Anyone who has shopped for a home in the Grand Strand recently has likely noticed the competition — and a growing share of it is coming from buyers relocating from other states. Whether driven by lower costs, remote work flexibility, or simply a desire for warmer weather, out-of-state buyers are reshaping the local market in real ways. Here's a closer look at who's moving here and why.
- Out-of-state buyers now make up a large share of Grand Strand home purchases, driven by remote work flexibility and lower costs.
- Florida, New York, New Jersey, Ohio, and Pennsylvania are consistently among the top states sending buyers to the area.
- Remote and hybrid work has expanded who can realistically move here without giving up a job based elsewhere.
- Lower property taxes and more affordable home prices remain the single biggest financial draw versus buyers' home states.
- Increased out-of-state demand is contributing to steady price appreciation and quicker sale timelines in popular neighborhoods.
Last updated: August 2026
Short answer: Out-of-state buyers are drawn to the Grand Strand by a combination of lower property taxes, more affordable home prices relative to their home states, no state estate tax, and expanded remote work flexibility that no longer ties them to a specific city. The most common origin states include Florida, New York, New Jersey, Ohio, and Pennsylvania, and this demand is contributing to steady price appreciation and faster sale timelines in popular Myrtle Beach neighborhoods.
Where Are Out-of-State Buyers Coming From?
Florida, New York, New Jersey, Ohio, and Pennsylvania are consistently among the top states sending buyers to the Grand Strand, though the exact mix shifts somewhat year to year based on economic conditions and migration trends nationally. Buyers from these states often cite a combination of tax savings, more house for their money, and proximity — the Grand Strand remains an easy drive or short flight from much of the East Coast and Midwest, making it a realistic relocation destination without cutting off ties to family up north.
What Financial Factors Are Driving Buyers to the Grand Strand?
Lower property taxes, more affordable home prices, and no state estate tax are the biggest financial draws pulling buyers away from higher-cost states — often saving thousands of dollars a year compared to their previous home state. Buyers coming from high-tax Northeast states in particular see a dramatic drop in their annual carrying costs once they relocate. Our post on what changes when moving from the Northeast to Myrtle Beach breaks down these differences in more detail.
How Has Remote Work Changed Who Can Move Here?
Remote and hybrid work arrangements have freed many buyers from needing to live near a specific employer, making it possible to relocate to the Grand Strand while keeping a job based in a higher-cost city. This shift has meaningfully broadened the pool of buyers who can realistically consider relocating — a trend that was far less common before 2020 and has continued even as some companies have scaled back remote flexibility. Buyers in this category often prioritize reliable internet service and a quiet workspace alongside the usual home-buying criteria.
How Is Out-of-State Demand Affecting Grand Strand Home Prices?
Increased demand from out-of-state buyers is contributing to steady price appreciation and quicker sale timelines in popular neighborhoods, particularly in the $300,000-$500,000 range that draws the most relocation buyers. This makes it especially important for buyers — local and out-of-state alike — to move decisively on well-priced homes and understand local market dynamics before submitting an offer. Families weighing school quality as part of their decision may also find our post on how schools impact property values in Horry County useful.
Tips for Out-of-State Buyers Making the Move
If you're relocating from another state, plan a dedicated house-hunting trip rather than trying to buy entirely remotely, since photos and virtual tours rarely capture a neighborhood's full character. Work with a local agent who can walk you through South Carolina-specific customs, from the attorney-led closing process to updated property tax estimates based on your purchase price rather than the seller's current bill. Budget for insurance costs that may run higher than in your home state, particularly if you're relocating from an area without hurricane or flood risk. For a full overview of the process, see our buyer resources.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which states send the most buyers to Myrtle Beach?
Florida, New York, New Jersey, Ohio, and Pennsylvania are consistently among the top states sending buyers to the Grand Strand, though the mix shifts somewhat year to year based on economic conditions and migration trends nationally.
Why are so many people moving to the Grand Strand from out of state?
The primary drivers are lower property taxes, more affordable home prices relative to many other states, no state estate tax, warmer year-round weather, and increased flexibility from remote work that no longer requires living near a specific employer.
Has remote work increased out-of-state home buying in Myrtle Beach?
Yes. Remote and hybrid work arrangements have freed many buyers from needing to live near a specific employer, making it possible to relocate to the Grand Strand while keeping a job based in a higher-cost city. This shift has broadened the pool of buyers who can realistically consider relocating.
Is out-of-state demand driving up home prices in Myrtle Beach?
Increased demand from out-of-state buyers is contributing to steady price appreciation and quicker sale timelines in popular neighborhoods, particularly in the $300,000-$500,000 range that draws the most relocation buyers. This makes it especially important for local and out-of-state buyers alike to move decisively on well-priced homes.
What should out-of-state buyers know before making an offer in Myrtle Beach?
Out-of-state buyers should understand that South Carolina requires a licensed attorney at closing, factor in updated property tax estimates based on the purchase price rather than the seller's current bill, and budget for homeowners and flood insurance costs that may be higher than in their home state. Working with a local agent familiar with these differences helps avoid surprises.
