If you are seriously considering moving to Conway, SC in 2026, you deserve a real, down-to-earth rundown from people who live here, love it, and still call out the stuff that can be a pain. We moved from New York, fell hard for Conway, and have been showing folks around ever since. This deep dive covers the vibe, neighborhoods, flooding facts, prices, new construction, commuting, HOAs, and practical tips that will help you decide whether moving to Conway, SC in 2026 is the right next chapter for you.

Table of Contents

• Why Moving to Conway, SC in 2026 Might Be the Smartest Move You Make
• Our Story — and What We Learned About Moving to Conway, SC in 2026
• Pros of Moving to Conway, SC in 2026
• Cons to Consider Before Moving to Conway, SC in 2026
• Best Neighborhoods to Explore When Moving to Conway, SC in 2026
• Flooding, Insurance, and How to Protect Your Home When Moving to Conway, SC in 2026
• Money Matters: Pricing, Taxes, and What Your Dollar Buys When Moving to Conway, SC in 2026
• Practical Tips to Make Moving to Conway, SC in 2026 Easier
• Final Thoughts on Whether Moving to Conway, SC in 2026 Is Right for You
• FAQs About Moving to Conway, SC in 2026
• Get Personalized Help Planning Your Move to Conway, SC in 2026

Why Moving to Conway, SC in 2026 Might Be the Smartest Move You Make

Conway is one of those surprising places that sits just outside Myrtle Beach yet has its own heart and rhythm. If you grew up somewhere busy and noisy, Conway will feel like a breath of fresh air: historic downtown, a real small-town downtown Riverwalk, mom-and-pop shops, community events, and neighborhoods that range from quiet single-family lots to modern new subdivisions. We tell people straight up: if you are thinking of moving to Conway, SC in 2026, don’t limit your search to the beachside towns—Conway offers more house for your money and a totally different vibe.

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Our Story — and What We Learned About Moving to Conway, SC in 2026

We moved here without a lot of local knowledge (spoiler: we bought sight unseen). We learned quickly that Conway is huge geographically and has a lot of variety. A neighborhood that's 15 minutes to the beach will feel different from one that's 30 or 45 minutes out. Because we messed up early and learned the hard way, we spend a lot of time helping buyers avoid the same mistakes. So if your timeline includes moving to Conway, SC in 2026, use that time to explore, ask questions, and take a few visits. That distance learning saved our clients a ton of headaches and often saved them money.

Pros of Moving to Conway, SC in 2026

1. Not Myrtle Beach — and that can be a huge plus

Here’s the real appeal: Conway is not Myrtle Beach. If you want the beach energy, parks, attractions, loud 17th Avenue type scenes, Myrtle Beach is your place. But if you love a slower vibe with historic charm, easy walks along a riverfront, and plenty of local festivals, Conway is a different animal. That difference is one of the primary reasons people consider moving to Conway, SC in 2026. In Conway you can enjoy the fall and winter festivals and still escape the summer crush of beach tourism.

2. Small-town, neighborly feel

Part of Conway’s charm is how friendly it feels. People move here from other states and often find themselves meeting neighbors quickly. Depending on the subdivision, your street may feel like a community where people swap tools, talk about the farmer’s market, and attend the same parades. If community connection matters to you when thinking about moving to Conway, SC in 2026, this is a major plus.

3. More house for less money

Builders price similar floor plans based on location. That means a home built near the beach or in a more touristy corridor can cost tens of thousands more than the same model built in Conway. We repeatedly see buyers get bigger floor plans, larger lots, and more interior upgrades simply by choosing Conway. If one of the reasons you are moving to Conway, SC in 2026 is affordability, the numbers tend to support that goal.

4. Land, farms, and homesteading options

Want space for goats, a small pond, and farm-fresh eggs every week? Conway has farmland and larger parcels—some properties have acres, ponds, and even tiny lakes. We’ve shown people entire homesteads with baby goats and chickens, and they are thrilled to trade city life for that rhythm. If your vision of moving to Conway, SC in 2026 involves acreage, gardening, or homesteading, there are real opportunities here.

5. Vibrant farmers market and local food scene

From April to November you’ll find a lively farmers market under the train trestle with fresh vegetables, farm eggs, baked goods, coffee, and handmade items. For many new residents, that farmers market is emblematic of the Conway lifestyle they were moving to Conway, SC in 2026 to experience: local, fresh, and community-driven.

Cons to Consider Before Moving to Conway, SC in 2026

1. Flooding is real — take it seriously

During Hurricane Florence, parts of Conway flooded, including downtown areas along the Waccamaw River. Flood zones can vary block by block. If you are moving to Conway, SC in 2026, make flood zone research part of your home search checklist. Mortgage companies will require flood insurance if your property is in a designated AE or certain other zones. Even properties outside FEMA's AE zone might still benefit from personal flood insurance for peace of mind. We prioritize keeping clients in FEMA X whenever possible, but every purchase requires proper due diligence.

