Once senior citizens hit a certain age, they start to think about retiring. There are many locations across the states that offer what each person may be looking for when moving to that perfect paradise to live out the rest of your days, no matter how long you may have. It is not surprising to see that the State of Florida is well known to have a caravan of snowbirds from the northern states to find their way down to the sunshine state to retire here. Some also come to Georgia, Arizona, South Carolina, or other States that provide lots of fun and exciting attractions for seniors to do once they put in their notice and start receiving their long-awaiting pension. However, not every senior wants to spend the price it cost to live off the coast. The good news is that there are places within these towns that still provide affordable housing for seniors to kick back and soak in the sun.
Another issue to consider when deciding to find an affordable retirement place is the ongoing pandemic. For instance, Baby Boomers who may not be suffering financially from the events of 2020, yet they may find themselves digging into their savings to help support their adult children or even grandkids who are not as self-sufficient as their Grandparents. As a result, the change can possibly jeopardize their own finances. That is why finding an affordable place to retire is essential for seniors on a tight budget. The list below will provide not only where the best places to retire for seniors are yet offer the retirement value of local homes as well, the availability of medical care, the convenience of walking and biking trails, and the crime level if any. All of which is highly considered by seniors who are preparing for retirement. So, sit back and check out the most affordable retirement places for seniors.
1. South Sarasota, FL
Welcome to South Sarasota, Florida, a small town with a population of 5,316. South Sarasota is in Sarasota County and is one of the best affordable retirement places to live and retire in Florida. Living in South Sarasota offers residents a wide variety of things to do with a sparse suburban feel where most residents own their homes. In South Sarasota, there are plenty of coffee shops, parks, bars, and restaurants. Many retirees live in South Sarasota, and residents tend to lean conservative. South Sarasota is a good place to raise a family or to invite the grandchildren for a visit. With a low crime rate, great school system, employment rates, business growth, and cost of living. Whether you are retiring or relocating for that new job Sarasota Florida has everything retirees and families need. Sarasota is famous for its amazing beaches and retirees; its most famous beach is Siesta Key. With reliable public transportation and many great seafood and brunch places. Sarasota is the place to retire to in south Florida.
2. North River Shores, FL
North River Shores in Florida is a small town on the Atlantic side with a population of 3,663. North River Shores is in Martin County and is one of the best places to retire and live in Florida. Retiring to North River Shores offers residents and retirees a dense suburban feel, and most residents own their homes. In North River Shores, there are numerous parks, restaurants, and coffee shops to sit and chat with the locals. The young professionals and retirees that live in North River Shores are more politically conservative. The public transportation in this area is not the greatest; however, if you have a car you will be able to get around just fine. Retirees who do not own a vehicle or have mobility problems may have trouble getting around town. Yet, that should not deter retirees to still come and enjoy the sun here in North River Shores.
3. Green Valley, AZ
Looking for a dry climate to retire? Then there is no pace better than Green Valley, Arizona. Green Valley is a medium-sized town in Arizona with a population of 21,723. Green Valley located in sunny Pima County is where seniors want to retire. Retiring to Green Valley offers residents a sparse suburban feel where most residents own their homes. Many retirees live in Green Valley, and residents can enjoy plenty of recreational activities. Crime rates are low here in Green Valley, which will put people looking to retire here at ease. Located near Tucson, the town provides a great shopping experience with inexpensive housing, a lower-than-average cost of living, and beautiful mountain scenery. Green Valley makes the best place to retire. Green Valley is full of Mom-and-Pop stores, great doctors and restaurants, and terrific mountain views. Filled with hiking and biking trails and health food stores in nearby Tucson Green Valley is the best place to retire.
4. Windy Hills- Louisville, KY
Welcome to the Windy Hills, where seniors can sit on the front porch sipping iced tea and enjoying the evening breeze while watching the sunsets. Things move a lot slower here in Kentucky, which happens to be the home of the famous Colonel Sanders and his famous fried chicken. Windy Hills, Kentucky is the best place to retire to in Kentucky. With a sleepy population of around 2,300 residents, seniors will feel right at home here. Windy Hills is a suburb of Louisville and located in Jefferson County. There are lots to offer to residents in Windy Hills, such as quaint coffee shops, natural parks, and fine dining restaurants. Many conservative people retire to Windy Hills. Much of the population is 55 years and older, and most residents have an academic level of a 4-year degree or higher. If you love down-home southern cooking and bluegrass music, you will love Windy Hills. Try some local white lightning if you are feeling adventurous.
