Choosing an affordable place to retire is more than just saving money—it’s about quality of life, healthcare access, and overall comfort. These 10 U.S. cities offer a balanced mix of low living costs, accessible services, and enjoyable lifestyles in 2025.
1. Fort Wayne, Indiana
Consistently ranked the most affordable city to retire, Fort Wayne offers low rent (~$1,017/month) and mortgage payments (~$1,212), excellent healthcare, cultural amenities, and proximity to other major cities in the Midwest
2. Huntsville, Alabama
Known as “Rocket City,” Huntsville combines low housing costs (mortgage ~$1,501/month, rent ~$1,237) with a thriving economy, museums, parks, and quality of life
3. Youngstown, Ohio
Youngstown offers one of the lowest median home prices (~$137K) and mortgage payments (~$653), plus parks, golf courses, arts, and nearby cities like Cleveland and Pittsburgh
4. Hickory, North Carolina
Nestled by the Blue Ridge Mountains, Hickory boasts low housing costs (rent ~$846/month, mortgage ~$1,319), scenic outdoors, and moderate climate year-round
5. Springfield, Missouri
Springfield blends affordable homes (~$291K median price, mortgage ~$764) with rich culture, trails, parks, and a vibrant downtown lifestyle
6. Brownsville, Texas
This South Texas town has one of the lowest costs of living in 2025, with median homes around $276–$276K, low taxes on Social Security, and Gulf Coast lifestyle perks
7. Toledo, Ohio
Toledo delivers affordability (median home ~$158K, mortgage ~$795) paired with lakefront access, arts, health care facilities, and scenic parks
8. Omaha, Nebraska
With 7% below‑average living costs, no tax on Social Security, and strong medical and cultural offerings, Omaha stands out as a budget-friendly retirement hub
9. Tulsa, Oklahoma
Tulsa offers 11.6% below U.S. average cost of living, median home ~$122K, excellent amenities—from golf to trails—and tax exemptions making it retiree-friendly
10. Knoxville, Tennessee
Knoxville features a 17% lower cost of living, Social Security exemptions, access to healthcare via UT Medical Center, and easy access to Smoky Mountains
Conclusion on 10 Affordable Places to Retire in the U.S. in 2025
These ten locations offer affordable housing, tax advantages, well-being services, and engaging communities—all important for comfortable, smart retirement planning. From the Midwest to the Southeast, each offers its own charm while stretching retirement dollars further. Consider climate preferences, healthcare access, and lifestyle when narrowing your choice.
