9 Charming Beach Towns Where You Can Retire on $1,600 a Month (Or Less)

Dreaming of ocean breezes, sunny strolls, and a stress-free retirement in the charm of a seaside community, but worried your retirement savings won't stretch far enough? Good news: retiring by the beach doesn't have to mean million-dollar condos or sky-high HOA fees.

Across the U.S., there are hidden-gem coastal towns where the cost of living is low, the pace is slow, and your monthly budget of $1,600 can still buy you a great quality of life. Based on FinanceBuzz data on the best cities for snowbirds in the country, the following beach towns are beautiful and filled with the small-community warmth so many retirees crave.

Retire in one of these beach towns with a budget of $1,600 or even less in some cases.

Median monthly rent: $1,146

Gulfport-Biloxi provides a budget-friendly alternative to pricier Gulf Coast destinations while sitting directly on the Gulf of Mexico. The area features miles of white-sand beaches like Gulfport Beach, plus casinos, golf courses, and scenic piers.

Retirees appreciate the low cost of living, fresh seafood, and easy access to healthcare.

Median monthly rent: $966

Brownsville makes coastal living affordable thanks to its low housing costs and proximity to the Gulf of Mexico. Retirees can enjoy soft sands and warm water at South Padre Island, one of Texas's premier beach destinations.

The city lies along the Rio Grande, providing scenic river views and wildlife-rich landscapes. Attractions include the Gladys Porter Zoo, Boca Chica Wildlife Refuge, and a lively historic downtown.

Median monthly rent: $1,509

Vero Beach offers a quieter, more affordable version of Florida's Atlantic Coast compared to places like Palm Beach or Miami.

Located along the Indian River Lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean, it's home to peaceful beaches such as South Beach Park and Humiston Park Beach. The area's cultural amenities, including the Vero Beach Museum of Art and lush botanical gardens, add a refined feel.

Median monthly rent: $1,067

St. Simons Island delivers a luxurious coastal feel without the high prices of nearby Hilton Head. Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, the island offers serene beaches such as East Beach, along with moss-draped oaks and charming village areas.

The cost of living is notably more affordable than in larger resort towns. Retirees enjoy golf courses, bike paths, historic sites, and peaceful marsh views that create a laid-back yet elevated coastal lifestyle.

Median monthly rent: $1,589

Savannah combines historic elegance with a relatively affordable cost of living for a Southern coastal city. Set along the Savannah River and close to Tybee Island, retirees can enjoy nearby beaches without premium pricing.

The city's cobblestone squares, art museums, and famous live oaks create a luxurious atmosphere at approachable rates. Its walkability, top medical facilities, and fantastic dining scene make Savannah an appealing destination for retirees seeking coastal charm on a budget.

Median monthly rent: $1,433

Myrtle Beach offers miles of shoreline along the Atlantic Ocean and remains one of the most affordable major beach destinations in the South. Myrtle Beach State Park and North Myrtle Beach provide plenty of soft-sand relaxation, while world-class golf courses and boardwalk attractions add extra appeal.

Retirees appreciate the area's budget-friendly condos, warm climate, and abundant entertainment. Despite its resort feel, living and travel costs stay far lower than many East Coast beach towns.

Median monthly rent: $1,556

This coastal metro offers a luxurious waterfront lifestyle at a far more affordable cost than pricier East Coast destinations like Charleston or Wilmington.

With access to the Atlantic Ocean, Chesapeake Bay, and calm inland waterways, retirees can enjoy beaches such as Virginia Beach, Sandbridge Beach, and Chic's Beach. The area features extensive parks, cultural attractions, and top-tier medical centers.

Median monthly rent: $1,389

Jacksonville offers affordability along the New River and sits close to the Atlantic Coast, with North Topsail Beach and Onslow Beach within easy reach. It's far less expensive than other coastal towns in North Carolina, making it attractive to retirees seeking value.

Outdoor lovers enjoy boating, fishing, and the calm waters around Hammocks Beach State Park. The city also provides access to medical care and community parks, creating a balanced, budget-conscious coastal lifestyle.

Median monthly rent: $1,440

Foley is a city in Baldwin County, Alabama, with a population of around 22,000. The Daphne-Fairhope-Foley area offers an affordable coastal lifestyle along Mobile Bay, with lower housing and living costs than many popular Gulf Coast cities. Retirees love the peaceful bayfront parks, walkable Fairhope Pier, and local art galleries.

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are just a short drive away for soft-sand beach days. Boutique shops, mild weather, and access to major medical centers make the area feel both charming and comfortably upscale.

Retiring near the water doesn't have to mean stretching your savings or settling for an overpriced coastal hotspot. These charming towns prove you can have a stress-free retirement as you enjoy sunshine, beaches, and a relaxed waterfront lifestyle. All while keeping your monthly budget around $1,600.

Many of these areas also rank among the fastest-growing retirement markets in their states, driven by affordable healthcare and easy access to outdoor recreation. If you're looking for a place where your money goes further and every day feels a little like vacation, these budget-friendly beach towns are a great place to start your search.