10 Florida Beach Towns Where You Can Retire on $1,900 a Month (Or Less)

Retiring in a sunny Florida beach town is a perennial dream, especially for those who spent their working years enduring long winters. That appeal, combined with financial and social perks, is why the Sunshine State consistently ranks among the best places to retire.

Although Florida's cost of living has climbed in recent years, affordable beach living is still within reach if you want to stretch your retirement dollars further. These 10 coastal towns prove it, each with a median monthly rent under $1,900, based on our FinanceBuzz study.

Monthly median rent: $1,481

Thanks to housing prices, the cost of living in Pensacola is lower than the national average, according to the U.S. News and World Report. Over one-fifth of the population is 65 plus, demonstrating Pensacola's popularity with retirees.

Beyond the pristine Gulf Coast beaches and outdoor activities the area offers, the laid-back Panhandle gem has a walkable downtown with plenty of shops and dining. The Blue Angels are headquartered here for air show aficionados.

Monthly median rent: $1,509

This jewel of the Treasure Coast is loved by locals because of its 26 miles of Atlantic Coast beaches, shopping and dining on Ocean Drive, cultural events and festivals, and abundant golf courses. They also appreciate that the town hasn't been overdeveloped like some Florida cities.

The cost of living in Vero Beach is just under the national average, mainly due to housing.

Monthly median rent: $1,543

Housing and health care costs are notably below the national average in Panama City, with food, energy, and transportation expenses slightly below. The unspoiled beaches of Shell Island are a major draw to the area, as is St. Andrews State Park with its bayside beach areas.

The area retains its historic shipbuilding vibe and has ample places to dine, drink, and stroll.

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Monthly median rent: $1,614

Famous for car culture at the Speedway and yes, even on the beach, Daytona is about an hour east of Orlando on the Atlantic Coast. Take in live music at the bandshell, Minor League baseball games at Jackie Robinson Ballpark, or just enjoy 23 miles of beaches.

The cost of living in Daytona is 1% below the national average, notably for housing and health care, according to RentCafe.

Monthly median rent: $1,625

The biggest city in the Northeast of Florida, Jax has 22 miles of gorgeous Atlantic Coast beaches to explore (and 1,100 miles of shoreline). Despite having plenty of big city perks, Jax remains affordable, costing 8% less overall than the national average.

Sports fans could enjoy Jacksonville Jaguar games, as well as hiking, biking, and gorgeous golf courses. "Florida's Shrimp Capital" boasts seafood aplenty, too.

Monthly median rent: $1,681

The gem of Florida's Space Coast draws residents who love its Atlantic Coast beaches, exciting rocket launches, waterfront dining, and fun festivals. Bioluminescent kayaking here is a bucket list activity for all ages, though over 20% of the population is 65 and up, so community awaits retirees.

The total cost of living remains 4.4% below the national average, according to BestPlaces.net, with housing as the primary reason.

Monthly median rent: $1,722

Top-tier golf courses, Mets spring training games, abundant outdoor activities, and 21 miles of beach sing a siren song to retirees in this Treasure Coast city. The overall cost of living is right on par with the national average, though utilities and health care costs slide in below it.

The Port District on the St. Lucie River is excellent for strolling, exploring, and gathering.

Monthly median rent: $1,776

This city has a thriving downtown with restaurants and bars for retirees who enjoy nightlife. Its 35 miles of Gulf Coast beaches are award-winning, with sugar sand and beautiful turquoise waves. Green spaces, abundant sunshine, and arts destinations only add to St. Pete's appeal.

The cost of living in general is in line with the national average.

Monthly median rent: $1,784

Fishing is king in "The World's Luckiest Fishing Village," with a wide variety of catches. This Panhandle oasis also has picturesque beaches, unpretentious seafood restaurants, and shopping on Highway 30A. Harborwalk Village is great for strolling and entertainment.

Life in Destin costs about the same as the national average, and 18% of the population is 65 or older in this retirement hotspot.

Monthly median rent: $1,871

Relatively affordable for desirable Southwest Florida, Fort Myers is anchored by the River District, its cute downtown area. The Boston Red Sox and Minnesota Twins do their spring training here, a bonus for sports fans.

Nearby Sanibel and Captiva Islands boast world-class beaches, shelling, and outdoor recreation, while bay beaches await inside the city. Golfing is also popular in the Fort Myers area.

The coastal Florida retirement dream is still very much alive if you've budgeted $1,900 for rent in these thriving cities. Each destination also has a distinctive local character and amenities that make them especially appealing for retirees.

If your heart is set on the Sunshine State but your rent budget falls below that range, consider inland cities as well. Many have lower housing costs yet easy access to springs and lakes that satisfy your love of waterside living while helping you keep more cash in your wallet.