Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Murrells Inlet, SC
Considering Murrells Inlet, SC for your next move? This charming coastal community of 9,355 residents enjoys mild winters, 64% sunny days annually, and a relaxed pace of life. The median home price is $381,500 and average rent is $1,350, making it an affordable beachside option. With a median commute of just 22.8 minutes, low violent crime rates (226 per 100K), and strong schools, Murrells Inlet is perfect for those seeking scenic living, friendly neighbors, and easy access to health care and education.
Demographics - Murrells Inlet, SC
Demographics - Murrells Inlet, SC
Murrells Inlet is a close-knit community of 9,355 residents, with a median age of 58, reflecting its appeal to retirees and those seeking a relaxed lifestyle. The population is predominantly White, with a small mix of other ethnicities, and about 5% speak a language other than English at home. Its moderate population density offers a comfortable suburban feel.
Population:
9,355
Density:
1,050 per sq mi
Median Age:
58.0
Gender Ratio:
92 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
5.1%

Ethnic Composition
White:
91.7%
Black:
4.8%
Asian:
0.9%
Others:
2.6%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Murrells Inlet, SC?
Living in Murrells Inlet comes with a cost of living index slightly above the national average, driven by a median home value of $381,500 and average rent of $1,350. Essentials like groceries and transportation are reasonably priced, while utilities and healthcare costs are in line with state trends. State income tax ranges from 0% to 7%, providing some flexibility for residents.
Median House Value:
$381,500
Gross Rent:
$1,350
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$140
Auto Insurance:
$1,470
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,720
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$520
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
7%
Cost Of Living Index:
104.8
Grocery:
97.6
Housing:
108.2
Utilities:
104.5
Transportation:
99.2
Health Care:
98.4
Miscellaneous:
97.0
Crime
Is Murrells Inlet, SC a safe place to live?
Murrells Inlet maintains a relatively low violent crime rate of 226 per 100,000 residents, offering peace of mind to newcomers. Property crime is more common, with a 1 in 47 chance, but overall the area is considered safe for families and retirees alike.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
226
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,110
Crime Index:
2,336
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 442
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 47
Weather
What is the weather like in Murrells Inlet, SC year-round?
Residents enjoy a mild subtropical climate, with winter lows around 36°F and summer highs near 89°F. The area receives about 54 inches of rainfall annually and boasts 64% sunny days, making it ideal for those who love outdoor activities and coastal living.

Winter
Min:
36°F
Max:
60°F

Spring
Min:
54°F
Max:
76°F

Summer
Min:
72°F
Max:
89°F

Fall
Min:
56°F
Max:
79°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
53.7 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
64%
Neighbors
Murrells Inlet features a friendly community with a median household income of $64,800 and a poverty rate under 10%. Over 93% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and most enjoy a short average commute of about 23 minutes, reflecting the town’s easygoing pace.
Median Income:
$39,600
Household Income:
$64,800
Family Income:
$75,400
Per Capita Income:
$41,100
Income Male:
$47,200
Income Female:
$36,000
Poverty Rate:
9.7%
Non English Speakers:
5.1%
Rent:
$1,350
Unemployment Rate:
4.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.6%
Commute Time:
22.8 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
93.8%
Bachelors or More:
33.5%
Education
How are the schools in Murrells Inlet, SC?
Murrells Inlet offers access to quality public and private schools, including St. James Elementary and High School with favorable student-teacher ratios. Nearby higher education options, such as Coastal Carolina University and Horry-Georgetown Technical College, provide further learning opportunities within a short drive.

Public Schools
Name:
St. James Elementary School
Street:
9711 St. James Rd
Phone:
843-650-8220
Students:
950
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.7
Name:
St. James High School
Street:
10800 Hwy 707
Phone:
843-650-5600
Students:
1,850
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.2

Private Schools
Name:
Lowcountry Preparatory School
Street:
300 Blue Stem Dr, Pawleys Island, SC
Phone:
843-237-4147
Students:
250

Colleges
Name:
Coastal Carolina University
City:
Conway
State:
SC
Distance:
27 miles
Students:
10,400
Name:
Horry-Georgetown Technical College
City:
Conway
State:
SC
Distance:
21 miles
Students:
7,100
Healthcare
Access to healthcare is strong, with two major hospitals nearby and 2.3 physicians per 1,000 residents. Nearly 90% of the population has health insurance, helping ensure residents receive timely care when needed.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Tidelands Waccamaw Community Hospital
Address:
4070 US-17, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576
Phone:
(843) 652-1000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Grand Strand Medical Center
Address:
809 82nd Pkwy, Myrtle Beach, SC 29572
Phone:
(843) 692-1000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.3
Health Insurance Coverage:
88.2%
Health Care Index:
67.5
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Murrells Inlet, SC?
The housing market is predominantly owner-occupied, with 82% of homes owned and a median home price of $381,500. Home values have appreciated by over 5% in the past year, making Murrells Inlet an appealing choice for buyers seeking stable investment and a beachside lifestyle.
Median Home Price:
$381,500
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,350
Owner Occupied Rate:
82.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
DMV services for Murrells Inlet are provided by the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles, with convenient access at the Myrtle Beach location. Residents can find information and manage their licenses and registrations online or by phone, ensuring smooth relocation and vehicle needs.
State:
South Carolina
Department:
South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1330 Howard Pkwy, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
Phone:
1-803-896-5000
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.