9 Charming Southern Cities to Retire on a Monthly Budget of $1,900 or Less

Retiring in a charming Southern city doesn't have to break the bank. You can enjoy a scenic river, rugged mountains, or a historic downtown area with some sweet tea and Southern hospitality, all while staying on budget. The trick is to choose a small city with the amenities that matter most to you.

As for that budget, the Social Security Administration reports the average monthly benefit is about $2,000, as of August 2025, which makes a $1,900 budget realistic if you plan carefully and avoid common retirement mistakes. With a spouse's benefits or extra savings, you'll have even more flexibility.

Here are nine Southern cities to consider if you're looking for comfort, charm, and community on a modest retirement income.

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

Average rent: $1,003

Average home value: $160,259

As West Virginia's capital, Charleston offers small-city charm with big-city amenities. Stroll along the beautiful Kanawha River, browse the fresh produce at the Capitol Market, or enjoy live performances at the Clay Center for the Arts & Sciences. 

The nearby trails at Kanawha State Forest and riverfront parks keep you connected to nature, while community centers add to the social side. And with CAMC General Hospital right in town, you'll also have reliable health care nearby.

Average rent: $929

Average home value: $198,451

As the "Peanut Capital of the World," Dothan welcomes you with Southern hospitality. Here, you can explore colorful downtown murals, visit the Wiregrass Museum of Art, or have fun at the National Peanut Festival. 

Golf courses and nearby parks and trails make it easy to enjoy the outdoors year-round. You can also count on local health care services while enjoying the lower cost of living in this charming Alabama city.

Average rent: $902

Average home value: $180,521

Paducah is known for its rich history and the charm of the Ohio Riverfront. Pay a visit to the National Quilt Museum or browse art galleries in the beautifully restored downtown. 

You'll also have easy access to Kentucky Lake and Land Between the Lakes for outdoor activities, including boating and fishing. Paducah's award-winning medical care serves the area, so you can enjoy everything the town has to offer.

Average rent: $873

Average home value: $195,417

Texarkana straddles the Texas–Arkansas state line and is just 40 minutes from Louisiana, which adds to the unique mix of small-city charm. Catch a show at the Perot Theatre or visit the Museum of Regional History. Farmers markets and live music keep things lively, and you can enjoy the outdoors at Wright Patman Lake.

Local health care services and the Collins Senior Center add extra appeal.

Average rent: $851

Average home value: $313,878

Halfway between Nashville and Knoxville, Cookeville is both an exciting and relaxing destination. Visit the gorgeous waterfalls and trails in nearby state parks. 

Another time, stroll the WestSide district and browse the shops, then head over to Dogwood Park for evening musical events. Tennessee Tech University raises the energy, while Cookeville Regional Medical Center ensures that health care is never far away. You'll find plenty of ways to stay active and connected in Cookeville.

Average rent: $790

Average home value: $245,450

If relaxing in thermal waters is your idea of blissful retirement, Hot Springs might be in your future. You can soak in the historic bathhouses, explore Hot Springs National Park, or wander through the lively downtown filled with shops and galleries. Outdoor fun abounds on Lake Hamilton and in the Ouachita Mountains, and with comprehensive medical care right in town, you can enjoy the area's history and modern charm.

Average rent: $826

Average home value: $280,965

The majestic Blue Ridge Highlands surround Abingdon, where you'll discover small-town beauty and cultural flair. You can browse artisan shops one day, catch a show at the Barter Theatre the next, and dine at the historic Martha Washington Inn anytime. Bike or walk the Virginia Creeper Trail, and visit the Meditation Labyrinth to relax.

In-town health and wellness services make it easy to settle in and enjoy natural serenity and peace of mind.

Average rent: $742

Average home value: $291,568

A short drive to Fort Myers and Sanibel Island, Lehigh Acres means warm sunshine and palm trees. Tee off at a golf course or go fishing in local canals. Head to the Gulf for boating and beach days, or hike trails and enjoy fantastic birdwatching. 

Then grab a bite at one of the many diverse restaurants and food trucks. Here, you can count on local health care services while enjoying Southwest Florida's subtropical lifestyle and staying on budget.

Average rent: $614

Average home value: $145,746

The Lumber River adds natural beauty to Lumberton's small-town appeal. Kayaking and fishing are favorites among many residents, while others prefer strolling the historic downtown or enjoying local festivals. The Robeson County History Museum and nearby parks are also popular. And if you enjoy pick-your-own strawberries and blueberries, Lumberton might be for you.

With local health care, outdoor living, and a friendly community spirit, this town is an attractive choice.

Retiring in the South on a budget doesn't mean giving up quality of life for affordability. These cities offer a comfortable lifestyle while keeping costs manageable so you can enjoy a low-stress retirement.

In fact, many Southern states have an overall cost of living that's well below the national average. Of course, big cities are generally more expensive than smaller cities and towns. But the more you can save, the better, so you can stretch your retirement dollars while still enjoying Southern charm.