For those seeking affordable retirement spots in America, these are many of the cheapest places to retire in the US, whether one wants the perfect coastal city or a mid-sized town with a close-knit community.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina – A Coastal City With A Vibrant Boardwalk And Favorable Climate
An affordable place for active retirees who want access to stunning beaches and the best golf courses
The warm coastal vibe and low cost of living make Myrtle Beach one of the best places to retire in South Carolina, especially for beach-loving seniors. South Carolina’s taxes for retirees are pretty favorable.
The stunning shoreline stretching for over 60 miles provides perfect spots to enjoy a leisurely walk in the morning or evening. On the other hand, golfers find a haven in the well-manicured Myrtlewood Golf Club, offering easy-to-navigate flat terrain and open fairways.
Popular Attractions: Myrtle Beach State Park, The Carolina Opry Theater, Legends in Concert Theater Myrtle Beach, Captain Hook’s Adventure Golf, Broadway at the Beach
Average Rent: Between $1,371 and $1,874
Average Cost Of Living: 8% lower than the national average
Population: 39,162
Green Bay, Wisconsin – Home Of The Green Bay Packers
One of America’s cheapest places to retire with a variety of resources and services for golden agers
Green Bay is a stunning city in Wisconsin that sits along an arm of Lake Michigan at the estuary of Fox River. With a distinct four-season climate, incredibly lower housing costs, and a wealth of affordable recreational activities, Green Bay is one of the best places to retire.
This beautiful city is also home to the American football team, the Green Bay Packers, making it a perfect home for sports lovers who enjoy the thrill of the game. For seniors above 62 years, the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame charges a discounted $15 admission fee for tours.
Popular Attractions: Bay Beach Amusement Park, Green Bay Botanical Garden, Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary, Meyer Theatre, Neville Public Museum
Average Rent: $750 for a 1-bedroom
Average Cost Of Living: 10% lower than the national average
Population: 106, 817
Knoxville, Tennessee – A City With A Vibrant Music Scene
From an affordable cost of living to a thriving arts and culture scene, Knoxville is easily one of the cheapest cities in the US to retire to without comprising on enjoyment
Nicknamed the Cradle of Country Music, Knoxville is another one of the cheapest places to retire to in America; it promises an affordable retirement without sacrificing the quality of life, natural beauty, and things to do.
With the abundance of year-round festivals and activities, seniors have an active life to socialize and do what they love. Culture lovers attend annual festivals such as the Knox Asian Festival in October, featuring a parade, Sumo wrestler demonstrations, and music performances. On the other hand, birdwatchers and nature lovers head east of Knoxville to the Seven Islands State Birding Park to hike paved trails as they spot some of the 200 resident bird species.
Popular Attractions: Tennessee Theatre, Knoxville Museum of Art, UT Gardens Knoxville, Knoxville Zoo, World’s Fair Park
Average Rent: $1,405 for a 1-bedroom apartment
Average Cost Of Living: 15% lower than the national average
Population: 196,823
Lexington, Kentucky – Known As The Horse Capital Of The World
Low cost of living, affordable housing, access to medical care, and recreational opportunities make Lexington one of the best places to retire in the US for cheap
Rightfully named the Horse Capital of the World, Lexington is a haven for equine enthusiasts of all ages with its vast horse farms and thoroughbred race horses. Moreover, the general cost of living, accessible healthcare, and numerous adult retirement communities draw retirees looking to spend their golden years comfortably without splashing the cash.
The city also offers golfing opportunities at the Lakeside Golf Course, charging a $12 fee for seniors above 57 years. Opened daily from 7:30 a.m. to dusk, the golf course features a pro shop, rolling terrain, and a full-line practice facility. Retirees aren’t tied to golfing only, as there are other beautiful places to visit in Kentucky, some of which are in Lexington.
Popular Attractions: Mill Ridge Farm, James E. Pepper Distillery, Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co, West Sixth Brewery, Ashland – The Henry Clay Estate
Average Rent: $935 for a 1-bedroom apartment
Average Cost Of Living: 6% lower than the national average
Population: 320,576
Saint Paul, Minnesota – A City With Something For Everyone
Seniors seeking the perfect combination of the tranquil suburban living setting with easy access to the lively city spend their golden years in Saint Paul, Minnesota. Apart from having a reasonable cost of living and a reliable health system, Saint Paul boasts intriguing cheap attractions that keep residents busy all year.
One of them is the free-to-visit Como Park Zoo & Conservatory, providing a sanctuary for endangered or threatened animals. During their visit, seniors enjoy educational talks about the resident animals and the daily operations of the park led by friendly zoo keepers.
