7 Waterfront Towns Where You Can Actually Live on Nothing but Social Security

Retiring in a waterfront town might seem out of reach, but you don't need a fortune to make it happen. In fact, with the right retirement plan, you can make it happen, even if you're relying solely on Social Security.

If you're looking for ocean views, river walks, or lakefront sunsets, these seven hidden gems offer the lifestyle you want for your retirement years and no financial stress.

Editor's note: Average rent prices are from Apartments.com, and housing costs are from Zillow.com (unless otherwise noted).

Average rent: $996

Average home value: $376,607

The village of Twin Lakes is built around two large lakes, where swimming, boating, and fishing are popular, and though it's small, the village hosts numerous summer concerts and community events. You can enjoy easy hiking and biking trails, as well as interesting day trips to nearby towns. For big city adventures, Milwaukee and Chicago are only about an hour away.

You can make friends at the senior club and rest easy with health care in town and nearby Burlington or Lake Geneva.

Average rent: $932

Average home value: $633,322

Stony Point is located just 25 miles north of New York City along the Hudson River. Visit the historic lighthouse, walk riverfront parks, or check out nearby Bear Mountain State Park. Senior activities are available, and general health care is in town, with comprehensive care a short drive away. You get nature, history, and city access without the big-city costs.

Average rent: $920 (Zillow)

Average home value: $209,865

You'll never tire of the turquoise waters and sandstone cliffs of Munising, the gateway to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Here, you can enjoy boat tours, hike waterfall trails, and take in the scenery at the beaches. Or relax at a coffee shop downtown and stroll over to the Binsfield Bayshore Park and Marina to enjoy the view of Lake Superior. Best of all, you might catch a glimpse of the northern lights.

Munising Memorial Hospital provides local health care, and the cost of living is 17% below the U.S. average.

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Average rent: $774

Average home value: $221,504

Set on the Tennessee River and known as "the River City," Decatur offers beautiful city parks and several historical downtown districts. You can kayak, visit the Wheeler Wildlife Refuge, or investigate the Cook Museum of Natural Science.

Health care includes several hospitals, numerous practitioners, and programs for older adults. It's peaceful, affordable, with the cost of living at 16% below the national average, and full of natural beauty.

Average rent: $725

Average home value: $133,368

Grenada Lake is the main attraction in Grenada and is known as an "inland paradise." It's perfect for fishing, birding, and lakeside picnics or relaxing at a beach. The local golf courses may be more to your liking, and Downtown Square has lovely shops, cafes, and regular events. The cost of living is 22% lower than average, which could make your budget more flexible.

Grenada's senior center hosts fitness and crafts, and local medical care is available at UMMC Grenada.

Average rent: $724

Average home value: $455,938

Port Angeles is a small city on the Olympic Peninsula with fantastic views of snow-covered Olympic Mountains and, in the other direction, the misty deepwater harbor. Amble around the eclectic downtown, take the ferry to Victoria, British Columbia, for afternoon tea, or tour Olympic National Park and the temperate rainforests.

The senior center offers classes and activities, and the Olympic Medical Center provides excellent local care. A big plus is that it's 13% less expensive than Washington in general.

Average rent: $565

Average home value: $331,953

This charming town is nearly surrounded by the Lake of the Ozarks and the Osage River. You can fish, kayak, or play golf on numerous courses. Discover boutiques at the Bagnell Dam Strip or enjoy a picnic in nearby Ha Ha Tonka State Park. Or take a short drive over to Seven Springs Winery for a Murder Mystery Dinner.

The local senior center offers social activities, and Lake Regional Clinic is in town, with the hospital just minutes away. The cost of living is around 11% lower than average, and lake views are free.

A big budget doesn't always equal a better retirement. In fact, studies show that once your basic needs are met, higher income has little impact on overall happiness.

Choosing the right location is key to achieving a stress-free retirement. Whether you prefer a quiet coastal town or a lakefront community with plenty of activities, these waterfront spots let you enjoy the best of both worlds: peaceful living and financial peace of mind.