This is not a typo: Southern California does, in fact, boast affordable retirement homes right near the coast. 6 Best East Coast Road Trips for Fascinating History, Beautiful Beaches, and . With nearly 6,000 miles of coastline, ranging from the rough waters of the Pacific Ocean to the tranquil turquoise seas of the Caribbean, Mexico has more than enough beaches to keep everyone happy. Pensacola is Florida's most affordable beach city and it's a beautiful place to retire, with idyllic white sand beaches, rivers, bayous and bays. This Maryland town does have the highest tax burden of any city on this list at 18.9%, which you should be sure to take into account when calculating your cost of living. Only about 1 square mile, the popular beach area has a small-town feel and was named as a best place to retire by the AARP. (Getty . Theres still a lot of areas in Hyannis that are very affordable, says Jeanette Neeven, a Realtor with Century 21 Cobb Real Estate. With pent-up demand, labor shortages and surging prices, summer travel wont be a bargain this year. Metro Population: 698,537. Just like many of you dreaming about a coastal dream life, we can make this a reality through information and inspiration! #46. The national average commute is 26.9 minutes. The Gulf Coast city has a median home value of $161,700, which is the ninth-lowest value for this metric in the study. Located in western Massachusetts, Springfield is roughly 60 miles from the coast via Connecticut. New Jerseyand its infamous shoregets a lot of flak, but its called the Garden State for good reason: Its friggin beautiful when you exit the turnpike. Not only are there East Coast cities where living is affordable, but the new move toward working from home also makes changing cities while keeping your job more accessible than ever before. However, New Hyde Park does have the second lowest senior population percentage on this list at 14.4%. It is home to Floridas number one state park, Honeymoon Island, which boasts emerald green waters and pristine white beaches. It's also great for retirees, with lots of recreation areas and a high ratio of doctors' offices to people. Year-round homes start around $350,000 and reach nearly $4 million. The average of the cities on our list is $1,066 per month. For bird watching opportunities, head to the Freeport Wetlands Trail & Bird Observatory, and go hit the links at the Freeport Golf Course. Cookies collect information about your preferences and your devices and are used to make the site work as you expect it to, to understand how you interact with the site, and to show advertisements that are targeted to your interests. Hampton, which the town website describes as a city with an old soul and a youthful enthusiasm, features some lovely historic attractions and museums, golfing and boating opportunities and fantastic dining options. LindaZ74 / Shutterstock. larry mcmillian / Shutterstock. Seabrook Island, South Carolina. A lifetime of coastal living has taught me that the weather can often have all four seasons in a single day. If youve ever wished you could just pack up and head to the beach instead of staring out at the same dreary cityscape, perhaps that dream could become a reality. Fairfax lands in third with 2.91 retirement communities per 1,000 residents. Fairfax, located in Northern Virginia, is an independent city within the larger Fairfax County. The stunning Olympic National Park, with its lush green forests, hot springs and glacier-capped mountains, lies nearby as well. So, are, Read More Are Coastal Cities Warmer?Continue. Consumer and homebuilder sentiment in the Boise region appears to be less than optimistic, but the labor market is strong and home prices are starting to trend downward. The median rent is $998. However, this small seaside town has recreational opportunities and scenic views that far surpass what youd expect from a location that requires such a small budget to live in. 1. Buckroe Beach and Park, which offers jet ski, kayak and paddle board rentals, also presents sparkling views of the Chesapeake Bay. The town itself has a tax burden of 18.90%, the second highest on this list. Springfield, Massachusetts. Portland, Maine. Lynn Haven, situated just north of Panama City, is a half hour away from some gorgeous beaches and St. Andrews State Park. And the town you choose to make your home has to suit you and your family. Exeter is also tied for fourth in terms of recreation centers per 1,000 residents with 0.43. - Population: 40,000. Best places to retire in America. The powdery white-sand beaches are a paradise for sunbathersor those who seek shade under an umbrellaand shell seekers. Best beaches in