The Myrtle Beach region continues to earn national recognition as a desirable place to live, work and visit, according to new research released through the Collaborate2031 countywide strategic planning initiative.
The 2026 America’s Best Small Cities report from Resonance ranked Myrtle Beach as the #5 Best Small City in America, including #2 for Lovability and #7 for Livability. The report evaluates communities based on factors such as quality of life, economic opportunity and destination appeal.
The findings align with early research from Collaborate2031, a community-driven effort to create a shared roadmap for Horry County's future growth and prosperity.
For tourism businesses, the research offers both encouraging news and important insights into the opportunities ahead.
A Strong Destination Continues to Drive Growth
The Myrtle Beach region remains one of the nation's fastest-growing communities. According to the Collaborate2031 Benchmark Analysis Report, Horry County ranked #1 in population growth and domestic migration among peer communities studied.
The research also found strong resident support for tourism. Among nearly 1,900 residents surveyed, 67% support efforts to market the region to visitors, recognizing the important role tourism plays in the local economy.
As visitor demand remains strong, these findings reinforce the value of continuing to invest in the destination's appeal while supporting the businesses and workforce that power the tourism industry.
Addressing Challenges to Sustain Success
While the region's growth presents tremendous opportunities, the research also identified areas that require attention to ensure long-term competitiveness.
Residents cited priorities including transportation infrastructure, public safety, workforce development, attainable housing and higher-wage employment opportunities. The Benchmark Analysis Report also found opportunities to strengthen talent attraction and retention, technical workforce development and non-hospitality employment growth.
These challenges directly impact tourism businesses, many of which compete for workforce talent, face housing-related staffing challenges and depend on infrastructure investments that support both residents and visitors.
Building a Roadmap for the Future
The Collaborate2031 Steering Committee, made up of 42 leaders from across Horry County, is using community input, survey results and benchmark data to develop a long-term strategy focused on economic vitality, talent attraction and retention, quality of place and prosperity.
For tourism businesses, the initiative represents an opportunity to help shape the future of the community and ensure the region remains competitive for visitors, residents, employees and investment.
The final Collaborate2031 strategy is expected to be released this fall.
To learn more and view additional findings, visit Collaborate2031.com.