![\"Tucson](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/nz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/tucson-arizona-iStock-1295636796.jpg\")
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GOBankingRates’ editorial team is committed to bringing you unbiased reviews and information. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and services – our reviews and ratings are not influenced by advertisers. You can read more about our editorial guidelines<\/a> and our products and services review methodology<\/a>.<\/p>\n 20 Years Trusted by Do you crave a warm-weather lifestyle but wonder if it\u2019s financially feasible in retirement with rising housing costs? The good news: It is. Retiring in a sunny weather destination doesn\u2019t have to drain your savings.\u00a0<\/p>\n There are still plenty of places where the 65-and-over crowd can keep their monthly costs under $1,750 \u2013and still enjoy mild winters, beautiful scenery and outdoor amenities. For many retirees, renting a home can eliminate unpredictable repair and maintenance costs.<\/p>\n GOBankingRates tapped real estate experts for affordable retirement<\/a> destinations. From coastal communities to the high desert, here are five cities where you can retire in great weather without overspending<\/a>.<\/p>\n Tucson, Arizona<\/p>\n The median rent in Tucson is $1,550, with studio apartments averaging $797, one-bedrooms $924 and two-bedrooms $1,266, according to Zillow<\/a>.<\/p>\n Joseph Keshi, CEO of Keshman Property Management<\/a>, recommends Tucson for its affordable cost of living and said, \u201cHousing, property taxes and utilities alone account for about $1,750 a month.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThe retired crowd benefits from health care options, baby-boomer-friendly insurance rates, ties to nature through walkable neighborhoods, and inexpensive recreational options. [Year-round outdoor living] is another advantage, and flooding rain never follows.\u201d<\/p>\n Jeremy Yamamoto, founder of Eazy House Sale<\/a>, echoed this sentiment.<\/p>\n \u201cTucson is already a premier desert destination market, and increased availability of 55+ active adult communities<\/a> results in a strong, competitive market with low HOA fees and housing prices,\u201d Yamamoto added.<\/p>\n He added that in recent years, retirees have been drawn to Tucson\u2019s affordable health care costs, which he said rank below the national average, and its mild climate keeps costly winter heating bills in check.<\/p>\n \u201cIts small town vibe within a major metro city means there is close and affordable access to all the necessities,\u201d Yamamoto noted.<\/p>\n El Paso, Texas<\/p>\n With more than 300 days of sunshine a year and low crime rates, El Paso offers peace of mind and cost savings. <\/p>\n \u201cThe city is a top financial pick, given that housing prices are still roughly 50% cheaper than the national median and there\u2019s no state tax on retirement income or Social Security,\u201d said Yamomoto. \u201cThat represents a significant reduction in expenses, which leaves a $1,750 budget to spread over quality health care, [dining and entertainment].\u201d<\/p>\n The monthly median rent in El Paso is $1,500, with studio apartments averaging $781, one-bedrooms $838, two-bedrooms $1,100, and three-bedrooms $1,610, according to Zillow<\/a>.<\/p>\n Gulfport, Mississippi<\/p>\n Retirees who aspire to live on the Gulf of Mexico can find a coastal oasis in Gulfport, Mississippi, without paying the high prices found in major Gulf cities.\u00a0<\/p>\n \u201cMississippi is extremely tax-friendly for retirees<\/a>, as it taxes neither Social Security benefits nor income from qualified retirement plans like IRAs and 401(k)s. And with a cost of living nearly 14% below the national average, seniors can afford to live close to the water while still well within their budget each month,\u201d explained Yamomoto.<\/p>\n The median monthly rent in Gulfport is $1,500. Retirees can find studio apartments for an average of $797, one-bedrooms for $895, two-bedrooms for $1,300, and three-bedrooms for $1,600.\u00a0<\/p>\n Daytona Beach, Florida<\/p>\n Retirees can enjoy a classic Florida lifestyle in Daytona Beach, where median home prices are typically 15% below the state average, said Yamamoto. The median monthly rent in Daytona Beach is $1,600, with studio apartments averaging $1,156, one-bedrooms $1,250, and two-bedrooms $1,550, according to Zillow<\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>\n \u201cDaytona is one of the last beachfront bastions of affordable living,\u201d Yamomoto said.\u201d It\u2019s part of the financial appeal, helped by Florida\u2019s not having a state income tax, so more money remains in that now-retiree\u2019s pocket to be used for food and shopping or local entertainment or trips.\u201d<\/p>\n The affordability and appeal of living close to the coast make Daytona Beach an attractive option for those on a limited pension, said Yamomoto.<\/p>\n McAllen, Texas<\/p>\n With a cost of living more than 20% lower than the national average, low-income taxes, no state income tax, and housing costs about 32% less than the U.S. average, McCallen is \u201camong the most affordable cities<\/a> in the nation,\u201d Yamamoto said.<\/p>\n \u201cThe city\u2019s year-round tropical [feel] is enhanced by its location on the Rio Grande, and it\u2019s perfect for people who crave an active yet affordable lifestyle,\u201d he added.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.gobankingrates.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/icon-20.svg?webp=1&quality=75\"){kind=icon}
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