The Best Beach Towns to Retire in the U.S.

Dreaming of retiring in a beach town? It’s important to find a place that not only offers stunning views but also essential amenities like quality healthcare and good transportation. Here are some of the best beach towns in the U.S. for retirees.

Portland, Maine

Portland, the largest city in Maine, offers a charming coastal experience without the tropical humidity. Enjoy warm summers and snowy winters, with dramatic ocean views along the rocky Atlantic coastline.

Food lovers will appreciate Portland’s diverse culinary scene, featuring fresh seafood and local produce. Affordable housing makes it even more attractive, with median monthly mortgage costs at $1,694 and rent at $1,115. Plus, the University of Southern Maine adds a vibrant college town vibe.

Jacksonville, Florida

Jacksonville boasts 22 miles of white-sand beaches along the Atlantic. Popular spots include the Seawalk Pavilion, Jacksonville Beach Pier, and Neptune Beach.

The St. Johns River provides additional boating and fishing opportunities. Homeowners with a mortgage pay a median of $1,488 monthly, while renting near the beach costs around $1,113. Jacksonville perfectly combines beach living with city amenities.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach is a popular and affordable retirement destination, known for its SkyWheel, boardwalk, and Atlantic Ocean beaches. The cost of living is low, with median monthly mortgage costs at $1,296 and rent at $976.

Over a third of the population is aged 60 or older, making it a retiree-friendly community. Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the numerous courses available.

Port St. Lucie, Florida

Quieter and more affordable than Miami or Orlando, Port St. Lucie is highly desirable among retirees, with a third of the population aged 60 or older. The median monthly mortgage cost is $1,521, and rent is $1,194. This town on Florida’s Atlantic coast features both ocean beaches and freshwater marshes, offering a peaceful retirement spot.

Melbourne, Florida

Melbourne offers an affordable beach retirement with median monthly mortgage costs at $1,426 and rent at $1,111. The Indian River Lagoon and nearby wildlife refuges provide opportunities to observe dolphins and sea turtles. Historically significant as the landing site of Juan Ponce de León in 1513, Melbourne Beach is perfect for history buffs and nature lovers alike.

Sarasota, Florida

Sarasota is known for its beautiful beaches like Lido Key and Siesta Key, featuring unique, cool-to-the-touch quartz sand. The median monthly mortgage cost is $1,563, and rent is $1,259. Sarasota offers a mix of cultural and recreational activities and is serviced by major healthcare providers like Sarasota Memorial Health Care System.

Daytona Beach, Florida

Daytona Beach is an affordable retirement spot with a median monthly mortgage cost of $1,324 and rent at $1,127. Known for its motorsports events, Daytona Beach offers a lively retirement with healthcare services provided by Halifax Health Medical Center and AdventHealth Daytona Beach.

Naples, Florida

Naples is a bit pricier, with a median monthly mortgage cost of $1,882 and rent at $1,374. However, its high quality of life and desirability make it worth the cost for many retirees. Located along the Gulf of Mexico, Naples is ideal for enjoying golf, sunshine, and white-sand beaches.

Tampa, Florida

Tampa combines the amenities of a major city with the charm of a beach destination. The median monthly mortgage cost is $1,485, and rent is $1,160. Tampa offers a variety of attractions, including cruise ports, theme parks, and professional sports teams, providing ample entertainment options for retirees.

Pensacola, Florida

Pensacola is known for its affordability and desirability, with a median monthly mortgage cost of $1,328 and rent at $1,046. The town offers historic charm, beachside restaurants, and uncrowded beaches. Located near the Gulf of Mexico, retirees can enjoy locations like Perdido Key and Pensacola Beach.

Each of these towns offers a unique blend of coastal living and essential amenities, making them excellent choices for retirement. Whether you prefer the northern charm of Portland or the tropical allure of Florida’s many beach towns, there’s a perfect spot for every retiree.