2. You will need a car

Conway is not built like a walkable urban center. Outside the downtown core, sidewalks are limited and many roads have drainage ditches that make walking or biking uncomfortable or unsafe. If you are moving to Conway, SC in 2026 expecting to ditch the car, think again. There is limited public transit and Uber exists, but a car is the practical reality for work, shopping, and weekend plans.

3. Traffic along Highway 501

501 is the main artery that splits Conway north and south and carries most of the shopping and commuter traffic. During tourist season, Black Friday, or peak beach days it can get congested. That said, for someone coming from a major metro, Conway traffic is manageable, and locals quickly learn back roads and shortcuts. If you are considering moving to Conway, SC in 2026, allow extra time on peak days and learn alternate routes once you settle in.

4. New construction comes with construction headaches

New communities are booming, and while that means more options and modern homes, it also means construction noise, debris, and even road wear during build-out. If you move into a development early to get the best lot, be prepared for ongoing builds next door for a year or more. For many buyers, the tradeoff is worth it for new finishes and lower entry prices. If building noise would stress you out, consider moving into an established neighborhood instead of a work-in-progress subdivision.

5. HOA rules vary — read them before you buy

HOAs differ greatly from neighborhood to neighborhood. Some are relaxed, some have strict rules about flags, sheds, exterior finishes, and even landscaping. For buyers moving to Conway, SC in 2026 especially those coming from areas with basements and lots of personal storage, HOA rules about sheds and exterior changes can be a surprise. Always request the HOA covenants and restrictions early in the process and review them carefully so you aren’t caught off guard.

Best Neighborhoods to Explore When Moving to Conway, SC in 2026

Conway is huge. The neighborhoods range from historic downtown condos to established subdivisions, golf-course properties, and farms. A useful mental model is to divide Conway by Highway 501. North of 501 and south of 501 have different feels and price ranges. Communities closer to Highway 90 are only about 15 minutes from the beach. The heart of Conway is roughly 30 minutes from the coastline. Your priorities—commute, lot size, character, new vs resale—should guide your search.

New construction communities

There are lots of newer subdivisions popping up, offering floor plans that include multi-gen or multi-family layouts, energy-efficient builds, and modern open plans. If you are moving to Conway, SC in 2026 and plan to build or buy new, communities like Auberon Woods (which now offers multi-gen plans) deserve a look.

Older character homes and farmland

If you covet southern character, older homes with wraparound porches and larger lots are available too. Prices vary, but you can find properties with acreage, outbuildings, and room to homestead. We’ve sold farms with ponds, goats, and plenty of privacy, and buyers who want that life often pick Conway when moving to Conway, SC in 2026.

Flooding, Insurance, and How to Protect Your Home When Moving to Conway, SC in 2026

Flood risk is the most common question we hear when people are moving to Conway, SC in 2026. FEMA flood maps matter because lenders use them to require flood insurance. If a property falls in an AE zone, flood insurance is typically mandatory for loans. If you are in FEMA X, it is not required—though we still recommend evaluating personal flood insurance if you want extra peace of mind.

Practical steps if flood risk is a concern:

1. Ask for the FEMA flood zone in the MLS listing and confirm with the county or a surveyor.
2. Get a flood elevation certificate when available and understand the base flood elevation level.
3. Talk to an insurance broker about personal flood insurance even if you are in X.
4. Consider elevation and lot grade when picking a property; higher lots and those built with flood mitigation measures often fare better.

Money Matters: Pricing, Taxes, and What Your Dollar Buys When Moving to Conway, SC in 2026

One of Conway’s biggest selling points is value. Builders often price similar plans lower here than in beach-adjacent pockets. That means a larger four- or five-bedroom home in Conway might cost $60,000 to $100,000 less than a comparable model closer to the coast. Lot sizes also tend to be bigger, which is why buyers can often get more interior and exterior square footage for their money. Property taxes, HOA dues, and insurance rates differ by location and property type, so budget accordingly.

Daily life: downtown, events, and community culture

Downtown Conway is small but vibrant. You’ll find local bakeries, an Italian deli, a cozy theater with auditions and community productions, and specialty shops like a multi-level Christmas store that will make your holiday decorating dreams come true. Parades are frequent, and the town decorates enthusiastically for holidays. If you enjoy community festivals and a close downtown scene, you will love the rhythm of life here. Many people moving to Conway, SC in 2026 choose it precisely for this feel.

