In 2025, home prices along coastal South Carolina remain relatively stable, but the market has shifted from the break-neck speed and big double-digit gains of earlier years. Key takeaways:
- In premier beach communities, some regions are seeing softening or even small declines — for example, Myrtle Beach, SC had a median listing price of ~$289,800 in August 2025, down about 3.4% compared to a year prior.
- Inventory is rising in coastal zones, giving buyers more options and slowing the pace of sales.
In short: For sellers in coastal SC, prices remain high compared to many inland markets, but expectations need to adjust. A home that’s move-in ready, well-presented and well-priced still sells strong—while those that are dated or priced aggressively may sit or require concessions.
What the Latest Data Means for Coastal Markets
Price Performance
- State-wide numbers: According to Zillow, the typical home value in SC was ~$302,294 with a 0.8% decline year over year as of September 2025.
- Redfin reports a median sale price in SC of $381,600 in September 2025, showing a modest 2.3% increase.
- In Myrtle Beach: Median listing price ~$289.8K in August 2025, down ~3.4% YoY; median days on market ~87 days, reflecting slower movement.
Inventory & Time to Sell
- The May 2025 report noted that inventory in growing coastal areas increased, though still below pre-pandemic levels.
- Homes are taking longer to sell: for coastal zones the average days on market have risen compared to peak years.
Summary of Trends
- Secondary coastal or vacation markets are showing more softness: more choices, more time on market, modest price adjustments.
Market moving from “seller’s frenzy” to “balanced but slightly seller-friendly” — the extreme urgency of past years has eased, but demand, especially for quality assets in prime locations, remains.
Coastal Sub-Markets: Winners & Watch-Areas
Stronger Sub-Markets
- Areas in the Charleston, SC metro and surrounding Lowcountry, with high demand from relocations and lifestyle buyers, continue to show resilience. A blog noted that growth is still driven by lifestyle migration and luxury/second-home demand.
- Higher-end or waterfront properties often hold value better—buyers who can finance or pay cash aren’t as rate-sensitive.
Areas Showing Moderation
- Myrtle Beach / Horry County region: increased inventory, longer days on market, and pricing corrections in certain segments.
- Secondary beach towns or older condo stock: greater competition, more choice, more visible difference between “move-in ready” and “needs work”.
What Buyers & Investors Should Pay Attention To
- Condition matters: homes needing updates are less likely to command premium pricing.
- Location still king: proximity to amenities, water or golf views, and quality community infrastructure make a difference.
- Interest rates & affordability: Higher rates cut into buyer budgets, which affects how much buyers are willing to pay.
- Supply shifts: As more listings come on, price discipline becomes more important.
What Sellers Should Know Now
For homeowners along the coast considering selling in 2025, here’s what to keep in mind:
- Price it right from day one: Overpricing increases time on market and may lead to price cuts, which can reduce perceived value.
- Invest in presentation & staging: Homes that look move-in ready and are photogenic will still attract top buyers.
- Highlight lifestyle features: Proximity to beach/boat access, views, outdoor living are still strong differentiators.
- Be aware of competition: With more inventory, you need to stand out. Consider home condition, marketing strategy, and unique advantages.
- Expect longer sales cycle in some segments: While top markets still move relatively fast, some coastal homes may sit longer or require more flexibility.
- Work with a savvy local agent: Local expertise helps price, market, and negotiate in a changing environment.
What Buyers Should Consider
Buyers in the 2025 coastal market have more leverage—and more careful decision-making is required:
- Check condition, cost of ownership: Coastal homes may incur higher insurance, flood zone premiums, maintenance. Factor these in.
- Budget for interest rates: Higher rates reduce how much home you can afford.
- Be selective: With increased options, condition, location and value matter more than ever.
- Long-term mindset: Are you buying as a lifestyle home, rental investment, or resale later? Know your horizon.
- Work with a local expert: Especially in coastal zones where regulations (flood zones, elevation, HOA) matter, local guidance is key.
The Outlook for Coastal South Carolina into Late 2025 & Beyond
Based on available data and market commentary:
- Expect modest price growth rather than the explosive gains of 2020–2022.
- The healthiest gains are likely in prime locations: waterfront, high-amenity communities, luxury segments.
- Secondary markets may see stable or slightly soft pricing, particularly if inventory rises or buyer demand slows.
- External factors—interest rates, insurance costs, flood/flood-zone regulations—could impact affordability and buyer behavior.
- Buyers may get more negotiating power, especially in homes that have been on the market longer or require updates.
Sellers who prepare correctly and partner with strong local agents can still achieve excellent outcomes.
The Carolina Properties Coastal Advantage
At Carolina Properties at Lake Marion, we understand these coastal dynamics intimately. We help buyers and sellers by:
- Providing accurate, up-to-date local market analysis for coastal communities
- Advising on condition, marketing strategy and pricing that reflect today’s buyer mindset
- Leveraging a statewide network to attract relocation buyers from higher-cost markets
- Navigating coastal-specific issues like flood zones, insurance, and resale value
If you’re buying or selling on the coast of South Carolina, we’re the local team with statewide reach and coastal savvy.