5 Waterfront Towns Where You Can Actually Live on Nothing but Social Security
5 Waterfront Towns Where You Can Actually Live on Nothing but Social Security
Leah McClellanMon, February 16, 2026 at 4:05 PM UTC
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Retiring in a waterfront town might seem out of reach, but you don't need a fortune to make it happen. In fact, with the right retirement plan, you can make it happen, even if you're relying solely on Social Security.
If you're looking for ocean views, river walks, or lakefront sunsets, these seven hidden gems offer the lifestyle you want for your retirement years and no financial stress.
Editor's note: Average rent prices and housing costs are from Zillow.com (unless otherwise noted), and cost-of-living figures are from BestPlaces.net.
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1. Munising, Michigan
Aerial view of Munising city
SNEHIT PHOTO/Adobe
Average rent: $920
Average home value: $191,344
You'll never tire of the turquoise waters and sandstone cliffs of Munising, the gateway to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Here, you can enjoy boat tours, hike waterfall trails, and take in the scenery at the beaches. Or relax at a coffee shop downtown and stroll over to the Binsfield Bayshore Park and Marina to enjoy the view of Lake Superior. Best of all, you might catch a glimpse of the northern lights.
Munising Memorial Hospital provides local health care, and the cost of living is 18% below the U.S. average.
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2. Decatur, Alabama
Decatur Alabama cityscape with Steamboat Bill Bridge over Tennessee River
miss irine/Adobe
Average rent: $1,323
Average home value: $218,190
Set on the Tennessee River and known as "the River City," Decatur offers beautiful city parks and several historical downtown districts. You can kayak, visit the Wheeler Wildlife Refuge, or investigate the Cook Museum of Natural Science.
Health care includes several hospitals, numerous practitioners, and programs for older adults. It's peaceful, affordable, with the cost of living at 17% below the national average, and full of natural beauty.
3. Grenada, Mississippi
Downtown Grenada Mississippi in the town square area
Laurie Dana/Adobe
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Average rent: $800
Average home value: $126,021
Grenada Lake is the main attraction in Grenada and is known as an "inland paradise." It's perfect for fishing, birding, and lakeside picnics or relaxing at a beach. The local golf courses may be more to your liking, and Downtown Square has lovely shops, cafes, and regular events. The cost of living is 29% lower than the national average, which could make your budget more flexible.
Grenada's senior center hosts fitness and crafts, and local medical care is available at UMMC Grenada.
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4. Lake Ozark, Missouri
Sunrise high angle view of the beautiful Lake Ozark
Kit Leong/Adobe
Average rent: $1,400
Average home value: $325,311
This charming town is nearly surrounded by the Lake of the Ozarks and the Osage River. You can fish, kayak, or play golf on numerous courses. Discover boutiques at the Bagnell Dam Strip or enjoy a picnic in nearby Ha Ha Tonka State Park. Or take a short drive over to Seven Springs Winery for a Murder Mystery Dinner.
The local senior center offers social activities, and Lake Regional Clinic is in town, with the hospital just minutes away. The cost of living is around 19% lower than the national average, helping you stretch your retirement dollars further, and lake views are free.
5. Pascagoula, Mississippi
Average rent: $1,350
Average home value: $140,573
Pascagoula is an affordable coastal town on the Mississippi Gulf Coast with waterfront living and a relaxed, small-town vibe. Housing and rental costs tend to be well below the U.S. average, with typical home prices and rents much lower than many other beach communities, making it appealing for retirees.
Bottom line
A big budget doesn't always equal a better retirement. In fact, studies show that once your basic needs are met, higher income has little impact on overall happiness.
Choosing the right location is key to achieving a stress-free retirement. Whether you prefer a quiet coastal town or a lakefront community with plenty of activities, these waterfront spots let you enjoy the best of both worlds: peaceful living and financial peace of mind.
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Source: “AOL Money”
