MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WBTW) — A $40 million housing project designed to support international students is under construction in Myrtle Beach, aiming to alleviate seasonal housing shortages and sustain the area’s tourism industry.
The facility, located on Mr. Joe White Avenue, is expected to open its first building by April 2025, just in time for the summer season. When completed, the development will feature five units capable of housing up to 1,572 students. The first phase includes two buildings with a total capacity of 360 beds.
International students play a vital role in Myrtle Beach’s tourism economy, making up about 4% of the workforce each year. These workers often fill key roles in hotels, restaurants, and attractions, particularly during the early and late parts of the tourism season. However, a lack of affordable and reliable housing has presented challenges for students and employers alike.
“This is huge for our economy,” said Mark Lazarus, president of Lazarus Entertainment Group. “There’s a misconception out there that this takes the place of local workers. Absolutely not. These students fill a void, particularly at the front and back ends of the season when we need them the most.”