Beaufort, South Carolina

Retirees looking for some Southern hospitality can find it in Beaufort, a Low Country gem on South Carolina’s Port Royal Island. Although the cost of living here is 4% above the state average, it’s 3% lower than the national average, and housing prices are 15% lower than the national average, making it overall an affordable place to retire in—especially for a coastal city.

South Carolina also has no estate tax and no income tax on Social Security; nor does it tax the first $10,000 of other retirement income.

There’s no shortage of free activities in Beaufort, whether it’s taking a sunset stroll on Lands End Beach or biking on the 10-mile Spanish Moss Trail, which winds through the town and its salt marshes. Fifteen miles east of Beaufort is Hunting Island, South Carolina’s most popular state park. It’s home to the Hunting Island Nature Center and boasts five miles of serene beaches plus 10 hiking trails. Beaufort’s mild climate makes these activities enjoyable year-round.

The marshy town exudes a laid-back vibe, appealing for retirees who prefer a more low-key lifestyle. And when they’re getting the itch for a bit more bustle, Charleston and Savannah are only a 90- and 60-minute drive away, respectively. 

There are a number of senior living centers to welcome Beaufort’s large retiree population, and plenty of nearby medical facilities, like the Beaufort Memorial Hospital, that offer specialized services for seniors.