Is Myrtle Beach, South Carolina Good for Airbnb Investment?

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

• Presents a compelling opportunity, largely driven by its status as a premier tourist destination.
• Current market conditions in Myrtle Beach are characterized by consistent demand for short-term rentals, fueled by millions of visitors annually drawn to its extensive beaches, golf courses, family attractions.
• Tourism trends in the area remain robust, with a steady influx of travelers ensuring high occupancy rates throughout much of the year, especially during peak seasons.
• Property values in Myrtle Beach have shown steady appreciation, making initial investments relatively strong.
• Despite potential seasonal fluctuations, the overall investment potential is favorable for those looking to capitalize on a thriving vacation rental market.

$1,200–$4,500 per month based on location, season, and property quality.

• Based on available market data, Airbnb hosts in Myrtle Beach typically earn between $1,200 to $4,500 per month.
• Peak earning months from May through September generate approximately 60-70% of annual revenue, while winter months often see earnings drop to $800-1,500 monthly.
• Properties within walking distance of the beach command premium rates averaging $150-300 per night during peak season compared to $80-150 for inland properties, while factors such as property size.
• Ocean-view condos and houses sleeping 6-12 guests typically outperform smaller units, with annual gross revenues ranging from $25,000 for modest inland properties to $65,000 or more for premium beachfront accommodations.
• Market saturation, local events like motorcycle rallies and golf tournaments, property management quality.

Potentially strong—typical annual ROI is 8–15%.

• Airbnb investments in Myrtle Beach typically generate ROI between 8-15% annually, with beachfront and oceanview properties achieving the higher end of this range due to premium nightly rates of $150-300 during peak summer months compared to $80-120 for inland properties.
• The average payback period ranges from 7-12 years depending on property location and initial investment.
• Short-term rentals in Myrtle Beach generally outperform long-term rentals by 3-6 percentage points, as traditional rentals typically yield 5-9% ROI with average monthly rents of $1,200-2,000, while successful Airbnb properties can generate $3,000-8,000 monthly during peak season and $1,500-3,500 during off-season months.
• The tourism-driven market benefits from consistent demand from March through October, with July and August representing peak earning potential, though investors must factor in higher maintenance costs, cleaning fees.

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

• Myrtle Beach Airbnb properties typically maintain an average annual occupancy rate of approximately 65-70%.
• Peak season occupancy rates from June through August often reach 85-90%, while shoulder seasons in May and September see rates around 70-75%.
• Winter months from December through February experience the lowest occupancy at 35-45%, with spring months gradually increasing from 50% in March to 65% in April.
• These rates generally exceed South Carolina's statewide Airbnb average of 60-65% and are competitive with the national average of 68-72%.
• The area's occupancy patterns closely mirror traditional hotel seasonality, with Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day representing the most lucrative period for short-term rental operators.

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

• The Oceanfront/Golden Mile area stands out as the premier Airbnb investment location due to its direct beach access, proximity to the SkyWheel and boardwalk.
• North Myrtle Beach offers excellent investment potential with its quieter family-friendly atmosphere, lower property acquisition costs, strong rental demand from golf enthusiasts visiting nearby courses.
• The Market Common neighborhood provides a sophisticated investment opportunity with its upscale shopping, dining.
• Murrells Inlet presents strong value with its renowned seafood restaurants and marshwalk entertainment district.
• Cherry Grove in North Myrtle Beach attracts investors due to its pier fishing opportunities, family-oriented beach culture.
• The Dunes/Arcadian Shores area offers solid investment returns with its golf course communities, upscale residential feel, and proximity to both beach and entertainment venues.
• Finally, the Socastee area provides emerging investment opportunities with lower entry costs, growing popularity among visitors seeking authentic local experiences.

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

• In Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, short-term rental properties must obtain a business license and register with the city.
• The city limits occupancy to two people per bedroom plus two additional guests, with a maximum of 12 people total per property.
• Owner-occupancy is not required for short-term rentals, but properties must be located in areas zoned for commercial or tourist accommodation use.
• The registration process involves submitting detailed property information, contact details for a local representative available 24/7, and paying annual fees of approximately $200-400 depending on property size.
• Recent regulatory changes implemented around 2019-2021 have tightened enforcement mechanisms, increased penalties for violations.

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

• Short-term rentals in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina are subject to several fees and taxes including a state accommodations tax of 2%, local accommodations tax of 1.5%.
• Property owners must obtain a business license from the City of Myrtle Beach costing approximately $50-75 annually.
• Additional requirements include a short-term rental permit from the city costing approximately $100-150 annually, potential homeowner association fees if applicable.
• Tourism Development Fee assessments may apply at 1-2% in certain areas, and properties must comply with fire safety inspections costing $75-100 annually.
• Total annual compliance costs typically range from $300-500 excluding the percentage-based taxes on rental income.