Florence or Marion S.C. (Myrtle Beach, Conway: low income, crime rate, income)

[Lasecre01]

We are preparing to retire & wanted to live not to far from beach, in quiet residential area. Been researching on line Florence & Marion. Going to Myrtle Beach on vacation this summer. Which place is more serene for us?

[CTyankee54]

If you are wanting to live near the beach, neither of these towns are near the beach. Florence is a good hour away (or more depending on traffic) and Marion is not much less. Why have you focused on those two towns rather than something closer to the beach? There are places much closer to the beach which are quiet and serene...for example, the area around Conway is nice and not too far from the beach...and there are others...depends on what you are looking for and your price range.

[goldenage1]

Originally Posted by Lasecre01

Which place is more serene for us?

Neither. Both towns have a very high crime rate and many low income people. For example the City-data average national index is 319. Florence has a 685 index and Marion has an 821 index.

I believe there are much better places for retirees close to the coast. Please look at Conway, North Myrtle Beach, and places further south like Murrells Inlet and Garden City.

[ch4rliehus7le]

I have lived in Florence and I would highly advise against either of those towns.

There are so many options closer to the beach. I truly believe the Myrtle Beach/Conway area has something for everyone:

Do you like the crazy hustle and bustle? Than get right in downtown Myrtle.

A little bit quieter without being too far away from the action? Try Surfside.

What the laid back inlet life? Murrells is the place.

Once you cross the intercoastal you give up a lot of that unique beach vibe, but there still a lot of great places to live.

Carolina Forest is a popular spot for oung families.

Conway has some nicer parts and a quaint downtown.

Then you have Aynor if you want that full on country feel without giving up day trips to the beach.

[creekgirl4life]

You might want to consider the Loris area. Hwy 9 will get you to the Myrtle Beach area and does not have as much build up as other areas.

[ckhthankgod]

Originally Posted by CTyankee54

If you are wanting to live near the beach, neither of these towns are near the beach. Florence is a good hour away (or more depending on traffic) and Marion is not much less. Why have you focused on those two towns rather than something closer to the beach? There are places much closer to the beach which are quiet and serene...for example, the area around Conway is nice and not too far from the beach...and there are others...depends on what you are looking for and your price range.

That is the first place I thought of. Maybe parts of Mullins, Dillon and Latta, among others too.