Myrtle Beach vs Denver — 55+ Community Comparison

Myrtle Beach and Denver appeal to overlapping but distinct buyer profiles. The decision between them is usually a climate decision more than a financial one. Climate: Myrtle Beach has mild winters (average January high 57°F), hot humid summers (average July high 90°F with humidity), and hurricane risk. Denver has 300+ days of sunshine, dry climate, cold winters (average January high 45°F with snowfall), and altitude (5,280 feet) that affects buyers with respiratory or cardiac conditions. The altitude issue is serious and underresearched — buyers with heart disease, COPD, or sleep apnea should consult their physician before committing to Colorado at altitude. Financial comparison: Colorado has a flat 4.4% state income tax with a retirement income deduction of $24,000/person ($48,000 for a couple) for residents over 65. South Carolina exempts Social Security entirely and has comparable retirement income deductions — effective SC income tax rates are generally similar to Colorado for retirement income profiles. Property taxes: Colorado has a senior homestead exemption program that provides meaningful relief for qualifying residents 65+. Horry County SC's stacked exemptions (4% ratio + $50K homestead + school mill exemption) typically produce lower effective property tax rates than Colorado Front Range counties at comparable home prices. Communities: Denver's covered communities (Anthem Ranch, Heritage Eagle Bend, Heritage Todd Creek, Heather Gardens) are high quality with strong social infrastructure. Grand Strand communities are comparable in quality at lower purchase prices. The buyer who chooses Denver over Myrtle Beach is typically a buyer who specifically wants mountains, dry climate, and the Colorado outdoors — not someone primarily driven by financial optimization.