12 Top Cities We Found in 2025 Where You Can Retire on Nothing but Social Security

There are a lot of moving parts to consider when you start planning for retirement, including choosing a location that fits your needs, especially if you're relying solely on Social Security.

At the very least, your future home has to have reasonable housing costs, but beyond housing affordability, you also want a city that feels enjoyable, comfortable, and worth spending your golden years in. With that in mind, we looked at all the retirement-destination stories the FinanceBuzz team published in 2025, and identified the top cities that offer a little something for everyone.

From beach life to historic small towns to mountain views, here are 12 fantastic U.S. cities where you might be able to retire on nothing but Social Security.

Editor's note: Median home prices are from Zillow and average rent from Apartments.com.

Median Home Price: $214,905

Average Rent: $1,200

Famous for its iconic beach and boardwalk, Atlantic City is our top pick for the coastal Northeast. Here you'll experience four seasons, with several major cities within driving distance. Retirees can enjoy outdoor activities in the summer and indoor activities, such as casino gaming, in the winter.

Median Home Price: $247,880

Average Rent: $1,224

Known for its blend of Southern hospitality and coastal energy, Brunswick is referred to as the Gateway to the Golden Isles. The artsy port city is proud of its historical architecture, seafood industry roots, and local festivals. A warm climate, small-town energy, good healthcare, and nearby golf courses attract retirees.

Median Home Price: $291,911

Average Rent: $1,250

Florida is a retirement mecca thanks to its warm climate, friendly tax laws, and high population of older adults. Gainesville remains on the more affordable side, with a college town vibe and several gorgeous natural springs nearby to explore. Gainesville also attracts equestrian aficionados and even has golfing nearby.

Median Home Price: $260,908

Average Rent: $1,142

With access to the breathtakingly beautiful Adirondack Park, Glens Falls is for mountain lovers who want all four seasons in their fullest expression. The city is enjoying a renaissance in both infrastructure and healthcare, and many older adults call it home. Still, Glens Falls remains affordable compared to the rest of the Adirondack Region.

Median Home Price: $415,550

Average Rent: $1,234

The median home price in Grand Junction is high for this list, but compared to Colorado's overall, it's low. The outdoors have mesas, mountains, and stunning locales for all manner of outdoor activities, from golf to skiing. Grand Junction also has over 30 vineyards for wine aficionados, and a quaint downtown with shops.

Median Home Price: $281,507

Average Rent: $1,283

The second Florida city on our list sits on the St. Johns River and the Atlantic coast, so beaches and water activities abound. The city ranks high on best places to retire lists thanks to weather, healthcare, affordability, and big city amenities. Over 16% of the population is older adults.

Median Home Price: $385,654

Average Rent: $898

If you're seeking an affordable place to retire in the Pacific Northwest, Longview checks all the boxes. One quarter of the population is age 65 and older, meaning you'll find community here. The forest and mountains are nearby, and the Pacific Ocean is about an hour away via car.

Median Home Price: $194,356

Average Rent: $987

Southern hospitality is at its peak in Mobile, perched on the gorgeous Gulf of Mexico. Warm, sunny, and rainy in the summer, it's a city known for historic architecture, big trees, fresh seafood, and, of course, beaches. Mobile has a reputation for being safe and affordable, without skimping on big-city amenities.

Median Home Price: $141,964

Average Rent: $831

The most affordable place on our list is another Gulf Coast city, though Pascagoula is for those who want a small town vibe and a close-knit community. Like in Mobile, you can enjoy the fresh seafood, Spanish moss-draped trees, and port city energy. The quaint downtown is historic and welcoming.

Median Home Price: $233,113

Average Rent: $1,381

A hub of the U.S. steel industry, Pittsburgh is ideal for retirees who want to live in a large, diverse, and affordable city. There are abundant green spaces, as well as quality healthcare and a strong sense of history. You'll experience all four seasons in classic fashion in Pittsburgh.

Median Home Price: $322,505

Average Rent: $981

If a dreamy desert city with sunshine and stunning outdoor vistas is calling you for retirement, Tucson is the answer. The University of Arizona feeds the area with intellect, while the downtown bustles with restaurants and breweries. Tucson has a healthy retirement community drawn by the weather and low cost of living.

Median Home Price: $257,543

Average Rent: $1,098

With a population of 260,000, Winston-Salem attracts retirees who crave a medium-sized city lifestyle. Its warm Southern energy, mild climate, and affordability are big draws, as are the thriving downtown and many green spaces. Wine lovers will enjoy the picturesque vineyards that surround the metropolitan area.

The secret to a stress-free retirement is living in a place that you can afford, especially if you plan to retire on nothing but Social Security. In these cities, which run the gamut from coastal oases to desert retreats, you won't have to worry about exceeding your budget.

Retiring abroad is becoming increasingly popular as well. So if you didn't feel called by a city on this list, perhaps a foreign destination is where you'll find your dream home.