Citizens of the United States, when they reach retirement age, receive a Social Security pension that provides a fixed income. Sometimes this income is less than what you would normally receive, so the place where you live may not fully meet your needs. In these cases, it is recommended to look for another place to retire.
While it may seem difficult to find a place to retire that is affordable and also meets all the requirements in terms of climate and social life, there are several cities that have it all.
To help you find a place to retire that fits your financial and lifestyle needs, GOBankingRates drew on data from ApartmentList, Sperling’s Best, the Bureau of Labor Statistics and AreaVibes to create a list of the best places to retire for $2,000 a month that are not only affordable, but also boast warm weather and sunny skies.
These places where you can retire for less are highly recommended. Plus, if you want to change residences afterward, you can always do so.
So, where is it better to live on the Social Security pension? We tell you about some of the best cities in the United States.
Des Moines, Iowa
Des Moines features the lowest rent on this list, as a one-bedroom apartment in this city costs $771. Retirees looking for a slightly cooler climate might want to consider this city, as the average high temperature is 61 and the average low temperature is 41. Des Moines also features higher monthly healthcare costs, averaging $495.27 per month.
- Total monthly expenses: $1,661.63.
- Livability score: 75
College Station, Texas
Located in Brazos County, College Station is home to Texas A&M University and features a high livability index of 79. For those looking to retire in a warm climate, this city has you covered, as College Station boasts an average high temperature of 79 F and an average low of 59 F. Rent in this city falls at an average of $841.14 for a one-bedroom and monthly grocery costs fall just under $400.
- Total monthly expenses: $1,664.72
- Livability score: 79
Huntsville, Alabama
Retirees in Huntsville can rent a one-bedroom apartment for an average cost of $867.50 per month. The grocery bill in this city is in the middle at $395.36, and monthly health care costs $453.42. The average low temperature here is only 51 F.
- Total monthly expenses: $1,716.28.
- Livability score: 79
Norman, Oklahoma
Retirees settling in Norman, Oklahoma, will find that the city is home not only to the National Weather Center, but also to affordable living. Rent in this city costs $822.29 for a room, and monthly food costs average $402.36 per month. Healthcare costs in Norman are the highest on this list, averaging $501.31 per month.
- Total monthly expenses: $1,725.95.
- Livability score: 76
These are some of the cities where you can live on an average Social Security pension.