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No matter the weather, it’s safe to say most of us dream of escaping to warmer climes and beach vacations. But if you want to live that salt life all year round, moving to a beach town isn’t an unattainable dream. There are many inexpensive coastal cities around the country. Here are 15 affordable beach towns, based on median home values under $250,000, and ordered from most to least populous.
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Port St. Lucie, Florida
Situated on the Treasure Coast of the Sunshine State, Port St. Lucie—full of quiet neighborhoods, golf courses, and waterways—has a laid-back vibe. Sporty types will love all the activities, from boating and fishing on the St. Lucie River; to watching the New York Mets play at Tradition Field during spring training; to attending the PGA Center for Golf Learning and Performance.
Palm Bay, Florida
There’s never a dull moment in this Space Coast city, where visitors and residents find endless things to do. Known for its many parks, ranging from natural preserves to cyclocross (bicycle racing) tracks and paintball fields, Palm Bay also offers golf courses, as well as many trails for running, cycling, and more. Waterfront dining and ample shopping opportunities round out the experience.
Melbourne, Florida
A well-rounded beach town located on the Space Coast, Melbourne has a bit of everything. Its historic downtown features quaint shops and restaurants while the miles of pristine beaches draw sunbathers, surfers, and snorkelers. Set along the scenic Indian River Lagoon, the city hosts popular annual festivals like Oktoberfest, the Filmmaker’s Festival, the Arts Festival, and Aviation Day.
Jacksonville, North Carolina
Jacksonville is a military town through and through, thanks to the presence of Camp Lejeune, the largest Marine Corps base on the East Coast. Memorials and sites around town honor troops, including the Freedom Fountain, Lejeune Memorial Gardens, the Montford Point Marine Museum, and more. Outdoor activities like fishing and paddling are popular pastimes in addition to local sporting tournaments and events.
Gulfport, Mississippi
Mississippi’s second largest city after the capital, Gulfport is all about fun. In the waterfront entertainment district, people stroll with cocktails in to-go cups while taking in the diverse public art. Tourists can’t resist activities like ziplining through the coastal canopies or boating to the scenic Ship Island. At the town’s picturesque harbor, charter a fishing boat to toss a line into the Gulf.
Port Arthur, Texas
Cajun flavor permeates this town in southeast Texas that’s equal parts history, culture, and nature. Between Lake Sabine, Sea Rim State Park, and Pleasure Island (a manmade island and entertainment hub), aquatic activities abound, including windsurfing, fishing, and boating. The Museum of the Gulf Coast displays items like a replica of Port Arthur native Janis Joplin’s psychedelic Porsche and other quirky pieces.
Pensacola, Florida
Located in Florida’ panhandle, Pensacola is a popular vacation destination, thanks in large part to its gorgeous white-sand beaches and warm waters. History buffs are intrigued by the Spanish settlement origins, as illustrated at the Historic Pensacola Village, while aviation enthusiasts thrive in the local flying culture. Navy pilots train in Pensacola, which is also home to the Blue Angels Naval aerobatics team and the National Naval Aviation Museum.
Biloxi, Mississippi
Try your luck in Biloxi, a Gulf Coast city known for its many casinos. Locals and visitors alike let the good times roll in two entertainment districts. Those inclined to quieter pursuits may prefer to lounge on the white-sand beach, hit the links on a championship golf course, or take a sunset sail on a schooner. You can even embark on a shrimping trip in Biloxi, once known as the Seafood Capital of the World.
Atlantic City, New Jersey
Another city known for its casino culture, Atlantic City is also famous for its wide beaches and classic boardwalk lined with souvenir shops, rides, arcades, and all the greasy food your heart desires. New York may be the city that never sleeps, but AC isn’t far behind, thanks to the many casinos, nightclubs, and lounges, which regularly host concerts, comedy acts, and other live entertainment.
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Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Myrtle Beach is a classic seaside vacation town where sun-kissed residents make memories on the 60 acres of coastline and the iconic boardwalk, lined with eateries, souvenir shops, arcades, the Family Kingdom amusement park, and the SkyWheel (one of the highest Ferris wheels in the nation). Its more than 100 golf courses are also a big draw.
Fort Walton Beach, Florida
A quiet Gulf Coast town in Florida’s Panhandle, Fort Walton Beach captures unspoiled natural beauty at its finest. The beaches are made of powdery white sand, and the waters are a brilliant emerald green—particularly off Okaloosa Island. Get up close and personal with marine creatures at the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, or read up on local history at the Indian Temple Mound Museum.
Ocean Springs, Mississippi
Ocean Springs just oozes small town charm. Its quaint main street, with brick buildings sporting wrought-iron detailing, is lined with old oak trees, while three entertainment districts offer plenty of diversions. The town is also known for its artistic vibe and festivals, including Peter Anderson Arts & Crafts Festival, Mississippi’s largest fine arts festival.
Aberdeen, Washington
Our only West Coast contender, Aberdeen, is located at the mouth of Grays Harbor, formed by the Chehalis, Wishkah, and Hoquiam rivers in Washington. It offers a variety of parks; a popular spot is the Kurt Cobain Memorial Park, named in memory of the late Nirvana musician who was born in town. After a day outside, stop into one of the town’s many coffee shops for a pick-me-up.
Bay St. Louis, Mississippi
Nope, not that St. Louis. This is Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, a quaint seaside town with nautical character to spare. In addition to its alluring beaches, warm waters, and first-rate fishing, the town offers land-bound pleasures like exploring its many art galleries, Creole cottages, and 19th-century abodes.
Freeport, Texas
Outdoorsy types will love the simple life in Freeport, Texas, about 50 miles south of Houston. The town offers ample fishing opportunities, including charters and tours, and the Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge, comprising 40,000 acres of wetlands and a huge variety of flora and fauna. Walk the boardwalks, hike the trails, or take a car tour of the preserve.