11 Charming Midwest Cities Retirees Can Live on a Monthly Budget of $1,800 or Less

For many, a stress-free retirement may conjure images of peaceful mornings and a comfortable post-career life. However, retiring comfortably on a monthly budget of $1,800 or less may sound out of reach for some.

What if the secret isn't more money, but a better location? Often referred to as the Heartland, the Midwest offers four distinct seasons, plenty of outdoor activities, a low cost of living, and picturesque towns that are perfect for retirees with an adventurous spirit.

We compiled a list of 11 charming Midwest cities where you can cover essentials while still leaving room for hobbies and interests that make the golden years truly golden.

Editor's note: Unless otherwise noted, all data listed below on rent came from Apartments.com, housing costs were sourced from Zillow.com, and cost-of-living figures are from BestPlaces.net.

Average rent: $993

Average home value: $320,853

Located on the shores of Lake Superior, Marquette offers cascading waterfalls, miles of shoreline, and plenty of forests for outdoor enthusiasts. From September to March, there's even a chance to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights.

Not only is rent below $1,000 a month, but the cost of living is around 14% lower than the national average, making this town an affordable option for retirees.

Average rent: $704

Average home value: $235,749

Madison is a quaint river town situated on the banks of the Ohio River and surrounded by Clifty Falls State Park. Its claim to fame is that it's home to the nation's largest contiguous National Historic Landmark District.

Madison is a very affordable option for those seeking a Midwest town to call home. Rent is around $704 a month, and the cost of living is 23% lower than the national average.

Average rent: $986

Average home value: $325,307

Home to the University of Kansas, Lawrence is a college town with a lively intellectual and artistic scene. For retirees, this translates to a community that values lifelong learning with a tuition waiver. Downtown features plenty of antique shops, independent bookstores, and local restaurants.

Health care, groceries, transportation, and other necessities tend to cost around 7% less than the national average, allowing you to stretch your retirement dollars.

Average rent: $951

Average home value: $237,943

Athens, Ohio, is a small town of approximately 23,211 residents situated along the banks of the Hocking River. It offers a local farmers market, a century-old movie house, and plenty of outdoor trails for hiking and biking. Ohio University allows seniors to attend tuition-free with the Sixty Plus Program.

While rent is less than $1,000 a month, necessities like health care and groceries cost almost a fourth less than what you'd pay in other cities across the country.

Average rent: $1,031

Average home value: $294,315

Iowa City is a small town approximately 30 minutes from Cedar Rapids. As one of the nation's first UNESCO Cities of Literature and home to the University of Iowa, the city places a lot of emphasis on education and writing. The University offers 14 mini-courses (four, two-hour sessions) for $30.

The cost of living in Iowa City is approximately 10% lower than the national average, so you'll pay less for daily necessities and doctor bills than in other areas.

Average rent: $1,000

Average home value: $271,694

Situated where three rivers meet, La Crosse is a scenic city that offers plenty of activities for retirees. Riverside Park is a favorite place among locals for morning walks and birdwatching. Downtown also offers plenty of shops, restaurants, and art galleries.

Generally considered more affordable than other spots in the United States, La Crosse has a cost of living that's around 11% less.

Average rent: $639

Average home value: $311,662

Taking a stroll in downtown Galena is like stepping back in time, as 87% of the buildings are on the National Register of Historic Places. There's even a trolley. Located along the Mississippi River, Galena also has several parks nearby, like the Apple River Canyon State Park for hiking and fishing.

Along with low rental prices, Galena offers a cost of living that's around 17% lower than the national average and around 12% lower than the state average.

Average rent: $986

Average home value: $304,520

Decorah is well-known as a popular retirement town in Iowa. The picturesque downtown is home to museums, shops, and local eateries. Locals love Barbara Barnhart Van Peenen Memorial Park, the town's largest park, which is perfect for hiking, biking, and skiing in the winter.

Necessities in Decorah are around 15% cheaper than in other areas of the country. That, combined with low rent, makes Decorah an affordable place to live.

Average rent: $838

Average home value: $254,865

Commonly referred to as the Island City, much of Winona is situated on a sandbar between Lake Winona and the Mississippi River. Life centers around the water with places for fishing, hiking, and kayaking. The city also hosts several annual events, such as the Great River Shakespeare Festival and the Midwest Music Fest.

While the cost of living in Winona might be considered high by Minnesota standards, it's 18% lower than the national average, and rental costs are almost 50% less.

Average rent: $564

Average home value: $195,282

Valley City is known as one of the best small cities in North Dakota to live in, thanks to its affordable housing costs and community events. The city is home to the Highline Bridge, one of the longest single-track railroad bridges in the nation. There's also the North Country National Scenic Trail for biking and hiking.

Rent is extremely affordable, and the cost of living is 24% less than the national average, making hobbies and interests more accessible on a tight budget.

Average rent: $710

Average home value: $273,414

Located in the southeastern corner of South Dakota, Vermillion is home to the University of South Dakota, which offers short-term, on-credit classes to individuals aged 50 and older, as well as the National Music Museum. The Missouri River is just a few miles away, offering a variety of activities at the Lewis and Clark Recreation Area.

While the average home price is around $273,000, rent is just over $700, making housing very affordable for those on a budget. The cost of living is also 19% lower than the national average.

The Midwest offers numerous affordable living options for retirees seeking a scenic location and small-town charm. Each city offers something special, from outdoor activities to historic landmarks, coupled with a low cost of living and budget-friendly housing, so you can lower your financial stress.

This list serves as a starting point when choosing an affordable retirement option. It's also essential to consider health care options, proximity to loved ones, climate, and culture when selecting a place that suits your lifestyle and budget.