I Asked ChatGPT Where You Can Retire on $2,500 a Month - It Said These 16 Cities

If you're looking at a retirement plan with a somewhat limited income, moving to a more affordable locale might be the solution you've been searching for. After all, your dollars can stretch further in some places. But, of course, the question is where you can live comfortably on Social Security income and other savings.

I asked ChatGPT to provide a list of cities where retirees can live on $2,500 per month. Here's what it had to say.

Editor's note: All housing data comes from Zillow, unless otherwise stated.

Knoxville, Tennessee

Average home price: $371,202

Without a state income tax and a relatively low cost of living, Knoxville offers retirees an affordable option. "Access to the Great Smoky Mountains, a lively downtown, and excellent health care through the University of Tennessee Medical Center," make it a nice place to call home, according to ChatGPT.

Huntsville, Alabama

Average home price: $288,707

Huntsville "offers modest living costs, strong health care, and a mild climate that makes day-to-day life comfortable," it said. With the cost of living 5.6% lower than the national average, this growing city could fit the tight budgets of many retirees.

Mission, Texas

Average home price: $219,723

The Lone Star State doesn't impose state income tax on its residents, which sets the stage for more money in your pocket as a retiree.

"Retirees are drawn to Mission for its low everyday expenses, active senior communities, and easy access to birdwatching, golf, and outdoor recreation in the Rio Grande Valley," said the AI chatbot.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Average home price: $321,339

"Retirees are drawn to Myrtle Beach for its oceanfront lifestyle, golf courses, and active social scene, all of which can fit within a modest monthly budget," said ChatGPT.

With the cost of living almost 10% lower than the national average, it's possible to get by with less in this beachside location.

Greenville, South Carolina

Average home price: $329,286

Greenville's cost of living is 8.7% lower than the national average, although it's slightly higher than the state's average cost of living.

"The city's walkability, arts scene, and abundance of parks make Greenville an attractive place for retirees who want both affordability and quality of life," said the chatbot.

Chattanooga, Tennessee

Average home price: $322,291

"The city blends outdoor adventure, cultural attractions, and affordable living, making it a favorite among retirees who want an active lifestyle," said ChatGPT.

With no state income tax, many retirees can enjoy the four seasons of Chattanooga's relatively mild climate with money to spare.

Johnson City, Tennessee

Average home price: $294,254

With no state income tax and a cost of living 15.4% lower than the national average, retirees might find extra breathing room in their budget here. "Johnson City remains one of the most affordable cities in the Southeast, with mountain scenery, a mild climate, and quality health care," it said.

Hot Springs, Arkansas

Average home price: $244,769

Hot Springs sits near the gates of Hot Springs National Park. Even with easy access to a national treasure, the cost of living here is 16.5% less than the national average.

"With its natural beauty and low cost of living, Hot Springs offers a laid-back retirement lifestyle with plenty of opportunities for boating and hiking," said ChatGPT.

Tusla, Oklahoma

Average home price: $220,279

"Retirees in Tulsa enjoy museums, music venues, and parks while benefiting from one of the most affordable metropolitan areas in the country," says the AI tool.

With a cost of living 14.7% lower than the national average, it's possible to stretch a tight budget in this city without giving up access to quality medical facilities.

Las Cruces, New Mexico

Average home price: $290,963

For retirees looking to head west, Las Cruces offers an affordable opportunity to soak in the desert skies.

"With more than 300 days of sunshine each year and a vibrant Southwestern culture, Las Cruces delivers both beauty and value," said the chatbot.

Winston-Salem, North Carolina

Average home price: $265,013

"The city blends historic charm with excellent medical care and easy access to both the mountains and the coast," said ChatGPT.

Residents in this city also enjoy a cost of living 15.7% lower than the national average.

Pueblo, Colorado

Average home price: $286,326

For active retirees planning to spend their extra time hiking, Pueblo could be a perfect option. With the cost of living 9.7% lower than the national average, you can enjoy easy access to the outdoors at a reasonable price point.

"Retirees appreciate Pueblo's lower housing costs, historic downtown, and proximity to hiking, fishing, and mountain views," says ChatGPT.

Biloxi, Mississippi

Average home price: $235,824

Retirees hoping to enjoy a beachside retirement might find what they're looking for in Biloxi, especially when you consider the fact that the cost of living here is 17.4% lower than the national average.

"Biloxi offers low living costs, Gulf Coast beaches, and fresh seafood in a laid-back setting," it said.

Mason City, Iowa

Average home price: $157,194

If you're looking for a quaint town to put down roots, Mason City could fit the bill. "This small Iowa city appeals to retirees looking for affordable homes, a strong sense of community, and a slower pace of life," said the chatbot.

With a cost of living 26.7% lower than the national average, retirees on a limited income might find some much-needed wiggle room in their budget here.

Decatur, Alabama

Average home price: $224,210

Decatur residents enjoy a cost of living 16.9% lower than the national average. With several popular festivals each year, including the Festival of the Cranes and the Alabama Jubilee Hot Air Balloon Classic, you'll find fun things to do here year-round.

According to ChatGPT, Decatur "offers retirees affordable housing and scenic Tennessee River views, while its proximity to Huntsville provides easy access to top-notch health care and big-city amenities."

Amarillo, Texas

Average home price: $208,517

"Amarillo pairs no state income tax with inexpensive housing and a friendly, easygoing pace of life," says ChatGPT.

With a cost of living 26.4% lower than the national average, it's easy to see how you might stretch your dollars further here.

Bottom line

If you want to enjoy a stress-free retirement, living in an affordable destination might be a key detail. For retirees planning to live on $2,500 per month, it's especially important to select an affordable place for their golden years.

Before jumping into a particular city, consider visiting for more than a week to see if you could really see yourself living there long-term.