North Padre Island: Malaquite Beach - Lovely beach with changing facilities, outdoor shower, and covered picnic areas. If you have never been to this area it truly is beautiful. Spending your retirement on the beach can be a dream come true. You, too, can be the Prince of Bel Air the one closer to the Atlantic than the Pacific, that is. There are plenty of spas, salons, restaurants and live entertainment to enjoy, and you can grab fresh produce and seafood at the Fresh Market on Tuesdays. They were ranked according to their median home value, average number of rooms per house, median monthly property taxes paid and monthly housing costs. Many of the retired residents of Hyannis move into their former summer homes, but there are still plenty of boomers relocating to the area. Consider Hobe Sounds gorgeous sandy beaches, green parks and abundant golf courses if youre settling down in the Sunshine State for your retirement. It has a load of live oaks across the Island, yet walking distance to the beach or intracoastal waterway. Springfield residents benefit from plenty of high-quality health care options within driving . Or go swimming at Sunset Beach and Fred Howard Park. Newark also has the third-lowest number of recreation centers per 1,000 residents with 0.12. Here's a list of real estate firms to consider working with. Ocean Springs has several arts festivals, many restaurants, and artists studios such as Shearwater Pottery tucked away. Theres a medical clinic within the city, but you can also make a quick drive to the Gulf Coast Regional Medical Center for more services. These areas are active, scenic, and rich . Hendersonville also topped our list of the best places to retire in North Carolina. 1. Ready to take a long stroll down the list together? Bel Air is also clearly popular among older people. 1. It's home to one of the most relaxed stretches of shore in the area, with a laidback surf feel and a welcoming community, but it also offers access to the city comforts of Charleston, just a 20-minute drive north. Whether seeking history, solitude, or a vibrant nightlife, the East Coast has got it all in the unique little towns speckling its pristine shorelines. Instead, the 55-plus crowd has been seeking out budget-conscious, beach alternatives with plenty of outdoor activities and (often) a temperate climate in which to settle down for good. Morehead City has enough nautical attractions to make die-hard boaters keel over. Homes start in the $200,000 range, and its possible to snap up a townhome with an onsite dock such as this sprawling three-bedroom for $274,000 or this $350,000 three-bedroomwith water views. Median Home Price: $247,112. 2) Key Biscayne Florida. That includes Toms River, a seaside town thats nestled along the Atlantic Ocean and Barnegat Bay, a rich estuary thats long been a destination for fishing, crabbing, and boating. In any case, let us discuss some of the best beach towns for retirement in Florida. South Carolina's low country is a popular place to retire, thanks to its low cost of . Beaches. Highlight: For those who love the boardwalk and casinos. The median home value in Fort Walton is $185,900, while annual property taxes will cost you around $1,366 and monthly housing costs amount to about $1,049. It might be time to review that far-away dream of life on the coast and waking up to the sound of waves and gulls and having a look at the affordability of East Coast beach houses. You can explore lovely museums, historic homes and linger on the 2.2 miles of beautiful beach. You can also watch the annual Daytona 500 NASCAR race at the Daytona International Speedway. Great Neck, New York. Great Neck also comes in second in terms of retirement communities, with 3.76 per 1,000 residents. U.S. News also named Melbourne its tenth best city to retire in and one of the safest places to live and ranked it highly for quality of life. For more content like this follow. This college town is home to the University of Oregon, which has the largest library in the . And its not just pretty to look at Hobe Sounds median home value is just $206,300. Siesta Key, Florida - Population: 5,573 (16% age 55-64 and 54% age 65+) Middle River is under a half hours drive away from the big, bustling city of Baltimore, but the quiet town will give you all the R&R you deserve in your retirement. Activities are also important to a happy retirement, so we looked at the number of recreation centers per 1,000 residents. Its a popular gay retirement community, says Russell Stucki, real estate associate at Re/Max Realty Group. Here's how to diversify your portfolio with one of the most popular precious metals. You wont need to splurge