7 Best Southern Cities for Retirees To Buy a Home in 2025

Brooke Barley
·3-min read

Those who love the Southern way of living might be looking for a place to call home. Of course, real estate prices are going up steadily and the South is not immune. However, real estate experts have pinpointed some cities that are ideal to buy real estate in right now.

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Here are their top cities for retirees to buy a home in 2025.

Maryville, TN

Michael Lush is the founder and CEO of Replace Your Mortgage and recommended Maryville, located in Blount County, for its proximity to big city amenities in addition to its small-town vibe. Being close to a big city offers many advantages for Maryville while still providing a lot of natural beauty.

“Blount County is known for having some of the lowest property taxes in the state,” Lush commented. “Since Knoxville is nearby, residents can easily access excellent medical facilities without sacrificing small-town living. Nestled near the Smoky Mountains, Maryville is perfect for retirees who enjoy the outdoors and a peaceful environment.”

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Pensacola, FL

Lush recommended Pensacola for those looking to retire on a coast without spending their life’s fortune. Plus, like the rest of Florida, there is no state income tax, so retirees can save more.

“Compared to destinations like Sarasota or Destin, Pensacola offers a more budget-friendly option without losing the perks of a Florida lifestyle,” Lush said. “With beautiful beaches, a vibrant local culture, and a slower pace, Pensacola strikes the right balance for retirees looking to enjoy life by the coast.”

Ave Maria, FL

Those looking for another coastal location in Florida might consider Ave Maria, a community an hour and a half outside of Fort Lauderdale. “Ave Maria is a master planned community where several builders have built different parts of the town,” explained Realtor Desiree Avila. “The town has many 55-plus communities and was built as a resort for retirees.”

Myrtle Beach, SC

“One of my favorite things about Myrtle Beach is how easy it is to find a property that balances affordability with stunning beach views or access to an abundance of recreational activities like golf,” raved Allan DeGuzman, founder and CEO at Home Purchasing Pros. DeGuzman went on to highlight the laid back lifestyle and wealth of amenities as great reasons for retirees to move to Myrtle Beach.

Savannah, GA

DeGuzman recommended Savannah for those looking for a strong sense of community. “I’ve always loved how walkable the city is, and retirees I know who live here appreciate the slower pace of life and the focus on arts and culture. It’s also close to Hunter Army Airfield, which is a big bonus for retired military families who want to stay connected to military resources. Savannah’s charm isn’t just in its beauty–it’s in the way it invites you to truly slow down and enjoy life.”

Brownsville, TX

“Southern Texas cities like Brownsville are ideal for retirees seeking affordability and a warm climate,” Lush said. Like Florida, Texas doesn’t have a state income tax and the cost of living is lower than in other parts of the state. Lush also highlighted that there’s access to quality healthcare in the nearby metropolitan areas. “These areas offer a mix of outdoor activities, a welcoming community, and mild winters.”

Daytona Beach, FL

Avila recommended this Florida city for its low home price compared to the rest of the state, adding that homes in the suburbs can start in the $200,000 range. “This area has some of the best prices in Florida near the ocean.”

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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 7 Best Southern Cities for Retirees To Buy a Home in 2025

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