Credit. While beachfront properties are premium, the median house price listing for Myrtle Beach is $250k, while the median household income is $43,200. If youve ever wished you could just pack up and head to the beach instead of staring out at the same dreary cityscape, perhaps that dream could become a reality. Work in that sector is constantly rising with the influx of more than 20 million visitors each year. Big Shell Beach - Great for seashell picking and photo ops, not for sunbathing. . Portland, Maine. The artsy, quintessentially Southern Mississippi Gulf Coast leads the nation in affordable coastal cities, with four places landing in . Jacksonville offers all the big city comforts and cultural entertainment, a growing craft beer scene, and the most extensive urban park system in the US, as well as coastal zones. Population: 1,864,138 Share of population age 60+: 18% Median Monthly mortgage cost: $1,819 Median Monthly Rent: $1,008 The homes in Nashville tend to be more affordable than many of the other cities across the U.S. and as a result, Nashville is becoming more appealing for those retirees that want to experience the wealth of activities that are available in addition to the obvious tax benefits. Median Home Price: $333,741. You can find out more about our use, change your default settings, and withdraw your consent at any time with effect for the future by visiting Cookies Settings, which can also be found in the footer of the site. You, too, can be the Prince of Bel Air the one closer to the Atlantic than the Pacific, that is. The city's median home value is just $173,900 versus $262,900 in . And the town you choose to make your home has to suit you and your family. The small towns on this list are some of the greatest beach towns on the East Coast. Ogunquit is said to have the prettiest . Jacksonville and Myrtle Beach have affordable beachfront property areas. Lets hit the beach. Williamstown, Massachusetts . Just like many of you dreaming about a coastal dream life, we can make this a reality through information and inspiration! Retire Comfortably. South Carolina's low country is a popular place to retire, thanks to its low cost of . Theres still a chance to grab a relatively affordable property here and relocate to this subtropical city with its miles of azure coastline. Seniors age 65 and over make up 21% of the towns population. #25 Best Places to Retire in North Carolina. Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. Great golf courses, medical facilities, beaches, state parks, and places to fish, kayak, and hike lure retirees from across the country. Working with an adviser may come with potential downsides such as payment of fees (which will reduce returns). The Sunrise City houses one of the oldest communities in Floridas east coast and its best known for its world-class fishing. The Harbor City features some delightful art galleries, golf courses, fishing piers, upscale dining, boutiques and beaches. Retirees look for affordable communities where they can fill their time with purposeful activities and social connections, keys to a long, healthy life, says Hale. Get personalized advice from a financial advisor that understands your needs. With delicious food and growing wine culture, a remnant of French occupancy, world-class beaches, and some of the friendliest and most peace-loving locals you will meet. Live everyday like youre on vacation in Dunedin. This places Exeter second to last on the list in that metric but is still a fairly good number in the grand scheme of things. Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina boast beachfront towns with well-priced properties and a high livability score. The ranking was based on the population of residents aged 55 and over per capita (the higher the better, we say), affordability based on median list price, access to hospitals and other health care facilities, the number of amenities like golf courses (for low-impact exercise) and country clubs (for the social scene), as well as marinas and water-recreation businesses like boating and fishing, for that all-around beach town experience. Healthcare is obviously very important to seniors, so we considered the number of medical centers per 1,000 residents in each city. 10. Check out the local parks, like Wilson Point and Kingston Point, and eateries such as Vinces Crab House and Carsons Creekside. One of the east coast cities that often gets overlooked but is well worth a visit. This two-bedroom condo is listed at just under $200,000 in a high-rise with bay and ocean views. Shocker, right? 10 Southern Cities to Make Early Retirement Dreams a Reality, 18 Perfect Fall Girlfriend Getaways To Plan Immediately, The Best Southern Mountain Towns for Retirement, The Prettiest Beach Town in Every Beachy State. Forbes compared nearly 800 locales in America, on everything from housing costs and taxes to healthcare, air quality and climate change and natural hazard risk. #29. Check out these affordable beach towns. The South Florida hot spot is the seventh-most populous metro area in the U.S., and its beaches attract vacationers year-round. If you want a town with people of diverse ages, though, New Hyde Park might fit the bill. The lowest average on our list is Shreveport, Louisiana, at $374.77. The book includes university towns like Lawrence, Iowa City and Athens, Georgia, which have part-time student populations approaching 30,000. Located in western Massachusetts, Springfield is roughly 60 miles from the coast via