on your new digs, however. It has a little bit of everything.. Tucked between Vero Beach and Palm Beach, this quaint Intracoastal town is a hidden gem along the coast, with Old Florida vibes and a reputation as the "Sailfish Capital of the World." The median home value is $161,700 and the median annual property tax is $1,1986 a bit more expensive compared to Gulfport but youll pay about $737 in housing costs each month. Dust is a common household nuisance, causing respiratory problems and allergic reactions when inhaled. Beautiful walks whichever way you go and.. View nearby homes. Property is extremely cheap in Port Arthur the median home value is just $65,800. Despite the Crisis, Homeowners Remodel to Ride Out Pandemic in Comfort, How the Coronavirus Is Changing Some Boomers' Real Estate Plans for the Better. Is Maui water safe to drink? Port Arthur houses the Texas Point National Wildlife Refuge, which covers 8,972 acres of saline to brackish marsh and is inhabited by a variety of fish and fowl. It has 10 birding sites on the Great Texas Birding Trail and the planets sole migrating flock of over 265 whooping cranes, which passes through the Aransas Wildlife Refuge every winter. Or perhaps youre planning a big move and want to relocate permanently. Turning your retirementinto a reality takes money. Planned developments known as "plantations" dot the area. If you're interested in retiring near the ocean without the humidity of a tropical . 11 . The median house price listing is $235k, but there are small gems to be found in this delightful town. 10. Check out these affordable beach towns. Retirees can get into affordable homes starting at just under $200,000, including this $196,919 two-bedroom in a 55-plus community or this three-bedroom with a whirlpool hot tuband no age restrictionsfor $249,900. Williamstown, Massachusetts . Beach vacations can be expensive, but luckily, a retiree in Ormond Beach doesnt have to drain their savings for a more permanent stay. Cocoa Beach is located just south of the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, and is a favorite surfing destination. Springfield residents benefit from plenty of high-quality health care options within driving distance. Kick off your flip flops and you can walk for miles along the wide sand beach. 20. To help you determine the place in this part of the country that's the best fit for you, we looked at the metro areas within 100 miles of the Atlantic coast that rank highest among the Best Places to Live, which considers factors including affordability, job market, desirability and morning commute, among others. Many tourists visit this island but are its resources up to standard? Head to the local restaurants for some fresh gulf seafood or book a charter and reel in some fish yourself. You may be able to repair drywall yourself. This quaint coastal town lies east of Bay St. Louis and it is known\ for its arts and festivals. Lewes and nearby Rehoboth Beach have become one of the hottest LGBTQ retirement destinations on the East Coast. We make no representation or warranty of any kind, either express or implied, with respect to the data provided, the timeliness thereof, the results to be obtained by the use thereof or any other matter. Dont forget to compare health insurance rates to find an affordable policy that gives you great coverage as part of your retirement plan. Little Shell Beach - Calm beach with smaller shells. With homes valued at around $168,300, the median housing cost is $1,209 a month and the median annual property tax is $2,265. Vero Beach. Its tax burden is towards the middle of this list at 16.7%, and it comes in fourth in terms of medical centers with 15.55 per 1,000 residents. Making your dream retirement a reality takes money, though, and saving enough money takes planning. The county seat of Clallam is situated between Americas border with Canada the city of Victoria is just a ferry ride away by the gorgeous Salish Sea. Jacksonvilles booming city will suit those who want access to some beautiful stretches of coastal areas but need to have an urban playground and a travel hub on their doorstep. Seaford doesnt fare as well when it comes to retirement communities, though, as its 0.14 retirement communities per 1,000 residents puts it near the bottom of this list in that metric. Information and timely news from our team of trusted money specialists. Retirees are undoubtedly drawn to these areas by the active, beach lifestyle, says Danielle Hale, chief economist for realtor.com. If you are looking for a place with below-average home prices to live in as a retiree, then Daytona Beach in the Sunshine State is a great solution for you. Not every retiree wants to live in the heart of the big city but this lovely unincorporated community by the water offers the best of both worlds, lying just 20 minutes away from Baltimore. Which Is Nicer, Huntington Beach Or Newport Beach? 