Retirement Social Security

10 Adorable Mountain Towns Where You Can Live on Nothing but Social Security

Relocating to a quaint mountain town that offers opportunities for hiking, skiing, and more can be the perfect retirement plan.

By Laura Gesualdi-Gilmore

Edited by Chris Kissell

Updated Jan. 22, 2025

Many people hope to relocate after they retire — and a great community, low cost of living, and beautiful environment are generally high on the list of priorities for a new home.

Outdoorsy types are often drawn to beach communities, but mountain towns also offer plenty of natural wonder. Fortunately, some of these towns are located in affordable areas, making them ideal spots to set yourself up for a stress-free retirement.

The average Social Security check for a retiree in the U.S. is around $1,900 monthly, and those checks will go pretty far in these stunning mountain towns. All housing prices are from Redfin unless otherwise noted.

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Fayetteville, Arkansas

Median home price: $395,000

There is a lot going on in Fayetteville, a delightful town located in the Ozark Mountains. It's packed with an abundance of parks and trails. It's also home to the University of Arkansas.

Redfin reports that the area has been growing in popularity, perhaps due to its fun and friendly reputation. But although home prices have climbed, they remain considerably below the nationwide median of $434,720.

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Glens Falls, New York

Median home price: $230,000

Up in the Adirondacks, nature lovers will find plenty to enjoy in Glens Falls — including a low cost of living whether you're looking to buy or rent.

There are plenty of local trails and parks to enjoy, and the downtown area is packed with an array of restaurants, museums, and shops to keep you busy.

Spokane, Washington

panoramic shot of medieval buildings and springs in spokane

Median home price: $369,900

Even though Spokane is the second-largest city in Washington, it maintains a distinctly small-town feel.

The Pacific Northwest gem offers everything from vast green space to mountain and ski resorts. For those who are willing to rent, the median monthly rate is a relatively inexpensive $1,205, according to U.S. News and World Report.

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Dillon, Montana

Median home price: $376,152 (Zillow)

Dillon is located in southwest Montana. While the average home price has gone up over the past year, it's still an affordable area that gives residents access to stunning Rocky Mountain subranges.

Dillon also has a very low median rent — $800, according to Zillow — and Montana doesn't charge sales tax, offering even more opportunities to save.

Mount Pocono, Pennsylvania

Median home price: $260,000

The Poconos have seen a recent surge in popularity, which is pushing up home values. However, the median home price remains in the affordable range.

The area is packed with things to do if you are an outdoor enthusiast, from hiking trails to ski slopes, top-notch breweries, and outlet shopping.

Logan, Utah

Median home price: $365,000

Logan is located at the foot of the Bear River Range and has an array of attractions for outdoorsy types — from excellent fishing, hiking, and skiing options to parks, a zoo, and golf courses.

Home prices in the northern Utah town dropped slightly over the past year, according to Redfin, so it is a solid option for retirees looking to relocate out west.

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Hickory, North Carolina

Median home price: $270,000

Hickory rests in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, making it a great location for hikers. You'll find quaint shops in town, as well as art galleries and museums.

Home prices are well below $300,000, making Hickory worth a look if your budget is especially tight

Joseph, Oregon

Median home price: $399,000

Joseph is a small town in the northeast corner of Oregon. Visitors and residents can bask in the beauty of the Wallowa Mountains or explore the quaint downtown filled with galleries, restaurants, and boutiques.

Median home prices have been trending downward over the past year, so this might be a good time to buy.

Chattanooga, Tennessee

Median home price: $344,000

Home prices in Chattanooga have been on a steep increase in recent years, but the region is still affordable. Dubbed the "Scenic City," it boasts a small-town vibe and offers plenty for outdoorsy types to enjoy, from hiking and mountain biking trails to the delightful Riverwalk to the bustling downtown.

U.S. News and World Report puts the average monthly rent in the city at just $1,125.

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Boise, Idaho

Median home price: $482,500

Boise offers a healthy mix of city living and the great outdoors. You'll find plenty of rivers, mountains, and lakes to enjoy while also having access to a lively downtown and a hot restaurant scene.

The median home price is on the pricier end for this list, and that might put it out of the reach of some people living on Social Security. But U.S. News & World Report says rent prices are a bit more affordable, at $1,418 on average.

Bottom line

The perfect mountain town may feel out of reach to the average American planning for retirement. But affordable options do exist.

After crunching the numbers and looking at how much income you are likely to get from Social Security, these adorable towns could be a very real possibility.

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