What Makes Up Our Little “City” Of Little River

by the Little River Chamber of Commerce

Little River, SC makes up the Northeastern tip of the state. Our coastal community, which flows along the Intracoastal Waterway, was originally called Mineola by local Indian tribes, meaning “little river.” With a colorful history including shipwreck survivors and pirates, the community grew into a small fishing village, and is now the gateway to the Grand Strand for many visitors from the North. 

While it has already welcomed many new residents, Little River still has unprecedented potential for growth in the near future. People are attracted to Little River due to its proximity to nearby beaches and cities, as well as its lack of city taxes. But why don’t we pay city taxes?

Little River is a census-designated place, meaning it is unincorporated and therefore it is not a city. With no city, there is also no city government, no town hall, and thus, no city taxes. While we love our neighbors, nearby cities are not responsible for Little River residents. So who takes care of us?

Governmental needs are overseen by Horry County Government. While many of their offices are in Conway, there are local offices for the police, fire & rescue, library, DMV, auditor, Treasurer, and more. 

We’re also blessed with two county park locations: North Strand Park on Hwy 57 and the CB Berry & Community Center on Hwy 179. The North Myrtle Beach Park & Sports Complex is also located in Little River.

We are also lucky to have a dedicated chamber. The Little River Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center is a nonprofit, membership-based organization whose mission is to make the area a better place to live, work, and play. Like many chambers, they assist locals and visitors with a myriad of questions, and work closely with the elected leadership of Horry County and state legislators to ensure our community’s needs are heard. In lieu of a local municipality, they have also taken the initiative to address local infrastructure needs such as maintaining highway medians, streetlights, and welcome signs.

We hope you’ve found your treasure in Little River, SC.

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