 8 AM, mandatory posting of house rules and emergency contact information.

Tax rates vary by jurisdiction; licensing, inspection, and insurance costs are additional.

• Short-term rentals in Conway, South Carolina are subject to several fees and taxes including the state accommodations tax of 2% on gross rental receipts, Horry County's additional accommodations tax of 3%.
• Property owners must obtain a business license from the City of Conway costing approximately $50-100 annually, register with the South Carolina Department of Revenue for tax collection purposes with no initial fee.
• Tourism development fees may apply at 1-2% of gross receipts in certain areas of Horry County, and owners must also account for standard property taxes which average 0.57% of assessed value annually.
• Additional costs may include inspection fees of $75-150 for initial permits and potential homeowners association fees if applicable.