10 Cities Where You Can Survive on Social Security Alone
Retiring on Social Security alone sounds stressful until the math starts to work. The key is to find places where housing and daily expenses remain predictable. The cities below all pass that test in different ways. They offer low housing costs, strong access to healthcare and nice active life for retirees.
Bella Vista
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Here, rent averages about $825 per month, and the cost of living stays well below national norms. Home prices are around $375,000, which keeps property taxes manageable. The town is situated near Bentonville, which means access to hospitals and services without incurring Bentonville prices.
Fayetteville
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In Fayetteville, average rent comes in around $1,076, fitting neatly into a Social Security budget. Healthcare access is solid, thanks to regional medical systems, and the city’s population mix keeps daily services affordable and easily accessible. Homebuyers see median prices near $239,000, which is unusually low for a city within driving distance of Raleigh and Charlotte.
Winston-Salem
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Here, median home prices sit close to $293,000, while median rent comes in at around $1,394, which still works for retirees who own or downsize their homes. Mild winters help keep utility bills more stable throughout the year. Additionally, the healthcare infrastructure is robust due to the presence of established medical centers.
Pueblo
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In this city, the cost of living runs about 9% below the national average. Rent averages roughly $1,310, which lower transportation costs can offset. The city’s location ensures that healthcare access remains within reach, eliminating the need for higher-cost housing in the metro area. Median home prices hover around $254,600
Alamosa
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Affordability drives nearly every decision in Alamosa, with average rent near $958 and home prices around $315,000. The cost of living is approximately 18% lower than the national average. Winters are colder, which affects heating costs, but grocery and housing expenses remain predictable year-round.
Elkhorn
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Access to nearby Lake Geneva adds recreational options at Elkhorn without resort-level pricing. Social Security stretches further thanks to one-bedroom rents ranging from about $750 to $1,100. Additionally, mortgages are manageable for retirees who purchase modestly, as the median home price is approximately $342,500. The cost of living for single residents is significantly lower than the national average.
Haltom City
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Proximity drives value in Haltom City, and being part of the Fort Worth area means retirees get access to major hospitals while living in a lower-cost suburb. Texas property taxes are offset by the absence of state income tax on Social Security benefits. The average home price is around $289,500, while rent is approximately $1,196.
Sandusky
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Sandusky doesn’t wreck budgets just because of waterfront access. The average monthly mortgage cost is about $809. As for total annual living expenses, they fall under $29,000. A slower pace helps keep discretionary spending low. Seasonal tourism supports local services without driving up housing prices.
Frostburg
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For those seeking stable costs, Frostburg is the ideal destination. With an average monthly mortgage payment of approximately $981 and annual living expenses under $32,000, the city maintains a livability score above 80. It reflects safety and access to essentials, with outdoor recreation options that add daily enjoyment without expense.
Homestead
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Homestead is one of the few places where you can stretch a Social Security check. Monthly mortgage costs average just $448, and total annual living expenses sit below $28,000. More than a quarter of the population is 65 or older, ensuring that senior services are plentiful. Pittsburgh is close enough to address major medical needs.