Bluffton, SC vs North Myrtle Beach, SC

The cost of living difference between Bluffton, SC and North Myrtle Beach, SC is dramatic. North Myrtle Beach is 38% cheaper than Bluffton, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. Bluffton has a cost index of 136 while North Myrtle Beach sits at 99, making this one of the more striking comparisons on our site. Relocating between these cities would require a serious reassessment of budget and lifestyle expectations.

On the housing front, median rent in Bluffton is $2,187/month compared to $1,171/month in North Myrtle Beach — a 87% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: North Myrtle Beach is more affordable at $371,900 median vs $444,500.

Median household income in Bluffton is $105,463 compared to $72,111 in North Myrtle Beach (+46.3%). While Bluffton is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Bluffton spend roughly 24.9% of their income on rent, more than the 19.5% in North Myrtle Beach.

Climate-wise, Bluffton is notably warmer with an average of 67.5°F compared to 64°F in North Myrtle Beach. North Myrtle Beach receives more rainfall at 48.5" per year compared to 48.1" in Bluffton.