11 U.S. Cities Where $250K Buys a Dream Retirement Home

Moving into a dream retirement home for less than $250,000 might help you accomplish several goals. For starters, finding an affordable place to call home can help you stretch out your retirement savings. And, if you own a home somewhere else, moving might be a smart homeowner decision to help you unlock some of your equity to cover retirement expenses.

But it's also important to consider what else a city has to offer beyond affordability. Here are several cities with median home sale prices of $250,000 or less that will also appeal to retirees for other reasons.

Editor's note: Unless otherwise noted, all data listed below on housing costs from Zillow.

Average Home Price: $166,561

Macon's relatively low home prices can make it possible to find a dream home on a budget, especially if you enjoy classic homes. But affordable housing isn't all that Macon has to offer. It has a deep history and stands out as the hometown of legends like Otis Redding. You can soak in all the history in the revitalized downtown and the Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Site.

Residents can also access multiple hospitals, making health care easier to manage.

Average Home Price: $161,905

As the state capital, Charleston offers more amenities than many towns of its size, including arts venues and festivals. On the banks of the Kanawha River, you'll find a slower pace that gives you a chance to truly enjoy your dream home.

The city is also home to Charleston Area Medical Center, one of the largest hospital systems in the region.

Average Home Price: $241,402

Hot Springs acts as a gateway to Hot Springs National Park, which offers plenty of outdoor recreation activities for active retirees. In town, you'll find a growing arts scene that hosts several festivals each year and plenty of food options.

With relatively low costs, you could find room in your budget to enjoy the finer things in the city.

Average Home Price: $201,618

Florence rests on the banks of the Tennessee River, across from Muscle Shoals. Both towns have a reputation for a strong music scene, with many hits recorded at the local studios. As a resident, you'll enjoy this legacy in the form of seemingly endless live music venues.

Beyond the music scene, downtown offers plenty of dining options. Plus, you'll find easy access to the outdoors through nearby parks.

Average Home Price: $185,539

Paduch's median home prices sit well below $200,000, making it a great opportunity for retirees seeking an affordable place to purchase a home. That could leave some space in your budget for fun activities, like travel or hobbies.

As a UNESCO Creative City, Paducah is known for its thriving arts community that has made its home in the historic riverfront district. For anyone seeking to join an interesting community that's close to nature, Paducah might be the right spot.

Average Home Price: $199,558

Tucked into the southwestern corner of Louisiana, Lake Charles is an affordable place that still knows how to have fun. The food scene alone is a big draw, but the city also keeps things lively with festivals throughout the year. It even boasts one of the state's biggest Mardi Gras celebrations.

When you want to slow things down, the outdoors are ripe for exploration. You'll find kayaking and boating opportunities throughout the nearby rivers and bayous.

Average Home Price: $236,807

With a median home price below $240,000, Springfield offers strong value for buyers seeking a full-service city without big-city prices. In addition to affordable housing costs, residents have access to several medical centers.

Beyond those basics, Springfield offers dozens of attractions, including zoos, museums, and more. You'll also find easy access to nature with plenty of parks throughout town.

Average Home Price: $218,453

For retirees seeking a home in the Southwest, Alamogordo might fit the bill. The town sits near White Sands National Park, a truly out-of-this-world place to explore for anyone looking to get outside in retirement. In town, you'll find several medical centers and a small downtown.

With an average of 285 days of sunshine each year, it's a sunny place to spend your golden years.

Average Home Price: $235,458

Fort Wayne's relatively low median home prices make it a great option for retirees seeking a Midwestern city packed with urban amenities, including multiple hospitals. Beyond easy access to services, Fort Wayne offers a lively downtown with multiple museums and events calendar. Additionally, you'll find an extensive network of parks and trails throughout the city.

Average Home Price: $141,851

With a median home price south of $150,000, Alexandria offers some of the most affordable housing options on this list. The relatively low costs make it feasible to find a dream home on a budget.

The city offers a relaxing pace and plenty of parks to explore. Plus, the local farmers market and highly rated local restaurants make it an easy place to find great food.

Average Home Price: $204,815

Sidney offers residents a historic downtown, complete with a calendar filled with arts events. Outside of downtown, you'll find easy access to the outdoors, including a nearby nature reserve and a golf course.

With around 20,000 residents, this city offers small-town charm without lacking the amenities that might help make your retirement dreams come true.

Retiring to an affordable dream home can help you get ahead financially in retirement. When you lock in relatively low housing costs, that frees up space in your budget.

Before you pull up stakes and try out a new town, consider making a visit to confirm you like the ahead before your next home purchase.