Connecticut. Buckroe Beach and Park, which offers jet ski, kayak and paddle board rentals, also presents sparkling views of the Chesapeake Bay. And locals are willing to fork over that kind of money for a reason. This Gulf Coast city features some glorious nature trails and lagoons and wetlands. Americas East Coast can be expensive; however, there are still cities where the property prices are lower. Hampton, which the town website describes as a city with an old soul and a youthful enthusiasm, features some lovely historic attractions and museums, golfing and boating opportunities and fantastic dining options. Ah, Florida: warm weather, beaches, and no state income tax. From the peaceful dunes of Cape Cod and the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico to the wild cliffs of the Pacific Northwest, these are the top 10 affordable beach towns and cities across the United States where retirees can kick back. Jim has run his own advisory firm and taught courses on financial planning at DePaul University and William Rainey Harper Community College. A number of factors went into determining the best places to retire on the East Coast. Canva. All investing involves risk, including loss of principal. Not every retiree wants to live in the heart of the big city but this lovely unincorporated community by the water offers the best of both worlds, lying just 20 minutes away from Baltimore. It's a popular Michigan summer vacation spot . The median monthly housing costs amount to $811. With some of the best beaches, lively downtowns, wildlife, and natural scenery, one will get the long-craved escape at one of these less-crowded gems. Nestled between Pensacola and Panama City, Fort Walton Beach includes some of the best deep sea fishing charters in the nation. Portland, Maine. Middle River is also home to aerospace giant Lockheed Martin. Its home to lots of shopping, plenty of restaurants, nice golf courses, a great sailing scene, and beautiful beaches. Little Shell Beach - Calm beach with smaller shells. 86 / 100. 1. Get matched with a financial advisor today at Datalign and get on the path to financial success. In the downtown area, youll find several historic sites, tasty eateries and live arts performances, and you can go fishing, paddling, surfing and sailing on the blue-green waters that sweep the beach. Seabrook Island, South Carolina. Here's a look at the highest-rated coastal towns to retire. Jacksonville, Florida. Outdoor living that keeps the bugs out can be a great addition to your home, but it may cost more than you think. Fairfax, located in Northern Virginia, is an independent city within the larger Fairfax County. Round Island Park is one of the famous public beaches to spot the manatees in Indian River County. The large community has various purchase restrictions, including a minimum age, and in some cases requires all-cash transactions; but to buy in another part of the desirable beach town would cost at least $700,000. Residents (nearly 60 percent of whom are seniors) can stroll through the Old Florida downtown, hunt for shells on the pearly white beaches, or take their furry friends to the city's local dog-friendly beach. Buyers looking for a deal can get into a one-bedroomhome starting around $125,000 or even a four-bedroom right next to the water for $349,000. Tuckpointing can give your brick walls or chimney a facelift while helping to ensure the structural integrity of your home. With pent-up demand, labor shortages and surging prices, summer travel wont be a bargain this year. Plus, theres almost seven rooms per house on average, so youll have lots of space. The median household income in Swansboro is $48,922. Placencia is a haven for beach connoisseurs. And while the appeal of sand between your toes and an ocean breeze may be enough to sell you on moving to Jacksonville, this coastal city has so much more to offer than the beautiful scenery. To help you determine the place in this part of the country that's the best fit for you, we looked at the metro areas within 100 miles of the Atlantic coast that rank highest among the Best Places to Live, which considers factors including affordability, job market, desirability and morning commute, among others. However, this small seaside town has recreational opportunities and scenic views that far surpass what youd expect from a location that requires such a small budget to live in. Eugene, Oregon. You can also watch the annual Daytona 500 NASCAR race at the Daytona International Speedway. People enjoy it.. They include this three-bedroom on the water for $275,000 and this two-bedroom cottage for $219,000. Only about 1 square mile, the popular beach area has a small-town feel and was named as a best place to retire by the AARP. and We've ordered each town from most to least populous to help you find your perfect slice of paradise. 