The 9 Best Coastal Towns for Retirees in the U.S.

When it comes time to retire, many people are looking for coastal destinations with their ocean view, salty air, and laid back lifestyle. Scientific studies Some research has even suggested that living near the coast can improve health. longevity. While this location appeal often comes with a sizable price tag, there are options at a range of costs—and there’s a coastal city or town to meet every retiree’s needs.

After consulting local real estate professionals and combining my own experience on the ground, I’ve come up with a few suggestions for the best places near the ocean to retire.

Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida

Jacksonville International Airport is about 32 miles away from this Florida city. The mild climate, beaches, golf, restaurants, nightlife and nature reserves will appeal to retirees. Ponte Vedra Concert Hall The city offers a wide range of entertainment with over 140 concerts and events every year. Nearby St. AugustineHistory, art and festivals are all available in the oldest city of the country. 

Kayaking, biking, bird-watching, fishing and hiking are all outdoor activities. Ethan Loosen a resident of the area and a realtor with Dream Finders HomesTells Travel + Leisure“The northern part Florida experiences seasonal change during the fall and winter, while remaining warm for most of the time, making it perfect to be outdoors.” According to, home values are around $800,000. ZillowFlorida is a great place to live, as there is no state income tax. Healthcare is also accessible, with several hospitals—like the Mayo Clinic and Baptist Health—nearby.

St. Simons Island (Georgia)

St. Simons Island, the largest barrier isle in Georgia’s Golden Isles has a charming small-town feel, with many outdoor activities and shopping options. St. Simons Island offers something for everyone with its nature trails, beaches and miles of sidewalks. Chandra KendallT+L spoke with associate broker DeLoach Sotheby’s International Realty. Kayaking, boating and fishing are all on our list. This is an excellent option if you can afford it. ZillowSt. Simons Island has an average home value of over $686,000.

Virginia Beach, Virginia

Virginia Beach is a popular retirement destination because of its mild climate, more than 30 miles coastline, and scenic walking trails. There are many reasons retirees come to Virginia Beach, says Jacki Paolella, realtor at Keller Williams Coastal Virginia. “In brief, we’re a diverse, welcoming beach city with relative affordability and all four seasons. My clients from the West Coast or Northeast, who retired here, have cited the affordability of homes and the ease of traveling to other major East Coast Cities as factors in their decision, along with milder winters, cleanliness and greenery.

Niche Virginia Beach is rated A in all categories. ZillowThe average home price in Virginia is just under $415,000. Virginia doesn’t tax Social Security. This is a big plus for retirees.

Fort Myers (Florida)

Fort Myers, located on the Gulf Coast is surrounded with beautiful barrier islands and beach, making it a popular retirement destination. The vibrant retirement community of Fort Myers is passionate about wildlife. Retirement villages organize field trips and outings, such as chartered boat rides through mangroves or other ecosystems. Captain Brian HolawayPrivate eco-tours are offered by boat. 

There are many ways that you can experience the wildlife in Fort Myers. The gators are a good example. Six Mile Slough“A boardwalk that traverses through 3,500 acre of mixed wetland/upland ecosystems will be fun for people of all ages, and is ADA accessible,” he says. “You can see Atlantic bottlenose Dolphins, manatees, and white pelicans in the winter. 

Niche Fort Myers is rated B+ overall for its livability. Its median home value is $351,600. You can start looking for your dream retirement house now if you like the outdoors, and it fits your budget. 

Ogunquit, Maine

Ogunquit is home to miles of sand beaches, a seaside walk, and a charming village filled with art galleries, shops, and restaurants. It is also known for summer theater. Art Exhibitions museumsGallery and museums. While the winters can be cold, May through October is the perfect time to go on scenic cruises. Explore historic lighthouses and watch migrating Whales. 

Gilbert Baeriswill is the general manager of Anchorage by the SeaThe resort has been a favorite for four decades. “Retirees love the sense of community here—whether it’s strolling the Marginal Way, catching a play at the Ogunquit Playhouse, or enjoying the small-town feel where neighbors know one another. It’s a place where you can enjoy fine dining, the arts and culture. But it is also a relaxing, coastal area that makes each day feel like vacation.

WalletHub The state of Maine is rated highly for its healthcare system. Niche Ogunquit gets a grade of A- for its livability. The cost of living in Ogunquit is not cheap. Zillow Ogunquit is home to a median home value of more than $900,000.

Freeport, Maine

Freeport is located about 50 miles north-east of Ogunquit, on the Atlantic Coast. It has been named one of the best suburbs for living in Maine by NicheOverall, the grade is A. Bridget Conley – general manager, The Freeport Inn & Suites – said that Freeport struck the perfect balance of small town Maine charm with everyday convenience. Harraseeket Inn– T+L. Retirement residents enjoy being close to the waterfront, nature trails and boutiques and outlets in town. There’s a strong sense of connection—people look out for each other—and the lifestyle is both vibrant and easygoing, which makes it a wonderful place to call home.”

Visitors to Freeport are drawn by the L.L.Bean flagship, which is open 24 hours a day, as well boutiques, designer outlets and local shops. Just two hours away from Boston, this walkable town has excellent healthcare and convenient transportation.

Ventura, California

Ventura is located an hour north of Los Angeles. It’s known as the gateway into Channel Islands National Park. Its beaches, historical downtown and harbor, as well as its vibrant community make it an ideal place to live or visit.  Ventura provides easy access to community and healthcare services via the county hospitals and private hospitals. Ventura has many attractions, including a pedestrian mall in the downtown area, art galleries and historic buildings. It also hosts live music. Zillow Note that the average house value is $885,000. 

Astoria, Oregon

This coastal town, located just south Washington on the Columbia River’s south bank where the river meets the Pacific Ocean, is a popular destination for tourists. Astoria is the first permanent settlement to be established west of Rockies. It has a beautiful waterfront, a historical downtown, and forests. In a recent visit, my husband and I fell for Astoria. We were charmed with the historic buildings, the friendly people, the restaurants, and the views as the river meets the Pacific. We loved the Columbia River Maritime Museum The stories it tells of fishing and boating in the area are fascinating.

You can find out more about this by clicking here. a fifth of Astoria’s population is over 65Retirement living facilities and an active senior centre are available to retirees. Niche Astoria receives a B- grade for its livability, and the median home value is $422.400. Oregon does not tax Social Security Income.

Carlsbad is located in California

Carlsbad is located on the Pacific coast in north San Diego County. It enjoys mild climate all year long. Carlsbad, nicknamed “the Village by the Sea”, is a small town with a walkable center, local shops, parks and restaurants. San Diego International Airport is only 35 miles from the city, and Los Angeles is 90 miles to the north. Farmers markets, the blossoming Flower Fields, you-pick strawberry fieldsThe Taste of Carlsbad The food festival was held on the Spring Kaleidoscope art fair, nearby LegolandDisneyland is only an hour away. Residents and their visiting families will find plenty to do. 

Carlsbad, California is a great place for retirees who have the means to live on the coast. California’s state income tax is a tax on Social Security benefits. Zillow The average home is worth over $1.2 Million.