Population: 35,682 | South region | 23% above national average for homeowners insurance
Myrtle Beach is a small community with a population of 35,682 in the South region. Insurance costs here are shaped by a combination of South Carolina's regulatory environment, local risk factors, and the city's specific demographic profile.
Homeowners in Myrtle Beach face significantly elevated insurance costs at $3,202/yr — 23% above the national average. Over a 30-year mortgage, this premium gap amounts to approximately $18,060 in additional insurance costs compared to the average American homeowner. This is a material factor in the true cost of homeownership here and should be carefully factored into any home purchase decision.
Hurricane exposure is the dominant factor in Myrtle Beach's insurance pricing. Properties near the coast face windstorm surcharges that can add 30-50% to base premiums, and many insurers require separate hurricane deductibles (typically 2-5% of dwelling value). Wind mitigation features — hurricane shutters, roof clips, and impact-resistant roofing — can earn substantial premium credits and are strongly recommended for Myrtle Beach homeowners.
Myrtle Beach's crime index of 58/100 is above the national average, which directly impacts both homeowners and auto insurance pricing. Property crime (burglary, theft, vandalism) increases claim frequency, and insurers adjust premiums accordingly. Auto theft rates in higher-crime areas can add 10-20% to comprehensive coverage costs. Installing a monitored security system, reinforced door frames, and smart cameras can qualify for insurance discounts of 5-15% while also improving personal safety.
The total annual insurance budget for a Myrtle Beach homeowner with a car is approximately $5,237/yr ($436/mo). This is roughly in line with the national combined average of $5,097/yr. Insurance costs in Myrtle Beach are neither a major burden nor a particular advantage. Bundling homeowners and auto with the same carrier typically saves 15-20%, which could mean $890 in annual savings.
Data sources: Insurance cost estimates derived from NAIC reports, Insurance.com, Bankrate, and Insurify (2025-2026). City risk factors from FEMA, FBI UCR, and state insurance department filings. Figures represent average annual premiums for standard coverage and may vary based on individual factors.
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