Cities / Myrtle Beach / Central Myrtle Beach vs South Myrtle Beach
Central Myrtle Beach vs South Myrtle Beach: which is safer?
South Myrtle Beach is the safer of the two — 52/100 against 50/100. Go with care. South Myrtle Beach offers easy beach access and popular family attractions, but visitors need to stay alert regarding personal property and surroundings. The area experiences elevated rates of property crime and pockets of late-night disorder along its secondary corridors.
Central Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
50
out of 100 · Caution
Central Myrtle Beach serves as the energetic core of the Grand Strand, encompassing the iconic oceanfront Boardwalk, SkyWheel, and bustling souvenir shops along Ocean Boulevard. While heavily patrolled during the summer peak, the area shifts sharply off-season and late at night into an urban pocket with higher rates of property crime and street-level disturbances.
- Walk score
- 68
- Bike score
- 58
Pros
- Heavy police and private security presence along the Boardwalk and Ocean Boulevard during peak tourist season
- Direct, immediate access to public beach accesses, oceanfront amenities, and dining
- High density of commercial establishments, grocery stores, and emergency services within a short drive
Cons
- Significantly elevated per-capita property crime and theft rates compared to the national average, heavily influenced by transient tourist traffic
- Pockets of high residential poverty and aging rental housing stock just blocks inland along Kings Highway
- Frequent late-night alcohol-related disorderly conduct and scuffles near nightlife venues along the main strip
South Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
52
out of 100 · Caution
South Myrtle Beach stretches along the southern end of Ocean Boulevard and Kings Highway, blending high-rise beachfront resorts with older motels and casual dining. It provides direct oceanfront access and proximity to Myrtle Beach State Park, though inland blocks show economic wear.
- Walk score
- 58
- Bike score
- 48
Pros
- Direct, frequent public beach access points with seasonal lifeguard stations
- Convenient location adjacent to Myrtle Beach International Airport and Myrtle Beach State Park
- Abundant family entertainment, mini-golf courses, and casual oceanfront dining
Cons
- High local rates of property crime, specifically vehicle break-ins and opportunistic theft
- Visible pockets of blight and aging budget motels along the Kings Highway corridor
- Elevated late-night noise, loitering, and sporadic drug-related activity off the main drag