Yahoo Autos 10 Best Places in Florida for a Couple To Live Only on Social Security
Famously warm weather. No state income tax. A relatively affordable cost of living, even by the beach. Huge swaths of retirement communities.
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It’s no wonder that Florida is such a magnet for retirees. In 2022, 11.8% of all U.S. retirees who switched states chose Florida, more than anywhere else. That’s based on a review of U.S. Census data compiled by the Hire A Helper moving service.
With ritzy destinations like Miami and Palm Beach, you can spend as much as you want to wind down in the Sunshine State. Florida retirement dreams don’t necessarily have to go poof for folks on tight budgets, though — even couples living on Social Security alone.
GOBankingRates has compiled a list of Florida’s top 10 places for couples living only on Social Security checks. Our study blends data from the U.S. Census, Sperling’s Best Places, the Zillow Observed Rental Index, the Bureau of Labor Statistics and AreaVibes.
Even Florida’s best combos of livability and affordability will stretch Social Security-only budgets. According to the Social Security Administration, the average benefit for couples these days is about $3,580 a month — close to the average monthly cost of living for each of the cities in our top 10.
If you’re looking to retire to Florida with limited resources, read on for our countdown of your best options.
10. Melbourne
Average rent: $1,907
Average total monthly cost of living: $3,622
Livability score: 81
“The Harbor City” is located on Florida’s east coast, roughly halfway between Jacksonville and Miami, and about 70 miles southeast of Orlando. Melbourne’s average monthly rent and total cost of living are the highest in our top 10, but its livability score also ranks near the top of the list. Attractions include Andretti’s Thrill Park and the Brevard Zoo. About 83,500 people live here.
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9. Gainesville
Average rent: $1,595
Average total monthly cost of living: $3,375
Livability score: 80
Best known as home to the University of Florida, Gainesville is located in the state’s north-central region. Its roughly 140,000 residents have access to eight nearby state parks and more than a hundred miles of hiking and biking trails. Gainesville’s monthly cost of living places it within range for many cost-conscious retirees. A month’s worth of groceries will cost a couple just under $400.
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8. Lakeland
Average rent: $1,720
Average total monthly cost of living: $3,459
Livability score: 76
You’ll find Lakeland on Interstate 4 in central Florida, in between Orlando and Tampa. Lakeland is home to a charming downtown, dozens of lakes, about 110,000 residents and a large population of swans. There are plenty of retirees here, with nearly 22% of the population age 65 and up.
7. Ocala
Average rent: $1,599
Average total monthly cost of living: $3,311
Livability score: 67
A city of about 62,000 in north central Florida, Ocala is a hub for equestrian enthusiasts. The city is home to numerous Thoroughbred farms and the World Equestrian Center — the largest equestrian complex in the U.S. Residents also have easy access to two state parks and Ocala National Forest.
