It’s not hard to believe that many people picture a scenario where they retire on the beach. However, finding somewhere to live on a budget can be difficult, let alone on the beach. According to Market Watch, the average retired American lives on just over $45,000 per year. Considering that most married couples over the age of 65 receive $2,340 per month in social security, this is $28,080 per year in social security checks. So unless they have a hefty IRA stashed away in addition to their social security benefits, finding an affordable beach town may seem like a pipe dream.
Thankfully, these places truly do exist, however. There are cities across the United States and throughout the world that offer everything from warm weather all year round to the lovely four seasons for a white Christmas. There are certainly several retirement mistakes to steer clear of, but choosing to retire in these beach locales is not among them. Here are 30 beach towns where it’s possible to retire for under $40,000 a year according to Thrillist.
30. Deerfield Beach, Florida
If you like eating, drinking, and celebrating life overall, Deerfield Beach, Florida, presents an amazing retirement opportunity. With several of Florida’s finest local breweries including Holy Mackerel and 26 Degrees and famous restaurants like Tucker Duke’s Lunchbox, Deerfield Beach is a non-stop party location for those so inclined. If you like the quieter outdoors life, Deerfield Beach’s location on the South Coast offers access to countless beaches, parks, fishing preserves, and more. Deerfield Beach also boasts a pristine, wide sand beach with plenty of room for tourists and locals alike, making it a relaxing, warm beach getaway for any retiree.
The median home price in Deerfield Beach is only $153,000, putting it on par with many Midwestern real estate markers but with much better weather. Rentals are also quite reasonable, giving retirees many options for whatever type of homeownership (or lack thereof) they prefer. As a smaller community, Deerfield Beach has a much more accessible cost of living than nearby large cities like Miami and Boca Raton. Florida has no income tax and many statewide programs for seniors and retirees. It is no coincidence that so many seniors retire to Florida with favorable economic conditions and beautiful weather.