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10 Charming Beach Towns Retirees Can Live on a Monthly Budget of $1,800 or Less

Aiming for a beachy retirement that doesn't break the bank? That dream may not be entirely out of reach.

By Kate Robertson

Updated Dec. 22, 2025

Many dream of retiring by the water, but the rising cost of coastal living can make that feel out of reach. Still, there are hidden gems where a beachy retirement is more affordable than you might think.

From the Gulf Coast to the Carolinas, these budget-friendly beach towns combine scenic views with a lower cost of living, making them smart picks for retirees trying to stretch their savings.

Port Lavaca, Texas

Tucked along the Gulf Coast, Port Lavaca has become a favorite for cost-conscious retirees. The average rent for a two-bedroom apartment is under $1,000 per month, and grocery prices are among the lowest in the region.

Nearly one in five residents is over 65, and the relaxed coastal vibe is ideal for enjoying outdoor activities like fishing, birdwatching, and paddleboarding.

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Gulfport, Mississippi

Gulfport offers beachfront living with a cost of living about 15% below the national average. Housing is especially affordable, coming in roughly 31% lower.

Retirees can enjoy waterfront parks, senior discounts, and community amenities, while health care remains accessible and comparable in cost to the national average.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach has long been a go-to vacation spot, but it's also an affordable place to retire. Housing costs are nearly 30% lower than average, and the overall cost of living is about 7% below national norms.

With many senior communities, golf courses, and seasonal rental deals, it's easy to maintain an active lifestyle on a tight budget.

Daytona Beach, Florida

Daytona Beach offers a lower-cost alternative to other Florida retirement towns. Housing and insurance costs tend to be more manageable, helping to offset slightly higher grocery prices.

The area also boasts strong health care options and, of course, plenty of sunshine.

South Padre Island, Texas

Just off the southern tip of Texas, South Padre Island is a Certified Retirement Community with a median resident age of 59.

Though housing can be a bit pricier, affordable utilities, low property taxes, and inexpensive markets help retirees live well without overspending.

Calabash, North Carolina

Known as the "Seafood Capital of the World," Calabash is a small town with big retirement potential. Rent and housing costs are below national averages, and property taxes are modest.

The median home price has dropped significantly, making it one of the few coastal towns where buying a home may actually fit a fixed income.

Pascagoula, Mississippi

Pascagoula features a cost of living about 20% below the national average, and a median home price under $120,000.

With beaches, fishing, and part-time job opportunities, it's a great option for retirees who want to stay active and involved without spending a lot.

Port Arthur, Texas

Port Arthur has one of the lowest housing costs on this list at 44% below the national average. The median home price is just $135,000, and rent for a one-bedroom apartment is under $1,200.

Nature lovers will appreciate the outdoor access to fishing spots, birdwatching, and nearby state parks.

Pensacola, Florida

Pensacola offers beautiful beaches, warm weather, and prices lower than many other Florida towns. The median home price is $283,000, but a range of senior living options makes it flexible for different budgets.

From boating to golf to beach walks, there's no shortage of ways to stay active.

Murrells Inlet, South Carolina

Close to Myrtle Beach but quieter, Murrells Inlet provides a close-knit community vibe. While utilities can be slightly higher, overall costs, including housing, transportation, and health care, remain below the national average.

Social events and senior living options make it easy to find community and stay engaged.

Bottom line

Retiring near the ocean doesn't have to be expensive. With careful planning, it's possible to find beach towns that offer both lifestyle and value. Whether you're drawn to Texas, the Carolinas, or Florida, these spots prove that a beachfront retirement can still be within reach, and maybe even keep more cash in your wallet.

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Editor's Note: Portions of this story were drafted with assistance from generative AI tools. All final creative decisions, edits, and fact checking were done by human writers and editors.