10 Coastal Escapes for Retirees Who Want Ocean Views Without Florida Prices

Miami. Sarasota. Naples. These may be the first cities you think of when you dream about retirement in a coastal escape worthy of magazine covers. Unfortunately, these cities aren't cheap and likely won't be anytime soon — which likely means you need to look elsewhere if your retirement plan has a tight budget.

Fortunately, there are beach towns outside of the Sunshine State with miles of sandy shoreline and that delicious salt life vibe. And given that the median home price in Florida is over $400,000, and over half a million in Miami and Naples, we're ready to explore other options.

Editor's note: All average rent prices are provided by Apartments.com, and all home prices by Zillow.com.

Average Rent: $1,349

Median Home Price: $318,691

The Grand Strand is a famous beach destination for tourists and residents alike. Here, 14 individual beach communities combine into 60 miles of sandy beaches. Thousands of restaurants cook up diverse cuisine, and 90 golf courses await your swing. Myrtle Beach housing is around 29% lower than the national average, making it an especially appealing choice for retirees looking to enjoy the coast without overspending.

The heart of Myrtle Beach is its 1.2-mile boardwalk with shops to explore and a 187-foot-tall ferris wheel.

Average Rent: $1,009

Median Home Price: $217,379

Home to nine bay and gulf beaches, Corpus Christi is rich in outdoor beauty in the form of parks and gardens. Fresh seafood and Tex-Mex cuisine abound, as do attractions like the Bayfront Seawall.

Many retirees call Corpus Christi home, drawn by its affordability and thriving community of older adults, who comprise 16% of the population.

Average Rent: $1,800

Median Home Price: $227,750

Spend your days on the beach and nights in the casino in this underrated coastal gem. Boating, dining on seafood, and listening to the blues are also on the docket in this diverse city known for its resilient lighthouse and historic architecture.

The small town vibe and affordable tax policies attract retirees, as does Biloxi's famous Southern hospitality.

Average Rent: $1,219

Median Home Price: $246,678

The gateway to the Golden Isles is home to a park on the marina, cute historic squares, and places to stroll with gorgeous views. The port city is also home to some of the best seafood restaurants in the state. Golf courses are abundant and top-tier. The cost-of-living index is about 12% lower than the U.S. average, adding to its appeal for retirees seeking affordability by the coast.

The laid-back vibe offers a slower pace of life, ideal for retirees, at a price tag lower than that of coastal Florida.

Average Rent: $1,256

Median Home Price: $285,531

Perched on the Hampton Roads Harbor near Chesapeake Bay, Newport News has historical roots stretching back to Jamestown. Virginia Beach is a short drive away from this city filled with historic homes, breweries, and ample outdoor activities.

Retirees appreciate the small town feel with big city advantages that this shipbuilding hub offers.

Average Rent: $809

Median Home Price: $210,807

The Hospitality City attracts retirees with its warm energy and Southern charm, and of course, its Gulf beaches. No commercial buildings are allowed on them, preserving their pristine condition. Buccaneer State Park is a magnet for visitors seeking recreation.

New Orleans and all it has to offer is only an hour away by car.

Average Rent: $713

Median Home Price: $141,926

Tied for the cheapest place on this list, Freeport is a smaller city with an industrial vibe south of Houston. It's the perfect place for RVers to park and enjoy gorgeous Gulf views. Golfing, casual shopping, and lazy days on the beach appeal to retirees.

That's not to mention spending time on boats, whether casting a line or taking in a sunset.

Average Rent: $1,199

Median Home Price: $220,297

For retirees who prefer Northeastern living, iconic Atlantic City offers beach views without the coastal Florida prices. Casino aficionados and nightlife fans have their pick of options here, as do foodies. The vibe is old school carnival.

Winters may not be warm, but retirees can enjoy off-season prices and indoor activities until spring.

Average Rent: $830
Median Home Price: $141,909

Among the least expensive cities on this list, this underrated spot lies 20 miles east of Biloxi, surrounded by Gulf and the river. It's less touristy and more locally oriented, which is ideal for many retirees. Pascagoula is also walkable, with a downtown area with mom-and-pop shops.

This area offers one of the lowest-cost-of-living indexes on the list, and it's perfect for those seeking small town life.

Average Rent: $1,318

Median Home Price: $260,575

Surprise! You can live in a beautiful beach town in Florida for far less than Naples or Miami. The vibe is much different in the panhandle, but the white sand beaches and turquoise waters are just as, if not more, beautiful.

Pensacola has a high population of older adults, drawing retirees from all over the country.

Retiring in Florida is still the gold standard for many, especially for folks seeking beach towns with gorgeous ocean views to truly indulge in a stress-free retirement. However, many of its cities are becoming increasingly less affordable, rendering locales in other states more appealing for the budget.

As a bonus, each of these cities has its own local color and flavor, giving retirees new areas of life to explore. From cuisine and music to culture, there's always something fun to learn about.