Gulfport-Biloxi, Mississippi, December 19, 2025
News Summary
This article explores budget-friendly coastal towns in the U.S. ideal for retirement, featuring locations where living costs are manageable, with median rents under $1,600. Places like Gulfport-Biloxi and Myrtle Beach not only offer affordable housing but also access to healthcare, outdoor activities, and golf courses. Discover how retirees can enjoy a high quality of life without financial burden while basking in the sun by the ocean.
Affordable Oceanfront Living: Your Next Retirement Destination
Have you ever dreamed of soaking up the sun on a beach, with the gentle waves crashing in the background while sipping your morning coffee? Well, guess what? You don’t have to break the bank to make that dream come true! Many budget-friendly coastal towns in the U.S. offer retirees the opportunity to enjoy a splendid quality of life without sky-high property prices. Let’s dive into some of the best options where folks can live comfortably on a monthly budget of $1,600 or less.
Gulfport-Biloxi, Mississippi
Kicking off our list is the lovely Gulfport-Biloxi, Mississippi. With a median monthly rent of just $1,146, this gem offers a delightful blend of white-sand beaches, vibrant casinos, and beautiful golf courses. Plus, with convenient access to healthcare facilities, retirees can enjoy their sandy paradise while keeping their peace of mind.
Brownsville, Texas
Next up is Brownsville, Texas, boasting a median rent of only $966. This affordable coastal living option puts you just a stone’s throw away from South Padre Island and the family-favorite Gladys Porter Zoo. Imagine unwinding by the beach or visiting local attractions—all without emptying your wallet!
Vero Beach, Florida
For those seeking tranquility in Florida, Vero Beach beckons with a median monthly rent of $1,509. This serene town serves as a quieter alternative to its pricier counterparts, focusing on cultural amenities that cater to those who appreciate the arts. You’ll find amazing galleries and theater options to explore here.
St. Simons Island, Georgia
If you’re on the hunt for stunning beaches and a welcoming community, look no further than St. Simons Island, Georgia. Offering a median rent of $1,067, this charming island features calm beaches and exquisite golf courses. It’s the perfect place to sit back and enjoy life surrounded by friendly faces.
Savannah, Georgia
Just a short drive away, Savannah combines historic elegance with a modern flair. With a median monthly rent of $1,589, this vibrant city is an excellent place for retirees who appreciate a walkable environment. And don’t forget—you’re close to the picturesque Tybee Island beaches as well!
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Known for its entertainment and warm climate, Myrtle Beach stands out with a median rent of approximately $1,433. It’s hard to resist the fun activities, dining, and social scene that this location has to offer—perfect for those who want to enjoy a lively retirement.
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Dive into the luxurious lifestyle of Virginia Beach, where the median rent is $1,556. Enjoy the beauty of the Atlantic Ocean while benefiting from a lower cost of living compared to other East Coast coastal cities. It’s the best of both worlds!
Jacksonville, Florida
Another fantastic option in Florida is Jacksonville. With a median monthly rent of $1,389, this coastal haven provides plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities along with accessible healthcare facilities. Retirees can remain active and healthy in this stunningly beautiful area.
Foley, Alabama
Last but not least is Foley, Alabama, with a median rent of $1,440. This peaceful town offers enticing parks, charming boutique shopping spots, and easy access to nearby popular beaches. It’s a beautiful retreat where retirees can relish in a slower pace of life.
These towns rank as some of the best for retirement, and not just because of their affordable housing! With numerous healthcare options and outdoor recreational activities, retirees can savor the coastal lifestyle without the associated financial stresses. Each of these towns is working hard to make sure their communities thrive, ensuring you can live your golden years happily and affordably.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Affordable Coastal Towns for Golf Enthusiasts on a Budget
Golfing in Coastal Comfort: Affordable Living in Myrtle Beach
South Carolina: A Golf Lover’s Retirement Paradise
Discovering Hidden Gems: Your Guide to Underrated Winter Golf Destinations
Affordable Golf Getaways for Retirees in 2026
Golfing in Affordable Coastal Towns for Your Dream Retirement
Myrtle Beach Golf Scene Undergoes Significant Changes
Aiken: A Retiree’s Dream Destination with Great Golf
Fort Myers Surges as a Golf Lover’s Coastal Haven
Florida’s Golf Paradise Attracts Out-of-State Movers in Their 50s
Additional Resources
- Finance Buzz: Beach Towns for Retirees
- AOL: Charming Beach Towns for Retirement
- Times of San Diego: Affordable Beach Towns in California
- Go Banking Rates: Budget-Friendly East Coast Destinations
- Star News Online: Budget-Friendly Places to Retire
- Wikipedia: Retirement Communities
- Google Search: Budget Beach Towns for Retirement
- Google Scholar: Affordable Beach Towns for Retirement
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Retirement
- Google News: Affordable Beach Towns
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.
