Cheapest Places to Retire in the US (2025 Update)

Retiring on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing lifestyle. This in-depth guide explores the cheapest places to retire in the US, featuring cost of living comparisons by city, retiring in Tulsa, retiring in Kentucky, and more. We cover housing, groceries, taxes, healthcare, crime, community amenities, transportation, climate, retirement community options, and tips for relocation.

Why Location Matters for Retirement Relocation

Choosing where to retire isn’t just about low housing prices — retirees search for tax-friendly states for retirees, healthcare for retirees by state, and independent living options near senior living communities . City Shift Finance helps you compare all these, ensuring your move aligns with your financial and lifestyle goals.

City Profiles

Pittsburgh, PA

• Housing & Groceries: Below national averages

• Healthcare: Highly ranked hospitals

• Crime: Moderate—choose safe neighborhoods

• Lifestyle: Active arts scene, senior centers, accessible public transit, four-season climate

• Ideal for: Retirees seeking cultural amenities with lower costs

Tulsa, OK

• Housing & Groceries: Among the most affordable

• Crime: Elevated in some areas; choose wisely

• Lifestyle: Warm weather, community parks, and senior programs

• Popular keyword: “Retiring in Tulsa”

Augusta, GA

• Housing & Groceries: Low-cost Southern town

• Crime: Suburban districts recommended

• Lifestyle: Historic charm, mild climate, riverwalks, and golf

• Retirement tip: Check local retirement community listings

Knoxville, TN

• No state income tax on Social Security or pension

• Housing, Groceries & Crime: Low prices, safe environment

• Lifestyle: Arts, outdoor access to the Smokies, public transportation

• Search phrase: “Cost of living comparison by city”

Des Moines, IA

• Housing & Groceries: Very affordable

• Crime: Low overall

• Lifestyle: Top healthcare, farmer's markets, festivals, cold winters

• Keyword: “Best states to retire”

What Retirees Truly Value

Beyond numbers, retirees care about:

• Quality healthcare and specialist access

• Senior-friendly housing — condos, assisted living, CCRCs

• Transportation — public transit or senior ride programs

• Recreation & community — local centers, clubs, fitness options

• Climate — mild vs four seasons

• Proximity to family — especially for caregiving or support

• Local taxation — taxes on pensions, Social Security, property

Practical Tips for Retirement Relocation

1. Use cost of living comparison by city tools — like City Shift Finance — to see how each city matches your budget.

2. Visit potential retirement hubs in person and tour neighborhoods.

3. Ask about crime rates, transit options, and local senior communities.

4. Calculate total retirement costs, including healthcare, housing, groceries, taxes, and lifestyle.

5. Search online terms like “retirement community near me”, “senior living community”, and “CCRC” to explore living arrangements.

Conclusion

Choosing a retirement destination is about balancing affordability, healthcare, community, and lifestyle. Whether you're drawn to a vibrant arts scene, family proximity, warm climates, or tax savings, a smart relocation means aligning your values with data.

City Shift Finance specializes in detailed relocation analysis — helping you compare housing, grocery costs, healthcare access, crime, lifestyle amenities, senior-living options, transit, taxes, and climate — all customized for your needs. Take the guesswork out of retirement relocation—visit City Shift Finance today to start your personalized report and