Retirement on a budget is still possible
Many Americans dream of the day they can stop working and finally enjoy their golden years. But with rising costs and uncertainty around Social Security’s future, planning for retirement can feel overwhelming—especially if you’re depending mainly on your Social Security check.
The good news: You don’t necessarily need to live in expensive cities like Los Angeles, New York, or Miami to enjoy a wonderful retirement. There are affordable cities across the United States where retirees can live on $1,500 or less per month.
New research conducted by GoBankingRates investigated this and came up with 10 cities where you can stretch your Social Security checks and still enjoy a peaceful, fulfilling retirement.
The average Social Security check in 2025
As of June 2025, the average monthly Social Security retirement benefit is $2,005.05, according to the Social Security Administration (SSA). But it’s not received by all. The majority of retirees live on less than $1,500 a month, especially if they retired early or worked lower-paying jobs.
That’s why choosing which city to retire to is so important.
- How Were These Cities Chosen?
- GoBankingRates took into account the following significant factors in selecting these cities:
- Cost of living (housing and grocery prices especially)
Percentage of seniors living in the area
Quality of life (healthcare, parks, and safety)
Average cost for renters and homeowners receiving Social Security
Let’s take a look at the 10 American cities where you can retire comfortably on $1,500 or less a month.
1. Tallahassee, Florida
Seniors (65+): 11.4%
Homeowners: $1,248/month
Renters: $995/month
Cost of Living: ~10% below national average
Tallahassee is Florida’s capital, providing retirees with a blend of urban life and southern hospitality. The stunning parks, art festivals, and great weather make it ideal for a busy lifestyle. Retirees can live on their Social Security checks without breaking the bank on high rent or taxes.
2. Jacksonville, Florida
Seniors (65+): 14.7%
Homeowners: $1,197/month
Renters: $1,073/month
Cost of Living: 4.3% below national average
Jacksonville is Florida’s largest city, with beaches, shopping, and nightclubs. It enjoys big-city living without the high cost of living—perfect for retirees who want it all on a shoestring budget.
3. Pensacola, Florida
Seniors (65+): 20.8%
Homeowners: $929/month
Renters: $1,136/month
Cost of Living: 11% below national average
This Gulf Coast city is ideal for beach lovers. Pensacola also benefits from Florida’s nonexistent state income tax, so retirees keep more money in their pockets. With low housing and great seafood, it’s a budget-conscious favorite of older adults.
4. Greenville, South Carolina
Seniors (65+): 15.1%
Homeowners: $1,284/month
Renters: $1,035/month
Cost of Living: 8.7% below national average
Greenville strikes a balance between low-cost living and small-town hospitality and camaraderie. Laced with walking trails, celebrations, and medical facilities, it offers retirees with a peaceful and affordable lifestyle.
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5. El Paso, Texas
Seniors (65+): 13.9%
Homeowners: $712/month
Renters: $975/month
Cost of Living: 18.1% below national average
El Paso is one of the cheapest cities on this list, with housing costs nearly at the national average’s half. Retirees in this area love the sunshine, welcoming community, and thick sense of culture. It’s perfect for those who want to make the most of their dollars.
6. Dallas, Texas
Seniors (65+): 11.4%
Homeowners: $1,346/month
Renters: $1,142/month
Cost of Living: Close to national average
While Dallas is a tad pricier than some on this list, the city’s healthcare and grocery expenses are lower. And it has unlimited entertainment—sports, live music, museums, restaurants—ideal for active, involved retirees.
7. Norfolk, Virginia
Seniors (65+): 12.6%
Homeowners: $1,231/month
Renters: $1,162/month
Cost of Living: 8.6% below national average
Norfolk offers a mix of city and ocean life. With military heritage, museums, and decent seafood, it’s a low-cost city with personality. Seniors can enjoy water views, diversity, and convenient healthcare on the cheap.
8. Savannah, Georgia
Seniors (65+): 14%
Homeowners: $1,369/month
Renters: $1,250/month
Cost of Living: 9.8% below national average
With cobblestone pavement, Southern charm, and strolls along the river, Savannah is a stunning city to retire. With its affordability and history, it’s a top spot for seniors who desire beauty, history, and peace.
9. San Antonio, Texas
Seniors (65+): 13.1%
Homeowners: $847/month
Renters: $801/month
Cost of Living: 8.7% below national average
San Antonio is famous for the Alamo, riverwalk, and Tex-Mex food. It’s also incredibly inexpensive to be a homeowner or a renter. If you enjoy warm weather and friendly locals, San Antonio offers a wonderful retirement on the cheap.
10. Corpus Christi, Texas
Seniors (65+): 15%
Homeowners: $736/month
Renters: $855/month
Cost of Living: 16.5% below national average
Corpus Christi is a little-known gem on the Texas coast. With affordable housing and beautiful beaches, it’s ideal for retirees who want a beach life without a beach price. Fishing, sunsets, and peace—this city offers it all for under $1,000 a month.
