News & Trending Mortgage & Loans News

12 Quaint Southern Cities Where You Can Retire on $1,150 a Month (Or Less)

Affordable Southern towns offering charm, comfort, and cheap rent.

By Sarah Sharkey

Edited by Calista Headrick

Updated Dec. 29, 2025

As you head toward retirement, finding the right place to call home could help you stretch out your savings. Some Southern states see an influx of visitors seeking warmer weather each winter. But many snowbirds decide to put down roots in more affordable slices of paradise.

Here are several Southern cities with homes or apartments for rent for less than $1,150 per month, according to data from a recent FinanceBuzz study, which could help you avoid wasting money on higher rent in retirement.

Get a protection plan on all your appliances

Did you know if your air conditioner stops working, your homeowner’s insurance won’t cover it? Same with plumbing, electrical issues, appliances, and more.

Whether or not you’re a new homeowner, a home warranty from Choice Home Warranty could pick up the slack where insurance falls short and protect you against surprise expenses. If a covered system in your home breaks, you can call their hotline 24/7 to get it repaired.

For a limited time, you can get your first month free with a Single Payment home warranty plan.

Get a free quote

Lake Charles, Louisiana

Median rent: $977

In the southwestern edge of the Bayou State, Lake Charles offers another affordable spot to call home. Beyond outstanding culinary options, Lake Charles is home to several festivals throughout the year, including a big Mardi Gras celebration. Additionally, you'll find ample access to the outdoors, specifically through kayaking or boating around the area's rivers and bayous.

Who really has the cheapest auto insurance in your area? Check your zip code here.

Tuscaloosa, Alabama

Median rent: $1,042

As home to the University of Alabama, this college town offers a strong array of cultural activities, including college sports, museums, and performing arts events. You'll also find walkable areas near the Black Warrior River, which could provide a fun place for an afternoon stroll through the quaint downtown.

In addition to relatively affordable rentals, Tuscaloosa offers easy access to the outdoors.

Rocky Mount, North Carolina

Median rent: $1,000

In Eastern North Carolina, around an hour outside of Raleigh, Rocky Mount offers retirees an affordable, safe haven. The city offers plenty of outdoor opportunities, including popular hiking trails. It is also home to a Children's Museum and Science Center, which could provide some entertainment, especially with the grandkids. Plus, you'll find indoor pickleball on weekdays at the city's event space.

Bowling Green, Kentucky

Median rent: $1,024

Bowling Green sits in the beautiful Bluegrass State, approximately 30 minutes away from Mammoth Cave National Park. Beyond the natural beauty and endless volunteer opportunities that come with a national park, Bowling Green's affordable price point could make it a great fit.

When you factor in the walkable downtown that features a host of highly-rated restaurants, many retirees could find a cozy home in Bowling Green.

Johnson City, Tennessee

An open grassy park called "King Commons"

Median rent: $993

In the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, Johnson City seems like an oasis of outdoor activities and arts. When you venture downtown, you'll likely find plenty of delicious food options and interesting cultural activities, like the local storytelling center and numerous art galleries.

When you are ready to step into a more peaceful environment, you can choose from a mix of outdoor sports, like hiking, fishing, and even whitewater rafting.

Florence, South Carolina

Median rent: $1,023

Florence is conveniently located near both I-95 and I-20, making it a great place to call home without giving up easy access to major highways and a regional airport. The city boasts a strong medical infrastructure on top of a suite of local museums and a vibrant downtown. But, notably, the city's atmosphere remains peaceful, making it an ideal spot for retirees who want the best of both worlds.

Grow Your $$: 11 brilliant ways to build wealth after 40

Lawton, Oklahoma

Median rent: $1,001

Retirees who want to head West might find an attractive option in Lawton, Oklahoma. It's in the southwestern part of the state, around a three-hour drive from Dallas, and it's also an affordable retirement spot. You'll also find plenty of outdoor access in the nearby Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge. Additionally, the town also offers many museums, primarily focused on the region's natural history.

Cleveland, Tennessee

Median rent: $1,034

Cleveland offers small-town living near the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. The close access to a beautiful mountain range puts outdoor activities like hiking and fishing within reach. When compared to nearby Chattanooga, the relatively low costs of living in Cleveland make it a compelling option for retirees seeking a quieter pace.

Hot Springs, Arkansas

Median rent: $1,025

Relatively cheap rent isn't the only thing that Hot Springs has to offer. For starters, residents have easy access to the nearby Hot Springs National Park. Back in town, you'll find a surprisingly robust food and arts culture, complete with several festivals each year.

With below average living expenses, you might have enough room in your budget to make the most of the amenities this city has to offer.

Get instant access to hundreds of discounts

Over 50? Join AARP today— because if you’re not a member you could be missing out on huge perks like discounts on travel, dining, and even prescriptions.

Get 25% off membership — just $15 for your first year with auto-renewal — and a free gift if you join today.

Become an AARP member now

Shreveport, Louisiana

Median rent: $990

In the Northwest corner of the state, Shreveport gives residents an opportunity to jump headfirst into the culture of the Bayou State. Not only will you find affordable housing options, but that might free up some room in the budget to try some of the state's best food. Plus, a nearby casino draws in a range of shows, and Mardi Gras is always on the calendar.

Greenville, North Carolina

beautiful Greenville downtown Falls park

Median rent: $986

Home to East Carolina University, the city offers arts, lectures, and sporting events. Downtown Greenville is home to over 200 restaurants, many of which are highly rated. With living expenses relatively low and residents consistently finding relatively low prices on gasoline, you might find the breathing room your budget needs.

Thibodaux, Louisiana

Median rent: $980

Thibodaux sits just over an hour away from New Orleans, with beautiful cypress swamps to explore in between. The town is home to Nicholls State University, which puts several cultural events on the calendar for residents each year. Retirees can sit back and enjoy the slower pace of life that Thibodaux has to offer.

Supercharge your investments: See what could happen if you add fine art to your investment portfolio

Bottom line

retired couple walking in city on a winter day

Retiring to a beautiful city in the South could help you make the most of your retirement nest egg. But before you pick out a new place to call home, consider making a visit to scope out a few potential options.

And if you are hoping to sell your current home before you move, consider making these smart money moves for homeowners to make the most of your equity.

More from FinanceBuzz:

Help Protect Your Savings From Stock Market Volatility With Gold

American Hartford Gold Benefits

American Hartford Gold helps individuals protect their retirement by rolling over IRAs and 401(k)s into physical gold.
Includes FREE IRA rollover and storage for up to 3 years.
Get up to $20,000 in free silver on qualifying purchases.

Download your guide for free