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Retirement should be about enjoying life, not worrying about paying the bills.
Retiring in a place where this is actually possible is the dream, but the challenge can be finding a place that balances affordability with genuine charm.
So where can retirees look when beautiful views and a welcoming community matter as much as the price of rent or groceries? These seven cities offer character that makes everyday living enjoyable, with the added benefit of housing and living expenses that fall below the national average.
Batesville, Arkansas
- Cost of Living: $2,164
- Liveliness: 71
batesville Boasts a beautiful location and a historic town full of local charm. It’s an excellent choice for retirees looking for an active, outdoor lifestyle, but it also has plenty of attractions for those who enjoy a slower pace.
Marion, Kentucky
- Cost of Living: $2,139
- Liveliness: 70
Marion A peaceful, rural retreat known for its close proximity to Amish country with a slow-paced, “front porch” community feel.
Davenport, Iowa
- Cost of Living: $2,315
- Liveliness: 77
Home to big-city amenities such as the Fige Art Museum and the Mississippi River Trails, daventport Still manages to balance affordability with small-town friendliness.
Houlton, Maine
- Cost of Living: $2,315
- Liveliness: 70
A quintessential New England border town, Halton Features Victorian architecture and crisp, beautiful summers for nature-loving retirees.
New Harmony, Indiana
- Cost of Living: $2,291
- Liveliness: 69
new harmony A former “utopian” community that is now a sophisticated, walkable sanctuary for art, philosophy and quiet reflection.
abilene, kansas
- Cost of Living: $2,115
- Liveliness: 76
As the hometown of President Dwight D. Eisenhower, retirees who move there abilene You can expect a city full of history as well as fascinating scenery.
Galena, Illinois
- Cost of Living: $2,315
- Liveliness: 80
boasting a 19th-century “Main Street” and rolling hills, pig iron It is a high-culture paradise for those who want historical beauty and boutique shopping.
Editor’s note: Each city’s cost of living data is obtained from the AreaVibes Cost-of-Living Index, which is calculated by applying the index to the US average monthly cost of $2,516 (per livingcost.org). Liveability scores are also obtained from AreaVibes.