According to FinanceBuzz, seniors could live on a monthly budget of $1,800 or less in these 10 beach towns.
PORT LAVACA, Texas — If you’ve dreamed of trading the hustle and bustle of city life for beachside sunsets, sea breezes and beautiful scenery, it may be more affordable than you think — even if you’re a retiree on a fixed income.
FinanceBuzz ranked 10 coastal communities where they say retirees could live on a monthly budget of $1,800 or less. A Texas beach town is at the top of the list and two others made the top 10.
Top 10 most affordable beach towns for retirees
1. Port Lavaca, Texas
Port Lavaca is a sleepy coastal community in Calhoun County described as a “hidden gem” for budget-conscious retirees. According to FinanceBuzz, the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment is less than $1,000 a month.
“Winter Texans” appreciate Port Lavaca’s excellent fishing, boating, birdwatching and other outdoor activities.
2. Gulfport, Mississippi
With a cost of living 15% below the national average and housing costs 31% lower, according to FinanceBuzz, retirees can enjoy waterfront living in Gulfport, Mississippi, without breaking the bank.
Gulfport is known for its white sand beaches and historic downtown with a laid-back atmosphere and southern charm.
There are also plenty of casinos, waterfront parks, art galleries and museums.
3. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Myrtle Beach is a popular vacation spot and an affordable retirement destination that stretches along 60 miles of sun-kissed South Carolina shoreline.
Visit its iconic boardwalk, tee up at 90+ championship golf courses, or explore 14 unique communities steeped in Lowcountry history and culture.
FinanceBuzz says Myrtle Beach has a cost of living 7% below the national average, with housing costs nearly 30% lower.
4. Daytona Beach, Florida
Florida has long been a destination spot for retirees, but FinanceBuzz says Daytona Beach offers housing and insurance costs that are notably lower than many other Florida cities.
With an abundance of beaches, eclectic restaurants and watersports, every day can feel like a vacation in Daytona Beach.
5. South Padre Island, Texas
Ranked #1 in “Best Beaches of Texas” according to U.S. News & World Report, South Padre Island offers laid-back beachside living with a few financial perks that make it an attractive option for retirees.
While housing costs can be higher than the national average, the overall cost of living is kept in check thanks to low property taxes and below-average costs for groceries and utilities, FinanceBuzz says.
The Laguna Madre Bay is a fisherman’s paradise, and the South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center & Alligator Sanctuary is a must-see.
6. Calabash, North Carolina
Enjoy a day of deep-sea fishing or let someone else do the work and visit one of the island’s seafood restaurants.
Housing and rent are both lower than the national averages, with the median sale price down more than 50% year over year. Retirees also benefit from relatively low property and sales taxes.
7. Pascagoula, Mississippi
With its Antebellum architecture and a rich 300-year history, Pascagoula, Mississippi, has attracted a variety of visitors, including pirate Jean Lafitte, Andrew Jackson, Ulysses S. Grant and even Jimmy Buffett.
The town provides easy access to beaches, fishing, and other water activities, along with a strong local economy, FinanceBuzz says.
8. Port Arthur, Texas
With housing costs a whopping 44% below the national average and the cost of living 14% below, Port Arthur, east of Houston, is another affordable option.
As of June, the median sale price was $135,000, down 10% from the previous year, according to FinanceBuzz, while the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment remains under $1,200 per month.
Billed as the Cajun Capital of Texas, residents and visitors also enjoy fishing, birding or camping out at Sea Rim State Park.
9. Pensacola Beach, Florida
Pensacola Beach in Florida boasts sugar-white beaches and crystal-clear waters for fishing, boating or sunset walks on the beach. Golf, biking and kayaking are also popular.
There are also plenty of casual restaurants and beach bars for retirees to unwind and enjoy chill vibes.
The median sale price was $283,000 in June, FinanceBuzz says, with a wide range of senior living options available to suit different budgets.
10. Murrells Inlet, South Carolina
With lower-than-average costs for housing, health care, and transportation, Murrells Inlet, South Carolina, is another East Coast option.
The town offers an abundance of opportunities for social connection through local events, community programs and senior living arrangements.
Its proximity to Myrtle Beach means residents can access larger-city amenities while enjoying a quieter, more laid-back environment.