Hilton Head Island, SC vs North Myrtle Beach, SC

The cost of living difference between Hilton Head Island, SC and North Myrtle Beach, SC is dramatic. North Myrtle Beach is 34.7% cheaper than Hilton Head Island, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. Hilton Head Island has a cost index of 133 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 Hilton Head Island is $1,518/month compared to $1,171/month in North Myrtle Beach — a 30% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: North Myrtle Beach is more affordable at $371,900 median vs $652,100.

Median household income in Hilton Head Island is $96,715 compared to $72,111 in North Myrtle Beach (+34.1%). The higher salaries in Hilton Head Island partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Hilton Head Island spend roughly 18.8% of their income on rent, less than the 19.5% in North Myrtle Beach.

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