9 Best Florida Cities Where You Can Live on a $1,500 Social Security Check

While a $1,500 monthly budget is low, you can make it go a long way in Florida. The state gives you tax relief on your income and has a lower cost of living than other parts of the U.S. However, not every location in Florida is created equal when it comes to affordability. You'll also have to factor in things like crime rates, walkability, and easy access to health care when deciding where to spend your golden years.

That's why we put together a list of the best Florida cities to live on a $1,500 monthly budget for a stress-free retirement. Take a look and see if one of these affordable towns in The Sunshine State doesn't have everything you're looking for in retirement with a price tag to match.

All pricing data pulled from Best Places unless otherwise noted.

Average rent: $1,150

Median home sale price: $278,500

Ocala offers prospective residents beautiful weather, affordable housing, and plenty of golf courses. Don't like golf? No problem — from horseback riding to fine dining, you'll get your pick of what you can do with your disposable income.

Ocala also has many attractions for young families, which may entice your loved ones to visit you often.

Average rent: $920

Median home sale price: $237,100

There's no point in retiring in Florida if you're not planning to explore the great outdoors. In Sebring, you can do just that. Whether you enjoy fishing on one of the nearby lakes or swimming to keep in shape, Sebring has you covered.

Even better, quality healthcare is within reach here despite this small city's rural charm.

Average rent: $910

Median home sale price: $235,300

Lake City doesn't just offer seniors affordable housing, it also gives them plenty to do. Besides spending time on the water on Lake DeSoto, they can explore historic sites like Olustee Battlefield Historic Site and beautiful cultural venues that blend nature and history like the Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park.

Lake City's cost of living is 14.5% lower than the national average, and utilities and groceries are affordable — the best news if you're trying to retire early.

Average rent: $1,120

Median home sale price: $240,000

Ah, the good life on the coast! It may even make you forget you're retiring on a budget. Pensacola offers white sand beaches, a lively city life for the active senior, and quality healthcare.

Housing costs in Pensacola are low — 11% less expensive than the U.S. average and 13.7% less than the average Florida home. While the city may experience hurricanes during the summer, its natural beauty and breathtaking shoreline make up for that risk.

Average rent: $840

Median home sale price: $173,400

Palatka is a great retirement spot for seniors who enjoy outdoor recreation. The Heckscher State Park is less than 15 miles from downtown, and the St. Johns River is ideal for kayaking, boating, and fishing.

Besides being affordable, Palatka also gives retirees a taste of history. Several Victorian buildings in this city appear on the National Register of Historic Places.

Average rent: $1,260

Median home sale price: $266,300

If you enjoy Tampa and Orlando but wouldn't live there because it's outside your budget and you're not fond of crowds, consider Dade City. This quaint town is close to both cities without losing its small-town charm.

Residents hail Dade City for its close-knit, friendly feel that would make potential retirees feel right at home.

Average rent: $1,030

Median home sale price: $197,500

Close to Sebring, Avon Park is another small city that offers seniors affordable home prices, natural beauty, and the famed Florida sunshine year-round. It's a rural setting fit for seniors who want to be away from the hustle and bustle of major Florida cities.

If you enjoy the outdoors and want to spend your retirement exploring simple living, Avon Park can give you just that, even on a budget.

Average rent: $1,110

Median home sale price: $281,200

Winter Haven is a good spot to retire because of its low cost of living and strong community vibe. In addition, the city's location and proximity to several lakes make it perfect for long nature strolls or staying cool on the water during the hot summers.

Retiring in Winter Haven will save you money while keeping you firmly in the middle of the action. Located in central Florida, the city is close to both Tampa and Orlando.

Average rent: $1,220

Median home sale price: $252,800

Pick Panama City if you've always wanted to retire in a serene coastal setting. The city is affordable and offers the best coastal living, from beautiful beaches and clear water to outdoor pursuits like exploring state parks and fishing.

With housing costs as low as Panama City's, making this Gulf location home is a no-brainer if you want to maximize your senior benefits.

Locations like Avon Park or Ocala make it possible to spend your retirement in comfort on nothing but your Social Security check. Besides, choosing tax-friendly Florida as your retirement destination is a good way to crush your tax debt.

Another way to make a budget of $1,500/month work is to look into senior or subsidized housing and local assistance programs. Also, consider using public transportation and ditching the car — it will save money in the long run.