5. Dutch Island, GA
Welcome to Dutch Island, a suburb of Savannah, GA. Dutch Island is one of the best affordable retirement places to retire in Georgia. Dutch Island is a suburb of only 1,013 residents, and who are mostly over 55. Located in Chatham County, Georgia, Dutch Island has a rural feel to it, and most residents who retire there own their own homes. The Island is primarily a conservative community. The landscape consists of rivers and creek beds, while the wildlife provides a refuge for eagles, red foxes, deer, osprey, and otters who all live in peaceful coexistence with their human neighbors. There is a community social activities center around the pools and a community dock for seniors to enjoy. Get your fishing tackle and water skis for some exciting water activities. The annual Fourth of July parade and celebration is a sight to behold, with local bands and parties around the community area. Dutch Island’s Christmas and Easter celebrations are legendary as well. There is also an annual crabbing tournament. Dutch Island is a down to earth safe suburban community.
6. Cypress Lake, FL
Cypress Lake Florida, located on the gulf side of the State in Lee County, has a population of just over 13, 000 residents. Cypress Lake is one of the best places to retire in Florida. Cypress Lake has an urban suburban feel with most residents owning their homes. Cypress Lake offers a variety of parks and restaurants. Winters are mild and summers are hot. However, the beaches are awesome, and the ocean air is divine. Cost of living is low, and homes are affordable. Come and retire to Cypress Lake and enjoy sunset walks along the beach. There are three golf clubs for retirees to enjoy in Cypress Lake. June through August are the most uncomfortable months out of the year. If you are a senior who enjoys going to church, there are six churches in the area to choose from. The town offers golf resorts, coffee shops, restaurants, churches, and parks. As you can see, there are several things that retirees can do in Cypress Lake, Florida.
7. St. Pete Beach, FL
St. Pete Beach is a suburb of St. Petersburg with a population of 9,572. St. Pete Beach is in Pinellas County and is one of the most affordable retirement places to retire and live in Florida. Living in St. Pete Beach offers seniors an urban feel and most residents own their homes. In St. Pete Beach, there are a variety of places to visit and enjoy, such as coffee shops, restaurants, bars, and parks. Many retirees who live in St. Pete Beach tends to be on the conservative side of politics. The average median home value is about $416,000. If you are just looking to rent, the average place is $1,000 per month, which is not bad for this area of Florida. St. Pete Beach is primarily an urban area, so the area is not for everyone. St. Pete Beach also offers fishing piers, boat ramps, and three main beaches with accessible parking for any disabled individuals.
8. Rehoboth Beach, DE
Rehoboth Beach, Florida area is mainly for the well-off retirees. This is a sleepy little area with a population of 1,281. Located in Sussex County, Rehoboth Beach is one of the best places to retire and live in Delaware. Retirees living in the Rehoboth Beach area are offered a dense suburban feel and the majority of residents own their homes. Rehoboth Beach has a lot to offer retirees, such as a mile-long boardwalk, which most people consider to be one of the City’s best attractions. The public schools in Rehoboth Beach are highly rated for retirees with grandchildren living with them. The median home value of most homes is around $926,200. Renting is slightly above the national average; however, there may be some affordable housing in isolated parts of town. Located downtown, there is the Cape Henlopen Senior Center, which provides a multi-purpose center for seniors, offering many indoor/outdoor programs, social events, and a wide range of activities for the whole family.
9. Timber Pines, FL
Seniors retiring to Timber Pines, a suburb of Tampa, will enjoy the modest population of 5,303. Timber Pines is another small town located in Hernando County. Living in Timber Pines offers retired residents a sparse suburban feel and most residents own their homes. The public schools in Timber Pines are above average. So, if your grandchildren come to live with you, they will get a well-rounded education. The Median Home Value is around $149,500. The Median Rent for Timber Pines is $966, which is slightly above the National average of $949. Many residents choose to rent while ninety percent own their homes. Timber Pines is one of the most affordable places for retirees to retire. As a suburb of Tampa, most residents are not too far from entertainment venues, like bars, coffeeshops, restaurants, parks, golf clubs, and movie theaters.
