Highlands, Murrells Inlet, SC

Highlands Neighborhood Overview

Overview

The Highlands neighborhood in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina, is a well-established residential community prized for its serene, wooded setting and convenient location. Situated just west of the bustling Business 17 corridor, it offers a quiet retreat while remaining minutes from the world-famous Marsh Walk, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Intracoastal Waterway. The neighborhood's character is defined by its mature trees, gently rolling terrain, and a mix of traditional Lowcountry and classic suburban architectural styles, creating a timeless and settled atmosphere.

Developed primarily in the 1980s and 1990s, Highlands has evolved into one of Murrells Inlet's most sought-after established neighborhoods. Its history is intertwined with the broader growth of the Grand Strand as a residential destination, attracting families and retirees seeking a permanent home rather than a vacation property. The community's location provides a perfect balance, offering a peaceful residential environment with immediate access to the area's natural beauty and recreational amenities, all without the congestion of the more tourist-centric beachfront zones.

Housing & Real Estate

The housing stock in Highlands consists predominantly of single-family homes, ranging from charming two- and three-bedroom ranch-style houses to larger, two-story homes with four or more bedrooms. Architectural styles often feature traditional elements like brick facades, columned front porches, and pitched roofs, with many homes situated on generously sized, landscaped lots that provide both privacy and space. The neighborhood is almost exclusively owner-occupied, contributing to a stable and invested community feel.

Price ranges in Highlands typically sit in the mid-to-upper tiers for Murrells Inlet, reflecting its desirability and established nature. Homes frequently list from the high $300,000s to well over $500,000, with specific value driven by size, updates, and lot characteristics. Recent real estate trends show strong demand, with properties often receiving multiple offers, a testament to the neighborhood's enduring appeal in a competitive market where newer construction inventory is limited.

Schools & Education

Families in the Highlands neighborhood are served by the highly-regarded Horry County Schools district. Students typically attend Saint James Elementary School, a school known for strong parent involvement and academic programs, followed by Saint James Middle School and Saint James High School. This consistent feeder pattern is a significant draw for families, as it allows for long-term educational continuity within a well-performing cluster.

Saint James High School is a particular point of pride for the community, offering a wide range of academic tracks, Advanced Placement courses, and competitive athletic and arts programs. For private education options, several respected academies and religious schools are located within a short drive in nearby Surfside Beach or Myrtle Beach. The neighborhood's proximity to HGTC (Horry-Georgetown Technical College) and Coastal Carolina University, both within a 20-minute drive, also provides accessible higher education and lifelong learning opportunities.

Parks & Recreation

While Highlands itself is a residential community without large public parks within its boundaries, its prime location places residents within easy reach of some of South Carolina's most celebrated outdoor amenities. The neighborhood is just a few minutes' drive from the Huntington Beach State Park, a pristine natural preserve offering a stunning beach, freshwater lagoon, hiking trails, and the historic Atalaya Castle. For boaters and kayakers, multiple public boat landings on the Intracoastal Waterway and inlets provide immediate water access.

The community's own winding streets and quiet cul-de-sacs are popular for walking, jogging, and cycling. For organized sports and larger playgrounds, residents often utilize the county-operated Burgess Community Park or the facilities at Saint James schools. Furthermore, the world-class golf courses of the Waccamaw Golf Trail, including Willbrook Plantation and Caledonia, are literally just down the road, making Highlands a golfer's paradise.

Local Dining & Shopping

Residents enjoy unparalleled convenience to Murrells Inlet's celebrated restaurant scene. Just east of the neighborhood, the Business 17 corridor and the legendary Marsh Walk host an incredible concentration of fresh seafood restaurants, waterfront bars, and fine dining establishments like Bovine's and Wicked Tuna. For daily needs, a Harris Teeter grocery store is conveniently located at the entrance to the community, alongside various strip malls featuring pharmacies, banks, and local services.

For more extensive shopping, the Inlet Square Mall area offers big-box retailers and department stores. The charming boutiques and specialty shops of the nearby Hammock Shops Village provide a unique local shopping experience. The vibrant, locally-focused atmosphere of the Murrells Inlet restaurant and fishing village is a daily amenity for Highlands residents, distinguishing it from neighborhoods reliant on more generic, tourist-oriented commercial strips.

Who Lives Here

The Highlands neighborhood attracts a mix of established families, empty-nesters, and professionals who value stability, space, and a high quality of life. The community vibe is one of quiet pride and neighborliness, where residents are often long-term owners who have chosen to put down roots in Murrells Inlet. It is common to see children playing in yards and neighbors socializing, reflecting a traditional suburban feel within a coastal setting.

The demographic is largely drawn to the area for its perfect blend of peaceful residential living and proximity to recreation. You will find school teachers, healthcare workers from nearby hospitals, remote professionals, and retirees who appreciate being close to the water and golf without living directly in a vacation rental zone. This creates a year-round, engaged community that is invested in maintaining the character and appeal of both their neighborhood

Highlands Market Data

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