11 Southern Towns Retirees Are Flocking To

Retiring in the South offers unique perks that make it an appealing choice for many. From warmer weather and year-round outdoor activities like beach days and hiking, to welcoming communities that make it easy to connect with neighbors, the South has it all.

Plus, with a lower cost of living, many retirees can avoid wasting money and stretch their retirement funds further. So, why not trade snow for sunshine and find your ideal Southern retreat? You might just be surprised by what these towns have to offer.

All median home prices are provided by Redfin. All other affordability data is provided by Best Places unless otherwise noted.

Litchfield Beach offers retirees a laid-back coastal lifestyle without the hefty price tag. With a median home price of just $213,000, it's an affordable option for those looking to stretch their retirement savings.

The town boasts beautiful beaches, excellent golf courses, and nearby attractions like the Brookgreen Gardens and Huntington Beach State Park. Plus, South Carolina's tax-friendly policies, including no tax on Social Security benefits, make it even more appealing for retirees.

San Antonio is an ideal spot for retirees seeking affordable living with easy access to city attractions. With a median home price of $249,900, down 3.9% from last year, it offers great value in a city full of charm.

Texas has no state income tax, making it a tax-friendly choice for retirees. You can also enjoy iconic attractions like the Alamo, River Walk, and Mission Reach while embracing the city's warm weather and popular arts scene.

Alexandria offers retirees an affordable lifestyle with a median home price of just $179,500 and a Cost of Living Index of 84.4, making it 15.6% more affordable than the national average of 100.

Louisiana's low property taxes and tax breaks for retirees add to the financial appeal. Take advantage of the city's Southern charm, with attractions like the Alexandria Museum of Art and the scenic Red River.

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When living in Cary, you'll enjoy a peaceful suburban lifestyle with easy access to the cities of Durham, Raleigh, and Chapel Hill. The town's nearly 40 greenways and over two dozen parks provide plenty of outdoor activities.

While the median home price is higher at $550,000, North Carolina's relatively low property taxes and mild climate make it a great spot for those seeking balance between tranquility and city life.

With a median home price of $299,492 and no state income tax, Jacksonville is an ideal destination for retirees looking to save.

The city is home to beautiful beaches, plenty of dining and shopping opportunities, and access to top-notch healthcare, including the renowned Mayo Clinic. Year-round warm weather and plenty of outdoor activities make it a perfect spot to enjoy your retirement.

For retirees seeking beachfront living, Orange Beach provides an affordable option with a median home price of $650,000. While it's on the higher end, it's a great value for the incredible coastal views and proximity to the Gulf.

Alabama's low taxes and cost of living — which is 12% lower than the national average, according to RentCafe — add to its appeal, while attractions like the Orange Beach Marina and Gulf State Park offer endless outdoor recreation.

Charleston provides retirees with a low-cost, relaxed lifestyle, with an average home price of just $252,000. West Virginia is ranked in the top four when it comes to the most affordable states in the country, making it a smart choice for those looking to stretch their retirement savings.

With the U.S. Census Bureau says 20.8% of Charleston's population is aged 65 and older, it's a welcoming community for retirees. When living here, you can enjoy attractions like the state Capitol, Kanawha River, and plenty of outdoor activities in this charming city.

Paris, with its median home price of just $220,000, is a great spot for retirees looking to stretch their budget. The state's tax-friendly policies, including no taxes on Social Security benefits or income from IRAs, 401(k)s, or pensions, make it even more appealing.

Not to mention, Paris boasts a 70-foot replica of the Eiffel Tower, and is home to the charming historic attractions of West Tennessee like Paris Landing State Park, making it a perfect place for both relaxation and exploration.

Looking for Southern hospitality and affordable living? Check out Savannah. This city offers a median home price of $349,950, which is well below the national average of $425,000. Additionally, Georgia offers a tax exclusion on up to $35,000 of retirement income earned by people 62 to 64, or up to $65,000 earned by those 65 and older.

Wander the streets of the Savannah Historic District, get educated at the Telfair Museums, or head outside of the city center to get some fresh air at the Wassaw National Wildlife Refuge.

Port Saint Lucie is becoming one of the most popular retirement cities in the state. Residents can enjoy no personal income tax, making it appealing for those living on a fixed income. Additionally, the median home price is $410,000.

Known for its world-class golf courses, including the PGA Village, it's a golfer's paradise. Plus, its location gives you easy access to major Florida cities like Miami and Orlando.

Mountain Home, Arkansas, is perfect for retirees looking for secluded living and affordability, with a median home price of $215,000. Arkansas was ranked the most affordable state in the U.S. by U.S. News & World Report, and the state's low cost of living is a big draw.

The U.S. Census Bureau says 29.9% of residents are aged 65 and older, making it a welcoming community. Enjoy scenic mountain views and nearby attractions like Bull Shoals Lake and the Ozark Mountains when living in this cozy town.

Retiring in the South offers a variety of affordable options for those looking to enjoy a stress-free retirement. From beach towns to mountain retreats, these destinations provide not only lower costs of living, but also access to year-round outdoor activities and strong communities.

In addition to the financial perks, many Southern towns have lower crime rates, making them even more attractive for retirees looking for a safe and relaxing place to call home.