Myrtle Beach, SC, December 5, 2025
News Summary
Retirement often conjures images of sun-soaked beaches and leisurely lifestyles. However, with soaring home prices, many retirees are exploring budget-friendly coastal towns with stunning views and vibrant communities. From Myrtle Beach, SC to Biloxi, MS, and even Pasagoula, MS, these towns not only offer affordable living expenses but also exceptional golfing opportunities. This article will guide you through the best coastal towns that balance relaxation and recreation, ensuring you make the most of your retirement years.
Planning Your Dream Retirement: Affordable Coastal Towns to Consider
When you think of retirement, where does your mind go? For many, it’s sandy beaches, sunshine, and a laid-back lifestyle. However, with the median home price in popular Florida cities like Miami and Naples soaring over $500,000, many potential retirees are looking beyond the Sunshine State. Instead, they are discovering an array of budget-friendly coastal towns that offer both picturesque views and a friendly community face.
Myrtle Beach, SC
First up, we have Myrtle Beach, SC. This charming destination boasts an average rent of $1,349 and a median home price of $318,691. It’s hard to resist the allure of its 60 miles of sandy beaches, diverse dining options, and a staggering 90 golf courses! Plus, housing costs are approximately 29% lower than the national average, making it a top contender for retirees looking for fun in the sun.
Corpus Christi, TX
Next, we glide over to Corpus Christi, TX. Here, residents enjoy bay and gulf beaches, parks, and gardens, with an affordable average rent of $1,009 and a median home price of $217,379. With around 16% of the population being retirees, the town has a welcoming vibe for those looking to kick back and enjoy life.
Biloxi, MS
If you’re into beach activities and Southern hospitality, Biloxi, MS, might just be your paradise. The town offers average rent around $1,800 and a median home price of $227,750. Plus, if you feel lucky, there are numerous casinos you can visit.
Brunswick, GA
Don’t forget about Brunswick, GA! This lovely town features an average rent of $1,219 and a median home price of $246,678. The historic squares and the nearby St. Simons and Jekyll Islands make it a quaint spot for retirees who appreciate a good coastal view.
Newport News, VA
Over in Newport News, VA, an average rent of $809 and a median home price of $210,807 is just a taste of the low-cost living. Combining historical roots with outdoor activities, this town is perfect for those who want to indulge in the past while enjoying the future.
Freeport, TX
Looking for Gulf views? Freeport, TX, might be what you’re searching for! Average rent is just $713 while the median home price is an attractive $141,926. Here, enjoy recreational activities, including golfing and visiting local shops.
Atlantic City, NJ
If nightlife is your scene, check out Atlantic City, NJ. With an average rent of $1,199 and median home price of $220,297, you’ll have access to casinos and a vibrant social backdrop.
Pascagoula, MS
Pascagoula, MS, is a small, walkable town offering unique local shops and an average rent of $830. Plus, with a median home price of just $141,909, it’s another excellent option for retirees on a budget.
Pensacola, FL
If you can’t resist Florida’s charm, consider Pensacola. Residents can rent at an average of $1,318 and the average home value is $259,932. The white-sand beaches and parks provide plenty of spots for relaxation, while the cost of living is just 1% below the Florida state average.
Ocean Shores, WA
Ocean Shores, WA, is another spot to keep an eye on. The sandy beaches, outdoor activities, and local art make it a beautiful destination, with an average rent of $1,244 and home values projected around $343,917.
Ventura, CA
For those looking to splurge just a bit, Ventura, CA, features a wonderful community with a vibrant beach atmosphere, though home values are around $885,000. It’s a place where retirees can feel secure with great access to healthcare and other amenities.
Astoria, OR
Last, but not least, Astoria, OR, presents a historic downtown and a scenic waterfront trail. The average home value sits at $422,400, making it another fabulous choice for retirees. With 20% of the population consisting of individuals over 65, this town welcomes older adults with open arms.
As you plan your retirement journey, keep these affordable beach towns in mind. They offer beautiful ocean views, tight-knit communities, and most importantly, all without breaking the bank!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Affordable Golf Getaways for Retirees in 2025
Affordable Winter Golf Getaways for Retirees in 2025
Additional Resources
- AOL: 11 Charming Beach Towns for Retirees
- Wikipedia: Retirement
- Travel + Leisure: Best Coastal Towns to Retire
- Google Search: Affordable Coastal Towns
- FinanceBuzz: Beach Towns for Retirees on a Budget
- Google Scholar: Beach Towns Retirement
- Florida for Boomers: Coastal Retirement Towns in Florida
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Coastal Towns
- Express News: Texas Beach Town Retirement Budget Rankings
- Google News: Coastal Towns for Retirement
- WAPT: Gulfport Named One of the Best Beach Towns to Retire
- Google Search: Best Beach Towns to Retire
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.
