12 Beach Towns Where You Can Actually Live on Nothing but Social Security

Many dream of retiring to a beachside town to soak up the sun in their golden years. But, unfortunately, the cost of coastal living can add up quickly in many places. The good news is that some beachside towns offer affordable living, so affordable that you could actually live on your Social Security income alone.

With the Social Security Administration estimating the average monthly Social Security retirement benefit for January 2026 is $2,071, this guide explores some affordable beach towns that might fit into your retirement plan.

Editor's note: All home price data comes from Zillow and all rent data comes from Apartments.com, unless otherwise stated.

Average rent: $1,145

Average home price: $313,856

When you put down roots in Galveston, seaside living isn't all you get. Additionally, you'll enjoy the lack of state income taxes in the Lone Star State.

With several hospitals in Galveston itself and Houston, one of the largest cities in the U.S., less than an hour away, you'll likely be able to tap into any level of medical care you need. In town, you'll also find a couple of senior centers, each offering activities, like field trips and chair volleyball, to help you make friends in your new home.

Average rent: $1,027

Average home price: $231,544

Perhaps best known for its downtown casino operations, Biloxi has so much more to offer. For retirees seeking a seaside spot on a budget, it's hard to beat the relatively affordable costs in the Magnolia State. Beyond popular attractions like the Beau Rivage, residents can stroll down the beaches to unwind at any time.

Biloxi is home to two senior centers, each offering activities, classes, and meals for area seniors.

Average rent: $1,348

Average home price: $318,683

With seemingly endless miles of beaches, Myrtle Beach has attracted beachgoers for decades. For retirees on a budget, this affordable spot could be the right fit.

In addition to a rich Lowcountry culture, Myrtle Beach offers over 80 golf courses and a wide selection of retirement communities. Plus, you'll find an array of active senior centers and plenty of medical facilities.

Average rent: $1,024

Average home price: $191,840

Mobile sits on Mobile Bay, with easy access to nearby beaches. As the home to America's first Mardi Gras, this lively city has a lot to offer, including endless dining opportunities and a classic southern charm complete with live oaks draped with Spanish moss.

The city is home to several active senior centers, including the Connie Hudson Senior Center, and a nutritious meals program that offers hot meals and transportation to the center. With several major hospitals, you'll likely be able to easily access medical care in this waterside town.

Average rent: $831

Average home price: $143,072

On the shores of the Gulf, Pascagoula offers retirees an affordable oasis with easy access to the ocean at an affordable price point. When you want to hit the beach, Pascagoula Beach Park might be a great place to start.

At the city's senior center on Live Oak Ave, you'll find fun activities, like pickleball and bingo, scheduled on most weekdays. And, of course, new residents can enjoy the wonderful seafood dining options available in this beachfront town.

Average rent: $1,803

Average home price: $285,833

Conway sits near Myrtle Beach, on the banks of the Waccamaw River, around 30 minutes from the beach. Its Lowcountry location makes it easy to find great food. In between Myrtle Beach and Conway, you can find several retirement communities, one of which might be a good fit for your long-term situation.

On most weekdays, you can find free entertainment at the Conway senior center, which can make it easier to meet new friends. Although Conway is significantly quieter than Myrtle Beach, its relaxing pace might better suit some retirees. Plus, having Myrtle Beach nearby means you can easily tap into the endless entertainment options with a short drive.

Average rent: $1,295

Average home price: $245,904

Daytona Beach is practically synonymous with having a great time in Florida. If you're ready to dip your toes in the sand every day, Daytona Beach could be an affordable retirement oasis. In addition to beaches, you'll find the famous speedway, fishing, and other watersport activities to fill your time.

The area boasts several retirement communities, one of which is the popular Latitude Margaritaville. With extensive access to award-winning hospitals, you shouldn't be hard-pressed to find a medical team to support you.

Average rent: $1,242

Average home price: $324,416

Daphne sits across Mobile Bay from Mobile, an even more affordable option than Mobile. Not far from Gulf Shores, you can mosey down to the beach anytime. Or if you prefer other watersports, like fishing and kayaking, you'll be able to do that in Daphne itself at parks like the Village Point Park Preserve.

While Daphne itself doesn't have a hospital, you'll find plenty of medical care options in nearby Fairhope and Mobile, each less than 15 miles away. In terms of a social calendar, the local senior center has a range of activities and fitness classes to join, which might make it easier to find new friends.

Average rent: $1,239

Average home price: $250,684

Brunswick rests in a particularly beautiful part of Georgia's coastline, called the Golden Isles. The collection of accessible parks makes it easy to take in the breathtaking views of this place, with plenty of wildlife viewing and birding opportunities. With a hospital and several other healthcare facilities, you shouldn't have trouble finding medical care.

Average rent: $812

Average home price: $319,104

Coos Bay offers an affordable beachside retirement spot, a rarity on the West Coast. The nearby coastline is dotted with picturesque beaches and Sunset Bay State Park makes it easy to enjoy the views. With one hospital in town, most seniors will find adequate medical care available. At the local North Bend Senior Center, you'll find classes available most days covering everything from ukulele to tai chi.

Average rent: $1,513

Average home price: $354,662

For retirees hoping to find an affordable West Coast beach town, Crescent City might be a good fit. It's a beautiful spot tucked on the cliffsides with Redwood State and National Parks nearby. The Del Norte Senior City offers lunch on most weekdays. As a smaller city, it only has one hospital. But most patients would definitely recommend it.

Average rent: $768

Average home price: $273,497

Aberdeen is another surprisingly affordable West Coast beach town that could make sense for retirees on a budget. Positioned at the mouth of the Chehalis River, residents enjoy easy access to the beach without breaking the bank. The city's new senior center offers weekday lunches and a few activities each week, including bingo.

Opting for an affordable palace to call home in retirement can pave the way for a stress-free retirement. And beachside retirement living might be within reach for even those with limited resources in their golden years, if you know where to look.

Before jumping into a new location, consider visiting for more than a weekend to make sure you like the place.