North Myrtle Beach Local Accommodations Tax Explained

If you're planning a trip to North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, you might wonder about the local accommodations tax. This tax is an important part of your travel budget. It helps fund local services and keeps the city beautiful for visitors like you.

In this article, I will explain what the North Myrtle Beach local accommodations tax is, who must pay it, and how it impacts your hotel or rental stay. You will also find tips on how to plan your trip with this tax in mind.

What Is the North Myrtle Beach Local Accommodations Tax?

The local accommodations tax is a special tax charged on places where visitors stay overnight. This includes hotels, motels, inns, vacation rentals, and campgrounds in North Myrtle Beach. The tax is collected by the property owner or manager and then paid to the city.

This tax is different from the state sales tax or the county taxes. It is a local tax that helps North Myrtle Beach maintain its attractions, improve public services, and support tourism-related projects.

• The tax applies only to short-term stays, usually less than 90 days.

• It is added on top of the room rate you pay for your stay.

• The money collected is used for city improvements, marketing, and tourism support.

Current Tax Rate for North Myrtle Beach Accommodations

As of 2026, the local accommodations tax rate in North Myrtle Beach is 3%. This is in addition to other taxes you might pay, such as the South Carolina state sales tax and the county hospitality tax.

Here is a breakdown of typical taxes on your hotel or rental bill:

• State Sales Tax: 6%

• Local Accommodations Tax: 3%

• County Hospitality Tax: 2%

In total, you can expect to pay around 11% in taxes on your accommodation cost. This means if your room costs $100 per night, you will pay about $11 in taxes, including the local accommodations tax.

Who Must Pay the Local Accommodations Tax?

The local accommodations tax is paid by guests who stay in North Myrtle Beach lodging for short periods. This includes:

• Hotel and motel guests

• Visitors renting vacation homes or condos

• Campers staying at local campgrounds

• People using short-term rental platforms like Airbnb or VRBO

The property owner or rental manager collects the tax from you when you check in or pay your bill. They then send the collected tax to the city government.

How the Local Accommodations Tax Benefits North Myrtle Beach

The money from the accommodations tax helps keep North Myrtle Beach a top travel spot. It supports many city services and projects that improve your visit, such as:

• Maintaining clean beaches and parks

• Funding local tourism marketing campaigns

• Improving public safety and emergency services

• Supporting cultural events and festivals

• Enhancing public facilities like restrooms and parking areas

By paying this tax, you help the city stay welcoming and enjoyable for all visitors.

How to Plan Your Trip with the Accommodations Tax in Mind

Knowing about the local accommodations tax can help you budget better for your North Myrtle Beach trip. Here are some tips:

• Check the total price: When booking, look for the full price including taxes to avoid surprises.

• Compare accommodations: Some places may include taxes in their rates, while others add them later.

• Ask about fees: Vacation rentals sometimes have extra cleaning or service fees on top of taxes.

• Book early: Popular times can have higher rates, so early booking can save money even with taxes.

• Consider longer stays: Some rentals offer discounts for longer visits, which can offset taxes.

Where to Find More Information About the Tax

If you want to learn more or have questions about the local accommodations tax, you can:

• Visit the official North Myrtle Beach city website, which has details on taxes and tourism.

• Contact your hotel or rental manager directly to ask about taxes and fees.

• Check South Carolina’s Department of Revenue website for state tax rules.

• Look at local tourism offices or visitor centers for brochures and advice.

Common Questions About the North Myrtle Beach Accommodations Tax

Many travelers ask about how the tax works and what it covers. Here are some quick answers:

• Is the tax refundable? No, the accommodations tax is not refundable once paid.

• Does it apply to long-term stays? Usually, stays longer than 90 days are exempt.

• Can I avoid the tax? No, if you stay in a taxable lodging, the tax applies.

• Is the tax included in online booking prices? Sometimes yes, sometimes no. Always check the final price.

• Who enforces the tax? The city government monitors and collects the tax from lodging providers.

Conclusion

Understanding the North Myrtle Beach local accommodations tax helps you plan your trip better. This tax is a small part of your lodging cost but plays a big role in keeping the city beautiful and visitor-friendly.

When you book your hotel, motel, or vacation rental, remember to factor in this tax. It supports local services and makes sure North Myrtle Beach remains a great place to visit year after year.

FAQs

What is the current local accommodations tax rate in North Myrtle Beach?

The current local accommodations tax rate in North Myrtle Beach is 3%, added on top of your lodging cost.

Who is responsible for paying the accommodations tax?

Guests staying overnight in hotels, motels, vacation rentals, or campgrounds in North Myrtle Beach pay the accommodations tax through their lodging provider.

Is the accommodations tax included in online booking prices?

Sometimes the tax is included in the price shown online, but often it is added during checkout. Always check the final total before booking.

What does the accommodations tax fund in North Myrtle Beach?

The tax funds city services like beach maintenance, tourism marketing, public safety, and cultural events to improve visitor experiences.

Can I avoid paying the local accommodations tax if I rent a vacation home?

No, if the vacation home is rented for a short stay, the local accommodations tax applies and must be collected by the owner or manager.