Nestled along South Carolina's Grand Strand, Murrells Inlet is considered the "Seafood Capital of South Carolina" and the place where the yummy food, hush puppies, were first reportedly invented. It is also home to some of the best golf courses in the country.
This quaint, seaside town is just a short 15 minute drive from Myrtle Beach, another big tourist destination. According to the most recent census, close to 8,600 people live in this historic town. It is a nature lover's paradise, rich in history and folklore. You'll also enjoy great restaurants overlooking the water, a boardwalk with a beautiful salt marsh in view, a hiking trail, the beach and much more!
Moving to Murrells Inlet
If you talk to those who currently call the area home, they'll tell you how happy they are with the area. After all, what's not to love? You've got the beach, great shopping, and plenty of sightseeing adventures to take advantage of. However, prior to moving to the area -- as with any rental apt, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Costs
Whether you're looking for studio apartments or all bills paid in Murrells Inlet -- insurance is not an option, and here it can be a bit pricey. Because Murrells Inlet is situated so close to the ocean, your new apartment to rent will cost you a little more than it would in other locations. After all, who wouldn't want a place minutes from the beach? At the same time, expect to pay higher insurance premiums since your new place is more of a target for hurricanes, flooding, tropical storms, etc. The good news is that if you're moving from up north down to the area, many renters report that the cost of living in Murrells Inlet is still cheaper than prices they were previously accustomed to.
Seasonal Population Changes
During the summer and even the spring months, Murrells Inlet comes to life with many tourists and part-time residents who return to the area during warmer seasons. During the winter months, it's another story. The place can become somewhat of a ghost town. Especially if you live in a condo, you may feel as if you're the only one in the building or area for that matter. For some people, that can be a great feeling. For others, it may feel a bit lonely. Don't worry, though. It's only temporary and most of the shopping centers and stores stay open year round.
Types of Dwellings
In Murrells Inlet, you won't really find many apartment complexes as you would in other nearby places such as Myrtle Beach or Conway. Renters make up nearly 14% of the population here. Some homes, particularly condos, already come fully furnished and offer a sense of exclusion and privacy.
The Best Time to Look
The best time to look for your new condo or home is definitely in the winter. During this time, there is more availability so landlords are eager to get their place occupied as soon as possible. As a result, prices tend to be much cheaper. If you choose to wait until beach season, picking out your new place can cost you significantly more. Because the demand for condos or rental homes goes up significantly during that time so do the costs.
Murrells Inlet Neighborhoods
Covering 7.5 square miles, no matter where you choose to call home in Murrells Inlet, you'll love it! Each neighborhood is located minutes away from the beach, shopping centers, parks and great restaurants.
Abaco Cove: This is one of the newest neighborhoods in Murrells Inlet. This community sits adjacent to Wachesaw Plantation Golf Club. The homes here offer a sense of exclusion and privacy.
Fox Chase: This quaint little community in Murrells Inlet offers a good school district, and it's just minutes away from some amazing shopping. In fact, the "world famous Hammock Shops" located in Pawleys Island are only 15 minutes away.
Hunter's Grove: The homes here, most of them brick, in this gated community are extremely affordable compared to others in the area. Hunter's Grove offers wooded and lake view home sites and peaceful natural surroundings. Here you can choose from 1 or 2 story floor plans.
Living in Murrells Inlet
When you move to Murrells Inlet, you'll never have a dull moment. There are oyster roasts, festivals, parades and more! With many attractions just minutes away, you can easily leave the car at home and use your bike instead. From the beautiful sculptures featured at Brookgreen Gardens to the historic Atalaya Castle at Huntington Beach State Park, there's always something to do in Murrells Inlet.