10. Whiskey Creek FL
Whiskey Creek is a town or suburb of Cape Coral-Fort Myers area of Florida located in Lee County with a population of over 5,000. Whiskey Creek is one of the best places to retire in Florida for seniors and many families come here to visit. Whiskey Creek offers residents a dense suburban feel and most residents own their homes. In Whiskey Creek, there is a variety of restaurants and parks, coffee shops and other entertainment venues. The public schools in Whiskey Creek are above average with high ratings. Whether your grandchildren live with you or you are a new family to the area your children will receive a great education. The Median Home Value is only $222,700. The rent has a median rent of $1,170. Though it is above the national average of $949, the Whiskey Creek is considered a Dense Suburban area. Ten percent of residents rent, while ninety percent of residents own their own homes.
11. Ridgewood Heights, FL
Ridgewood Heights, Florida is one the most beautiful places to retire in Sarasota county. Seniors from all over have come to stay to make it their home for years. The population is approximately 4,000, and many of the residents own their own homes. The town of Ridgewood Heights is mostly a suburban development. Both young adults and the older population enjoy the entertainment and small-town feel it portrays throughout the city limits. There are also many bars, coffee shop hangouts, and a variety of restaurants to choose from. For the grandkids that come to visit or live here, the public school system is highly praised with above average ratings. The medium home value in Ridgewood Heights is $188,000, which is about the same as the national average. The residents of the town tend to lean towards the conservative side of politics. About 32% of residents rent, while 68% own their homes.
12. Jensen Beach, FL
Jensen Beach is one of the best places to live in Florida. The town’s population is around 13,500. Located in Martin County, Jensen Beach offers a variety of restaurants with both indoor and outdoor seating, plenty of coffee shops, and several parks for family outings. Most residents own their homes; however, there is a growing rental community brewing throughout the town limits. The median home value in Jensen Beach is $212,300.Jensen Beach sits right between Fort Pierce and West Palm Beach. It was once known as the “Pineapple Capital of the World”, and the town still holds an annual pineapple festival for all residents and visitors to come and enjoy in the festivities. There are also numerous specialty stores and unique boutiques in the town square. Known as the retail shopping center of the Treasure Coast, almost anyone can find some type of treasure before leaving. For the water enthusiast, you will find activities such as boating, sailing, fishing, skiing, surfing, and scuba diving.
13. Leland Grove, IL
Leland Grove, Illinois is mostly a rural town yet it does have a little suburban community. The town is in the Springfield area. The population of Leland is around 1,500. Leland Grove, which is in the county of Sangamon, ranks among one of the most affordable places to live in Illinois. The average median value of homes in Leland Grove is slightly over $200,000. Most families own their homes. Those who do rent, pay around the national average. Leland Grove offers many opportunities for outdoor entertainment and there are numerous bars, coffee places, and some parks, such as Washington Park, where you can take the kids and grandkids. Leland Gove’s school district is among the best in the Springfield area. The Illini Country Club provides entertainment for retirees who enjoy golf and other outdoor activities. The town is just south of the Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport.
14. Englewood, FL
The town of Englewood, Florida is shared by two counties, Sarasota and Charlotte. The town’s population is about 15,000 and is among the most affordable places to retire in Florida. In Englewood, there are plenty of areas for golf, including birdwatching sections throughout the town. Englewood offers a mixed feel of both rural and suburban community living, and most people own their homes. Many residents are conservative politically, and the public schools have a high rating. The median home value in Englewood is just over $162,000, which is lower than the national average. South of Englewood, seniors will find Blind Pass Park, an awesome place for shelling and finding sharks’ teeth. Parasailing and jet ski rentals are available. Seniors should check out the Lemon Bay, where you can see dolphins, manatees, and a variety of shorebirds and wildlife.
15. Garden City, SC
Garden City is a suburb with a population of just over 10,000 and located in Horry County. Residents of Garden City experience a dense suburban environment and the majority of residents own their homes. Many retirees live in Garden City and consider Garden City as the best place in South Carolina to retire. The public schools in Garden City are highly rated. Home prices will not break the bank, and prices are lower than the national median. Rent average is a modest $975, which is a little above the National rate, which is $949. Close to eighty percent own homes and close to twenty five percent rent. The Garden City area has beautiful beaches, loads of entertainment, from golf courses, shopping, dining and more. Retirees and families do well here, and cost of living is very affordable. Boating and fishing are relaxing activities to do in the Garden City area. Come and retire to Garden City South Carolina and enjoy the easy life.
