I was born and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii, then moved to the San Francisco Bay Area. So I’ve lived in really beautiful cities with lots of food, sites, and amazing people. Sure cost of living is high, but I’m paying for comfort and really comfortable weather in California.
Would I live somewhere just to be a little more financially comfortable? No. I’m fulfilled, happy, and comfortable where I am, for now. Who knows, I may change my mind when I’m in my golden years.
If your goal is to live comfortably and you’re ready to retire there are hidden gems across the United States where living costs allow your retirement savings to go further.
Why $1,500? The average monthly Social Security benefit a retired American receives is around that mark, making the need for affordable housing and amenities even more significant for those ages 65 and up. Plus, with gas, groceries, and rent costs skyrocketing year after year, exploring financial adjustments and finding liveable areas across the United States are even more essential. Thankfully, we explore four places in America where you can live comfortably for $1,500 a month.
Fayetteville, Arkansas
Are you seeking a harmonious blend of affordability and a vibrant retirement life? Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, Fayetteville, AR, offers plenty of trails and natural scenery to explore. The city boasts 16 hiking trails, 15 breweries, eight museums, 69 city parks, 17 music venues, and three libraries.
Fayetteville is ideal for recently retired people who want to live well without financial strain, all within a $1,500-a-month budget. The cost of living is 16.4% lower than the national average, and you can expect to find apartments for rent in Fayetteville, AR, around $700. Residents shell out about 9% less than the national average for groceries and 15% less for healthcare.
Pueblo, Colorado
Nestled in the heart of Colorado, Pueblo is known for its access to nature and sunny climate. Pueblo stands out as an affordable enclave with a rich cultural heritage and gateway to outdoor amenities. Residents enjoy exploring the area’s top attractions and local hangouts, including its 25 hiking trails, four breweries, 11 museums, 94 city parks, one amusement park, six music venues, two zoos, and five libraries.
For those prioritizing both budget and quality of life, Pueblo proves you can have the best of both worlds for $1,500 a month. A cozy apartment hangs around $1,000, and while groceries are 1% higher than the national average, healthcare is 8% lower. With so much to do in this thriving city, you can have a stimulating lifestyle without the hefty price tag.
Fort Wayne, Indiana
Fort Wayne, Indiana, is an alluring choice for budget-conscious individuals who’ve made financial adjustments. The city provides an exceptionally affordable living experience in the heartland of America. Fort Wayne is the perfect city to locate if you’re searching for a community with a robust calendar of events to fill your every day. Fun family amenities include 16 hiking trails, 10 breweries, six museums, 97 city parks, 10 music venues, one zoo, and 10 libraries.
The cost of living in Fort Wayne is 13.3% lower than the national average, and rent hovers around $800. Grocery prices are 5% lower than the national average, and healthcare costs are low at just about $130 for a routine doctor’s visit.
Amarillo, Texas
Amarillo, Texas, epitomizes affordability in the expansive Texas Panhandle. Known as “The Yellow Rose of Texas” to its residents, Amarillo offers an enriching yet cost-effective lifestyle perfect for retirees. The city provides a unique blend of low-cost living and high-quality activities, like its six hiking trails, four breweries, 11 museums, 43 city parks, one amusement park, eight music venues, one zoo, and two libraries.
Living comfortably on a $1,500 monthly budget is not just possible here – it’s a reality. Amarillo allows a life full of Texan charm without the financial stress of some of the larger local areas. Lively apartments can be found for around $900, and gas prices are 17% lower than the national average. Expect your grocery bill to be 8% lower than the national average and your healthcare visits to be 13% lower.