Retirement Social Security

13 Stunning Beach Towns Where You Can Live on Nothing but Social Security

Live the good life in these budget-friendly beach towns.

By Heather Bien

Edited by Chris Kissell

Updated Jan. 22, 2025

Does your retirement plan involve sipping a frozen drink while watching the sun set over the ocean? Retiring to the beach seems like a dream — but it also sounds expensive.

Fortunately, there are beach towns across the U.S. where you can find a home so affordable that you can live on a fixed income. And these budget-friendly beaches aren't limited to one region of the country.

Ready to start packing your sunscreen and beach chair for a retirement that feels like a vacation? Here are the 13 beach cities where you can actually live on nothing but Social Security. All home values are from Redfin.

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Corpus Christi, Texas

Median home price: $279,000

Between the lack of income tax in Texas and a cost of living that comes in at 10% below the national average — according to PayScale — there are good reasons to pack your bags for Corpus Christi.

Corpus Christi boasts Gulf Coast beaches, deep-sea fishing, and multiple golf courses. What else do you need in a beach town?

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Lillian, Alabama

Median home price: $350,000

The small town of Lillian isn't where you'll go for a retirement full of hustle and bustle, but it's perfect for those who want peace, quiet, and a lot of opportunities for outdoor recreation.

This is a great spot for retirees looking to spend their days on the water, whether that's in a kayak, on a boat, or swimming.

Pensacola, Florida

Median home price: $299,900

The lack of a state income tax is a draw for people who look to Florida for retirement. Pensacola is a great place to find a budget-friendly way of life on the beach, as it has a cost of living that is 5% below the national average, according to PayScale.

In addition to the great weather, there are many retirees here, so you will have a lot of company.

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Brunswick, Georgia

Median home price: $204,950

For a picturesque place to live with a cost of living that's below the national average, look to Brunswick.

This charming town is part of the chain of barrier islands known as the Golden Isles. It's a place that's rich in history, incredible views, and quiet streets — exactly what many people dream of in retirement.

Sunset Beach, North Carolina

Median home price: $282,495

North Carolina is a favorite city among retirees thanks to its proximity to the beach, the mountains, and charming towns throughout the state.

Sunset Beach is not only affordable, but also benefits from North Carolina's lack of tax on Social Security benefits, which keeps more money in your pocket every month.

Gulfport, Mississippi

Median home price: $211,780

In addition to finding affordable housing in Gulfport, you'll also discover a cost of living that's nearly 14% below the national average, according to Salary.com.

From hiking the Tuxachanie Trail to taking strolls along the beach, this is the perfect retirement spot for someone who wants a more active lifestyle.

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Michigan City, Indiana

Median home price: $193,450

Midwesterners looking for a beach escape won't find one more affordable than Michigan City.

This city on the south shore of Lake Michigan appeals to those who want the relaxing beach retirement lifestyle but hope to avoid the heat of Florida and other Southern states.

Port Arthur, Texas

Median home price: $159,950

Port Arthur is paradise for retirees looking for an affordable and outdoorsy place to call home. This Gulf Coast beach town is known for fishing, hiking, and the Texas Point National Wildlife Refuge, which spans nearly 9,000 acres of wild landscape.

There is also no income tax in Texas, which is always a plus for those looking for a budget-friendly retirement.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Median home price: $310,000

If you want a beachside retirement where there's always something to do, Myrtle Beach is the answer.

This affordable beach town has golf, shopping, entertainment, and a buzzy boardwalk. If you want to remain on the go, this is a great option for retirement.

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Atlantic City, New Jersey

Median home price: $252,500

If you like to hit the boardwalk or casino, Atlantic City is your place to retire.

This affordable beach town has a low cost of living for a beach town, which means you'll have more money left in your pocket to spend on entertainment.

Newport News, Virginia

Median home price: $299,950

You'll find an affordable cost of living, strong health care system, and lower-than-average housing prices in Newport News, a beach town that's an ideal place for an affordable retirement.

Whether you love art, culture, music, or museums, you'll be in close proximity to it all. Norfolk and Virginia Beach are both a quick drive away.

Grand Isle, Louisiana

Median home price: $325,000

If you want to focus your retirement on the great outdoors, head to Grand Isle.

This is where you can get out in nature, breathe in the fresh air, and finally catch up on all of the fishing and boating you dreamed about during your working years.

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Deerfield Beach, Florida

Median home price: $350,000

With a cost of living below the national average and no state income tax, Deerfield Beach is an appealing place to get ahead financially during your retirement years.

From beaches to fishing and restaurants, this is a retirement spot where every day truly feels like a vacation. It's the perfect place to sit by the water and sip on a refreshing tropical cocktail.

Bottom line

The key to a stress-free retirement might be to spend your golden years on the beach. But to get there, you have to make sure you've adequately planned and saved.

Whether you've been saving for years or are catching up now, these affordable beach towns offer you the chance at a relaxing, fulfilling next chapter.

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