1 / 100. Unique View: The quintessential fishing village of Cape Porpoise, Maine. Home security experts say simple fixes can up your safety quotient. The lowest average on our list is Shreveport, Louisiana, at $374.77. All investing involves risk, including loss of principal. The city incorporates the city of Coronado Beach. Tax burden is also important, especially for older people living on a fixed income or off of retirement savings, so we looked at the overall tax burden in 2018. Cannon Beach is the safest beach in Oregon. Pelican Bay is a beautiful town on Florida's Gulf Coast. You'll find some of the area's best seafood and golf courses, and the opportunities for fun are endless. If you want to retire to coastal Georgia, Tybee Island is an ideal spot. Dominated by the Biloxi bay Bridge, Ocean Springs stunning Front Beach stretches to Ocean Springs Harbor and provides extended areas of white sands, fishing piers, and gorgeous views of the gulf. 1. From the peaceful dunes of Cape Cod and the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico to the wild cliffs of the Pacific Northwest, these are the top 10 affordable beach towns and cities across the United States where retirees can kick back. The county seat of Nassau County, Fernandina Beach is just north of Florida's beautiful Amelia Island. One of the best parts of vacation is feeling like you're getting away - from your work, regular life -and slowing down for some days of relaxation. Atlantic City, New Jersey. Residents (nearly 60 percent of whom are seniors) can stroll through the Old Florida downtown, hunt for shells on the pearly white beaches, or take their furry friends to the city's local dog-friendly beach. Photo Credit: Julie McCool. What's harder is choosing the ideal tenants to occupy them. Keep a lookout for ospreys, eagles and great horned owls flying overhead. Nestled between Pensacola and Panama City, Fort Walton Beach includes some of the best deep sea fishing charters in the nation. Youll spend around $1,800 in property taxes each year and $958 a month on housing costs, while the median home value sits at $181,200. Deerfield Beach sits on the southeastern Florida coast and boasts an award . Here's how to do it and how much it costs. https://www.realtor.com/realestateandhomes-search/, https://www.census.gov/data/developers/data-sets/acs-5year.html. This coastal city includes over seven miles of white sandy beaches and offers plenty of leisure activities and facilities for seniors. The town also leads this list with 1.79 recreation centers and 8.59 retirement communities per 1,000 residents. "It's a popular gay retirement . The best places to retire for real estate, homes for sale, cost of living, climate, recreation, senior services and more . Overlooking the shores of Lake Michigan, Saugatuck is home to several serene beaches that feature soft sand, rolling dunes and peaceful atmospheres. In Ocean Springs, the median home value is $174,000, the median annual property tax is $1,445 and the median monthly housing cost is $1,021. It probably won't come as a surprise to hear that Florida does exceptionally well in the retirement rankings across the board. Set out on a sailboat, book a tennis lesson, breeze along biking trails, explore the boutiques, or nab tickets for concerts and festivals to make the most of retirement in this South Carolina paradise. Long Beach, NY. Located about an hour north of Atlanta near the shores of Lake Lanier, Cumming is not just the best place to retire on the East Coast it's also the second-best place to retire in the country. Youll find plenty of recreational activities to do outside in Port Angeles. Welcome to Coastal Dream Life, a website dedicated to helping you achieve your dreams of white sandy beaches and fresh ocean breezes in style. Consider cost of living and your love of the outdoors if you're thinking about a move to Seattle. Elevation 25. Valletta is the tiny capital city of Malta, a country composed of three islands in the Mediterranean Sea about 60 miles south of Sicily. Seaford is home to a number of parks where you can experience the great outdoors. 