Highlands Neighborhood Overview
Nestled just west of the Intracoastal Waterway and south of Highway 501, the Highlands neighborhood in Myrtle Beach offers a serene, residential counterpoint to the bustling tourist corridor. This established community, primarily developed in the 1970s and 1980s, is characterized by its mature tree canopy, quiet streets, and a convenient location that provides easy access to both the beach and essential city amenities. Its position places residents within a short drive of the Market Common, the airport, and major retail corridors, while maintaining a distinctly suburban, family-friendly atmosphere.
The neighborhood's history is tied to Myrtle Beach's growth as a year-round destination, evolving from a quieter area on the city's fringe to a sought-after in-town location. Unlike the high-rise condominiums of the oceanfront, Highlands is defined by single-family homes on spacious lots, reflecting a period of development focused on creating stable, permanent communities. This history contributes to its strong sense of place and makes it a cornerstone of local, non-tourist life in the greater Myrtle Beach area.
Housing & Real Estate
The housing stock in Highlands consists predominantly of classic, low-country style single-family homes, including ranch-style houses, split-levels, and traditional two-story designs, many featuring three to four bedrooms. Lots are typically generous, with well-maintained lawns and landscaping shaded by tall pines and oak trees. The architectural style leans towards practical, comfortable living rather than coastal-themed luxury, though many homes have been updated with modern amenities over the years.
Price ranges in Highlands are generally moderate for the Myrtle Beach market, often sitting below newer developments in the Carolina Forest area or waterfront properties. The neighborhood is primarily owner-occupied, fostering a stable community environment, though there is a segment of long-term rental properties. Recent trends show steady demand due to the neighborhood's established nature, central location, and relative affordability, making it attractive to both growing families and downsizers seeking a quiet retreat without sacrificing convenience.
Schools & Education
Families in the Highlands neighborhood are served by the Horry County Schools district. Students typically attend Myrtle Beach Elementary School, located just a few miles to the east, which feeds into Myrtle Beach Middle School and the highly regarded Myrtle Beach High School. This school zone is a significant draw, as Myrtle Beach High School is known for strong academic programs, a variety of Advanced Placement courses, and acclaimed extracurricular activities, including its "Seahawk" athletics and championship-caliber marching band.
In addition to the strong public school pathway, several private and faith-based educational options are within a short driving distance, including St. Andrew Catholic School and the Carolina Forest-based charter schools. For higher education, Horry-Georgetown Technical College's Grand Strand Campus and Coastal Carolina University in Conway are both easily accessible via Highway 501, providing opportunities for continuing education and cultural events.
Parks & Recreation
While Highlands itself is a residential area without large public parks within its immediate boundaries, it is surrounded by exceptional recreational amenities. The neighborhood's proximity to the Market Common is a major asset, granting residents easy access to Grand Park, which features a scenic lake, walking trails, multiple playgrounds, and extensive sports fields. For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby Intracoastal Waterway provides opportunities for boating, kayaking, and fishing, with public boat landings a short drive away.
Of course, the Atlantic Ocean beaches are the premier recreational destination, just a 10-15 minute drive east. Residents can enjoy the sand and surf while avoiding the congestion of staying in a hotel district. For golf, dozens of world-class courses are within a 20-minute radius, living up to the Grand Strand's reputation. The neighborhood's own quiet streets and sidewalks are also ideal for walking, jogging, and cycling in a safe, low-traffic environment.
Local Dining & Shopping
Daily conveniences and dining are exceptionally close for Highlands residents. The neighborhood is situated near the intersection of major arteries like Highway 501 and Forestbrook Road, placing a vast array of shopping and dining options within minutes. Nearby plazas and centers house grocery stores like Food Lion and Publix, along with pharmacies, banks, and a wide variety of casual dining chains and local eateries. For a quick bite or coffee, spots like Simply Southern Smokehouse and local pizza shops are neighborhood favorites.
For a more upscale shopping and dining experience, the European-inspired Market Common is less than five minutes away. This vibrant mixed-use district offers boutique shopping, a multiplex cinema, and a diverse restaurant row featuring everything from gastropubs and sushi to Italian and steakhouses. For larger retail needs, the Tanger Outlets on Highway 501 and big-box stores along the 501 corridor are all easily accessible, making errands and weekend shopping remarkably convenient.
Who Lives Here
The Highlands neighborhood attracts a mix of long-time Myrtle Beach locals, young families, and professionals seeking a well-established community close to the heart of the city. The demographic tends to be a blend of working professionals employed in the area's healthcare, education, and service industries, as well as retirees who appreciate the quiet setting and central location. There is a strong sense of community, with neighbors often seen tending to their yards and interacting on quiet evenings, fostering a friendly and familiar atmosphere.
This area is particularly appealing to those who want to enjoy the benefits of the Myrtle Beach lifestyle—proximity to the coast, golf, and entertainment—without living in the transient, high-traffic tourist
Top Real Estate Agents in Highlands, Myrtle Beach
10 agents met the full merit gate for Highlands, Myrtle Beach, SC, selected from over 40,000 licensed South Carolina professionals.
Contact
Phone: (626) 393-5695
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.ashrizk.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Ash%20Rizk
Why selected: Selected for his active community development presence and real estate education initiatives. He is further distinguished by and recognition as a multi-year LA Business Journal Leader of Influence.
