15 Charming Southern Cities to Retire on a Monthly Budget of $2,000 or Less

One of the best ways to maximize your retirement savings is to live in a place with a low cost of living across the board. However, you don’t want to sacrifice the finer things in life, such as good weather, friendly communities, and plenty of fun activities to enjoy.

Fortunately, there are plenty of Southern cities that check all of these boxes, each with their own unique flavor. To that end, let’s head south of the Mason-Dixon line to see where you can enjoy your retirement on $2,000 or less per month.

Average home price: $169,506

Augusta stands out for its world-class golf courses, excellent healthcare (with a new hospital on the way), and a warm community bubbling with classic Southern hospitality, which are all perfect for retirees.

The cost of living in Augusta is 16% lower than the national average in all categories except for utilities, at only 1% higher. The average rent is $1,073 a month.

Average home price: $282,241

The charm of Crystal River lies in its abundant outdoor activities, proximity to stunning springs and sea, and small town vibe. Nearby cities have all you need should you venture out of nature for a more robust healthcare system or to see the sights with your kids and grandkids when they visit.

Average rent is only $599 a month, and groceries, utilities, healthcare, and transportation are below the national average, which is important when you’re living on a fixed income.

Average home price: $210,569

Just outside of Huntsville on the beautiful Tennessee River you’ll find this affordable gem with a quaint downtown and historic architecture. Golf courses are plentiful and the senior center serves regular meals.

Transportation and housing are notably below the national average, with an average rent of $747.

Average home price: $176,366

Healthcare, housing, and grocery costs are low in Fort Smith, which sits on the banks of the Arkansas River. The average rent is $706 and utilities are some of the lowest in the nation.

The bustling downtown has abundant activities and places to dine and shop, with a vibe somewhere between the Wild West and traditional South, which can appeal to retirees looking for a sense of adventure.

Average home price: $254,926

If you want to live near Charlotte and Raleigh without their prices, Greensboro is a great bet. Mountains and beaches are both just a car ride away should you venture out of this city with strong community ties.

The average rent is $1,123, and transportation and healthcare costs are below the national average.

Average home price: $184,216

Steeped in Cajun flavor, affordable Lake Charles has abundant senior-friendly outdoor activities, award-winning golf courses, and cultural activities to keep you stimulated — the small city has over 75 festivals a year.

The average rent is $921, with notably low grocery and utility costs.

Average home price: $208,221

With an average rent of $936 per month and a cost of living 5% below the national average across the board, retirement in this historic capital city is within reach.

Little Rock is home to excellent healthcare facilities, abundant community events, outdoor activities, and championship golf courses, all of which make it easy to call this town home during your golden years.

Average home price: $142,488

Housing, utilities, healthcare, and transportation are all 11-17% lower than the national average in Memphis, where the average rent is $1,021.

Live music on Beale Street, an abundance of senior centers, and excellent healthcare await in this city on the banks of the mighty Mississippi.

Average home price: $196,979

Live your country-western best life in farm-oriented OKC, also called The Big Friendly. Yes, even a big capital city can hold onto a super small town spirit, thanks to the culture of welcoming.

With the exception of healthcare, all costs are lower than the national average, and the average rent is $918. If you’re a retiree in excellent health, this may be a great place to lay down roots on a budget.

Average home price: $255,837

Beach aficionados, this one’s for you: Pensacola is a gem in the Florida panhandle with pristine gulf views. Enjoy pickleball, golf, or just strolling on the town boardwalk.

And yes, you can afford it! Housing, food, and healthcare are comfortably under the national average, and the rent hovers around $1,329.

Average home price: $105,799

Housing costs are a whopping 46% below the national average in the Cajun capital of Texas, with an average rent of $1,105.

Enjoy going to the beach, dining on seafood, and taking in the morning sunrise. If healthcare is a top priority in your retirement, you’ll be happy to know that the regional networks are well rated.

Average home price: $259,683

Utilities may cost a bit more in Roanoke, but all other costs sit below the national average, especially healthcare and housing, where the typical rent is $1,077.

The bustling downtown hosts a farmer’s market on Saturdays, allowing you to connect with your community. Green spaces and outdoor activities are also abundant and crime is low, making this a nice place to spend your retirement.

Average home price: $130,479

The average rent is only $859 in this northern Louisiana city, where housing and utilities are well below the national average.

Festivals and cultural events are big here, but it’s the true Southern hospitality that’s the main draw. And retirees who like the hustle and bustle of a more urban center will also be happy, since there are multiple big cities located within driving distance.

Average home price: $271,548

Florida’s famed Space Coast is home to Titusville, where you can enjoy beaches, museums, and outdoor activities like bioluminescent kayaking. Not only that, rocket launches happen pretty regularly, which will help inspire wonder (and maybe even impress the visiting grandkids).

Average rent is $1,170 in this city that’s often ranked as one of the most affordable in Florida, arguably the most popular state for retirees.

Average home price: $198,273

Transportation and housing costs are notably low in Tulsa, where the average rent is $883. It’s often ranked as an especially affordable city to put down roots.

Oklahoma is home to one of the biggest populations of retirees in the nation, where residents enjoy close-knit communities, outdoor activities, and cultural events.

In order to set yourself up for retirement, it’s crucial to live in a place that you can comfortably afford. For those who crave urban amenities without being priced out, these cities will welcome you with open arms.

Just be sure to dive in and research your destination of choice to make sure your cultural values align with the community. That way you can ensure a natural, comfortable fit in your new home.