Practical Tips to Make Moving to Conway, SC in 2026 Easier

Here are hands-on tips we give almost every buyer:

• Visit in different seasons. Conway feels different in summer, fall, and winter. Fall is special here.
• Take a one-on-one tour with us , a local agent who knows back roads and hidden neighborhoods so you avoid buying sight unseen into a part of town that doesn’t match your expectations.
• Ask for HOA covenants early in the process. They are sometimes surprising about storage, sheds, flags, and exterior colors.
• Budget for flood inspections or personal flood insurance. It can be inexpensive and worth the peace of mind.
• Plan on owning at least one car per adult in the household. Car ownership is part of daily life here.

What’s coming and what to watch for if moving to Conway, SC in 2026

Expect more new communities, additional floor plan options like multi-gen homes, and continued growth near major corridors. Developers are building a mix of affordable single-family homes and more upscale neighborhoods. If your move is scheduled for 2026, now is the perfect time to begin watching inventory and consider getting on builder lists or exploring resale options to lock in the best choices.

Local flavor: the little things that make Conway feel like home

We love the farmers market, the holiday decorations, the Riverwalk, and local bakeries. There’s a sense of pride in how Conway celebrates holidays and community events. People who move to Conway, SC in 2026 often tell us the small things—the neighborly waves, local parades, and holiday lights—are what truly win their hearts.

Final Thoughts on Whether Moving to Conway, SC in 2026 Is Right for You

If you want a slower pace, more home for your money, access to farmland, and a community with personality, Conway is a smart choice. If you hate driving, need steady public transit, or cannot tolerate any construction noise or HOA rules, you might find it challenging. We always suggest making a checklist of priorities and visiting multiple times before making a final decision.

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FAQs About Moving to Conway, SC in 2026

How far is Conway from the beach and does that matter when moving to Conway, SC in 2026?

Conway sits in a range of distances from the beach depending on the neighborhood. Parts of Conway are about 15 minutes from the beach, while the heart of Conway is closer to 30 minutes. If proximity to the beach is a priority for your move, pick neighborhoods near Highway 90. Distance affects price, so if your main goal in moving to Conway, SC in 2026 is affordability, being a bit further inland gets you more home for your money.

Will I need flood insurance if I am moving to Conway, SC in 2026?

If the property falls in a FEMA-mandated flood zone like AE, lenders typically require flood insurance. For properties in FEMA X, it is generally not required but still recommended by many for extra protection. Always check the FEMA map for the specific property and consider talking to an insurance broker. We encourage buyers moving to Conway, SC in 2026 to factor flood insurance into their long-term budget.

Is Conway a good place to raise a family if moving to Conway, SC in 2026?

Yes. Conway has family-friendly neighborhoods, parks, and a strong community emphasis with events and local activities. Schools, commute times, and neighborhood layout vary, so research specific school districts and drive times to work. For families moving to Conway, SC in 2026, the town’s slower pace, outdoor options, and community events make it attractive.

How much house can I buy in Conway compared to Myrtle Beach when moving to Conway, SC in 2026?

You’ll typically get more interior and lot space in Conway for the same budget compared to properties closer to Myrtle Beach. On average, comparable plans can be $60,000 to $100,000 less in Conway than nearer the beach. That makes Conway a strong value option for buyers moving to Conway, SC in 2026.

Are there multi-generational home options available if I am moving to Conway, SC in 2026?

Yes. New communities, such as Auberon Woods, now offer multi-gen floor plans designed for in-laws or adult children who need suite-style living. If your plan for moving to Conway, SC in 2026 includes multi-generation living, ask us about current builders and available plans tailored for that lifestyle.

Will I be stuck with construction noise if I buy new in Conway?

If you buy in a community while it is still under development, you should expect construction for a year or more depending on the size of the subdivision. The tradeoff is early-mover pricing and lot selection. If this is a dealbreaker, consider resale neighborhoods or wait until the community is more built-out.

How do HOAs work in Conway and what should I watch for when moving to Conway, SC in 2026?

HOA rules vary widely. Some regulate flags, sheds, exterior colors, and landscaping. We recommend requesting HOA covenants early. If a shed, flagpole, or specific landscaping matters to you when moving to Conway, SC in 2026, get the rules in writing before committing.

Get Personalized Help Planning Your Move to Conway, SC in 2026

Start by making a short list of what matters most: commute time, lot size, need for flood protection, budget, and whether you want new construction or character homes. Call or text us at 𝟴𝟯𝟯-𝟴𝟲𝟳-𝟰𝟯𝟳𝟲 , your local agent who knows the back roads and the neighborhoods. If you are already planning or penciled in moving to Conway, SC in 2026, use your time to explore different parts of town in person, review HOA documents, check flood zones, and compare new build options to resale homes.

Conway isn’t perfect, but it’s got heart, options, and a pace that suits people who want community without the constant tourist chaos. If your next chapter includes moving to Conway, SC in 2026, take the time to explore, ask questions, and choose the neighborhood that feels like home.

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