24. Port Arthur, Texas
Everything does seem to be bigger in Texas, but thankfully property values seem to be the one notable exception. Despite being a decent-sized town with close to 55,000 people, the median home value is rock-bottom $66,000, putting owning a retirement home within reach for many retirees. Rents are correspondingly low, so those wanting low-maintenance or maintenance-free retirement housing will have a wealth of reasonably priced apartments and condos to choose from. Port Arthur is widely considered the cheapest beach city in the United States, so retirees should give this beautiful, modest town a serious look.
Sitting on the shore of the picturesque Lake Sabine, which shares a shoreline with Louisiana, this Texas gulf town is near the larger metropolitan area of Beaumont and only a few hours away from the bustling Houston area. The only real drawbacks to Port Arthur are the possibility of hurricanes in the summer and autumn and a slightly higher than average property tax rate. However, with homes widely available under $75,000, those can hardly offset the great retirement opportunity. Amenities include the nearby Texas Point National Wildlife Refuge and Sea Rim State Park, both of which can be enjoyed in perfect Gulf Coast weather.