In this article, we list and discuss the 10 Best Places in the US to Retire on $5000 a Month. If you would like to see our detailed discussion of the topic, you can go to 25 Best Places in the US to Retire on $5000 a Month.
10. Pampa, Texas
Monthly living budget: $3,920
Monthly average rent: $870
Pampa, located in north Texas, is a decently small and quiet town with a population of nearly 17,000 people. The city lacks nightlife, but it definitely has plenty of attractions for those coming here to retire and live in a peaceful environment. From golfing at Stonegate Golf Club to taking a dip in one of the lakes during the summer seasons, Pampa offers a simplistic yet peaceful lifestyle.
While the unemployment rate is higher than the US national average, from a retiree’s perspective, it’s an ideal city that is moderately safe, with less than the national average living costs. To comfortably live in Pampa, Texas, the required monthly living budget is $3,920, including the monthly average rent of $870. It has a good healthcare system alongside a stable economy as well.
9. Johnstown, Pennsylvania
Monthly living budget: $3,907
Monthly average rent: $830
Located in southwestern Cambria County, Johnstown, Pennsylvania, is a nice small town with minimal traffic, friendly people, and a lot of small businesses. With a livability score of 50, Johnstown hosts a population of 18,647 people. Overall, the comfortable weather and great healthcare facilities make Johnstown City an ideal place for retirement. However, the city is a bit unsafe, with the property crime and violent crime rates being 47.7 and 33.9, respectively. The monthly living budget required to live in Johnstown is $3,907.
8. Abilene, Texas
Monthly living budget: $3,854
Monthly average rent: $1,010
Ranked eight, Abilene is home to over 124,000 people, and the livability score for it is 42. It is a great city for those who have an interest in history and culture, and the people are very friendly in this city as well.
Note that the crime rates are relatively higher, so citizens need to exercise extra precautions to ensure safety. However, on the upside, Abilene has excellent healthcare, but it is slightly more expensive than the national average. The economy for Abilene is fine, and the weather is also more comfortable than the rest of Texas.
7. Lake Charles, Louisiana
Monthly living budget: $3,764
Monthly average rent: $1,080
Lake Charles, a city in southwest Louisiana, offers retirees with a unique blend of southern charm, cultural richness, and affordability. The monthly living budget required to live comfortably in Lake Charles is $3,764 and the local economy is driven by industries like petrochemicals and gaming. The crime rates in this city vary, but residents and visitors are generally required to exercise increased precaution.
While healthcare facilities are available, retirees might need to visit nearby hospitals for specialized services. The city also offers a pleasant climate, however, the risk of hurricanes should be considered. Lake Charles has a distinct culture — a mixture of Creole and Cajun, allowing retirees to explore a rich culinary experience and vibrant local festivals.
6. Midland, Texas
Monthly living budget: $3,705
Monthly average rent: $1,340
Located in the heart of the Permian Basin in Texas, Midland requires only around $3,705 for a person to live comfortably in the city. Midland is a vibrant and lively city with a low crime rate and a safe community. Aside from that, the city scores well under the health conditions, economy, and weather domains as well. Plus, there are many recreational opportunities in the city and places to visit like the Museum of the Southwest, Beal Park, and I-20 Wildlife Preserve.
5. West Des Moines, Iowa
Monthly living budget: $3,681
Monthly average rent: $1,220
Next on the list is West Des Moines, a city in the state of Iowa. With a livability score of 64, West Des is one of the best places for retirees to live in the U.S. It is a pretty city with scenic locations like the Raccoon River, several amenities, and pleasant weather. Index-wise, West Des Moines has a weather index score of 8.6, which means it’s also one of the most comfortable places for living in Iowa. Aside from that, it has many thriving businesses that support and strengthen the local economy. It has a good healthcare system and is one of the safest places to live in America.
4. Tucson, Arizona
Monthly living budget: $3,584
Monthly average rent: $1,200
With a population of more than 540,000, Tucson is a mid-sized city in the state of Arizona. It has a good economy and health conditions. Healthcare facilities in Tucson are 15.7% cheaper than the national average. The city has a variety of pharmacies, and numerous local clinics and health centers for basic medical services, preventative care, mental health services, physical therapy, and other specialized services. Safety-wise, the city has a crime rate above the national average, and residents of Tucson need to practice extreme caution.
The weather in Tucson is mostly warm, and the city has a livability score of 54, which is 4 scores above the national average. Plus, the vibrant art scenes and cultural heritage make it a great place to live as a retiree with a budget of $5000.
3. Orlando, Florida
Monthly living budget: $3,293
Monthly average rent: $1,740
Orlando, Florida is best known for its warm environment and a wide array of attractions such as Disney World Resort and SeaWorld. The cost of living in Orlando varies, but it generally aligns with the national average. There is also a wide range of housing options available in Orlando to suit different budgets. For a two-bedroom unit in Orlando, the monthly average is $1,740.
Unfortunately, crime rates are higher than the national average in Orlando, and residents need to exercise extra caution. As far as health conditions go, there are plenty of healthcare facilities available, including specialists offering comprehensive medical services. The weather in Orlando is mostly warm and sunny, allowing retirees to enjoy outdoor activities year-round. However, the heat also means that Orlando may be less comfortable compared to most other places in the state.
On the upside, Orlando also has a diverse economy and offers opportunities for part-time work in the tourism and healthcare sectors. It is a great place for those looking for a lively city to retire in.
2. Walnut Creek, California
Monthly living budget: $3,076
Monthly average rent: $2,940
While Walnut Creek, California has a slightly higher cost of living, it offers its residents an upscale suburban lifestyle. The city’s low violent crime rate contributes to a sense of security for residents. Healthcare facilities in Walnut Creek are also good, with both accessible medical services and specialized care available.
The local economy is also strong due to the city being a commercial shipping center for agriculture. The city’s Mediterranean weather provides warm summers and mild winters, great for outdoor activities and exploration. As compared to most other places in the state, Walnut Creek’s weather is more comfortable. Retirees in Walnut Creek can enjoy fine dining, cultural amenities, and the natural beauty of Northern California.
1. Palm Beach Gardens, Florida
Monthly living budget: $3,048
Monthly average rent: $2,390
Palm Beach Gardens, a city in Palm Beach County in the state of Florida, is one of the best places in the US to retire on $5000 a month, especially for those seeking a tropical retirement experience. While the cost of living is a bit high, the city’s monthly living budget is around $3,048 — rent inclusive.
On the upside, Palm Beach Gardens is mostly safe for residents, with the violent crime rate being significantly lower than the national average. The healthcare facilities, and the overall city health conditions, are moderately good, sufficing the needs of retirees. The weather is less comfortable than most other places in Florida. However, the diverse economy of Palm Springs Gardens makes up for the city’s and it’s known for its upscale shopping, dining, and vibrant social scene. The livability score for Palm Beach is 51, which is significantly higher than the national level.
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