Conway, SC, December 30, 2025
Amidst South Carolina’s booming economy, Conway stands out as Horry County’s most affordable city in the region. With a median home price of $170,500 and rental rates averaging $1,793, Conway offers an attractive living option away from the coastal hustle of Myrtle Beach. Its balance of economic growth, community charm, and strategic local government support positions it as a prime destination for families and entrepreneurs seeking value without sacrificing quality of life.
Conway: Horry County’s Affordable Gem for 2026 and Beyond
As South Carolina continues to attract thousands of new residents each year, the quest for affordable living amidst a growing economy remains a top priority for many. It’s a testament to the Palmetto State’s appeal that it is expected to rank third among U.S. states for inbound moves in 2026. While the Grand Strand city of Myrtle Beach itself is a popular relocation destination, the spotlight for affordability within Horry County for 2026 shines on its charming neighbor, Conway. This recognition highlights the balance of economic opportunity and accessible living that continues to draw individuals and families to the region.
The consistent influx of new residents underscores the vibrancy of the Horry County economy and the broader South Carolina landscape. This growth, often fueled by entrepreneurial innovation and the resilience of Myrtle Beach small business, is a key indicator of a thriving environment. The ability for a city within such a dynamic region to maintain affordability speaks volumes about local leadership and community planning efforts to foster sustainable economic growth and offer diverse opportunities for South Carolina entrepreneurs.
Conway’s Place on the Affordability Map
A recent report identifying the cheapest places to live in South Carolina for 2026 has singled out Conway as the sole Horry County city on the list. This designation positions Conway as an attractive option for those seeking a desirable lifestyle without the higher cost of living often associated with coastal proximity. Conway’s appeal stems from its distinctive small-town charm coupled with convenient access to the wider amenities and job markets of Myrtle Beach, located approximately 15 miles away. The city offers a broad selection of affordable homes, making it an appealing choice for families, young professionals, and retirees alike.
Understanding Conway’s Cost of Living
Affordability in Conway is supported by several key metrics. The median home price in Conway is reported to be $170,500, with an average rent of $1,793. Furthermore, the cost of living in Conway is notably 7% below the national average. This contrasts with the broader Horry County, where the cost of living is generally 7% lower than the national average. These figures underscore Conway’s position as a practical choice for those looking to maximize their budget in the thriving South Carolina market.
Driving Economic Vibrancy in Horry County
The economic landscape of Horry County is characterized by dynamic growth and strategic development, which benefits cities like Conway by providing a stable environment. Organizations such as the Myrtle Beach Regional Economic Development Corporation (MBREDC) are pivotal in attracting, growing, and retaining sustainable businesses that generate jobs across the county. Their efforts focus on diversifying the local economy by supporting industries including aerospace, manufacturing, healthcare, and technology. This multi-sector approach helps to create a robust job market and diverse career paths for residents.
Fostering Small Business Resilience and Growth
Local government and economic development agencies are actively working to enhance the business climate. Horry County leaders are exploring initiatives to simplify the process of opening a business, including potentially reducing bureaucratic hurdles and implementing grant and educational programs for new ventures. This proactive stance aims to provide a “home field advantage” for South Carolina entrepreneurs, recognizing that accessible resources and a streamlined regulatory environment can significantly accelerate Myrtle Beach SC business growth. The City of Myrtle Beach also encourages participation from local, small, minority, veteran-owned, and women-owned businesses for city contracts, further supporting a diverse local economy.
Population Influx and Housing Market Dynamics
South Carolina has experienced substantial population growth, with Myrtle Beach leading the nation as the fastest-growing U.S. city in 2025 with 328 move-ins per 100 move-outs. This sustained migration continues to fuel demand in the local real estate market, contributing to price stability and reducing the risk of market instability. The state’s appeal is driven by its favorable tax policies, affordable living costs, and mild climate, making it a prime destination for retirees and individuals seeking a relaxed lifestyle.
