Horry County, home to Myrtle Beach and some of the fastest-growing communities in South Carolina, has been experiencing a population and development surge that shows no signs of slowing down. According to recent census data, the county’s population has grown by more than 35% in the past decade, outpacing nearly every other county in the state.
For landowners and builders, this wave of growth represents both a challenge and an opportunity—one that hinges on understanding market data, infrastructure trends, and local planning efforts.
1. Population Boom Driving Housing Demand
With an estimated 400,000+ residents and thousands more moving in each year, Horry County is now one of the top 10 fastest-growing counties in the Southeast.
- Migration from northern states and retirees seeking coastal living are major contributors.
- The Myrtle Beach metro area ranks among the top 5 destinations for inbound moves in recent years.
This steady influx of new residents is fueling strong demand for residential development—especially single-family homes and townhome communities close to employment centers and the beach corridor.
2. Land Values and Development Pressures Rising
As population density increases, land values have climbed steadily, particularly near:
- Highway 501, Highway 31, and Conway’s westward expansion corridor.
- Carolina Forest, Socastee, and Little River, where large tracts are transitioning from rural to residential zoning.
Average land price per acre has increased between 20%–35% in many areas since 2020, making early positioning key for both investors and builders seeking affordable entry points.
3. Infrastructure and Utility Expansion
To support its rapid growth, the county continues to invest heavily in water, sewer, and road infrastructure through partnerships with:
- Grand Strand Water & Sewer Authority (GSWSA)
- South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT)
- Horry County Planning & Zoning Department
New capacity and sewer trunk line extensions are unlocking previously undevelopable parcels, turning agricultural or timberland into potential subdivision opportunities.
4. Builder and Developer Trends
Local and regional builders are adapting quickly to the market:
- Townhome and cluster developments are becoming more popular to meet affordability needs.
- Builders are focusing on “builder-ready” lots that already have entitlements and utility access.
- Mixed-use and lifestyle communities are emerging near Conway, Aynor, and Longs, offering both housing and commercial components.
These trends suggest that landowners who prepare their properties for development—through surveys, zoning verification, and preliminary plats—can command higher offers from builders seeking ready sites.
5. What This Means for Landowners
If you own land in Horry County, this is a strategic time to evaluate its development potential.
- Parcels near expanding corridors may qualify for rezoning or subdivision.
- Working with a development-focused company like Southern Acres Land Co. can help you unlock your property’s full value without going through the entire permitting process yourself.
Our team partners with landowners to prepare properties for future development—turning raw land into builder-ready opportunities that attract premium offers.
Horry County’s growth story reflects more than just numbers—it’s about transforming land into thriving neighborhoods that meet the needs of a growing population. Whether you’re a landowner exploring your options or a builder looking for your next project, understanding the data behind this expansion can help you make the right move in today’s competitive South Carolina market.