16. Villas, FL
The town of Villas, Florida has a population of about 12,000. Villas is one of the best places for seniors to retire and many people come here for lots of rest and relaxation. Located in Lee County, the town of Villas offers residents a mix of both urban and suburban feel and most residents own their homes. In Villas, you will find a variety of restaurants. As far as demographics, the town does have quite a bit of retirees; yet many college-aged students or young professionals have made Villas their home. The school district is above average, and the medium home value is approximately $150,000. Villas also has a low crime rate, which gives it a safe environment feel for new families, as well as seniors. There are plenty of parks and is a short distance to Sanibel Island.
17. Brookridge, FL
Brookridge, Florida is an upcoming community that has seen some growth in recent years. However, it is still a great place for seniors to retire and live out their years since the medium age is 65. Brookridge, a suburb of Tampa, has a population of about 4,500. The town offers a mix of suburban and rural life. Many retirees are more conservative, yet there is starting to have a dense population. The town also has a strengthening economy, an attractive downtown, and it is not too hot during those winter months. The school district is above average in Brookridge and most homes are affordable to seniors and retirees. The Median Home Value is around $92,000, which is lower than the National average. Renting is also pretty reasonable to most residents, with it being only around $1,000 a month.
18. Indian River Shores, FL
The town of Indian River Shores, Florida is one of the best places for seniors to retire. The population of Indian River Shores is just over 4,000. Indian River shores is a place where there are pristine beaches, rich in history, offers an Indian River Lagoon, and has over six miles of shoreline. The town is part of a controlled growth area, meaning there is no sight of high rise buildings and limited commercial space is allowed. Indian River Shores also has a major estuarine environment living there and most of the homes are private or gated communities. Most residents own their own homes. The Median Home Value in Indian River Shores is $683,400, well above the National average. Not surprising, almost everyone living in the town owns their own place. The public schools are also highly regarded with an above average rating.
19. High Point, FL
High Point, Florida, located near Tampa has a population of about 3,700. High Point can be found in Hernando County. High Point offers seniors with a mix of both suburban life with rural living. Most retirees own their own homes, although some do rent. The public schools in High Point have an above average ranking. The average median value of homes in High Point is $70,100. Which is lower than the National average. Rent is also pretty reasonable to those who plan to stay for a short time. High Point is part of Brooksville township, where the majority of its residents are over 55 years of age. In High Point, there are a variety of activities for seniors and retirees. The town’s community center provides activities such Friday Bridge Club, Wednesday night card games, and a line dancing event.
20. Wabasso Beach, FL
Welcome to Wabasso Beach, Florida, where the sun shines bright and there is always fun and entertainment for all ages, especially seniors who have made the step towards retirement. In Wabasso Beach, the population is small, yet there is still plenty to do. As part of Indian River County, Wabasso lies only a stone’s throw from Vero Beach, which offers a variety of tourism opportunities for seniors such as Indian River Lagoon Conservation, the Riverside Racquet Tennis Complex, and a number of city parks to take the grandkids when they visit. Beach wheelchairs are also available free of charge. Wabasso Beach ranks at #1 for the best places to live in Indian River County. About ninety-eight percent of senior residents who live in Wabasso own their own home. The average home value in Wabasso Beach is $470,900, making it one of the most affordable places to retire for seniors.
21. Vamo, FL
Vamo, Florida is a small town community, part of Sarasota county. The total resident population is approximately 4,800, however, there is a predominant senior community living in Vamo and the surrounding Sarasota county. It is one of the best places to live in Florida due to its unique mix of urban living/suburban feel it has on the community. The town of Vamo is also famous for distinguishing historic Spanish style homes. Vamo offers a wide range of bars, restaurants, and coffee shops throughout the town. There is some RV campgrounds available as well. Most residents own their homes. The medium home value is around $214,000, which is lower than the average, compared to other towns in Florida. The median income for a family is about $53,000. Vamo public schools is also one of the highly ranked school districts in Florida. The town is predominantly caucasian, yet there is a slow rise of other demographics settling in Vamo and throughout the town borders.
