14 Retirement Cities Where You Can Actually Live on Just Social Security

If retirement is approaching , or you want to make the most out of your Social Security check, then you’re likely looking for cities with a low cost of living and a decent livability score.

It’s estimated that each retiree will receive an average of $1,900 per month for Social Security in 2024.

While that number isn’t the highest, there are plenty of cities where you can live comfortably on just that alone, as long as you avoid wasting money on things that aren't essential.

Let’s take a look at 14 great cities to consider if you're looking for an affordable solution that matches your social security check.

1. Green Bay, Wisconsin

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Rent in Green Bay averages around $905 per month , which can eliminate some of the money stress for retirees.

Energy bills cost roughly $185, phone bills $186 monthly, and a gallon of gas costs $3.15. The total cost of living is 8% less than the national average.

While being inexpensive, it has a pretty large population of over 106,000. There are also plenty of entertainment options, including breweries, parks, and Lambeau Field, home of the Packers.

2. Anderson, Indiana

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Anderson is another affordable Midwest city, with a total cost of living averaging around $1,553 per month for one person. Rent averages $1035 per month, and the city has a population of over 55,000.

Its quality of life scored a 69, with plenty of parks, museums, and community events like farmer's markets to visit. There’s also a race track and a vibrant, historical downtown scene.

3. St. Louis, Missouri

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If you want to retire in a bigger city with a bit more vibrancy, St. Louis has a quality of life score of 73, and the cost of living averages just $1,670 per month. Rent averages $996 a month, and utility bills for one person cost roughly $202 per month.

There is no shortage of activities in St. Louis, including museums, parks and nature, tons of dining options, family-friendly sites, and Busch Stadium, home to the St. Louis Cardinals.

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4. Cleveland, Ohio

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The cost of living in Cleveland cuts close to the allocated Social Security budget at $1,825 per month. However, if you want to retire in a bigger city with just your paycheck, it’s certainly doable.

The average cost of rent and utilities totals $1,137 per month, with food costing $551 and transportation $120 monthly. The quality of life score, though, is a steep 79. Catch a Browns game, check out the museums and parks, or visit the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

Pro tip: Even if you don't settle down here for retirement, Cleveland can be an affordable vacation, you can save on travel costs while enjoying plenty of cultures.

5. Tallahassee, Florida

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Florida is a top retirement destination for many, but the high cost of living can be a deterrent. Tallahassee is a relatively affordable location, though, with a total cost of living averaging $1,593 per month.

Even an apartment in the heart of the city costs roughly $1,212 per month, but cheaper units can be found for around $700. The quality of life score is 64.

6. Buffalo, New York

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New York has a reputation for being expensive, but there are areas where you can live entirely off your Social Security check.

The average cost of living in Buffalo is $1,805 per month for one person, so while it is on the pricier side, it’s manageable. Rent and utilities total an average of $1,036 per month, and the quality of life score is an appealing 88.

7. Louisville, Kentucky

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Louisville is another great city to retire in, with another impressive quality of life score of 89. Enjoy all the city has to offer at an average cost of living of $1,623 per month.

An apartment in the heart of the city only costs around $1,080 per month, and utilities are only around $180 per month. Enjoy your retirement in the homeland of bourbon.

8. Tucson, Arizona

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If you want to retire somewhere warm on a budget, consider Tucson. The average cost of living is $1,555 per month, with rent and utilities only totaling $1,200 per month.

The quality of life score is 68, and there’s plenty to experience and enjoy in your retirement. Explore the gorgeous nature scene the city has to offer, look into the location’s rich history, or spend your time on the golf courses.

9. Omaha, Nebraska

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Omaha has a high quality of life score of 84, but it only costs an average of $1,704 per month to live there. Rent and utilities only cost roughly $1,152 per month.

Omaha has plenty to offer the retired resident, including golf courses, spas, tours, sporting events, nature trails, an amazing zoo, and tons more.

10. Tulsa, Oklahoma

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Oklahoma is another city with an incredibly high quality of life and an affordable cost of living. It costs roughly $1,504 per month to live in Tulsa, which affords you a quality of life score of 90.

Enjoy any number of Tulsa’s culture and entertainment, from nature trails and parks to museums, casinos, live music, zoos, and more.

11. Arlington, Texas

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Texas is a wonderful state to retire in, but the cost of living in most major cities is likely unattainable, especially if you’re only living off your Social Security check. Arlington is a wonderful compromise.

It costs an average of $1,685 per month to live in Arlington, which has a high quality of life score of 77. It’s a short drive from Dallas, but the city has its own vibrant arts, entertainment, and sports scene.

12. Des Moines, Iowa

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Des Moines has an affordable monthly cost of living of just $1,399, while still having an impressive quality of life score of 70.

It’s a very family-friendly area, perfect for a quiet but active retirement. There are famous farmers markets, breweries, historic towns, zoos and parks, and plenty of shopping opportunities.

13. Knoxville, Tennessee

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Knoxville has a slightly pricier cost of living of $1,806 monthly, but it more than makes up for the steep price with its quality of life rating, which is 81.

There’s something for everyone in Knoxville, from a vibrant arts, music, and theater scene, to festivals, tons of food to taste, and plenty of opportunities to explore surrounding nature.

14. Kalamazoo, Michigan

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Michigan is a wonderful state to retire in, with gorgeous nature all around, lakeside beaches, and plenty of statewide attractions. However, most major cities are too expensive to live on Social Security alone.

Kalamazoo only costs $1,477 a month to live in and has a comfortable quality of life score of 64. There are tons of museums, parks, festivals, zoos, shopping excursions, and more to enjoy.

Bottom line

The average cost of living is getting more expensive, and that can make it challenging to live solely off of your Social Security check.

However, there are many affordable cities across the country that offer plenty to do in your retirement. You can also check out ways to boost your bank account to help you get the most out of your retirement years.

Money tips that can work for everyone

No matter what your bank account balance is, there's always an opportunity to optimize and improve your finances. Here's a quick checklist of things you can look at today.

Focus on paying off your debt. Debt can hold you back from making progress with your overall financial well-being. Aside from cutting expenses, there are tools that can help you pay off debt faster like balance transfer credit cards and debt counseling.

Earning extra income can give you breathing room. If finances are tight, earning some extra money to supplement your income can make a huge difference. A new job is one option to consider, but if you're not ready to make a big change or already retired, a part-time side job could be a better choice.

Cut your expenses. It sounds painful and so not fun, but it doesn't have to be. Take a look at your biggest expenses because that's where you'll probably find the biggest savings. For example, auto insurance rates have been soaring so shopping around for a new insurance company can be the fastest way to cut your bill. Also, look for ways to cut your grocery bill (despite rising inflation).