10 Affordable Florida Cities Perfect for Retirees on a Fixed Income

If your retirement plan includes living on a fixed income as you age, you're not alone. According to the National Council on Aging, 40% of Americans are living off social security payments alone, which averages $1,913 per person or $3,089 per couple per month.

A fixed income can also be drawn from your retirement savings, which may be all you need to enjoy your golden years in Florida, if you choose the right place to settle down.

Take a look at this list of 10 cities that are perfect for retirees relying on a fixed income.

All data on average mortgage prices was provided by Bankrate, all data on average rental prices was provided by Zillow, and all data on cost of living was provided by PayScale, unless otherwise noted.

Average monthly mortgage: $1,954

Average rent: $1,599

The cost of living is 7% below the national average in this small city with abundant outdoor adventures. The "Manatee Capital of the World" invites you to snorkel, kayak, or paddle board alongside gentle giants as you start your day. Free activities abound, too.

Local shops and restaurants sell affordable fresh seafood and other sundries. Gulf beaches are close by, and Tampa and Orlando are 90 minutes away.

Average monthly mortgage: $2,327

Average rent: $1,600

The overall cost of living in Daytona Beach is just under the national average, despite its proximity to gorgeous Atlantic Coast beaches. Enjoying said beaches won't cost you much beyond your provisions and the gas to get there.

Tourism is king here, but you can also enjoy local historic sites, mom-and-pop shopping, and local cuisine. Latitude Margaritaville attracts retirees of all stripes.

Average monthly mortgage: $2,078

Average rent: $1,500

Anchored by the prestigious University of Florida, Gainesville keeps retirees active and stimulated with programming from the Institute for Learning in Retirement. The bustling college town is also a gateway to stunning natural springs and top-tier outdoor recreation.

The cost of living is 5% below the national average, thanks to low transportation, grocery, and utility costs.

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Average monthly mortgage: $2,287

Average rent: $1,532

On the banks of the St. Johns River is Jacksonville, which has a cost of living 7% below the national average. The balance of outdoor activities — like golf, arts and culture scene — and medium size make it appealing to retirees.

Florida's aptly named "Shrimp Capital" promises plenty of fresh seafood for dining, and nearby Atlantic beaches are all they're hyped up to be.

Average monthly mortgage: $3,006

Average rent: $1,850

Arguably the most expensive city on this list (though still below the national average), Mount Dora is the quaint, walkable, lakeside town you dream of retiring to. Stroll the downtown full of cute shops, paddle the waterways, and enjoy the town's community-oriented vibe.

Half of the population of Mount Dora is over age 45, according to the Great Retirement Spots blog, and Lake County in general has excellent, accessible healthcare.

Average monthly mortgage: $2,085

Average rent: $1,725

If your idea of the perfect retirement is riding horses on sunlit trails, spending afternoons hiking and swimming in pristine nature, and a local dinner downtown, Ocala is for you. Here, 55+ communities are common, and many retirees snowbird in this small yet popular inland city.

Apartments.com says the cost of living is 8% below the national average, giving you room to breathe easy when it comes time to pay your bills.

Average monthly mortgage: $2,275

Average rent: $1,600

The Florida panhandle is home to some incredible beach towns, and Panama City is one of the relatively affordable ones. In addition to beach life, residents can enjoy waterfront strolling and dining, and outdoor activities galore.

Plus, Tallahassee and Pensacola are both only a car ride away if you're looking for major services beyond what's in town.

Average monthly mortgage: $1,809

Average rent: $1,600

Arguably the most affordable locale on this list, this inland city sits on Lake Jackson (among other lakes), making it a water activity enthusiast's paradise. The City on the Circle is close-knit — think golf carts instead of cars — fairly insulated from hurricanes, and close to historic parks.

Downtown Sebring is great for strolling and dining, and local healthcare ranks well.

Average monthly mortgage: $2,129
Average rent: $1,500

Florida's capital is home to Florida State University, home of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute for older adults. Retirees who are kids at heart will enjoy this college town, which skews younger than many Florida cities, though all the services and amenities you need are here.

The cost of living in Tallahassee is 7% below the national average, with housing and utilities leading the charge.

Average monthly mortgage: $2,829

Average rent: $2,300

A true retirement community in every way, The Villages is a census-designated place where 85% of the population is older adults. Talk about community! If there's something you need, chances are it's here, whether an amenity, service, activity, or class.

The cost of living has a reputation for being high, but you can still manage on a relatively affordable budget here.

A stress-free retirement is synonymous with one that's within your budget, especially for those on a fixed income. And, when your goal is to spend your golden years living in the Sunshine State, the dream is still within reach.

Just remember that Florida also has many rural areas that remain affordable to folks on a fixed income. So if you're open to exploring something outside of city centers, you may be able to locate even more homes within your budget.