News Summary
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, has been identified as the fastest-growing metropolitan area for seniors in the U.S., with a significant 6.3% increase in its senior population over the last year. This growth is driven by various factors, including lifestyle changes and remote work opportunities, attracting retirees primarily from states like Ohio and New York. The area has transformed from a party-centric destination to a peaceful retirement community, enhancing amenities tailored to older adults. As the demographic landscape shifts, Myrtle Beach’s appeal continues to rise among the senior population.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, has emerged as the fastest-growing metropolitan area for senior citizens in the United States, according to recent estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau. The population of residents aged 65 and older in the Myrtle Beach area increased by 6.3% last year, contributing to a dramatic growth rate of over 22% for seniors since the beginning of the 2020s. This shift highlights a notable demographic trend within the region, as senior citizens now comprise more than 25% of the nearly 413,000 individuals living in the metro area.
This surge in the senior population has been attributed to several factors, including the lifestyle and opportunities that Myrtle Beach offers. Once characterized by a reputation for rowdy nightlife, previously nicknamed “Dirty Myrtle,” the area has transformed into a desirable retirement destination. The COVID-19 pandemic prompted many retirees, particularly from states like Ohio and New York, to recognize the potential for remote work, enabling them to relocate to this attractive coastal city.
The transition from a party-centric atmosphere to a community that caters to seniors has seen Myrtle Beach invest in infrastructure catering to a more mature demographic. The city has shifted its focus to amenities such as quiet dining options and pickleball courts, appealing to the growing aging population. As Myrtle Beach adapts to this shift, the local government and businesses are working to enhance recreational, dining, and shopping experiences for the senior community.
In comparison, the national growth rate for individuals aged 65 and older was 3.1% last year, while the population under 18 years old saw a decrease of 0.2%. Additionally, over the last two decades, the share of senior citizens across the U.S. has risen from 12.4% to 18%. This trend has led to notable changes in several states, including Delaware, Hawaii, Montana, and Pennsylvania, where older adults now outnumber children. This demographic shift signifies a larger trend in the nation, with the presence of seniors in Maine, Vermont, and Florida now mirrored in nine states.
Maine reports the highest median age in the country at 44.8, while Utah has the lowest at 32.4. Additionally, there has been growth in the Hispanic population across the United States, which reached 20% for the first time last year, primarily due to migration. Key areas experiencing increases in Hispanic populations include New York, Houston, and Miami, alongside significant growth rates for Black and Asian demographics in metropolitan regions like Houston, New York, and Dallas-Fort Worth.
Though the non-Hispanic white population saw a slight decline last year—attributed to deaths outpacing births—certain cities, including Nashville, New York, and Charlotte, demonstrated growth in this demographic. This multifaceted demographic landscape illustrates the shifting population dynamics within the United States, as metropolitan areas like Myrtle Beach continue to attract a growing number of retirees seeking a favorable climate, low taxes, and ample opportunities for recreation.
As Myrtle Beach ranks 17th nationally for net migration from 2020 to 2024, the area’s transformation from a once bustling party destination to a peaceful retirement haven displays the broader trends in American migration patterns. The combination of environmental appeal and evolving community characteristics makes Myrtle Beach a prime choice for many seniors looking for a place to settle down.
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Additional Resources
- Mankato Free Press
- Kiplinger
- Southern Living
- U.S. News
- World Atlas
- Wikipedia: Myrtle Beach
- Google Search: Myrtle Beach retirement
- Google Scholar: Myrtle Beach demographics
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Myrtle Beach
- Google News: Myrtle Beach retirement trends
