Retirees can enjoy Southern charm without stretching their finances, thanks to modest living costs and the Social Security Administration’s average monthly benefit of about $2,071 in January 2026.
Social Security benefit makes modest Southern retirement feasible
The $2,071 average benefit provides a realistic $1,900 monthly budget for retirees who plan carefully and avoid common pitfalls. Spousal benefits or additional savings can further increase flexibility.
Affordable Southern cities for retirees
1. Charleston, West Virginia
Average rent: $1,010 | Average home value: $159,866. The capital blends riverfront scenery, a farmers market and a hospital, offering both leisure and health care.
2. Dothan, Alabama
Average rent: $912 | Average home value: $199,443. Known as the “Peanut Capital of the World,” Dothan provides murals, museums, golf, and affordable health services.
3. Paducah, Kentucky
Average rent: $904 | Average home value: $184,557. Its Ohio Riverfront, quilt museum, and nearby lakes support cultural and outdoor activities, backed by award‑winning medical care.
4. Texarkana, Texas
Average rent: $876 | Average home value: $189,734. Straddling two states, Texarkana offers theaters, historic sites, and lake recreation, plus senior services.
5. Cookeville, Tennessee
Average rent: $872 | Average home value: $311,295. Centrally located between Nashville and Knoxville, it features waterfalls, a university atmosphere, and a regional medical center.
6. Hot Springs, Arkansas
Average rent: $806 | Average home value: $240,694. Thermal baths, a national park, and lake activities combine with comprehensive health care for a relaxed lifestyle.
7. Abingdon, Virginia
Average rent: $810 | Average home value: $274,813. The Blue Ridge Highlands frame artisan shops, a historic theater, and wellness services.
8. Lehigh Acres, Florida
Average rent: $745 | Average home value: $283,796. Proximity to the Gulf, golf courses, and diverse dining keep life vibrant even as staying budget‑friendly.
9. Lumberton, North Carolina
Average rent: $618 | Average home value: $143,129. Riverfront recreation, festivals, and a friendly community make it an attractive low‑cost option.
Bottom line
Southern towns offer a blend of affordability, amenities, and Southern hospitality, allowing retirees to stretch their Social Security dollars while enjoying a high quality of life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average Social Security benefit in 2026?
The Social Security Administration reports the average monthly benefit is about $2,071 as of January 2026.
How were the rent and home‑price figures determined?
Average rent prices reach from Apartments.com and home values from Zillow.com, as noted in the source.
Which city has the lowest average rent?
Lumberton, North Carolina, reports the lowest average rent at $618 per month.
Which Southern city might best match your retirement budget and lifestyle preferences?