Community & Leadership
Knowledge sharing contributor at Real Estate Industry Education[6]
Mentor at Emerging Real Estate Professionals[6]
Notable Achievements
California Real Estate License
International Society of Excellence Award
Top 1,000 Real Estate Agents and Teams
127 Five-Star Reviews
RealTrends Top 1,000 Recognition
#3 Individual Agent Ranking
#14 Agent at Coldwell Banker Realty
#6 Agent in Los Angeles County
Leaders of Influence Residential Real Estate Broker
Leaders of Influence - Residential Real Estate Brokers
Verified Specialties
Commercial Properties, Staging, Property Management, Technology-driven service, Mortgage banking background, Computer science expertise, Technical transaction management, luxury homes, residential sales, buyer representation, seller representation, market analysis, technology-driven transactions, first-time buyers, investment properties, Computer Science background, mortgage banking, technical expertise, analytical approach, First-time homebuyers, Luxury residential, Investment properties, Market analysis[4]
Cities Served
Arcadia
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (650) 280-8888
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://theownteam.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/WILSONLEUNGREALTOR
Why selected: Selected for her deep community involvement and leadership roles, combined with exceptional performance including a and.
Notable Achievements
14 Years of Real Estate Practice
770 Total Transactions
98 Recent Sales
124 Five-Star Reviews
Property Management Specialist
Verified Specialties
Property Management[4]
Cities Served
Millbrae
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (909) 378-5520
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.dannyhy.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/DannyHy
Why selected: Selected for his career and, Andy Yit is distinguished by his deep community involvement and leadership roles. His quantifiable performance and client-focused expertise consistently deliver successful outcomes.
Notable Achievements
34+ Years Real Estate Experience
108 Five-Star Reviews
Verified Specialties
residential, commercial, lease, buyers, sellers, investors[4]
Cities Served
Arcadia
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (626) 679-3239
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.garyzuo.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Gary%20Zuo
Why selected: Selected for his exceptional community leadership and charitable work, which is our highest-ranking criterion. He combines this with a, and a $1.9M average sale price in the luxury market.
Notable Achievements
214 Career Transactions with $1.9 average sale price
30 Annual Transactions
RealTrends Verified National Ranking
75 Five-Star Reviews
Luxury Market Specialist
Verified Specialties
Luxury Properties[4]
Cities Served
Arcadia
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (626) 940-6488
Email: [email protected]
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/alvinxu888
Why selected: Selected for sustained community leadership and market excellence, and strong performance track record since 2011. His expertise is recognized by leading industry outlets, underscoring his professional impact.
Notable Achievements
13+ Years Active in Real Estate
5-Star Rating Achievement
5-star Rating
Verified Specialties
Property Management, residential real estate, buyer representation, seller representation, client education, buying, selling[4]
Cities Served
Alhambra
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (626) 272-2365
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.byrealiv.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/user415486
Why selected: Selected for his deep community roots and leadership since 2005, Arnold Kwan is a top 1.5% nationwide agent with a and over $250M in sales.
Notable Achievements
Bachelor's Degree Business Economics
$250+ Million in Sales Volume
5-Star Rating Perfect Record
Top 1.5% Agents Nationwide
Verified Specialties
residential real estate, diverse price points, various property types, luxury homes, buying, selling, investment properties, market analysis[4]
Cities Served
Arcadia
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (818) 321-0123
Email: [email protected]
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/aliuHomes
Why selected: Selected for his deep community commitment and leadership. He combines a across with over two decades of experience and multilingual, business-educated client service.
Community & Leadership
Board Member at Local Association of Realtors[6]
Committee Member at Asian Real Estate Association of America (AREAA) - Local Chapter[6]
Volunteer Advisor at Local Community Housing Non-Profit[6]
Mentor at Coldwell Banker Office or Local Real Estate School[6]
Notable Achievements
Top Producing Agent Award
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Commercial Properties, Investment Properties, Rentals[4]
Cities Served
Arcadia
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (626) 461-2128
Email: [email protected]
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Amy%20Wu
Why selected: Selected for her active support of local community initiatives and charitable efforts, reflecting a high commitment to engagement. She combines this with a and nearly a decade of dedicated market expertise.
Community & Leadership
supporter at Local community initiatives[6]
Notable Achievements
5-Star Rating Maintenance
Verified Specialties
Staging, residential transactions, buyer representation, seller representation, guaranteed sale program[4]
Cities Served
Rosemead
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (626) 888-9808
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://mimisongrealestate.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Mimi%20Song%20SuperTeam
Why selected: Selected for her elite RE/MAX International Awards, including the Hall of Fame Lifetime Achievement Award and status as a Top 100 Producer nationwide. She maintains a, demonstrating consistent client service excellence.
Notable Achievements
RE/MAX Hall of Fame Lifetime Achievement Award
Top 100 Producer Nationwide
RE/MAX Chairman's Club Award
Verified Specialties
Property Management, Investment Properties, Luxury Homes, New Construction, buyers, sellers, market analysis, client advocacy, Luxury homes, Distressed properties, REO properties, residential real estate, client service[4]
Cities Served
Arcadia
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (626) 378-2138
Email: [email protected]
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/amberhh
Why selected: Selected for her of dedicated community service and leadership roles, combined with a. Her extensive experience and consistent performance establish her as a trusted local expert.
Verified Specialties
Property Management[4]
Cities Served
Arcadia
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).