04 of 13. Key Biscayne, Florida. Flickr JR P. Darien is one of the premier coastal towns in Georgia. If you need to break or get out of a lease, this is what you need to know. Looking to buy a home in California? When considering a place to retire, you should take a look atdifferent financial factors, including tax burden, healthcare facilities and other costs. Valletta is the tiny capital city of Malta, a country composed of three islands in the Mediterranean Sea about 60 miles south of Sicily. Despite the Crisis, Homeowners Remodel to Ride Out Pandemic in Comfort, How the Coronavirus Is Changing Some Boomers' Real Estate Plans for the Better. Stroll down the boardwalk for more entertainment options and shopping. The median home value is priced at $208,800 and the median annual property tax is $1,953, while youll pay around $953 in housing expenses each month. Median home list price: $145,050. A housing bubble burst isnt imminent, but here are the factors to keep an eye on. That means you can expect to be surrounded by people of a variety of ages if you retire here. The Bay Area Hospital treats patients of all ages, including geriatric medicine and services for the elderly and disabled. It probably won't come as a surprise to hear that Florida does exceptionally well in the retirement rankings across the board. Many tourists visit this island but are its resources up to standard? Sarasota, with its pristine Gulf beaches, cracked its way into the top towns thanks to its high number of doctors' offices (12.4) and recreation centers (3) per 1,000 people. Theres a medical clinic within the city, but you can also make a quick drive to the Gulf Coast Regional Medical Center for more services. Its tax burden is towards the middle of this list at 16.7%, and it comes in fourth in terms of medical centers with 15.55 per 1,000 residents. Just 14% of Newarks population is made up of senior citizens aged 65 and over. National parks, preserves and wildlife refuges are all plentiful . Bethany Beach, Delaware. 2. Photograph: Shutterstock. The city hails itself as The Shark Tooth Capital of the World due to the thick fossil beds that lie right under its gently lapping shores. Planned developments known as "plantations" dot the area. Retirees can take the grandkids on whale watching tours or picnic at one of the many parks or the beach. Average income for population 65+: $70,291. 2. Dont miss the National Naval Aviation Museum, the worlds biggest naval aviation museum, which houses over 150 restored aircrafts. Year-round homes start around $350,000 and reach nearly $4 million. Known for its boardwalks, casinos, and beaches, Atlantic City is the place to choose if you want the high life within a short distance of some of the most beautiful stretches of coastline along the Jersey Shore. It is also close to both Philadelphia and Baltimore, so both cities amenities and recreational opportunities are within easy reach. And we go over some of the numbers taken from Census Bureaus 2019 five-year American Community Survey as well as what makes each city so great to retire in. The median home value is $382,900 in Chapel Hill and $229,900 in Durham. Thats towards the bottom of this list, but its still a decent portion of older people if you thats important to you. Or go swimming at Sunset Beach and Fred Howard Park. Places to stay: Creek Watch Villa (6 guests): $125/night Updated Seabrook Villa (8 guests): $123/night Five Oaks Coastal Cottage (11 guests): $166/night There may not be any restaurants or shops on this quiet South Carolina getaway but what it lacks in amenities, it more than makes up for in secluded beauty. This charming Old Florida town features brick-paved streets, colorful cottages and old oaks, with independently-owned shops and boutiques. However, what really makes this port town ideal for the 55-plus crowd is the easy access to quality health care. #46. The River City by the Sea has a network of waterways and canals, as well as long stretches of stunning coastline. It also ranks first on our list of the best places to retire in Georgia. Just bear in mind that as a resident you will have to contend with crowds of tourists, especially in the summer. It also has 6.66 medical centers per 1,000 residents. Learn how to handle home improvement projects in a way that protects both your home and your bottom line. Newark also has the third-lowest number of recreation centers per 1,000 residents with 0.12. These firms could be great to partner with. Theres an outlet shopping center and a casino. They can help identify fixes which may help your sales price. Only about 1 square mile, the popular beach area has a small-town feel and was named as a best place to retire by the AARP. Dont worry this article compares them in detail. Stroll along white sand beaches, browse the boutiques and galleries in Old Town and cast a line for speckled trout or red snappers at one of the numerous fishing piers. America's gold stockpile has fueled curiosity and conspiracy theories. Mississippis widely considered one of the cheapest cities to live in the U.S., but isnt always recommended for a retiree. I have been drawn to the ocean and the coastal lifestyle my whole life. Property is extremely cheap in Port Arthur the median home value is just $65,800. Foodies can dine at some fantastic seafood and steak spots and outdoor activities range from bird watching to ziplining. Smallbones // Wikimedia Commons #15. On the shores of Lake Cayuga, the area has waterfalls and gorges galore. Some towns may appear a better option on paper, but things like safety, commute, and job scarcity may influence you to choose a city with a higher cost of living or more expensive properties. Pensacola is Florida's most affordable beach city and it's a beautiful place to retire, with idyllic white sand beaches, rivers, bayous and bays. The median home value in Gulfport is $185,600 and the annual property taxes will cost you around $1,448, while monthly housing expenses amount to about $877. The median house price listing is $235k, but there are small gems to be found in this delightful town. 25. Dont forget to compare health insurance rates to find an affordable policy