East Coast, September 30, 2025
News Summary
Discover budget-friendly East Coast retirement destinations offering comfortable living and vibrant communities. Explore cities like Augusta, Myrtle Beach, and others that present affordable housing prices and a variety of leisure activities, including golf. These locations are perfect for seniors looking for a fulfilling retirement without the financial burden.
Affordable East Coast Retirement Destinations for Budget-Conscious Seniors
If you’re dreaming of a perfect retirement location on the East Coast without breaking the bank, you’re in luck! There are some fantastic options that cater to spacious lifestyles, scenic views, and vibrant communities—all while keeping your finances in check. Let’s take a stroll through some of the most affordable retirement spots.
Augusta, Georgia
First stop, Augusta! Known for the exciting Masters Tournament, Augusta is not just about golf. With a median home sale price of just $203,750, it’s one of the most affordable places to call home. The cost-of-living index here is among the lowest for 269 urban areas in the U.S., meaning you can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without overspending.
Melbourne, Florida
Next up is sunny Melbourne, where more than 21% of the population is aged 65 and older. This charming city boasts a median home sale price of $300,500—way below the national median of about $429,813. Imagine spending your golden years basking in the sun and enjoying beach life without draining your savings!
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
For those craving the salty air of a beach town, Myrtle Beach is an excellent choice. At a median home sale price of $305,000, this city is not just affordable—it’s also a paradise for retirees who love sun, sand, and golf.
Richmond, Virginia
On to Richmond, where history and affordability meet! The median home sale price here is $440,000, and the cost of living is 4% lower than the national average. Richmond offers a rich cultural scene, stunning historical sites, and beautiful parks, making it a delightful place to kick back and enjoy life.
Wilmington, North Carolina
If four seasons delight your retirement dreams, consider Wilmington. With a median home sale price of $437,000, Wilmington balances beautiful weather and vibrant community life for retirees looking to experience all four seasons.
Cape Canaveral, Florida
Next is the iconic Cape Canaveral, home to the Kennedy Space Center. This lively area has a median home sale price of $347,500. If you’re passionate about space exploration and coastal living, Cape Canaveral might just be your dream come true!
Savannah, Georgia
Charming Savannah welcomes you with open arms! Not only does it have a mesmerizing character, but the cost of living here is also 7% lower than the national average. The median home sale price stands at $340,000—perfect for retirees wanting a vibrant yet affordable lifestyle.
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
If you love the outdoors, Harrisburg might be your next stop! With a median home sale price of $157,500 and proximity to the Appalachian Trail and various state parks, you’ll have plenty of options to stay active. Plus, Pennsylvania doesn’t tax Social Security income or pensions, making it even more appealing.
Raleigh, North Carolina
As part of the Research Triangle, Raleigh offers great educational opportunities for lifelong learners. The median home sale price is $449,445, providing a lovely blend of modern amenities and historic charm.
Hartford, Connecticut
Hartford might surprise you with its affordability—a staggering 55% lower cost of living compared to Manhattan. With a median home sale price of $280,000, retirees can enjoy all that Hartford has to offer without the hefty price tag!
Keene, New Hampshire
For lovers of all things seasonal, Keene, with a median home sale price of $365,000, provides year-round activities and delightful food festivals, combining a close-knit community with delightful culinary events.
The Villages, Florida
For an active retirement lifestyle, check out The Villages—a planned community designed specifically for retirees. Homes here have a median sale price of $375,000 and come with access to countless recreational opportunities.
Mauldin, South Carolina
Mauldin could be your hidden gem with its median home sale price of $340,000, lower than nearby Greenville’s $485,000. It’s an ideal retreat for budget-conscious seniors!
Brunswick, Maine
Finally, let’s take a look at Brunswick, known for its historic downtown and seafood restaurants. The median home sale price is $500,000, slightly on the higher end, yet more affordable compared to other Maine cities like Bar Harbor or Portland.
As you explore these charming cities, keep in mind that apart from housing, you’ll want to consider other living expenses such as groceries, insurance, and property taxes when making your decision. Overall, it’s a balance of affordability and quality of life that makes these cities stand out. Happy retirement planning!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- AOL: 15 Affordable East Coast Retirement Destinations
- Travel + Leisure: Best State to Retire 2025
- FinanceBuzz: Affordable East Coast Retirement Spots
- Investopedia: 10 Best Cities to Retire in the Northeast
- Stacker: Best Places to Retire on the East Coast
- Wikipedia: Retirement
- Google Search: Affordable Retirement Destinations
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Retirement
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