Popular Attractions: Cathedral of Saint Paul, St Paul’s Farmers Market, Ordway Center for the Performing Arts, Science Museum of Minnesota, James J. Hill House
Average Rent: $1,190 for a 1-bedroom apartment
Average Cost Of Living: 2% lower than the national average
Population: 299,830
Hickory, North Carolina – For Scenic Outdoor Adventures
Known for its rich heritage in furniture manufacturing, Hickory is one of the best places to retire in North Carolina, luring retirees with its affordability and gorgeous scenery. The milder weather also makes Hickory a prime city to live in, as seniors relish the slower pace of life while exploring the lush green spaces surrounding Lake Hickory.
Hikers can enjoy the breathtaking lake views from the elevated Hickory Riverwalk, while boating enthusiasts have a field day spending their time in the water. Anglers also have their fair share of fun catching different types of bass, catfish, and sunfish as they admire the surroundings.
Popular Attractions: Hickory Museum of Art, Hickory Aviation Museum, Hickory Farmers Market, Hickory Motor Speedway, Hickory Landmarks Society
Average Rent: $825 for a 1-bedroom apartment
Average Cost Of Living: 6% lower than the national average
Population: 43,981
Youngstown, Ohio – A Stunning City Set At The Foothills Of The Appalachian Mountains
Although known for its steel production, Youngstown also falls in the list of the cheapest places to retire in America due to its affordability compared to other cities. Additionally, the residents’ friendliness, safety, access to health care, and stunning scenery check the boxes for most retirees.
When it comes to natural spaces, Youngstown is home to the expansive Mill Creek Park, offering golfing, hiking, fishing, and biking opportunities. The park also holds programs and seasonal events where seniors socialize and make new friends as they learn new skills.
Popular Attractions: Fellows Riverside Gardens, Lanterman’s Mill, The Butler Institute of American Art, Youngstown Historical Center of Industry and Labor, Tyler History Center
Average Rent: $915 for an apartment
Average Cost Of Living: 18% lower than the national average
Population: 59,620
Fort Wayne, Indiana – For Convenient Access To Other Midwestern Cities
Fort Wayne is a perfect affordable retirement option for golden-agers searching for a city with a suburban feel and a reasonable cost of living. Retirees have affordable housing options, access to excellent 24-hour hospitals such as the Lutheran Hospital, and year-round outdoor activities.
To rekindle their love for the arts and find inspiration, seniors visit the Fort Wayne Museum of Art, featuring about 5,000 drawings, sculptures, and paintings reflecting American history. The museum charges an $8 fee for seniors over 65 years, but when visiting on Thursdays, there’s a free general admission from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Popular Attractions: Promenade Park, Foellinger Theatre, Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory, Allen County War Memorial Coliseum, Clyde Theatre
Average Rent: $880 for a 1-bedroom apartment
Average Cost Of Living: 11% lower than the national average
Population: 269, 621
Scranton, Pennsylvania – The Perfect City For Retirees To Uncover The Industrial Past
Famed for being the inspiration behind The Office’s Dunder Mifflin business home, Scranton is one of the most beautiful and cheapest places to retire in the United States. Located in northeast Pennsylvania, Scranton is within reach of many budget-conscious retirees due to its reasonable cost of living and lower housing costs.
Additionally, there’s something for everyone in this city, whether they want to explore museums or immerse themselves in Mother Nature’s beauty at Nay Aug Park. This park features serene picnic areas and a scenic trail leading to observation decks overlooking a waterfall and a brook. Outdoorsy retirees can also take some of the best road trips through Pennsylvania that prove how beautiful the state is.
Popular Attractions: Steamtown National Historic Site, Electric City Aquarium & Reptile Den, Everhart Museum, Scranton Cultural Center at the Masonic Temple, Anthracite Heritage Museum
Average Rent: $1,195 for a 1-bedroom apartment
Average Cost Of Living: 7% lower than the national average
Population: 75,722
Huntington, West Virginia – Has The History, Entertainment, And Activities Retirees Yearn For
Set at the confluence of the Guyandotte and Ohio rivers is Huntington, the second-largest city in West Virginia. Retiring in this riverside city means saving money due to the low housing and living costs and basking in the exceptional natural beauty adorning the extensive park system.
While here, retirees can stretch their legs along a beautiful walking trail traversing the tranquil Ritter Park. The stunning park also has a designated dog section where golden agers can play with their four-legged companions.
Popular Attractions: Harris Riverfront Park, Keith Albee Performing Arts Center, Huntington Museum of Art, Heritage Farm Museum & Village
Average Rent: $758 for a 1-bedroom apartment
Average Cost Of Living: 18% lower than the national average
Population: 45,074
