Beaufort, SC vs Myrtle Beach, SC

Beaufort, SC and Myrtle Beach, SC have a very similar cost of living, with only a 4.6% difference in their overall index. Beaufort scores 91 while Myrtle Beach scores 96 on the cost of living index, where 100 represents the national average. The day-to-day expenses for residents in both cities are comparable, though differences emerge when looking at specific categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Beaufort is $1,061/month compared to $1,132/month in Myrtle Beach — a 6% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Beaufort is more affordable at $310,400 median vs $347,700.

Median household income in Beaufort is $59,454 compared to $53,679 in Myrtle Beach (+10.8%). Beaufort offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Beaufort spend roughly 21.4% of their income on rent, less than the 25.3% in Myrtle Beach.

Climate-wise, Beaufort is notably warmer with an average of 67.2°F compared to 64°F in Myrtle Beach. Myrtle Beach receives more rainfall at 48.5" per year compared to 45" in Beaufort.