9 Low Allergen Cities Where You Can Live on Nothing but Social Security

Every region has its allergy season, but some parts of the U.S. are easier to breathe in if you're sensitive to airborne allergens like pollen, mold spores, or dust mites. No place is completely allergen-free, however. Even Alaska, the only state without ragweed, still has seasonal pollen and mold.

If pollen is your problem, coastal areas may offer relief, since ocean breezes carry little or no pollen during the day when wind typically moves inland. Dust mites thrive in warm, humid air, so dry desert towns and high-altitude cities with low humidity can help. Mold (and most plants and trees) also require heat and moisture, which means cool, dry climates are generally better for mold- and pollen-sensitive folks.

We researched cities with allergy-friendly conditions where average housing costs are low enough to live on Social Security income, which is around $1,900 for individuals. This way, you can stretch your retirement dollars without spending them on tissues. 

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

Average rent: $1,242

Average home value: $351,115

Ocean Shores is a charming town on a peninsula between the Pacific Ocean and North Bay. You'll enjoy easy beach access, walking trails, and a canal system that's perfect for kayaking.

The climate is mild, with temperatures typically ranging between 32 and 73 degrees. Locals enjoy birdwatching, golf, a theater, and seasonal festivals.

The North Beach Senior Center and health care services are available in town and nearby Aberdeen, including allergy specialists in Olympia, Puyallup, and Tacoma.

Average rent: $1,205

Average home value: $473,862

Around an hour south of Salt Lake City, Provo's high elevation and dry air make it a good pick for allergy-sensitive retirees. There's plenty to see and do, too. 

Outdoor recreation includes hiking and enjoying the view in Provo Canyon, fishing in Utah Lake State Park, and snowshoeing or cross-country skiing in winter. The city also has museums, music venues, and the Covey Center for the Arts, as well as a variety of senior programs.

Provo has excellent health care, including allergy specialists.

Average rent: $1,134

Average home value: $395,526

Located in eastern Washington, Spokane offers warm, dry summers and cold winters. Some call it a semi-arid climate, but it's classified as continental, although Spokane receives only about 17 inches of rain annually.

Free activities include the scenic Spokane River, waterfalls, the Sculpture Walk, and the popular Riverfront Park. The historic downtown district is packed with art galleries (some free), as well as theaters and shops.

Spokane is a regional medical hub, with multiple hospitals and allergists available.

Average rent: $1,012

Average home value: $288,794

Pueblo is a lovely small city in southern Colorado that enjoys sunny weather year-round, with hot summers and cold winters. The climate is semi-arid, which helps reduce mold and dust mites, although seasonal pollen may be a challenge.

You can enjoy strolling along the Arkansas Riverwalk and exploring Pueblo's museums, breweries, and art community. Or head to the beach at Lake Pueblo.

Pueblo is home to several hospitals, clinics, and allergy specialists, making it easy to access quality health care.

Average rent: $1,003

Average home value: $288,037

With its arid desert climate and only nine inches of rain annually, Las Cruces may be a good choice for allergy-prone people. The city blends Southwestern charm with natural beauty, offering gorgeous scenic trails and cultural festivals throughout the year. You'll love visiting local art galleries and museums, shopping downtown or at Las Cruces Farmers & Crafts Market, or catching performances at the Rio Grande Theatre.

You'll find multiple top-quality hospitals, specialists, and clinics for your health care needs.

Average rent: $923

Average home value: $298,950

With more than 300 days of sunshine a year, the dry, desert climate may help improve allergy symptoms. Outdoor enthusiasts of all ages love Sierra Vista, with its nearby caves, canyons, and nature preserves.

Birdwatching and hiking, anyone? Visiting the Henry F. Hauser Museum and Fort Huachuca might be more your style, or maybe some fantastic stargazing.

With major retailers and excellent health care facilities, Sierra Vista offers convenience, a variety of activities, and a serene desert experience.

Average rent: $901

Average home value: $411,995

Relax in cool temperatures and let the salty ocean air blow away the pollen. Eureka is known for its beautifully preserved Victorian architecture and historic waterfront district, filled with galleries, coffee shops, and bookstores.

Nearby redwood forests and Samoa Beach offer peaceful walking trails and ocean views, and — good news! Redwood pollen isn't a common allergy trigger.

St. Joseph Hospital provides good health care services, including allergists, and the city hosts regular community events and farmers markets.

Average rent: $804

Average home value: $324,103

Situated along the southern Oregon coast, Coos Bay enjoys a marine climate with cool ocean breezes, which is often beneficial for people sensitive to pollen or dry air. Residents enjoy nearby Shore Acres State Park for stunning ocean views and the fish market on the boardwalk. The town also boasts a charming historic downtown area featuring shops, an art museum, and plentiful dining options.

You'll find solid health care and allergists in Coos Bay without the hustle of a big city.

Average rent: $580

Average home value: $502,482

This lovely town in southern Maine has cold, snowy winters and fresh sea air that helps minimize pollen. It's warm in summer, but you'll find plenty of things to do year-round.

Seven miles of beach, the Old Orchard Beach Pier with shops and restaurants, food festivals and art events, and much more. Portland, Maine, is just 25 minutes away, and public transportation is available, including Amtrak.

Health care needs are covered by facilities in nearby Biddeford and Saco.

Living with allergies can be tough, but the right climate can make a big difference. And if you're looking for the perfect location to enjoy your retirement with less spent on medication, one of these cities might work for you.

Did you know that dust mites can't survive in environments with less than 50% humidity? They can't drink water, so they have to absorb it from the air. That's why living in an arid or semi-arid town could help reduce dust allergy symptoms.

Whether you're just getting started on your retirement plan or it's right around the corner, your lungs (and your wallet) may be grateful.