Brunswick County NC Retirement vs Myrtle Beach SC – Which is Better?
Brunswick County NC retirement vs Myrtle Beach SC is a popular comparison for retirees seeking coastal living, beaches, golf, and mild weather. Both areas offer year-round recreation and southern charm, but Brunswick County often wins for retirees looking for lower taxes, uncrowded beaches, better value, and a quieter lifestyle. This guide compares key factors like cost of living, crowds, taxes, golf access, hurricane risk, and community options to help you decide. For personalized insights, Suzanne Polino (910-477-1378), your local Brunswick County expert with over 10 years of experience, can guide you through the differences and find the perfect fit. For more, see the Brunswick County area information, cost of living comparison, or healthcare guide.
Brunswick County NC retirement vs Myrtle Beach SC often comes down to cost of living and taxes. Brunswick County has lower property taxes (0.342 per $100 valuation) and no state tax on Social Security or military/federal retirement income, while Myrtle Beach has higher property taxes and South Carolina taxes retirement income (with a deduction up to $10,000). Median home prices in Brunswick County are around $405,000 compared to Myrtle Beach's higher averages in popular areas. Suzanne Polino (910-477-1378) helps retirees compare real numbers, showing how Brunswick County communities like Ocean Ridge Plantation or Compass Pointe offer better value and savings while still delivering beach and golf access.
Crowds and lifestyle are major differences in Brunswick County NC retirement vs Myrtle Beach SC. Myrtle Beach is tourist-heavy year-round (especially summer), with crowded beaches, traffic, and commercial feel. Brunswick County offers uncrowded beaches (Ocean Isle, Sunset, Holden) and quieter golf communities like Rivers Edge. Retirees love Brunswick's peaceful vibe and space to enjoy nature without the hustle. Suzanne Polino guides clients to low-crowd neighborhoods, highlighting why many retirees choose Brunswick over Myrtle Beach for a more relaxed, authentic coastal retirement.
Hurricane risk and value are another key comparison in Brunswick County NC retirement vs Myrtle Beach SC. Myrtle Beach faces higher direct hurricane hits on the Grand Strand, while Brunswick County has fewer landfalls and more protected areas. Golf access is stronger in Brunswick with affordable, high-quality courses (e.g., Arnold Palmer at Rivers Edge) vs Myrtle's more crowded, pricier options. Suzanne Polino's expertise in Brunswick County retirement communities helps retirees weigh these factors, finding homes in places like St. James Plantation that offer premium amenities without Myrtle Beach's premium costs or crowds. Her 5-star reviews reflect her ability to make the decision clear and stress-free.
Ultimately, Brunswick County NC retirement vs Myrtle Beach SC often favors Brunswick for retirees seeking lower taxes, uncrowded beaches, better golf value, and a quieter lifestyle. Suzanne Polino is the go-to expert to help you compare and decide—with her decade+ experience and client-first approach, she can guide you to the best neighborhood in Brunswick County for your retirement dreams. Whether you're a golf lover or prefer peaceful nature, Suzanne ensures a smooth, informed move. Contact her today for a no-pressure conversation.
Brunswick County NC vs Myrtle Beach SC Retirement Comparison Table
| Category | Brunswick County NC | Myrtle Beach SC | Winner & Why |
|---|---|---|---|
| Property Tax Rate (per $100 valuation) | 0.342 (low) | 0.5–0.8 (higher) | Brunswick County – Significantly lower annual cost |
| State Tax on Retirement Income | No tax on SS; full exemption for military/federal | Taxed (deduction up to $10,000) | Brunswick County – Bigger savings for retirees |
| Crowds/Tourist Traffic | Uncrouded year-round | Heavy tourist crowds (summer & events) | Brunswick County – Quieter beaches & golf |
| Hurricane Risk | Lower direct hits | Higher on Grand Strand | Brunswick County – More protected areas |
| Golf Access & Cost | Many affordable, high-quality courses | Good courses, higher fees/crowds | Brunswick County – Better value & less crowded |
| Median Home Price | $405,000 | $350K–$500K (varies by area) | Brunswick County – Better overall value |
| Healthcare Access | Close to Wilmington hospitals | Good but seasonal crowds | Brunswick County – Easier year-round access |
Ready to Choose Brunswick County NC Over Myrtle Beach for Retirement?
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Suzanne Polino, REALTOR®
Coastal NC Real Estate Specialist
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