This article looks at the 5 best places in Georgia for a couple to live on only social security. If you wish to see our detailed analysis on senior housing in the US and Georgia’s retirement-friendly economic outlook, you may head over to the 15 Best Places in Georgia For A Couple To Live On Only Social Security.
5. Atlanta
IM Score: 15
Livability Index: 78
Cost of Living Index: 103.8
Population: 498,386
Similar to St Simons, Atlanta does not instantly jump out if you think, “Where is the least expensive place to live on Social Security?”. However, when compared to similar metropolitans in any other state, the city of Atlanta offers plenty of reasons to be considered the best place to live on only social security. If you find yourself in the position where access to immediate medical care is imperative for you, a suburban setting might not be the most feasible setting for you. Out of all the places on our list, Atlanta offers the most amenities in the form of healthcare, transportation, and recreation. So, if your partner is willing to compromise on that “Big City” feeling, you might want to check out some of Atlanta’s senior living communities. Atlanta is the place where most retirees live in Georgia, and it also houses by far the most retirement communities. Moreover, if you’re one to plan ahead, relocating to Atlanta 5-10 years ahead of retirement can allow you to get the best transition into your post-retirement life.
4. Georgetown
IM Score: 17
Livability Index: 67
Cost of Living Index: 89.8
Population: 12,490
If you have a feeling that this list isn’t as affordable as you’d hoped, Georgetown may help swat those crazy thoughts away. Barring Twin City, Georgetown has the lowest cost of living out of anywhere on our list, 10.2% below the national average, coupled with very reasonable housing costs. It checks all the boxes in terms of healthcare, recreation, and hospitality, whilst also being easy on the wallet. There are several retirement communities to choose from, and the town is within driving distance of Savannah, enabling residents to get those “Big City” amenities.
3. Augusta
IM Score: 19
Livability Index: 64
Cost of Living Index: 90
Population: 202,192
Recommended in nearly every source we’ve come across; Augusta is a riverfront city with a historical significance and perhaps the most affordable living arrangements in the state. Its cost of living is 10% lower than the national average and the likelihood that you’ll be able to purchase your dream retirement house is quite high. These are reasons we included Augusta in our list of 29 US Cities Where You Can Retire on $2000 a Month. Despite affordability, relocating to Augusta won’t force you to be cut off from the world as it is a very lively city with plenty of visitors from around the country. It hosts the Augusta Nationals, a Masters golfing event at the start of each year. It is also in proximity of Augusta University and Paine College, because of which it is a convenient place to retire in if you’re concerned about being overwhelmed by Georgia’s conservative values and southern flair.
2. Savannah
IM Score: 19
Livability Index: 81
Cost of Living Index: 97.2
Population: 148,566
Savannah offers a very diverse living experience, catering to retirees of all financial situations. Although some of the more popular areas in the city have experienced a swift increase in housing costs, there are still plenty of communities where couples may be able to buy a house outright, or at the very least rent a home. The cost of living is another bonus, being 2.84% below the national average. It attracts plenty of tourism and the locals are known for being some of the friendliest in the state. Moreover, retirees in Savannah get to spoil themselves with entertainment, as it is a famous spot for boat tours and cruises.
1. Blue Ridge
IM Score: 21
Livability Index: 74
Cost of Living Index: 93.8
Population: 1,193
Topping our list of best places in Georgia for a couple to live on only social security, the Blue Ridge mountains of northern Georgia is by far the most convenient location to retire with your partner. Its cost of living is 6.2% below the national average, and the cost of housing is one the cheapest in the state. It also boasts one of the highest livability scores in our list. It is especially suitable for those looking to own their own house, although there are pre-existing affordable retirement communities as well.
Blue Ridge is strategically positioned near Georgia’s border to North Carolina and Tennessee, and draws in tourists from all over the Southeast. With scenic destinations such as Lake Blue Ridge, Toccoa River, and the Blue Ridge Adventure Park it offers the excitement of not just being a retirees final chapter, but rather a new chapter altogether for you and your partner to engage in. It was also featured in our list of 20 Best River Towns for Retirement in the US.
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