Realtors Reveal 7 Cities Where You Can Live on Nothing but Social Security

If you’re approaching your golden years without a large nest egg, choosing an affordable place to live in retirement is one of the easiest ways to maximize your retirement savings.

And while it might not seem possible, there are still cities across the U.S. where you can live on the average Social Security check, which is just under $1,800.

Here are the cities that real estate agents and other experts say you should check out if you hope to live on nothing but Social Security during retirement. Unless otherwise noted, all median home price and rent figures come from Redfin.

Rеtiring comfоrtаbly оn $1,800 а mоnth is achievable if yоu look beyоnd thе usuаl spots to uncоver hidden gems, says Тim Choаte, founder аnd CEO оf RedАwning.com, which offers vacation rental properties.

“Fоr instаnce, tоwns likе Bellа Vistа, Arkаnsаs, оffer аffоrdаble housing аnd а sense оf community,” he says.

In this town, you’ll be close to Bentonville, but you’ll find a lower cost of living, including an average rent of only $825 a month and homes with a median sales price of $344,000. That can leave you extra money for other expenses and disposable income.

Fayetteville is a good example of a smaller town that gives you access to two major cities: Charlotte and Raleigh. You’ll have access to the culture and amenities of the larger area, but with the affordability and a higher quality of life that comes with an area that has a lower cost of living.

“It’s a community-focused place with good access to health care, making it practical for retirees,” says Rachel Stringer, a Realtor at Raleigh Realty.

The average rent in Fayetteville is $1,076 and the median sales price for a home is just $231,000. That leaves you with plenty of cash to enjoy art, culture, and events.

Winston-Salem gets you even closer to the Raleigh area. “It’s a city with a mix of historic charm and modern amenities, which is perfect for retirees who enjoy staying active without high expenses,” Stringer says.

The median rent in Winston-Salem is $1,120, while the median home sales price is $280,000, Redfin says. The city has a strong health care system, good restaurants, a renewed downtown, and a mild climate. You can even enjoy the fruits of the Yadkin Valley, which has a burgeoning wine scene.

Live in Pueblo, and you’ll be less than 45 minutes from Colorado Springs, but still able to live on just a Social Security check — meaning you’ll have money to go enjoy the bigger city.

The median home price in Pueblo is an affordable $259,900. Meanwhile, the median rent is on the higher side, at $1,310.

“The cost of living is 9% below the national average and it has mountains and mild winters,” says Andrew Fortune, a Realtor and real estate brokerage owner of Great Colorado Homes in Colorado Springs.

This is also the perfect city for retirees who want to take full advantage of their newfound free time. Boating, fishing, and kayaking are all popular pastimes in Pueblo for retirees and non-retirees alike.

Alamosa has a cost of living that is 18% below the national average, Fortune says. “It’s very affordable but also has a harsh climate in the winter,” he says. “There are many retired folks there, but it’s a small town with only a few stores and hours away from the big cities.”

Still, if you’re in relatively good health and want to prioritize the outdoors and a low cost of living over amenities and a nearby health care system, Alamosa could be your place. The median home price is $251,000, while the average monthly rent is just $958.

For proximity to Lake Geneva — but with a significantly more affordable cost of living — consider looking at Elkhorn, says Sal Dimicelli Sr., broker and owner of Lake Geneva Area Realty.

“Elkhorn has a charming downtown area, good public services, and a range of housing options suitable for retirees or individuals on a fixed income,” Dimicelli says.

The median home sales price is $375,000, but the average rent can be more affordable, Dimicelli says.

“An average one-bedroom apartment costs approximately $750 to $1,100 per month in Elkhorn,” he says.

Best Places says the cost of living in Elkhorn is 44% lower than the national average for single people. Families save 18%.

The Fort Worth suburbs give you access to a strong health care system, arts, culture, and restaurants. If you pick the right area, you’ll also get access to a lifestyle that’s possible on a Social Security check.

“Haltom City is an affordable place to live, and it’s still close to shopping, public transportation, and medical services,” says Brady Bridges, broker and owner of Reside Real Estate in Fort Worth. “These areas are great for retirement because the homes aren't too expensive, the property taxes are low, and the community sense is strong.”

The median home sales price is $256,000. The average rent is $1,176, according to Apartments.com.

The time to check up on your retirement readiness is now: The amount you need to save depends on the place where you plan to spend your golden years.

Understanding where you stand today is the best way to envision where you can afford to live tomorrow. 

These Social Security income-friendly cities could help you get the most out of said golden years.