Myrtle Beach has once again earned national recognition as one of America's most desirable places to live and visit, ranking No. 5 among the nation's Best Small Cities in the newly released 2026 America's Best Cities Report by Resonance Consultancy. The Myrtle Beach metropolitan area also ranked No. 55 overall among all 393 metropolitan areas evaluated across the United States. 

Myrtle Beach ranked among the top small cities of Savannah, Boulder, Asheville and Ann Arbor, while ranking No. 2 for lovability and No. 7 for livability. The report specifically cites Myrtle Beach as a prime example of a community that has invested consistently in creating a strong sense of place that attracts both residents and visitors.

Using a combination of performance data and national perception surveys, lovability is measured through factors such as restaurants, arts and entertainment, nightlife, outdoor experiences, attractions, social media engagement and overall visitor appeal. Livability evaluates quality-of-life indicators like access to green space, climate, housing affordability, healthcare, broadband connectivity and other factors.

“The city’s placement among the nation’s top small cities reinforces our one-of-a-kind amenities and experiences that make it beloved by so many,” said Matt Pivarnik, CEO of the Greater Myrtle Beach Collaborative, which includes the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, Visit Myrtle Beach and Partnership Grand Strand. “Through various community initiatives, we continue to look at data like this to measure our successes while finding areas where our MSA can make improvements."

The report also identifies Horry County as one of the nation’s fastest-growing destinations for new residents, which contributes to stronger local economies over time.

For more information, visit worldsbestcities.com.

The greater Myrtle Beach area was once again in the spotlight as the ONEflight Myrtle Beach classic returned for a third year.

The impact of the PGA Tour event extended well beyond the course.

Held May 6-10 at the Dunes Golf and Beach Club, the PGA TOUR event once again brought national attention to Myrtle Beach while generating economic activity, supporting local nonprofits and creating opportunities for community engagement across the region.

“The ONEflight Myrtle Beach Classic demonstrates how tourism-driven events elevate the destination’s national profile, strengthen the Grand Strand economy and create lasting benefits for local residents, businesses and nonprofits alike,” said Stuart Butler, president of Visit Myrtle Beach.

Enhancing the Region's Quality of Life

From worldwide television exposure on the Golf Channel to community engagement opportunities such as the Keep Myrtle Beach Beautiful beach sweep and local charitable giving, the event has a long-lasting impact on the community. 

Charities serving Horry and Georgetown counties, such as the Boys & Girls Club of Myrtle Beach, Champion Autism Network and Helping Hand of Myrtle Beach, received direct donations from the PGA Tour totaling $250,000 for the third year in a row. 

Economic impact figures are not yet available, though this year’s event is expected to generate about $15 million, similar to previous years. Events like this support local businesses and jobs while generating revenue that helps fund public services and community investment.

Community Connections Throughout Tournament Week

North Myrtle Beach native Vanna White served as this year’s tournament ambassador and participated in the Wednesday Pro-Am alongside a number of celebrities and community figures.

“I'm honored that they ask me to be an ambassador because I was born and raised here,” White said following her Pro-Am round. “And this is home to me, and it just is so special to be part of this.”

Professional golfers also spoke positively about both the event and the region. Five-time major champion Brooks Koepka praised the atmosphere and fan support throughout the week.

“That’s the most excited I’ve been playing golf in a long, long time,” Koepka said. “It’s been a long time since I’ve had fun playing golf. The fans have been fantastic, they’ve been super supportive all week.”

The tournament concluded on Mother’s Day with Brandt Snedeker earning his first PGA TOUR victory since 2018. The ONEflight Myrtle Beach Classic trophy was handcrafted by an artist at Brookgreen Gardens, while the tournament jacket was tailored by a local designer, adding additional local ties to the event.

During his post-round comments, Snedeker revealed his deep appreciation for the golf course and the Palmetto State, especially since he’s previously earned a Tour win in Hilton Head. “South Carolina has been very good to me,” he said. “I love coming down here. It's a great kind of similar to how I grew up. Slow pace of lifestyle. People are fantastic.” 

Throughout tournament week, locals and visitors experienced the unique combination of hospitality, recreation and community spirit that defines the Grand Strand. 

Next year’s tournament will be held May 12-16 at the Dunes Golf and Beach Club, with another celebrity pro-am event leading the week off.