Factors that influence moving costs from Portland to Myrtle Beachtoggle

The cost of Portland movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Portland to Myrtle Beach might cost as little as $1,657, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $9,618.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Portland, which often leads to higher prices from moving companies.
  • DIY vs. full-service: Renting a truck or using a container can be more affordable, with truck rentals ranging from $728 to $1,921. Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Portland to Myrtle Beach

Moving from Portland to Myrtle Beach means adjusting to a different pace of life โ€” and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Portland than in Myrtle Beach, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how Portland compares to Myrtle Beach so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Portland Myrtle Beach
Average rent cost $1,991 $1,850
Average home value $542,001 $299,556
Average income (per capita) $64,171 $53,985
Cost of living (single person) $2,491 $2,388
Cost of living (family of 4) $6,060 $4,791
Unemployment rate 5.2% 7.6%
Sales tax 5.5% 9.0%
State income tax 5.8% 7.0%
  • Rent prices in Myrtle Beach are 7% lower than in Portland, which means youโ€™ll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, youโ€™ll be able to get more for your money in Myrtle Beach.
    Home prices in Myrtle Beach are 44.7% lower than in Portland.
  • Income in Myrtle Beach is 15.9% lower than in Portland, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Myrtle Beach include Grand Strand Medical Center, One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning, and Sands Resorts.
  • The cost of living for a single person in Myrtle Beach is 4.1% lower than in Portland. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • The cost of living for a family in Myrtle Beach is 20.9% lower than in Portland.
  • The unemployment rate in Myrtle Beach is 46.15% higher than in Portland.
  • Youโ€™ll spend more on retail and restaurants in Myrtle Beach, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in Myrtle Beach are 63.64% higher than in Portland.
  • State income taxes in Myrtle Beach are 20.69% higher than in Portland.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,875.95 in Myrtle Beach to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Portland.

How life is different in Portland vs. Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach Portland
Population 35,682 68,408
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 2 6
Walkability score 43 62
Bike friendliness score 54 68
Crime Index 58.06 32.16
Safety Index 41.94 67.84
Air Quality Good Good
  • Myrtle Beach's population is about 48% less than Portland.
  • Myrtle Beach's public transportation has a score of 2 out of 10 versus Portland's higher score of 6.
  • Myrtle Beach is less walkable than Portland with a score of 43 out of 100 vs Portland's 62 out of 100.
  • Myrtle Beach has a bike-friendliness score 54 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Portland, which has a score of 68 out of 100.
  • Myrtle Beach's crime rate is higher than Portland with a score of 58.06 compared to Portland's 32.16. This means that Myrtle Beach neighborhoods are safer than 58.06% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Portland neighborhoods are safer than 32.16%.
  • Myrtle Beach is considered to be less safe than Portland with a score of 41.94 vs Portland's 67.84.
  • Air quality in Myrtle Beach is good, and in Portland it's good.

Other things to consider for your Portland vs. Myrtle Beach move

  • Weather: May, October and April are the most pleasant months in Myrtle Beach and ideal time to move. Heat can be a main consideration you might want to look at when you're deciding to move to Myrtle Beach.
  • HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
  • Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
  • State licensing: To promote safety, economic development, and ethical business practices, the South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff (ORS) oversees movers in the state. They are responsible for inspecting, examining, and auditing public utility providers like movers.Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a South Carolina moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving permits: South Carolina doesn\โ€™t require moving permits, but it\โ€™s still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
  • Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Youโ€™ll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Myrtle Beach. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry.When moving in South Carolina, explore movers' insurance options. Many offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. For enhanced protection, discuss Full Value Protection with the moving company or consider third-party insurance providers. Prioritize understanding coverage limits and potential extra costs. Read reviews to make an informed decision on the best insurance for your South Carolina move.
  • Moving checklist: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

Where to live in Myrtle Beach

Ready to relocate to "New Town"? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Myrtle Beach.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • The Market Common
  • Carolina Forest
  • Grande Dunes
  • Pine Lakes
  • Windy Hill

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Carolina Forest
  • The Market Common
  • Grande Dunes
  • Forestbrook
  • Barefoot Resort

Things to do in Myrtle Beach

Now that you've made the move to South Carolina, itโ€™s the perfect time to explore Myrtle Beach. From local hotspots to hidden gems, thereโ€™s something to enjoy for every lifestyle:

  • Arts and culture: Youโ€™ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Myrtle Beach, such as the Hollywood Wax Museum, Myrtle Beach Pinball Museum, Wheels of Yesteryear, Ripley's Believe It or Not!, and Franklin G. Burroughs - Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The cityโ€™s Myrtle Beach State Park, Grand Strand, Savannah's Playground, and Horry County Bike Run Park โ€” along with other locations, ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
  • Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Myrtle Beach Pelicans (Carolina League) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Portland to Myrtle Beach?

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Portland to Myrtle Beach. Youโ€™ll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Portland.

When is the cheapest time to move from Portland to Myrtle Beach?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Portland to Myrtle Beach, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

How long does a move from Portland to Myrtle Beach take?

The 963-mile journey from Portland, ME to Myrtle Beach, SC typically takes two to seven days. Some movers in Portland offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Myrtle Beach.

Helpful moving resources