The South: Warm Weather and Low Taxes

If you prefer milder winters and lower heating bills, the Southern United States offers numerous cheap places for retirees. The region generally boasts lower property taxes and friendly tax environments for seniors.

9. Hickory, North Carolina

Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Hickory features stunning scenery, a mild climate, and a revitalized downtown. It frequently ranks high on lists of best places to retire due to its low cost of living and strong sense of community. North Carolina does not tax Social Security benefits, and Hickory’s housing market remains highly accessible.

10. Winston-Salem, North Carolina

For retirees who want larger city amenities without the big city price tag, Winston-Salem delivers. The city is anchored by the Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, ensuring world-class healthcare is just minutes away. The city’s rich history, affordable housing, and mild winters make it a highly desirable and budget-friendly option.

11. Augusta, Georgia

Beyond hosting the Masters golf tournament, Augusta is a haven for retirees. Georgia offers some of the most generous retiree tax exemptions in the country, completely shielding Social Security and a significant portion of other retirement income. Augusta’s warm climate, excellent hospitals, and inexpensive housing market make living on a fixed income simple and stress-free.

12. Huntsville, Alabama

Known as the “Rocket City,” Huntsville boasts a highly educated population, a thriving aerospace industry, and a shockingly low cost of living. Alabama has some of the lowest property taxes in the nation and completely exempts Social Security from state income tax. Retirees here enjoy top-tier healthcare, beautiful botanical gardens, and excellent local dining.

13. Mobile, Alabama

If you dream of retiring near the water but cannot afford Florida prices, Mobile offers Gulf Coast living on a strict budget. The city features historic architecture, incredible seafood, and warm weather year-round. Housing costs fall well below the national average, making it easy to afford a comfortable lifestyle on a modest income.

14. Brownsville, Texas

Located at the southernmost tip of Texas, Brownsville offers a rich bi-cultural heritage, a tropical climate, and some of the lowest living costs in the United States. Texas levies no state income tax. You can easily find affordable housing and inexpensive local produce, allowing a standard Social Security check to cover all necessities with room to spare.

15. McAllen, Texas

Similar to Brownsville, McAllen sits in the Rio Grande Valley and boasts an exceptionally low cost of living. The city has experienced significant medical infrastructure growth, meaning retirees have access to highly rated healthcare facilities. Warm winters and a vibrant local culture make McAllen a standout destination for retirees.

16. Tulsa, Oklahoma

Tulsa features one of the largest concentrations of Art Deco architecture in the country, a world-class park system (Gathering Place), and a fiercely affordable housing market. Oklahoma does not tax Social Security benefits. The city offers a perfect blend of Midwestern friendliness and Southern charm, providing a rich lifestyle on a retirement budget.

17. Roanoke, Virginia

Surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, Roanoke is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. The cost of living is significantly lower than the national average, and Virginia does not tax Social Security. The city offers excellent healthcare through the Carilion Clinic system and features a vibrant, walkable downtown perfect for active retirees.