13 Quaint Southern Cities Where You Can Retire on $1,850 a Month (Or Less)

Retirement does not have to mean choosing between charm and affordability. Many people assume that living in a picturesque Southern town comes with a high price tag, but that is not always the case. Across the South, there are still welcoming, slower-paced cities that allow you to stretch your retirement dollars further while offering historic character, friendly neighbors, and an easygoing lifestyle.

For retirees and pre-retirees living on Social Security, a pension, or carefully planned savings, keeping monthly costs around $1,850 may make all the difference. These cities prove that you could enjoy porch sitting weather, walkable downtowns, and a strong sense of community without financial stress.

Below, we take a closer look at 13 quaint Southern cities where retirees could live on $1,850 a month or less, including the key affordability factors that make each one a smart place to consider.

Editor's note: Unless otherwise noted, all data listed below on housing costs and monthly expenses comes from Realtor.com, with broader affordability insights sourced from a FinanceBuzz study.

Median monthly housing costs: $1,330

Best known for its legendary music scene, Muscle Shoals offers retirees a relaxed pace and serious cultural cred. Affordable housing keeps monthly costs low, while the Tennessee River provides scenic views and easy access to boating and walking trails. Local museums, live music, and nearby Florence add plenty to do without big-city prices.

Median monthly housing costs: $1,619

Set in the Shenandoah Valley, Harrisonburg combines small-city charm with mountain scenery. Housing remains relatively affordable in Virginia, and daily expenses stay reasonable. Retirees enjoy farmers markets, local breweries, and quick access to Shenandoah National Park, making it ideal for nature lovers who still want a lively downtown.

Median monthly housing costs: $1,662

Brunswick delivers coastal Southern charm without the high price tag of nearby resort towns. Housing costs stay manageable, especially compared to barrier islands. Retirees could stroll historic streets, enjoy fresh seafood, or take short drives to St. Simons Island beaches for relaxed, low-cost coastal living.

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Median monthly housing costs: $1,407

This historic spa town makes everyday life feel like a getaway. Retirees are able to soak in the famous Bathhouse Row, hike scenic trails in Hot Springs National Park, or spend afternoons by Lake Hamilton. Housing costs stay well below the national average, making this an affordable place to slow down.

Median monthly housing costs: $1,637

Set among rivers and rolling hills, Rome offers a peaceful lifestyle. Locals enjoy walking the Rome Riverside, visiting the Berry College campus, or exploring small downtown shops. Housing remains reasonably priced, and the city's slower pace appeals to retirees seeking quiet days with gentle outdoor activity.

Median monthly housing costs: $1,348

Florence combines affordability with culture. You would be able to attend performances at the Florence Little Theatre, browse the Florence County Museum, or dine along West Evans Street downtown. Low housing costs help stretch retirement income while still offering arts, dining, and community events.

Median monthly housing costs: $1,585

This small Eastern North Carolina city offers a friendly, community-focused atmosphere. Housing remains affordable, and everyday costs stay reasonable. Retirees enjoy local parks, cultural events, and proximity to rivers and coastal day trips, all without the congestion or costs of larger metro areas.

Median monthly housing costs: $1,746

Fairhope's charm is hard to miss. Days often include walking the Fairhope Pier, browsing downtown art galleries, or relaxing at Fairhope Municipal Park overlooking Mobile Bay. While slightly pricier than others, the walkability, scenery, and strong community feel still fit within an $1,850 monthly budget.

Median monthly housing costs: $1,740

Gainesville offers a college town energy balanced by affordability. Housing costs remain reasonable for Florida, and there is no state income tax. The city offers the chance to enjoy botanical gardens, cultural performances, and nearby springs, plus access to excellent health care thanks to the university's presence.

Median monthly housing costs: $1,439

Bowling Green offers simple pleasures and low costs. You could visit the National Corvette Museum, explore Lost River Cave, or enjoy scenic drives through the Kentucky countryside. Affordable housing and everyday expenses make this an easygoing choice for budget-minded retirees.

Median monthly housing costs: $1,504

Hattiesburg surprises many retirees with its creativity. Popular pastimes include visiting the African American Military History Museum, strolling Longleaf Trace, or attending live music downtown. Low housing prices and a friendly local scene make it an appealing, affordable Southern hub.

Median monthly housing costs: $1,537

Staunton's historic downtown is ideal for retirees who love culture. Locals frequent the American Shakespeare Center, browse antique shops, and dine along Beverley Street. Housing costs stay reasonable, and the town's walkability encourages an active, social retirement lifestyle.

Median monthly housing costs: $1,356

Albany stands out for its low housing costs and traditional Southern feel. Retirees benefit from affordable neighborhoods, warm weather, and access to parks along the Flint River. Local museums, civic events, and a tight-knit community create a comfortable environment for budget-conscious retirement living.

Retiring in a quaint Southern city is still within reach, even on a monthly budget of $1,850 or less. As these cities show, smaller communities often deliver the best balance of affordability, charm, and everyday livability, especially for retirees who value pace, connection, and comfort over size and flash.

One important detail to keep in mind is that many of these areas also benefit from lower property taxes and reduced transportation costs, which could quietly allow you to keep more cash in your wallet. For anyone planning the next chapter, focusing on the total cost of living, not just housing, could make the difference between stretching your budget and truly enjoying retirement.