22. Estero, FL
Estero, Florida, located in Lee County, is a mid-sized suburban town with a population of just over 32,000 residents. Estero is one of the best places to live in Florida and offers seniors who come to retire a relaxing community filled with plenty of entertainment and coastal attractions. The town of Estero is in the middle of Naples to the south, and Fort Myers to the south. It is one of the most affordable towns in Florida and most residents own their homes. The medium home value of homes in the Estero community is approximately $333,000. Estero was once called a citrus community. Today, however, it is part of the Florida Gulf Coast University, serving as a great place for plenty of rest and relaxation. The Estero community also is home to Mound Key Archaeological State Park, where visitors can find ancient shell mounds on the beach and pottery pieces believed to be the ceremonial center of the Calusa Indians.
23. Sewall’s Point, FL
Welcome to Sewall’s Point, Florida. Where residents come to retire from the hustling of the workplace. The town’s affordability rate is slightly higher than other coastal towns, however, many retirees still love to settle here and many own their homes. The population of Sewall’s Point is about 2100.The town is very family-oriented and provides a safe community for seniors to enjoy some great pastimes. Sewall’s Point is a town committed to creating a more greener environment to preserve the scenic beauty that surrounds it. There are plenty of recreational opportunities for seniors and their families, including beautiful water views to see. The town is a nationally recognized Tree City with an Audubon Society Certified Bird Sanctuary. The three closest beaches seniors spend time at is the Hutchinson Island Beaches, Martin County Beaches, and the Stuart Beach.
24. Cape Canaveral, FL
Cape Canaveral, Florida is one of the best places to live in Florida. The population of the town is just over 10,000 and located in Brevard County. Cape Canaveral is also home of the Kennedy Space Center. The town provides lots of coffee shops, restaurants, and parks. There is also an urban feel to it, and the majority of residents, young and old own their homes. Although, the rent in Cape Canaveral is lower than the national average, making it affordable to hang up your hat when it is time to retire. The town of Cape Canaveral offers a cruise ship port, sunny beaches, and many friendly hotels and inns. Located between Jacksonville and Miami, Cape Canaveral provides a nearby Brevard Zoo which is great when the kids or grandkids come down to visit. Right near the space center is Canaveral National Seashore, consisting of 24 miles of undeveloped beaches with over 1,000 plant species and over 300 bird species.
25. Nokomis, FL
Nokomis, Florida is the place to be for seniors who are looking for a mix of both rural living and suburban lifestyle, and where most of the residents own their own homes. The town is one of the best places to retire as well, due to the low housing cost. Nokomis has a population of over 3,000 residents and is located in Sarasota county. It is also one of the best places to live in Florida. Other areas of interest near Nokomis are Osprey and Venice, where the Venice Gardens are and miles of shoreline that provide some rest and relaxation. Many retirees In Nokomis there are also a variety of restaurants and parks throughout the town. Seniors who live in Nokomis usually lean politically conservative. Nokomis provides beautiful sunsets, water activities off the coast, and plenty of family fun off the white, sandy beaches. For Seniors who need a place for the grandkids, rest assured. The public school district ranks high among the best in the state of Florida.
Affordability is Important…Yet so is Fun!
When putting this list together, the focus is obviously on affordability. However, there were other factors to consider. Outdoor activities, local food places, and parks were part of the decisions since we all love to have fun and eat. Home prices and School ratings are also mentioned due to grandkids coming to visit or families that plan to live nearby to the grandparents. Now that you have seen our picks, take a moment and vision being in one of these beautiful oases and plan a trip to see what they really have to offer seniors who are planning to retire soon. Many of the places on this list provide more than affordability. Seniors want their retirement to be filled with fun and active events, not just rest and relaxation. Though we know seniors can benefit from it, especially if they have worked for the last three to four decades. For seniors who are on a budget, then these twenty-five places will make you feel at home while saving you money. The towns offer many affordable living options; however, affordability does not always mean sacrificing for something else. There are plenty of exciting activities, outdoor adventures, and healthy lifestyle living for those in their senior adult years. Whether you are planning to retire to South Carolina, Georgia, Arizona, or Florida, seniors will find miles of shorelines, unique shopping centers, and amazing sunsets as you take in all the coastline views. Afterall, for seniors, it is not just about budgets, it is about a place to call home.