Some of the waterfront towns may not be on your radar yet.
Many soon-to-be retirees dream of living their next chapter in a waterfront gem. But sometimes, the hot spots are either too crowded or too expensive. Luckily, several hidden gems still fly under the radar.
We spoke to experts to find out where the best spots are. Here are some relatively unknown waterfront towns that might fit perfectly into your retirement plan.
1. Rockport, Texas
Average home value: $299,838
Rockport is a Gulf Coast town with plenty of charm. It’s a “Gulf Coast town that most people drive through on the way to Corpus Christi,” says John Gluch, real estate agent at Gluch Group. As Gluch explains, Rockport has “a fishing and arts community that retirees tend to love once they actually land there.”
When you factor in the lack of a state income tax, many retirees can find a lot to like about this quiet waterfront town.
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2. Southport, North Carolina
Average home value: $400,422
At around 45 minutes away from Wilmington, Southport offers a reprieve from the hustle and bustle of city life. “Close enough to Wilmington for amenities but quiet enough to actually feel like retirement,” says Gluch.
On the mouth of the Cape Fear River, residents have miles of coastline to explore in this charming southern town.
3. Poulsbo, Washington
Average home value: $656,741
Across Puget Sound from Seattle, Poulsbo offers a charming waterfront retreat for retirees seeking an escape. “Museums, restaurants, cafes, art galleries, and shopping are plentiful in the downtown district, with a beautiful marina and waterfront,” says Sean McConnell, owner of the McConnell Group real estate team in Seattle, Washington.
And, McConnell adds, “A short drive and a ferry ride put you in Seattle when you’re looking for big-city amenities.
4. Astoria, Oregon
Average home value: $466,664
Astoria sits where the Columbia River meets the Pacific Ocean. Gluch describes the town as “walkable, quirky, affordable by Pacific Northwest standards.”
The town offers a charming mix of Victorian-style architecture with a backdrop of the rugged Pacific coast. It’s home to around 10,000 residents. Plus, the town’s senior center offers a full slate of activities, ranging from Tai Chi to bridge six days a week.
5. Edmonds, Washington
Average home value: $922,724
Directly north of Seattle, you’ll find Edmonds. “It’s set up as an ideal retirement community, with beaches, a blossoming restaurant scene, and access to excellent health care,” says McConnell.
With a beautiful view of the Olympic Mountains across from Puget Sound, you’ll never get tired of the waterfront. Additionally, you’ll find dozens of classes and activities offered at the senior center each week.
6. Ocean Springs, Mississippi
Waterfront living doesn’t get much more affordable than in this Gulf Coast town. “Not only is this area affordable, but retirees enjoy the local arts scene, the walkable downtown, and beach access all in one,” says Ryann Brier, real estate agent at City Lights Home Buyers in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
For those seeking a warm waterfront, Ocean Springs’ price point could make it much more feasible than a traditional Florida retirement. With several highly rated hospitals in nearby Biloxi, finding health care should be easy.
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7. New Bern, North Carolina
Average home value: $276,646
New Bern “stands out because there’s water access, history, and a slower pace that some retired people look for,” according to Brier. This historic town is the birthplace of Pepsi-Cola, but most retirees may be more impressed by the riverfront walking paths and access to nearby beaches.
As a bonus for your wallet, North Carolina doesn’t tax Social Security benefits. Additionally, New Bern’s senior center offers activities most weekdays, with everything from trivia and bingo to painting and karaoke.
8. Somers Point, New Jersey
Average home value: $408,809
Across the bridge from Ocean City, Somers Point offers a more affordable waterfront market. With a quick ride over the bridge, you’ll have access to the seemingly endless coastline in Ocean City. “Somers Point is a very balanced in-between option for retirees who look for the Jersey Shore without the island price,” says Brier.
With an active senior center, you’ll likely find it easy to make new friends in this town. Plus, the town has several highly rated hospitals within a 15-mile radius, making it easy to find the care you may need.
Bottom line
If waterfront retirement living is your dream, one of these under-the-radar waterfront towns might be the perfect fit. Whether you are looking for a full-time place or a second home with the potential to earn extra income, many of these spots could work.
Before you jump into a move, take some time to visit the place for more than a weekend to confirm you could see yourself enjoying it long-term.