9 Pacific Northwest Towns Where a Couple Can Live on Nothing but Social Security

Misty coastlines, crisp mountain air, sunny desert skies, and much more define the Pacific Northwest. Add friendly towns and affordable living, and you might find the perfect place to retire.

The average monthly Social Security benefit for retired workers is around $2,000. That could mean a combined income of $3,500 to $4,000 per month for couples. Either way, planning for retirement starts with finding a town where you can live well on Social Security alone.

Here are nine towns where affordable housing, reasonable living costs, and community-friendly amenities make retirement more enjoyable.

Editor's note: Average rent prices are from Apartments.com, and housing costs are from Zillow.com unless otherwise noted.

Average rent: $1,231

Average home value: $368,791

If you love wide-open, sunny skies, Moses Lake could be just right. You'll have access to great fishing and boating, plus walking trails and birdwatching around the lake. The local farmers market, the Creative District, and nearby wildlife areas keep life interesting, and the Moses Lake Senior Center hosts a variety of clubs and fun activities.

Medical services are available locally, and the cost of living is 15% lower than Washington state's average.

Average rent: $1,226

Average home value: $387,335

Idaho Falls gives you access to stunning outdoor spaces, like Yellowstone National Park, plus plenty of cultural attractions. You can stroll the scenic River Walk along the Snake River, visit the Art Museum of Eastern Idaho, or catch a performance at the Colonial Theater. There's also a Japanese garden and several golf courses to explore.

The cost of living is 10% below the national average, and Idaho Falls is the center for regional medical care.

Average rent: $1,137

Average home value: $393,670

If you want big-city amenities without the big-city price, Spokane might be the answer. You'll enjoy the eclectic arts scene and dozens of parks, including the gorgeous Riverfront Park along the Spokane River. You'll also find plenty of shops and restaurants, and the popular Green Bluff's farms and markets are just a short drive away.

Spokane also offers excellent health care options and senior activity centers.

Average rent: $1,059

Average home value: $344,613

The "Watermelon Capital of the World" is located in Eastern Oregon near the Columbia River. Hermiston offers small-town friendliness, a senior activity center, and easy access to outdoor fun. You'll find plenty of local parks, walking trails, and community events throughout the year. It's the largest city in Umatilla County, but the cost of living here is well below Oregon's average.

For medical care, there's a local hospital and numerous clinics for your needs.

Average rent: $899

Average home value: $296,611

Pendleton blends Old West charm with modern comforts. You can explore historic downtown shops, visit the Pendleton Round-Up rodeo grounds, or take in Native American art and culture at the Tamástslikt Cultural Institute. The Umatilla River offers a peaceful walking path right through town, and the low cost of living is a real plus.

The senior center attracts a fun group of older adults, and comprehensive medical services in Pendleton can give you peace of mind.

Average rent: $883

Average home value: $361,856

Blackfoot is a quiet town known for its agricultural roots, but there's plenty to see and do. You can stroll through Jensen Grove Park and enjoy fishing or birdwatching. Check out the Idaho Potato Museum and visit the lava fields. Another time, head over to the Snake River for boating, then relax at one of the many restaurants in town.

It's an affordable option with access to health care in town and nearby Idaho Falls.

Average rent: $758

Average home value: $277,861

At the mouth of the Chehalis River and just a short drive to the coast, Aberdeen is a port town surrounded by forested hills and scenic drives. You can enjoy the beaches and fresh seafood in Ocean Shores, or explore Aberdeen's street murals, sculpture, shops, and cafes. Local bus service is free, so it's easy to get around.

It's one of the most affordable towns in Washington, and the high-quality local health care makes it a real find.

Average rent: $734

Average home value: $378,786

Located at the confluence of the Snake and Clearwater Rivers, Lewiston offers outdoor activities and a relaxed, small-town atmosphere. You can tour wineries and vineyards, learn about Nez Perce history, or tour Hells Canyon. Stroll or bike the river trails, then grab a bite in the downtown district and move on to the art center or museum.

There's a highly rated full-service hospital in town, should you need care as you enjoy retirement.

Average rent: $724

Average home value: $452,615

If you can't decide between the sea and the mountains, Port Angeles has both. You'll be close to Olympic National Park, where you'll find rainforests, snow-capped mountains, and the Pacific coast. There's also a ferry to Victoria, BC, for cross-border adventures.

Despite the coastal location and scenery, the cost of living is 11% below the state average. The Port Angeles senior center offers 50 programs each month, and with health care nearby, this town might be your destination.

Retiring in your ideal location on Social Security alone might seem out of reach, but if you're yearning for the Pacific Northwest, these towns prove otherwise. With a little planning and the right location, you and your partner can enjoy beautiful surroundings, a comfortable lifestyle, and the peace of mind that comes with a stress-free retirement.