10 Affordable Coastal Cities for Retirees

Settling down by the sea is a dream for many people in retirement, and it can be surprisingly affordable if you know where to look. To find the best seaside destinations for retirees on a budget, we looked to U.S. News and World Report’s 2025 survey ranking 150 of the best cities for retirement based on the happiness of residents, housing affordability, tax rates, and health care quality. Of these top cities, we’ve narrowed down the 10 most affordable oceanfront cities to retire to in 2025 and 2026. Even if you’re not planning for retirement quite yet, these 10 destinations make for great budget-friendly coastal getaways.

10. Port St. Lucie, Florida

• Cost of living: 1.4% lower than national average
• Median home value: $349,395
• Median rent: $1,290
• Percentage of population over 65: 22%

In Port St. Lucie, you don’t need to pay top dollar to retire on the Atlantic Coast. Despite being Florida’s sixth-most-populated city, Port St. Lucie is one of the Sunshine State’s more affordable places to reside. Living here comes at a fraction of the cost of cities like Miami or Naples, though it offers similar perks, such as great weather, no state income tax, and easy access to beaches, riverwalks, and nature preserves. The city’s subtropical climate makes year-round outdoor recreation possible, from enjoying coffee on a quiet beach to casting a line from your backyard fishing dock.

9. Jacksonville, Florida

• Cost of living: 4.3% lower than national average
• Median home value: $302,616
• Median rent: $1,241
• Percentage of population over 65: 15%

Jacksonville is a big city with a small-town feel. Florida’s largest city by both population (approximately 986,000 residents) and land area offers diverse neighborhoods spread across 874 square miles, from historic homes on the St. Johns River to quiet beachside bungalows. Jacksonville’s blend of coastal and urban living appeals to retirees looking for variety, with downtown entertainment venues, coastal walking trails, and scenic golf courses all within easy reach. The city also provides top-rated health care, including the Mayo Clinic Jacksonville.

8. Melbourne, Florida

• Cost of living: 4.4% lower than national average
• Median home value: $310,404
• Median rent: $1,261
• Percentage of population over 65: 23%

Located on Florida’s Space Coast, Melbourne beckons retirees with sunny skies and warm weather year-round. It’s less crowded than other South Florida hot spots, creating a more laid-back atmosphere. Plus, there are many 55-plus communities, often with lower-than-average HOA fees. 

Residents can enjoy watching rocket launches from Cape Canaveral, paddling along the Indian River, and spending time on the golf course. Melbourne’s proximity to Orlando (60 to 90 minutes by car) is also convenient for accessing big-city attractions, an international airport, and top-notch medical care.

7. Daytona Beach, Florida

• Cost of living: 5.1% lower than national average
• Median home value: $301,815
• Median rent: $1,203
• Percentage of population over 65: 20%

Clearly, the Sunshine State has plenty of budget-friendly options for retirees. Daytona Beach is another one of the most affordable coastal cities in Florida, offering condos and homes with ocean views at prices much lower than other oceanfront areas around the country. Although the city boasts plenty of quiet suburbs and condo communities, things liven up every February as tourists flock here for the Daytona 500 NASCAR race at the namesake speedway. 

With boardwalk entertainment, free summer concerts, and easy access to golf, tennis, and walking trails, this city inspires active lifestyles without being overwhelming, making it ideal for those who want relaxation and recreation.

6. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

• Cost of living: 9.6% lower than national average
• Median home value: $347,457
• Median rent: $990
• Percentage of population over 65: 24%

If you’re seeking an alternative retirement destination to Florida, Myrtle Beach boasts a low cost of living and a quiet, less touristy feel in the offseason. With a mild climate and access to quality health care, Myrtle Beach is especially popular with retirees from the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast. 

Situated on the “Grand Strand” on the Atlantic coastline, an area that boasts more than 90 golf courses, Myrtle Beach is also a golfer’s paradise. The low-cost beach lifestyle is made even more affordable thanks to South Carolina’s tax benefits for retirees, including no tax on Social Security benefits and retirement income deductions.

5. Savannah, Georgia

• Cost of living: 9.8% lower than national average
• Median home value: $272,339
• Median rent: $1,105
• Percentage of population over 65: 15%

Savannah, a charming coastal city in southeastern Georgia, is known for its oak tree-lined streets and quaint historic district. It boasts lower housing costs than many cities in Florida and the Carolinas, while still offering coastal amenities and a laid-back lifestyle. 

While there aren’t high-rise beach condos here, retirees looking for quiet, historic homes along the rivers and marshes will find plenty of options. Many are a short drive from popular beaches such as Tybee Island. Savannah also has a thriving cultural scene, thanks in part to the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), with plenty of galleries, festivals, theater, and concerts to enjoy.

4. Pensacola, Florida

• Cost of living: 11% lower than national average
• Median home value: $296,312
• Median rent: $1,013
• Percentage of population over 65: 21%

Pensacola blends history, nature, and small-town charm on Florida’s Gulf Coast. The historic downtown district is a lively area home to boutique shops, museums, art galleries, dining, and free community events. With strong Veterans Affairs (VA) services and a significant military retiree population, it’s also an excellent choice for veterans.  Across the Pensacola Bay is Pensacola Beach, known for its white sand and unbeatable sunsets.

3. Mobile, Alabama

• Cost of living: 15.9% lower than national average
• Median home value: $177,707
• Median rent: $745
• Percentage of population over 65: 17%

Mobile is one of the most affordable destinations in the Gulf Coast region, allowing retirees to live near the water on a modest budget. Home prices and property taxes are well below the national average, and there are plenty of historic homes situated along oak-lined streets. 

Although the city is not located directly on the Gulf Coast, Mobile’s location on Mobile Bay is ideal for boating, with numerous marinas located south of the city. Mobile also boasts a lively local culture, with year-round festivals and fewer tourists than cities like New Orleans. Plus, it’s just a short drive from Dauphin Island, allowing for quick trips to the Gulf beaches.

2. Corpus Christi, Texas

• Cost of living: 16.5% lower than national average
• Median home value: $202,525
• Median rent: $967
• Percentage of population over 65: 16%

Thanks to its affordable location on the Gulf of Mexico, Corpus Christi is home to a growing community of full-time retirees and part-time snowbirds. Texas does not have state income tax, allowing retirees to stretch their dollars further. It’s one of the most affordable waterfront cities in the country, particularly when it comes to groceries, services, and insurance. With its proximity to scenic spots like Padre Island and Mustang Island, retirees can enjoy nature and quiet beaches year-round.

1. Gulfport, Mississippi

• Cost of living: 17.4% lower than national average
• Median home value: $188,052
• Median rent: $797
• Percentage of population over 65: 16%

Gulfport stands out as one of the best seaside destinations for a comfortable and affordable retirement. It’s located under two hours by car from New Orleans on the Mississippi Sound, an area known for its calm waters and white-sand beaches. Boating, fishing, and other coastal activities are part of daily life here.

Gulfport’s residents have convenient access to world-class entertainment and specialized medical care. Nearby Biloxi also offers a cruise port, casinos, and lively nightlife. Although Gulfport is Mississippi’s second-largest city, its small-town feel provides a welcoming vibe of community for retirees.