15 Sweet Southern Cities Where You Can Retire for $1,400 a Month or Less

The key to a successful, stress-free retirement is financial planning, and it's important that you live where your monthly housing budget is well under your monthly fixed income. Whether you're after the charm of a lakeside town, rolling mountain views, or a city with a close-knit feel, the Southern U.S. has a range of destinations that fit the bill.

Financebuzz recently identified the best cities for snowbirds, evaluating each on various factors, including affordability. But why limit your time to winter months if the price is right? You can spend less than $1,400 a month on your mortgage if you retire in one of these 15 sweet Southern cities. Ready to find your perfect spot?

Editor's note: Median monthly housing costs were calculated by FinanceBuzz using data from the United States Census Bureau.

Median monthly mortgage: $1,185

Anniston is a vibrant haven for those seeking a sun-drenched retirement with an outdoorsy lifestyle. Spend your days playing golf, hiking at Coldwater Mountain, and enjoying local events such as the annual Blueberry Festival and Bloomin' Festival. T

he cost of living here is also 15% lower than the national average.

Median monthly mortgage: $1,218

If you're looking to stay active in your retirement years, Gadsden provides plenty of opportunities. 

Spend your days biking, hiking, and golfing, or just soaking up the beautiful scenery. The cost of housing, food, and health care here is 19% less than the national average, helping you to make the most of your budget.

Median monthly mortgage: $1,230

The "Peanut Capital of the World," Dothan offers more than just agriculture. Attractions like the Dothan Area Botanical Gardens, Landmark Park, and Wiregrass Museum of Art are all huge draws. 

Senior centers, clubs, and events can keep you active and involved. The cost of living here is 13% less than the national average.

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Median monthly mortgage: $1,274

From scenic hiking trails in the Ouachita Mountains to naturally warm thermal baths, Hot Springs offers plenty of a rejuvenating retirement lifestyle. It has a historical and charming downtown and a slower pace of life. 

Property taxes here are much lower than in big cities, while Military pensions, Social Security, inheritances, estates, and railroad retirement benefits aren't subject to the Arkansas state income tax.

Median monthly mortgage: $1,283

Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Dalton is the ideal spot for those who want to hike, fish, and play golf. 

Retirees are well cared for here, with places like the Dalton-Whitfield Senior Center offering activities, meals, and social opportunities for over-50s. The cost of living in Dalton is 12% lower than the national average.

Median monthly mortgage: $1,288

Surrounded by over 100 lakes, Sebring is ideal for retirees who enjoy fishing, boating, and waterside strolls. With year-round sunshine and small-town charm, it's the perfect spot to retire and enjoy nature while still having access to all the amenities you might need. 

The cost of living here is also 17% below the national average.

Median monthly mortgage: $1,292

Perched on a scenic bend of the Ohio River, Owensboro is an affordable, amenity-filled place to retire. It is home to the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame, the Western Kentucky Botanic Gardens, and many walking and biking trails. 

You can save money here too, as the cost of living is 3.5% lower than the national average.

Median monthly mortgage: $1,295

Goldsboro brings together a comfortable, laid-back lifestyle with all the essentials close at hand. You can enjoy the various events and festivals, as well as beautiful walks in Neuse State Park. 

Quality health care facilities, such as Wayne UNC Health Care, are readily available. The cost of living here is 2% lower than the national average.

Median monthly mortgage: $1,297

For warm weather and a multicultural vibe, the Southern city of Decatur is the place to go. 

With bustling farmers' markets, live music, and a close-knit community, it offers all you could need for a fulfilling retirement. Its reasonable costs make it easy to budget. The overall cost of living is 3% less than the national average.

Median monthly mortgage: $1,337

Mobile is a historic city with a plethora of landmarks, attractions, and museums, and is also close to several popular beach destinations. 

The cost of living here is 7% lower than the national average, with housing costs being considerably less than in other cities around the U.S.

Median monthly mortgage: $1,349

Surrounded by pine forests and known for its Southern hospitality, Hattiesburg offers retirees a mix of small-town charm and cultural activities. 

The city features a number of art museums, craft breweries, and many walking and biking trails. The cost of living here is 10% lower than the national average.

Median monthly mortgage: $1,359

Homosassa Springs offers a relaxing retirement spent surrounded by wildlife. With a laid-back vibe and low monthly living costs, it's the ideal place to spend your golden years. 

The cost of living here is 8% lower than the national average and 16% lower than the rest of Florida.

Median monthly mortgage: $1,370

Albany is a city with a rich history, plenty of cultural centers, and riverfront parks perfect for walks in the fresh air. 

There is a strong community feel, plus activities for older adults, such as health fairs and health screenings. The cost of living is 16% lower than the national average, too.

Median monthly mortgage: $1,374

Bowling Green is known for its scenic beauty, rich culture, and Southern hospitality. Spend your days browsing art galleries, soaking up the sunshine in Mammoth Cave National Park, and visiting the local shops and boutiques. 

Living in Bowling Green is 11% less expensive than the national average.

Median monthly mortgage: $1,470

Gulfport offers a unique blend of relaxation and entertainment. You'll find coastal trails, fresh seafood, and a laid-back lifestyle that's ideal for enjoying your golden years. 

The cost of living here is 15.3% lower than the national average, and you can expect to pay 4.7% less for groceries and 1.2% less for utilities.

Whether driven by the warm climate, nature-packed environment, or just the lower cost of living, retiring in one of these Southern cities is a surefire way to enjoy your golden years and maximize your retirement savings.

Beyond the temperature and walkability scores, be sure to research financial factors, too. Relocating from a high-tax state to a lower one could reduce your tax liabilities and stretch your budget even more.