A Long-Term Rental Perspective Across the Grand Strand

Fall 2025

When people picture the Grand Strand, they often think of sun‑filled beach vacations. But beyond short-term stays, there’s a growing and thriving long-term rental market stretching from Little River down to Georgetown and inland to Aynor. Families, retirees, and remote workers are increasingly choosing to call this stretch of South Carolina home — and that’s reshaping the rental landscape.

Demand for Long-Term Rentals is Strong

Several key factors are driving steady demand for long-term rentals across the Grand Strand. Recent reports show that about one in four households are renting. A few factors we can look at that have been impacting long term rentals are population growth, affordability, remote work, and geographic expansion.

In terms of population growth, the Myrtle Beach–Conway–North Myrtle Beach metro remains one of the fastest-growing areas in the U.S., with many new residents seeking to rent before they buy which plays right into our next factor, affordability. Rising home prices and mortgage rates are pushing more families and professionals to rent long-term instead of buying right away.
Millennials are a large piece to the pie and in recent years they have been put into remote working roles. More professionals are relocating for lifestyle reasons and tend to prefer Conway, Surfside, or Aynor for quieter, affordable communities within driving distance of Myrtle Beach.
Conway, Aynor and the surrounding inland areas are seeing especially high interest in long-term rentals from families and locals who want proximity to Myrtle Beach without the tourist hustle & bustle.

3 Current Market Conditions

Average Rent: Long-term rental rates along the Grand Strand average about $1,500–$1,900 per month depending on location, property size, and amenities.

Vacancy Trends: After years of near‑zero vacancy, the influx of new apartment developments has brought vacancy rates closer to 7-8%, giving renters slightly more options while still keeping the market competitive.

Stabilizing Prices: While rents climbed sharply between 2020–2023 (up over 40%), 2024 and 2025 have shown signs of stabilization, with modest rent decreases in Surfside Beach and Myrtle Beach due to new supply.

Where Long-Term Rentals Are Growing

• Conway

Conway continues to be one of the most attractive areas for long-term renters. Its revitalized downtown, riverfront charm, and easy commute to Myrtle Beach make it a prime choice for families and professionals. Small-scale developments and single-family home rentals are on the rise, and demand often outpaces supply.

• Aynor

Known as the “Little Golden Town,” Aynor remains a more rural option but is seeing increasing rental interest. Families and commuters value the quieter setting & excellent schools while still being 30 minutes from Myrtle Beach. New single-family rentals and small multifamily projects are popping up as demand grows.

• Myrtle Beach & North Myrtle Beach

The heart of the Strand has seen a boom in new apartment complexes and mixed-use communities — particularly in Market Common and North Myrtle Beach near SC‑90. While these developments have eased some pressure, long-term rentals remain highly sought after. Many units fill quickly due to their proximity to beaches, shopping, and schools.

• Little River

This waterfront town is attracting renters who want coastal charm with a slower pace. Long-term rentals here are more limited, but demand is steady — particularly from retirees and small families.

• Georgetown

South of Myrtle Beach, Georgetown offers a historic coastal lifestyle. While not as dense in rental inventory, it appeals to long-term tenants looking for a quieter, historic, and less commercialized community.

5 Tips for South Carolina Property Owners

1. Price Wisely: With more new units available, competitive pricing and updated amenities help keep vacancy rates low for your property.
2. Pet-Friendly Units Win: Allowing pets remains one of the biggest draws for long-term renters. Having competitive pet rent or fees could make the difference for renters.
3. Focus on Maintenance: Well-maintained homes lease faster and attract more stable tenants. 
4. Highlight Location Perks: From Conway’s Riverwalk to North Myrtle Beach’s new shopping & home developments, proximity to community events and amenities boosts rental appeal. Find what makes your location special and leave advertisements in the rental.
5. Hire a Property Management Company: It can be a full time job to manage a rental property or investment portfolio. Leave it up to the pros that already have a plan for all the above!



Here’s a comment from our Property Manager in Charge, Riesa Best.

 “While there are currently more rentals on the market than there are tenants, we are still successfully leasing homes. The key is in setting a competitive price and highlighting the home’s value based on what’s marketable right now. Rentals may take a bit longer to secure in this environment, but they are still moving.” 

She has a first hand account of what’s going on in the market as she’s out in the field daily working hard for Owners and Tenants alike. From the lively

boardwalks of Myrtle Beach to the small-town charm of Conway and Aynor, the Grand Strand’s long-term rental market is strong and evolving. New developments are giving renters more choices, but high demand means owners continue to see steady occupancy. Whether you want to lease your property or are searching for the perfect home, the Grand Strand is proving to be one of the most attractive long-term rental markets in the Southeast.