15 Quaint Southern Cities Where You Can Retire on $1,850 a Month (Or Less)

Many retirees dream of relocating somewhere warm with a moderate cost of living that allows them to bask in the sunshine without stressing too much about retirement income. To help you gauge whether that dream life is attainable, we put together a list of great southern cities based on a FinanceBuzz study that considered data points like cost of living, housing costs, and climate.

If warm southern living is your retirement dream, consider these 15 quaint cities where you can retire on less than $1,850 a month.

Median monthly housing cost: $1,337

Owensboro offers plenty of southern charm, from its signature BBQ dishes and history as a Bluegrass hub to its fine Kentucky bourbon. It also has the lowest median housing cost of any southern gem on this list. The tax benefits for seniors in Kentucky, a strong sense of community, and a rich cultural scene make this city a very appealing choice.

Median monthly housing cost: $1,426

Sierra Vista is located in southern Arizona, not far from the Mexican border. The median housing cost is among the lowest on this list, and residents have access to stunning mountain views, desert landscapes, and a wide range of outdoor recreation.

Median monthly housing cost: $1,522

Located along South Carolina's Atlantic coast, Myrtle Beach is an affordable option with easy beach access and warm year-round temperatures. Retirees will be in good company, as nearly a quarter of the city's residents are over age 65.

Median monthly housing cost: $1,407

Hot Springs should check off quite a few boxes for outdoorsy types who want to prioritize low-cost living in retirement. The city, which offers incredibly low average mortgage and rent prices, is home to Hot Springs National Park and its stunning natural thermal springs.

Median monthly housing cost: $1,557

Victoria is located in southern Texas, about 30 miles from the Gulf of Mexico. The town has a rich history, incredible dining options, and plenty of outdoor beauty and recreation to explore, all while maintaining a significantly lower-than-average cost of living.

Median monthly housing cost: $1,504

Hattiesburg is another solid option, offering proximity to the Gulf Coast. In addition to affordability, the Mississippi hub boasts a mild year-round climate, a top-notch music scene, and a charming downtown area packed with local shops and dining options.

Median monthly housing cost: $1,537

Staunton is a great option for retirees who enjoy mild weather and small-town charm. It is the farthest north of all the cities on this list, yet it still maintains a southern charm and a low cost of living, and its quaint downtown is packed with boutiques, restaurants, and beautiful architecture.

Median monthly housing cost: $1,566

McAllen is located at the very bottom of Texas, in the Rio Grande Valley along the Mexican border, and Latin American culture and influence are prominent throughout the city. It has a rich history, incredible dining options, and a cost of living that's 18% lower than the national average, according to PayScale.

Median monthly housing cost: $1,746

Daphne is located on the shore of Mobile Bay, not far from the city of Mobile. It's a southern gem perfect for retirees who see long, lazy summer days and short, mild winters in their futures, without having to break the bank to get them. With its low crime rate, excellent healthcare facilities, and active senior center, Daphne is a great choice for retirees.

Median monthly housing cost: $1,754

Athens, located in northeast Georgia, has simultaneously been named one of the best college towns in the nation and one of the best places to retire. Housing costs are likely a contributing factor, and residents also enjoy a lively, walkable downtown and easy access to Atlanta.

Median monthly housing cost: $1,774

Located in central Florida, The Villages took the top spot on our list of the best cities for snowbirds. While the city was designed to cater to retirees and is packed with outdoor recreation, such as golf courses and pickleball courts, it remains affordable, with an average monthly mortgage payment under $1,800.

Median monthly housing cost: $1,794

Tyler has plenty to offer retirees seeking affordable southern living, from proximity to stunning lakes and scenic trails to its famed rose garden and charming downtown streets. The northeast Texas city is about an hour and a half outside of Dallas.

Median monthly housing cost: $1,662

Brunswick landed on the best cities for snowbirds list for a number of reasons, from its art and dining scenes to its low cost of living. It offers a charming Historic Downtown similar to Savannah's at a more attainable price.

Median monthly housing cost: $1,606

This south Louisiana city is known for its distinct Cajun and Creole influence. If balmy, southern weather in a lively yet affordable area is what you're after, you'll find it in Lafayette. Average high temperatures from June through September reach well into the 90s, and it remains warm year-round.

Median monthly housing cost: $1,613

Ocala is located in central Florida and sits between Gainesville and Orlando. It's known for its horse farms and natural beauty. Though it's quite popular with retirees, about 20% of the population is aged 65 and older, Ocala remains an affordable option in the Sunshine State.

Relocating to a charming southern city with a moderate cost of living can be the perfect recipe for easy living in retirement. Beyond monthly mortgage payments below $1,850, you'll be able to have a stress-free retirement by enjoying the weather, the community, and the low-cost of living most of these cities offer, helping you save more on groceries and on your utility bills.