Despite rising home prices in some areas of the Palmetto State, pockets of affordability like Conway persist. Horry County has witnessed significant development, indicated by a surge in permits issued during the 2023-24 fiscal year, reaching 17,522, representing a construction value of $1.54 billion. This development includes new residential communities and infrastructure upgrades, such as drainage improvements in low-to-moderate income areas within the City of Myrtle Beach under the Horry County HOME Consortium’s 2025-2026 Annual Action Plan.
Community Insights and Future Prospects
Conway’s commitment to providing quality schools and a balanced lifestyle further enhances its attractiveness as an affordable community. This focus on community well-being is integral to the broader vision for Horry County, which aims to sustain and enhance the quality of life for its residents and visitors. The county’s comprehensive plan, IMAGINE 2040, emphasizes fostering healthy and safe communities, preserving natural assets, encouraging business growth and economic diversification, and providing essential public services. A notable advantage for residents and businesses in Horry County is having the lowest tax rate in South Carolina.
Ongoing infrastructure projects, such as road improvements on U.S. 501, are also contributing to better connectivity within the county, with an estimated completion in 2026. These public investments, alongside private sector initiatives, are crucial for accommodating the expanding population and supporting the long-term economic growth of the region, ensuring benefits for generations of residents and South Carolina entrepreneurs.
Conclusion
Conway’s recognition as one of South Carolina’s most affordable places to live in 2026 underscores the diverse opportunities available within Horry County. It reflects a successful blend of accessible housing, community-focused initiatives, and a supportive environment for Myrtle Beach SC business and South Carolina entrepreneurs. The proactive efforts of local leaders and organizations like the MBREDC to streamline business processes, attract varied industries, and manage growth thoughtfully are key to sustaining this momentum. We encourage our readers to explore the vibrant communities within Horry County and support the local businesses that form the backbone of our thriving economy, contributing to a prosperous future for all. Stay engaged with local developments and champion the spirit of enterprise that makes our region so unique.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Horry County city was named one of the cheapest places to live in South Carolina for 2026?
The Horry County city named one of the cheapest places to live in South Carolina for 2026 is Conway.
Why is Conway considered an affordable place to live in 2026?
Conway is considered an affordable place to live due to its small-town charm, convenient access to Myrtle Beach, affordable homes, quality schools, and a balanced lifestyle.
What is the median home price in Conway for 2026?
The median home price in Conway is reported to be $170,500.
What is the average rent in Conway for 2026?
The average rent in Conway is reported to be $1,793.
How does Conway’s cost of living compare to the national average?
Conway’s cost of living is notably 7% below the national average.
Is South Carolina experiencing population growth in 2026?
Yes, South Carolina is expected to continue experiencing significant population growth in 2026, projected to rank third among U.S. states for inbound moves.
What is the cost of living in Horry County compared to the national average?
The cost of living in Horry County is generally 7% lower than the national average.
Key Features of Conway’s Affordability and Horry County’s Growth
| Feature | Detail | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Designation | Cheapest place to live in SC (Horry County city for 2026) | State-level |
| Median Home Price (Conway) | $170,500 | Local |
| Average Rent (Conway) | $1,793 | Local |
| Cost of Living (Conway) | 7% below the national average | Local |
| Horry County Cost of Living | 7% lower than the national average | Local |
| Distance to Myrtle Beach | Approximately 15 miles | Local |
| Population Growth (SC 2026) | Projected to rank 3rd among U.S. states for inbound moves | State-level, Nationwide |
| Myrtle Beach Growth (2025) | Fastest-growing U.S. city with 328 move-ins per 100 move-outs | Local, Nationwide |
| Horry County Tax Rate | Lowest tax rate in South Carolina | State-level |
| Economic Development Focus | Attracting/retaining businesses, diversifying economy (aerospace, manufacturing, healthcare, technology) | Local |
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Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