that gives you great coverage as part of your retirement plan. The median home price listing is $255k, and the median income for a family in Fort Pierce is $35,198, and as a port city, the harbor sees a high volume of commerce. It only takes 3 minutes to connect with an advisor who puts you first. For many, the ultimate retirement goal involves uncomplicated days when the toughest decision involves when to visit the beach. Dolphins, birds, and beaches are just some reasons retirees flock to Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. The best places to retire for real estate, homes for sale, cost of living, climate, recreation, senior services and more . If you are looking for a place with below-average home prices to live in as a retiree, then Daytona Beach in the Sunshine State is a great solution for you. If youre considering a retirement in any of these places, you should start planning now. With that in mind, here are the top 10 best places to retire on the East Coast. At extreme high tides or after winter storms, the water pushes up to to 50 feet in the air. Best Places 2022-2023 Rank: 137. . Deerfield Beach, Florida. In Ocean Springs, the median home value is $174,000, the median annual property tax is $1,445 and the median monthly housing cost is $1,021. For those working in finance, this city may be the best choice. There are lots of great golf courses too, and plenty of fresh seafood to enjoy in area restaurants. Maui water is, Read More Is Maui Water Safe To Drink?Continue, Are you dreaming of a mid-winter vacation to somewhere warm, wishing you could go exploring or surfing? For a retiree, the city also offers some great dining experiences and outdoor activities like hiking and golfing, and it doesnt cost that much to reside there. Live everyday like youre on vacation in these American coastal towns with spectacular views and bargain prices. Due to its attraction as a tourism center, much of the economy relies on tourism. Seniors age 65 and over make up 18% of the population. Seaford is home to a number of parks where you can experience the great outdoors. Boasting 10+ miles of pristine beaches with temperate weather year . Centrally located on the Chesapeake Bay side of the Eastern Shore, Onancock is an inviting small town that was founded in 1680. Cape Coral, Fla. Cape Coral, Florida is a relaxed town just north of Fort Myers along the Caloosahatchee River and the Gulf of Mexico. What's harder is choosing the ideal tenants to occupy them. Kyle Valenta October 27, 2017. With the draw of the water (Fairhope is on Mobile Bay) and a downtown with unique restaurants and boutiques, it's one of the best places in the state, maybe even in the whole country, to retire. Best Places 2022-2023 Rank: 117. Myrtle Beach, SC, is one of the nation's most affordable beach towns. 1. Located on Virginia's eastern shore, Cape Charles is an inviting small town with picturesque piers and sidewalks for strolling and biking. Overlooking the shores of Lake Michigan, Saugatuck is home to several serene beaches that feature soft sand, rolling dunes and peaceful atmospheres. Compare mortgage rates today to find the cheapest offer in one of these beautiful beach cities. Looking to buy a home in Virginia? The New Castle Historic District has a number of historic buildings, including an arsenal built in 1809 in preparation for the War of 1812. Theres still a lot of areas in Hyannis that are very affordable, says Jeanette Neeven, a Realtor with Century 21 Cobb Real Estate. Though Morehead City is on the mainland, protected from storms by a barrier island, the city proper isnt known for its beaches. At HGTV we've researched some of the best and most affordable beach towns in the U.S. With its bustling main street, John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum, and world-renowned Cape Cod Hospital, Hyannis is basically the hub of the Cape. Beach vacations can be expensive, but luckily, a retiree in Ormond Beach doesnt have to drain their savings for a more permanent stay. But while many beach communities are cost-prohibitive, a surprising number are within reach for those who aren't millionaires. 3 . Information and timely news from our team of trusted money specialists. It is neither tax nor legal advice, is not intended to be relied upon as a forecast, research or investment advice, and is not a recommendation, offer or solicitation to buy or sell any securities or to adopt any investment strategy. She writes about food, travel, and real estate for Zagat, FoodNetwork.com, BBC Travel, and more. If you know you want to settle somewhere near the Atlantic but arent quite sure where, this guide will walk you through the best places to retire on the East Coast. The 10 Best Beach Towns on the East Coast. Ask our Retirement expert. It takes 15 minutes to get to everything Myrtle Beach has to offer without having to worry about traffic and stuff.. In Alabamas Gulf Shores, you can indulge and relax and even partake in an adventure or two. If you bought Google stock when it was cheap, Key Biscayne, just a few miles out in the water from Miami may be the ultimate town for beach lovers in Florida. Looking to buy a home in Florida? For the purposes of this book's third edition, a small art town has a full-time population of 65,000 or fewer. LindaZ74 / Shutterstock. The town, formed in 1889, has about 1,400 residents; the number swells, like most beach towns, in the summer, with local hotspots Donovan's Reef, the Rumrunner and Tommy's Tavern & Tap among the .