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9 Quaint Southern Cities Where You Can Retire on $900 a Month (Or Less)

Live simply, comfortably, and surprisingly well on a tiny budget.

By Josh Koebert , Edited by Calista Headrick

Updated June 17, 2026

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One of the best money moves for seniors is choosing a place where monthly expenses are well below budget. Doing so leaves room for extra income, money that high housing costs, taxes, and everyday living expenses in pricier areas would otherwise eat up.

While a $900 monthly rent may sound like a statistic from years past, according to our FinanceBuzz study, there are still cities that keep that dream alive. This article uncovers the quaint Southern towns that fit the profile.

What makes these Southern spots appealing, and are they really so affordable? Our intel says yes.

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Gadsden, Alabama

Median monthly rent: $834

55 miles outside of Birmingham and Chattanooga, you'll find Gadsden, population 33,000, on the banks of the Coosa River. Locals enjoy hiking, cycling, fishing, and other outdoor activities. The downtown has unique mom-and-pop shops and restaurants, as well as historic architecture.

The overall cost of living is 15% below the national average, spearheaded by housing costs that are 42% lower.

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Owensboro, Kentucky

Median monthly rent: $853

You'll find the Bluegrass Capital of the World on the Ohio River, home to over 60,000 souls. Equally beloved here are barbecue, Kentucky bourbon culture, and sports of all stripes. RiverPark Center is a hub for live music and community festivals.

Older adults can take lifelong learning classes at Kentucky Wesleyan College. The cost of living is 18% under the national average.

Jonesboro, Arkansas

jonesborough with beautiful homes during day

Median monthly rent: $870

Home to Arkansas State University and over 80,000 residents, Jonesboro is growing and proud of it. With two hospitals, health care is convenient, and the drive to Memphis only takes an hour. Find outdoor recreation at Craighead Forest Park, and an artsy vibe that the locals appreciate downtown.

The cost of living is 16% below the national average, another point of pride for the city.

Morristown, Tennessee

Median monthly rent: $876

Morristown hopes you associate it with outdoor recreation like biking, boating, and especially disc golf. The slower pace of life is welcoming for retirees, who will find a warm community of peers here. Still, the downtown area, with its famous SkyMart walkway, is thriving.

With a population of 33,000, the cost of living in Morristown is 11% below the national average.

Florence, Alabama

Median monthly rent: $877

The largest city in the Shoals region of Alabama, Florence is home to over 42,000 souls. The University of Northern Alabama lends it a funky vibe (USA Today called it the number one small college town) and welcomes older adults at its Institute for Learning in Retirement.

The cost of living is 17% under the national average, with notably lower housing, health care, and transportation costs.

Muscle Shoals, Alabama

Median monthly rent: $877

Like its neighbor city, Florence, Muscle Shoals (population 17,000) is known for its rich musical culture, with ample recording studios, historic sites, and live performances. Its senior living center creates community with fun activities, daily meals, and outreach programs. Walking on the riverfront is a must.

The cost of living here is comparable to Florence, though housing costs are slightly lower.

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Dothan, Alabama

Median monthly rent: $897

Just north of the Florida state line, 71,000 folks call this top retirement city their own. The cost of living is 15% below the national average, where health care has been ranked as accessible and affordable. Peanuts are king here, honored at the famous Annual Peanut Festival.

Golfers, foodies, and outdoor enthusiasts will all find something to enjoy in this progressive enclave.

Decatur, Alabama

Median monthly rent: $899

Decatur is located on the Tennessee River (and Wheeler Lake), about 30 minutes from Huntsville. Nearby hospitals are accessible for the city's 58,000 residents, as are mom-and-pop restaurants and bars. Point Mallard Golf Courses promises 18 holes of play, and Bank Street promises shopping.

The cost of living is 16% under the national average, notably due to low housing and health care costs.

Alexandria, Louisiana

Median monthly rent: $899

Steeped in African, Spanish, and French culture in Central Louisiana, Alexandria has its own authentic Mardi Gras spirit. Outdoor aficionados will enjoy the Red River and its many activities, including boat racing. A small-town vibe pervades the city of 44,000 souls, and golf courses are nearby.

The cost of living is 8% below the national average, largely due to housing costs.

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Bottom line

It's common to feel overwhelmed when planning for retirement, especially if you're relying primarily on Social Security or another fixed income. The good news? These quaint Southern cities have housing costs well below the national average, which could give your retirement budget some good breathing room.

On top of that, many Southern states are known for their tax-friendly policies, giving retirees an added financial edge. Pair affordable living with a thoughtful spending plan, and retirement can be both manageable and genuinely enjoyable.

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