8 Desert Cities Where You Can Retire on Nothing but Social Security

If you've had enough of the cold, head to the desert. This is where you'll learn it really wasn't the heat, it was the humidity. The desert's dry, warm air can be good for the soul, especially if you want to get outside and golf or hike throughout most of the year.

Arizona, California, New Mexico, and Texas are all states that are high on retirees' wish lists, and they don't have to be expensive. You just have to know the right places to look to find a budget-friendly retirement spot where you could live on an average monthly Social Security check of around $1,869.

Ready to leave behind your winter coat and start enjoying the heat? Here are eight desert cities if you want to stretch your retirement dollars further.

Editor's note: Unless otherwise noted, all data listed below on rent and home prices came from Zillow. All cost-of-living figures are from Payscale.

Average rent: $1,500

Average home sale price: $293,107

If you're looking for a desert city with a vibrant year-round community life and a low cost of living, Yuma is the place. You'll find a cost of living that's 4% below the national average, and housing expenses that are 13% below (keep in mind, housing is typically your largest budget line item).

There are festivals year-round, including music festivals, so you'll always have something big to look forward to in the city that's called the Sunniest City in the World.

Average rent: $1,550

Average home sale price: $268,096

Coolidge's cost of living is 7% lower, and housing expenses are a whopping 43% lower than the national average, which could have a big impact on the amount of disposable income you have to burn each month. That means you'll have more money left over to spend on things like golf and hiking gear, both of which are activities that are favorites of residents in Coolidge.

If you plan on taking time to stop and smell the roses in retirement, Coolidge's location in the Sonoran Desert is ideal. The area is known for its incredible views and stunning spring wildflowers.

Average rent: $1,550

Average home sale price: $350,854

If you're moving to Elko as a single retiree, expect a cost of living that is 8% below the state average, according to BestPlaces.net.

Elko has a population of less than 21,000, so you can discover a close-knit sense of community. The city is also commended for its safety, cultural celebrations, horse races, and artistic presence.

Average rent: $1,275

Average home sale price: $200,143

In Amarillo, the cost of living is 17% lower than the national average, while housing is 39% lower. When you're focused on how far your paycheck will go each month, these numbers are a welcome sight, and they're probably why almost 15% of Amarillo's population is of retirement age.

Whether you're taking up hiking or painting en plein air, the proximity to Palo Duro Canyon can't be beat. Or you may want to take up riding, enjoy the trails from a different view.

Average rent: $775

Average home sale price: $168,033

With a cost of living that's 8% lower than the national average and housing that's 14% lower, Douglas is a good fit for retirees looking for a low-cost small town in the desert. This border town, nestled up against Mexico, offers retirees an authentic desert lifestyle. 

Average rent: $1,200

Average home sale price: $191,848

Just like the Eagles once said, you could be standing on a corner in Winslow, Arizona, and you won't have to pay an arm and a leg to do it. The cost of living here is 31% less than the national average for a single person and 50% less for a family.

This desert city is known for its Native American heritage, which is on display at the Hopi ruins at Homolovi State Park. Hike through the gorgeous canyons, learn about railroads, and stay busy in your golden years exploring a town full of diverse history.

Average rent: $1,500

Average home sale price: $227,986

Your fixed income budget will stretch in El Paso, where the cost of living is 12% below the national average, and housing is 30% below. It's also been ranked as the top city in Texas to retire.

Here you'll find desert hiking, incredible Mexican food, and a rich calendar of arts and cultural events. This is where the United States, Texas adventure, and Mexican heritage meet.

Average rent: $1,100

Average home sale price: $219,464

The cost of living in Silver City is 51.8% lower than the national average for a single person and 36.1% lower for a family. The cost of living may be affordable, but the amenities are rich. You'll have access to a bustling historic downtown, year-round festivals, a vibrant art scene, and the unique cultural and artisan heritage of New Mexico.

Beyond the cost of living and housing prices, another key factor to consider when deciding where to retire is the tax situation in the state.

Some desert states, including Arizona and Texas, have favorable tax laws for retirees. Meanwhile, others, like New Mexico, tax certain types of retirement income, which could quickly deplete an already-tight fixed income. So, it is important to do your research and prepare yourself financially before making a move.