2 . It also has 6.66 medical centers per 1,000 residents. Get personalized advice from a financial advisor that understands your needs. Chances are you already know the country's most famous beach destinations . Hoi An has mountainous surrounds on one side and some of the most beautiful, undisturbed pieces . There are many long white beaches, some quite hidden and far from the crowds of the boardwalks and the main beaches. But while many beach communities are cost-prohibitive, a surprising number are within reach for those who aren't millionaires. The Sunrise City houses one of the oldest communities in Floridas east coast and its best known for its world-class fishing. Biloxi, which sits right next to Gulfport, is Americas most affordable beach city, according to SmartAsset. Median home price: $221,917. You might even catch a glimpse of a dolphin or sea turtle, or catch some Spanish mackerel along the fishing pier. SmartAsset Advisors, LLC ("SmartAsset"), a wholly owned subsidiary of Financial Insight Technology, is registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission as an investment adviser. Use these cleaning tips to get rid of dust buildup and improve the air quality in your home. I have been drawn to the ocean and the coastal lifestyle my whole life. Oak Island is a nice quiet area to retire in. The South Florida hot spot is the seventh-most populous metro area in the U.S., and its beaches attract vacationers year-round. No wonder its a favored destination for older Americans eyeing the golden expanse of work-free years ahead of them. The median home value in the city is $153,000 and youll pay about $1,220 in property taxes each year and $723 in housing costs every month. Leisure World, a gated retirement community located just 12 minutes from the sands of Seal Beach, offers some serious deals. The tax burden in Exeter is low at just 11.3%. It is neither tax nor legal advice, is not intended to be relied upon as a forecast, research or investment advice, and is not a recommendation, offer or solicitation to buy or sell any securities or to adopt any investment strategy. Plus, there's almost seven rooms per house on average, so you'll have lots of space. #25 Best Places to Retire in North Carolina. Whitecap Beach - Scenic beach in Texas with sizable waves. Places to stay: Creek Watch Villa (6 guests): $125/night Updated Seabrook Villa (8 guests): $123/night Five Oaks Coastal Cottage (11 guests): $166/night There may not be any restaurants or shops on this quiet South Carolina getaway but what it lacks in amenities, it more than makes up for in secluded beauty. This gorgeous little Gulf Coast town with Mediterranean-inspired architecture is a total dream, so much so that it ranks highly in multiple surveys on happiness and well-being. The median monthly housing costs amount to $811. Atlantic Beach, Florida. Orlando Is America's Top Travel DestinationHow Hard Has Its Real Estate Market Been Hit? Known for its boardwalks, casinos, and beaches, Atlantic City is the place to choose if you want the high life within a short distance of some of the most beautiful stretches of coastline along the Jersey Shore. Youll find plenty of activities to keep you occupied in and around the City of Discovery, from casinos and boat charters to beaches and trails. It is neither tax nor legal advice, is not intended to be relied upon as a forecast, research or investment advice, and is not a recommendation, offer or solicitation to buy or sell any securities or to adopt any investment strategy. It also ranks first on our list of the best places to retire in Georgia. How much do we know? Especially attractive to avid golfers, Myrtle Beach boasts 85 golf courses. The city features two state parks Tomoka and Bulow Creek which cover thousands of acres and protect various wildlife habitats and species. Bethany Beach, Delaware. The Bay Area Hospital treats patients of all ages, including geriatric medicine and services for the elderly and disabled. The 14 states that make up the East Coast of the U.S. offer up a wide range of climates . Because Cumming is close to Atlanta, you can take advantage of all of the arts and entertainment options the city offers, including professional sports games and museums. The Falls Lake State Recreation Area is less than 30 minutes from Durham, and the coastal Atlantic Ocean beaches are about three to four hours away, making this one of the best places to retire in North Carolina near the beach. Dont miss the massive limestone rock formations at Blowing Rocks Preserve, which is also home to loggerhead, green and leatherback sea turtles. Retirees can get into active adult communities like Bay Crossing in a $239,000 two-bedroom condo all the way up to a fully kitted-out four-bedroom for $620,000. Jacksonville offers all the big city comforts and cultural entertainment, a growing craft beer scene, and the most extensive urban park system in the US, as well as coastal zones. While the town of Osage Beach has