9 Tropical Cities Where You Can Live on Nothing but Social Security

For many, retiring in a place where palm trees sway and the sun is warm year-round may seem like a dream come true, especially if you're on a budget. The average monthly Social Security benefit is around $1,900 per person. If you're searching for affordable tropical locales, there are many cities across the globe that offer a low cost of living and affordable housing, so you can stretch your retirement dollars further.

The following is a list of nine charming tropical cities where you can live well on Social Security alone.

Average rent: $431

Average home value: $138,598

Hua Hin was once a small fishing village located on the eastern shore of the Gulf of Thailand. It offers many modern Western conveniences, including excellent health care, shopping malls, theaters, and an award-winning vineyard nearby.

Along with affordable housing, meals at an expensive restaurant for two cost around $20, and basic public utilities are around $80 a month. Thailand also offers several visa categories for U.S. citizens wishing to retire in the country.

Average rent: $311

Average home value: $50,000

Davao City is located on the southern Philippine Island of Mindanao in the Davao Gulf. It offers several waterfalls, and the Monfort Bat Sanctuary and the Giant Clam Sanctuary are nearby. Residents can stroll the Matina Town Square, which offers shops, restaurants, and community events. The city is also ranked as the third safest city in Southeast Asia.

The cost of living in Davao City is very affordable. Utilities are around $102 a month, and a meal at an inexpensive restaurant is around $4.

Average rent: $230

Average home value: $111,620

One of the oldest cities in Brazil, João Pessoa offers lush landscapes and beautiful beaches, making it an ideal destination for expats seeking a tropical lifestyle. The Cabo Branco Station hosts a variety of art and craft shows throughout the year; there's also a botanical garden near the city center.

Utilities cost around $80 a month, and an expensive meal for two hovers around $28. To retire in João Pessoa, retirees must obtain the VITEM XIV retirement visa and deposit at least $2,000 a month in a Brazilian bank.

Average rent: $467

Average home value: Varies

Salinas is situated on the sunny Santa Elena Peninsula in western Ecuador. It's the largest coastal resort in the country. There are numerous shops and outdoor activities to enjoy, and the cost of living is affordable, with monthly utilities averaging around $38 and cellphone service at approximately $14 per month. Ecuador also uses the U.S. dollar.

If Salinas is an option for retirement, you'll need to obtain a Jubilado visa and have a minimum income of $1,380 a month.

Average rent: $945

Average home value: $150,000 to $400,000

Sanur, Bali, offers a quiet, laid-back atmosphere that's ideal for retirees seeking a slower pace from city life. Stroll the streets at the local farmers market or focus on health and well-being at a spa. It's also the perfect spot for scuba diving.

Monthly utilities cost around $87, and a meal at a fast-food restaurant is around $4. To retire in Bali, you'll need to be at least 55, obtain a Retirement KITAS permit, and provide proof of at least $3,000 a month in income.

Average rent: $882

Average home value: Starting at $200,000

Mazatlán is located along Mexico's Pacific Coast. It offers historic buildings, cobblestone streets, and a five-mile-long boardwalk. The Mazatlán International Airport is also located just outside of town for easy travel.

The cost of living is affordable, with utilities around $58 a month. Local bus fare is less than a dollar. The two main paths to retire in Mexico as a U.S. citizen include applying for a temporary or permanent residency visa.

Average rent: $429

Average home value: $165,000

Mayagüez is situated in the center of the west coast of Puerto Rico. It's a safe location for both visitors and residents. The architecture makes the city one of the most beautiful town centers on the island. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Mayagüez forest has trails for walking and biking. Isla de Mona is a boat trip off the coast of Mayagüez, offering white sand, crystal-clear waters, and caverns to explore.

Along with extremely affordable housing costs, basic utilities cost around $485 a month, and dinner for two at a nice restaurant costs around $58.

Average rent: $383

Average home value: $200,000 and up (luxury home)

Granada is located along the western shores of Lake Nicaragua. The city boasts rich colonial architecture and offers a variety of things to see and do. Downtown offers a variety of bars and restaurants, as well as live music and boat tours of the surrounding area. There's also a large expat community that schedules activities together.

Nicaragua is listed in the top 24% of the least expensive places in the world to live, making it an attractive option for retirees.

Average rent: $719

Average home value: $250,000 (3-bedroom)

Las Terrenas lies on the northeastern coast of the Samana Peninsula. It offers white sandy beaches, clear waters, and a laid-back lifestyle that many expats call home. The main market offers a local bakery, unique stores, and multiple boutiques. For those who enjoy hiking, the El Limón Waterfall is a popular spot for locals and tourists.

The cost of living in Las Terrenas is low, with monthly utilities around $50 and a three-course meal at a restaurant costing around $72.

A dream retirement in a tropical location isn't reserved just for the wealthy. From Southeast Asia to Latin America, numerous cities offer a comfortable and fulfilling lifestyle with a Social Security income.

While the cost of living and housing may be low in other countries, you also need to factor in the added expense of relocating and setting up a new life. If you want to avoid wasting your retirement savings in the wrong place, consider an extended visit on a tourist visa before making the final decision to move.