Myrtle Beach continues to earn national recognition as more than a vacation destination, this time being named one of LinkedIn's 2026 Cities on the Rise, a list highlighting the nation's fastest-growing metropolitan areas for jobs and career growth.
The ranking identifies 25 emerging U.S. metros where hiring is accelerating, employers are expanding and professionals are choosing to build their careers based on LinkedIn's proprietary workforce data, tracking trends in hiring, job postings and talent migration to identify communities with growing economic momentum.
Myrtle Beach ranked No. 16 of 25 and alongside communities such as Charleston, Charlotte and Fort Wayne, Indiana. LinkedIn cited the Myrtle Beach region's combination of sustained tourism, expanding healthcare investment and one of the nation's fastest-growing retiree populations as key drivers behind its inclusion.
The recognition reflects a broader shift taking place across the Grand Strand. While tourism remains the region's economic foundation, continued investment in healthcare, technology, entrepreneurship, education and business development is creating a more diverse economy that supports year-round careers.
The Myrtle Beach area has experienced significant population growth in recent years, attracting professionals, entrepreneurs, remote workers and retirees who are drawn by the area's quality of life, coastal setting and expanding career opportunities. Employers across multiple industries continue to invest in the region, while new infrastructure, housing and commercial development are helping accommodate that growth.
"This recognition from LinkedIn reinforces what businesses, residents and investors are already seeing," said Matt Pivarnik, CEO of the Greater Myrtle Beach Collaborative. "The Myrtle Beach region is evolving into a place where people can build rewarding careers while enjoying an exceptional quality of life. It's an exciting time for our community, and we're committed to building that momentum."
The LinkedIn recognition follows several other national accolades highlighting the Myrtle Beach area's growth and livability. Earlier this year, Resonance Consultancy named Myrtle Beach the No. 5 Best Small City in America, recognizing the destination for its strong performance in areas including livability and desirability.