10 West Coast Towns Where You Can Live on Nothing but Social Security

Retiring on a fixed income doesn't mean you have to give up ocean views, small-town charm, or West Coast living. In fact, there are still places out west where you can protect your home budget and enjoy a peaceful, fulfilling retirement without relying on savings or a pension. 

With the average Social Security payment for singles at $1,976 and $3,089 for couples in 2025, it's all about choosing the right location.

We've rounded up 10 towns where you can maximize your senior benefits and actually live on Social Security alone. From coastal escapes to quiet inland communities, these destinations offer affordable housing, walkability, and access to the things that matter most, like health care, nature, and a strong sense of community.

Editor's note: All rental figures were pulled from apartments.com, and all housing prices were pulled from Redfin.

Average rent: $1,210

Median home sale price: $480,000

With the average mortgage clocking in at just over $2,000 a month and low monthly utilities around $190, Chico offers a budget-friendly option for retirees who want to stay in California.

Just 90 minutes north of Sacramento, this charming town is surrounded by national forests, giving you easy access to the great outdoors without straining your budget.

Average rent: $1,134

Median home sale price: $430,000

Springfield offers a great mix of affordability and outdoor access. The town is located just an hour from the mountains and an hour from the coast, making it perfect for nature lovers.

Whether you're into hiking, fishing, or simply enjoying the scenery, Springfield delivers small-town charm with big outdoor perks.

Average rent: $1,270

Median home sale price: $400,000

Fresno stands out as one of California's most affordable large cities, with a median home price of $400,000, less than half the state average.

The city also offers strong health care access, with several major hospitals and medical centers serving the region, making Fresno a practical option for long-term living.

Average rent: $1,194

Median home sale price: $450,000

As Oregon's capital city, Salem offers small-town charm with easy access to urban conveniences. With an average grocery bill of around $430 per month, it's a manageable place to settle.

Seniors can enjoy peaceful strolls through the Oregon State Capitol State Park, explore local history at the Willamette Heritage Center, or take in seasonal blooms at the Deepwood Museum & Gardens.

Average rent: $1,353

Median home sale price: $475,000

Located in southeastern Washington, where the Yakima and Columbia Rivers meet, Richland is a scenic and affordable option for retirees. With 16.7% of the population over 65, it offers a welcoming community.

The average rent is well below the national average, and monthly utilities are just $211.77. Even the average mortgage price of just over $2,000 remains manageable for couples living on Social Security.

Average rent: $1,492

Median home sale price: $460,000

With home prices around $460,000, Modesto offers affordable living by California standards. The city boasts a thriving arts scene with attractions like the Gallo Center for the Arts and the McHenry Museum.

Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the scenic Tuolumne River Regional Park, enjoy biking and walking trails, or spend time at nearby Dry Creek Pioneer Regional Park for a breath of fresh air.

Average rent: $1,522

Median home sale price: $510,950

Liberty Lake, located in Spokane County just west of the Washington-Idaho border, serves as both a Spokane suburb and a bedroom community for Coeur d'Alene, Idaho.

While home prices are higher here, renting remains affordable with average rents at $1,522, which is below the national average. Utilities are also cost-friendly, running about 3% less than average, at $193.67 per month.

Average rent: $1,344

Median home sale price: $395,000

Central Point offers affordable housing with a median home price of $395,000, well below average for both Oregon and the U.S. as a whole. About 16.9% of residents are 65 and older, making it a friendly place for seniors.

The town boasts plenty of outdoor activities like hiking and fishing nearby, plus local farmers markets and community events that make it a welcoming place to enjoy a relaxed, active lifestyle.

Average rent: $1,641

Median home sale price: $470,000

Lancaster offers affordable living just an hour north of Los Angeles, where residents can enjoy a quieter lifestyle without the high population and heavy traffic of the city.

Seniors will specifically benefit from proximity to top-rated medical centers like Antelope Valley Hospital and Kaiser Permanente Antelope Valley Medical Offices when they relocate to Lancaster, ensuring quality health care is never far away.

Average rent: $1,138

Median home sale price: $370,000

Spokane offers an affordable cost of living thanks to home prices that are well below both state and national averages at $370,000. Monthly grocery costs average $453.60, helping keep expenses manageable.

Washington State doesn't tax Social Security benefits, making Spokane an attractive option for seniors.

Finding a town where you can comfortably live on Social Security is the key to a stress-free retirement. From affordable home prices to low living costs, these West Coast towns offer options that help protect your finances while enjoying a great quality of life.

Additionally, many of these towns also offer property tax exemptions or discounts for seniors. This extra saving can make all the difference when planning a long and comfortable retirement.