In short
Myrtle Beach is a growing retirement destination on the Grand Strand, with a range of assisted living and home care options that are generally affordable by national standards. Assisted living runs about $4,800 to $6,000 a month. The Waccamaw AAA serves Horry, Georgetown and Williamsburg counties.
What’s available in Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach is a growing retirement destination with a range of senior care options, from beachfront independent living to inland assisted living communities.
| Type | Who it’s for | What’s included | In Myrtle Beach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Care at home | Wants to stay home, needs daily help | Aides, nursing visits, meals, rides | Licensed agencies available |
| Independent living | Active, done with upkeep | Apartment, meals, activities | Range of options |
| Assisted living | Needs help with meds, bathing, meals | Private apartment, 24-hour staff, care plan | Multiple communities |
| Memory care | Alzheimer’s or dementia | Secured, higher staff ratio | Standalone and campus-based |
| Skilled nursing | Round-the-clock nursing or rehab | Nurses, therapy, medical oversight | Available; Medicare for short rehab |
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What it costs here
Myrtle Beach costs run about $4,800 to $6,000 a month for assisted living, depending on the level of care and the neighborhood. Here is the typical range:
| Type | Typical monthly cost | What moves the number |
|---|---|---|
| Independent living | $3,000 to $4,800 | Apartment size, meal plan, amenities |
| Assisted living | $4,800 to $6,000 | Base rent plus care level; higher needs add $500-$1,500 |
| Memory care | $6,000 to $8,500 | Staffing ratio, private vs. shared room |
| Home care | $30 to $35 an hour | Hours per week; rates may vary |
| Skilled nursing | $9,500 to $12,000 | Private vs. semi-private; Medicare for short rehab |
How South Carolina helps pay
South Carolina programs that help seniors pay for care
- Medicaid long-term care
- South Carolina's Community Choices waiver covers home and community-based services for seniors who qualify. Income limit is approximately $2,982/month. Apply through the SCDHHS.
- Where to start
- Waccamaw Area Agency on Aging, 843-546-8502; 1230 Highmarket St., Georgetown SC 29440; wrcog.org
- Veterans
- VA Aid and Attendance pension for wartime veterans who need help with daily activities.
- Medicare
- Does not pay for assisted living or long-term care. Covers short rehab stays.
Sources: State agency; Medicare.gov; VA.gov. Rules change; confirm current eligibility.
Local resources worth knowing
- Waccamaw AAA 843-546-8502. Serves Horry, Georgetown, Williamsburg counties. Caregiver support, ombudsman services.
- Horry County Council on Aging 843-248-5523. Home-delivered meals, senior centers, transportation.
- SCDHHS Licensing and inspection reports for assisted living and nursing homes.
- Eldercare Locator, 1-800-677-1116. The federal government’s free line for aging services anywhere in the country.
- Adult Protective Services. To report elder abuse or neglect, call the state APS hotline or 911 if there is immediate danger.
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Questions from Myrtle Beach families
Does South Carolina have a Medicaid program for assisted living?
Yes, the Community Choices waiver covers home and community-based services including assisted living for qualifying seniors.
Is Myrtle Beach affected by hurricanes?
Yes. Licensed communities must have written emergency plans and backup power. Ask any facility for its plan.
What medical care is nearby?
Grand Strand Medical Center and Conway Medical Center provide emergency and inpatient services.
Sources: CareScout Cost of Care Survey 2025; Medicare.gov; Waccamaw Area Agency on Aging, 843-546-8502; 1230 Highmarket St., Georgetown SC 29440; wrcog.org; state agency websites. Retrieved October 8, 2026.