only 5,000 residents, there is a variety of restaurants, bars, and parks that attract visitors every summer. Its home to lots of shopping, plenty of restaurants, nice golf courses, a great sailing scene, and beautiful beaches. The cost of living is lower than the national average, and there's easy access to great medical care, international airports, and active adult housing. You can save on auto insurance as part of your retirement plan as well by comparing rates online. Buyers looking for a deal can get into a one-bedroomhome starting around $125,000 or even a four-bedroom right next to the water for $349,000. This Delaware town is tied for the lowest tax burden on this list at 11%. Fernandina Beach- Distance to the coast 0 miles. One-Time Checkup with a Financial Advisor, 7 Mistakes You'll Make When Hiring a Financial Advisor, Take This Free Quiz to Get Matched With Qualified Financial Advisors, Compare Up to 3 Financial Advisors Near You. Hawaii and Florida offer stretches of awe-inspiring coastline, with beaches, It can be tough to pick one with so many lovely places to choose from the miles of pristine beaches in California. For those working in finance, this city may be the best choice. Lets hit the beach. Living out your golden years in this city wont cost you much, when the median monthly housing cost is only $981. While low for this list, thats not a bad number overall. This story was published at an earlier date and has been updated with new information. State's tax rating for retirees: Most Tax Friendly. Housing costs for retirees in Knoxville are the biggest factor bringing down costs, at nearly 30% below the national average. You can find out more about our use, change your default settings, and withdraw your consent at any time with effect for the future by visiting Cookies Settings, which can also be found in the footer of the site. The content provided on MoneyWise is information to help users become financially literate. New Hyde Park is another Long Island town, meaning residents will have access to New York City. New Smyrna Beach was the center of intense real estate speculation during the 1920 . Shimmering shorelines, renowned golf courses, impeccable dining that's what awaits you on Kiawah Island. Okaloosa Island, with its fine white sand beaches and glittering green waters, is mere minutes away. Part of Mississippi's "Secret Coast," Ocean Springs is a beach town that features white, soft sand and a vibrant downtown, packed with boutiques, music and great restaurants. It's one of the most affordable cities on the East Coast with a high livability rating. As an extra perk, Seafords annual Christmas Parade is the biggest on the Delmarva Peninsula. They include this three-bedroom on the water for $275,000 and this two-bedroom cottage for $219,000. We make no representation or warranty of any kind, either express or implied, with respect to the data provided, the timeliness thereof, the results to be obtained by the use thereof or any other matter. In Alabamas Gulf Shores, you can indulge and relax and even partake in an adventure or two. Located about an hour north of Atlanta near the shores of Lake Lanier, Cumming is not just the best place to retire on the East Coast its also the second-best place to retire in the country. Check out the 21 nicest small towns to visit in . It only takes 3 minutes to connect with an advisor who puts you first. Hendersonvilles 1.34 recreation centers per 1,000 residents earns it second place on this list, so there will be plenty to do. Here are 25 gorgeous beach towns in the U.S. where you can retire on a budget. Great golf courses, medical facilities, beaches, state parks, and places to fish, kayak, and hike lure retirees from across the country. This Gulf Coast tourist haven has clean beaches, great fishing, and fantastic fowl. [ x] Then . The median house price listing is $235k, but there are small gems to be found in this delightful town. It is also home to a number of museums, including the Mineral and Lapidary Museum, which has a Tyrannosaurus Rex skull that will surely be impressive to any visiting grandchildren. The town was historically a bustling port town, with steamboats traveling . Best Beach Town in Florida for Families with School-age Children- Students in this beach town have test scores far higher than the national or Florida average.. Fairfax is close to Washington, D.C. and the myriad cultural options that our nations capital has to offer, including the Kennedy Center, the Smithsonian museums and the National Mall. Its an amazing retirement destination with its white sand beaches, casino resorts, championship golf courses and museums and historic sites.