9 Small Towns Realtors Predict Will Soon Be Retirement Hot Spots

As you build out a retirement plan, deciding where to live in your golden years is one of the most important decisions you can make. 

While some are looking for tried-and-true retirement favorites, many retirees are looking outside the traditional haunts. This guide explores some of the small towns real estate agents predict will soon be retirement hot spots.

Editor's note: All data comes from Bestplaces.net, unless otherwise stated.

Median home price: $371,700

Average rent price: $1,290

Minimum income necessary for a comfortable life as a single person: $45,600

"Hendersonville is an affordable alternative to Asheville that attracts many retirees with great views but without heavy traffic and high prices," says Cameron Walker, real estate agent and manager of the agent network at Clever Real Estate.

For retirees seeking a slower pace and plenty of access to nature, Hendersonville could be a good fit.

Median home price: $231,700

Average rent price: $850

Minimum income necessary for a comfortable life as a single person: $26,000

The state of Arkansas doesn't impose state income taxes on Social Security benefits. Additionally, property taxes are some of the lowest in the country, all of which can help retirees stretch out their resources.

"This place offers access to a national park with thermal baths, historic Bathhouse Row, and hiking routes with the cost of living being less than $180,000 for a median home price," says Walker. Current housing data puts the median home price higher, at $231,700.

Median home price: $301,200

Average rent price: $1,100

Minimum income necessary for a comfortable life as a single person: $37,200

Like other parts of the Midwest, Indiana offers residents a relatively affordable place to call home. For many retirees on a budget, that makes places like Greenwood a worthwhile option to consider.

"Greenwood is located near Indianapolis, and the combination of affordability, revitalization of the downtown, and accessibility of the top healthcare facilities, big city amenities, and international airports is what attracts many buyers," says Walker.

Median home price: $200,900

Average rent price: $990

Minimum income necessary for a comfortable life as a single person: $30,400

Midland is "a low-cost river city with low housing costs, excellent doctor-resident ratios, and low crime rates," says Matt Brown, a Naples Real Estate Agent and Broker Associate at William Raveis.

For retirees seeking a slower pace with a chance to experience all four seasons, Midland could be the perfect fit. It offers plenty of entertainment options, with a quirky downtown and its own minor league baseball team.

Median home price: $403,300

Average rent price: $1,050

Minimum income necessary for a comfortable life as a single person: $34,400

Bentonville is a growing town transformed by modern investments, according to Brown. In recent years, the town has seen the development of extensive biking trails and several art museums. There's a lot to like about this small town.

And it's worth noting that Arkansas doesn't impose state income taxes on Social Security benefits, which might give a boost to your retirement income.

Median home price: $141,200

Average rent price: $960

Minimum income necessary for a comfortable life as a single person: $33,200

For retirees looking for a town that's practically dripping in Southern charm, Macon could be a great fit. You'll find sprawling live oaks and a quaint downtown full of a growing food scene.

"Many retirees are discovering they can enjoy a similar Southern climate while dramatically reducing their housing costs," says Daniel Amodeo, President of Amo Realty, when speaking of retirees relocating to the area from Florida. "Warm summers, mild winters, friendly communities, lower traffic, and a slower pace of life continue to make Central Georgia an appealing option."

Median home price: $259,100

Average rent price: $1,110

Minimum income necessary for a comfortable life as a single person: $37,600

Huntsville has long flown under the radar. But in recent years, retirees seeking warmer weather at an affordable price point are beginning to take notice.

"It has a booming tech and aerospace industry, but it still offers a low cost of living and some tax benefits for retirees," says Aaron Bae, mortgage and real estate broker at LA Mortgage & Real Estate.

With no state income tax on Social Security benefits, retirees can find a lot to like about living in the Yellowhammer State.

Median home price: $681,500

Average rent price: $1,410

Minimum income necessary for a comfortable life as a single person: $42,800

"It's a historic coastal town with a walkable downtown and strong healthcare, but it's also within three hours of four major East Coast cities, which is a huge draw," says Bae.

For retirees looking to stay in the mid-Atlantic area without the sky-high living costs common in the area, Lewes could be a great fit.

Median home price: $672,200

Average rent price: $1,880

Minimum income necessary for a comfortable life as a single person: $57,200

Although this is a relatively expensive area, many retirees have found it has everything they are looking for. "It might not be as affordable as some other spots, but for retirees from expensive California markets, it offers real value," says Bae.

"It made a recent list of top retirement towns for its charm and community, plus it gets that great Central Coast weather," continues Bae.

Picking an affordable retirement destination can help stretch your retirement dollars further. Of course, that's not the only reason to pick a place you plan to live in for decades. 

If possible, spend a few weeks in a potential town before moving your life there.

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment advice.