7 Charming Beach Towns Retirees Can Live on a Monthly Budget of $1,700 or Less

Dreaming of retiring by the beach without draining your savings? You're in luck, because there are plenty of charming coastal towns where you can stretch your retirement dollars further and still wake up to ocean breezes. These laid-back communities offer not only sunny weather, but also tight-knit vibes, scenic views, and plenty of low-cost or free ways to stay active and happy.

Whether you're already mapping out your retirement readiness plan or just daydreaming, these towns prove you don't need a millionaire's budget to enjoy the coastal lifestyle. Here are seven beach destinations where retirees can live well for $1,700 a month or less.

All rental data pulled from RentCafe unless otherwise noted.

Median rent: $1,449

Pensacola offers retirees the best of both worlds: Sugar-white beaches and a busy city scene. Located in the Florida Panhandle, this coastal community features stunning blue waters, great shopping, and tons of dining options.

With no state income tax and no taxes on Social Security benefits, it's easy to stretch your budget further. Monthly utilities average $265.19, according to Numbeo, making it easier to enjoy a relaxed, sun-soaked lifestyle on a budget.

Median rent: $780

Freeport, Texas, is a peaceful Gulf Coast town that's perfect for retirees looking to enjoy beach life on a budget. With a small population of just over 10,000, it offers a relaxed pace and natural beauty, including Bryan Beach, where you can spend your days fishing or simply soaking up the sun.

Redfin puts the median home price at just $172,450, and rent averages $780, which is almost $1,000 less than the national average.

Median rent: $1,533

Looking for a lively retirement spot with ocean views? Atlantic City combines beachside living with nonstop entertainment. Known for its iconic Boardwalk, wide beaches, and casinos, this resort town also happens to be budget-friendly.

With 22.9% of the population over 65, it's a popular pick for retirees. BestPlaces puts the cost of living is 6.1% below the national average, and 21.6% lower than the New Jersey average, making it a surprisingly affordable coastal escape.

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Median rent: $1,041

Bay St. Louis is a cozy Gulf Coast town where retirees can take advantage of coastal living without breaking the bank. Spend your days relaxing on the beach with a cold drink in hand, or take a quick trip to nearby New Orleans.

Housing prices are 34% below the national average, and groceries are 4% cheaper, according to PayScale. Mississippi doesn't tax Social Security benefits, making it even easier to enjoy a laid-back, budget-friendly retirement.

Median rent: $753*

Craving a West Coast escape without the high price tag? Aberdee might be just the spot. Situated along the Chehalis River and close to the beach, it offers scenic views, a walkable downtown, and a friendly small-town vibe.

With a population of around 17,000, 17.2% of whom are over 65, it's a welcoming place for retirees. The median home price is just $270,370, according to Redfin, and monthly essentials remain affordable.

*Data pulled from Apartments.com.

Median rent: $1,146*

Crescent City is a hidden gem for retirees seeking affordable coastal living in the Golden State. Located on the rugged North Coast, it offers stunning beaches, like South Beach and Pebble Beach, perfect for peaceful walks and ocean views.

With a small, tight-knit population of 6,673, it's easy to feel at home. The cost of living is 6.7% below the national average and nearly 38% lower than California's average, according to BestPlaces.

*Data pulled from Apartments.com.

Median rent: $1,219

Port Arthur, Texas, provides retirees with scenic Gulf Coast living and unbeatable affordability. Enjoy five miles of natural beach at nearby Sea Rim State Park or make a quick trip to Houston, just 90 miles away.

Texas has no state income tax, and retirees don't pay taxes on Social Security benefits. With a median home price of just $142,500, according to Redfin, Port Arthur is a budget-friendly choice.

Retiring near the water doesn't have to come with a sky-high price tag. These charming beach towns prove that you can enjoy the coastal lifestyle for $1,700 a month or less.

Additionally, with so much natural beauty around, you'll spend more time outdoors and less money on pricey entertainment, making a stress-free retirement even easier to achieve.