7 Welcoming Towns to Retire on the Gulf Coast
Choosing where to retire is one of the most significant decisions older adults face, especially as more Americans approach their golden years. With many factors to consider, the Gulf Coast has long been cherished as a premier retirement destination. While images of warm ocean breezes, stunning shorelines, and refreshing margaritas may conjure visions of paradise, the region offers much more than just a tropical escape.
Scattered along the Gulf, numerous small towns provide retirees with a perfect blend of natural beauty, affordability, and a close-knit sense of community. Whether you are drawn to a cozy cottage, a waterfront condo, or a peaceful neighborhood with a view, these welcoming communities offer various living options for seniors. So, grab your flip-flops, dust off your Jimmy Buffet collection, and explore the charm and appeal of these seven Gulf Coast towns, each offering a fulfilling and comfortable retirement.
Fairhope, Alabama
Fairhope is located on Mobile Bay, offering breathtaking views, peaceful walks along the bayfront, and a rich sense of history. The town is home to numerous art galleries, charming boutiques, and restaurants, making it an attractive place for seniors who enjoy cultural activities. The Fairhope French Quarter invites residents to step back into the past with its cobblestone streets and cute shops, perfect for an afternoon of shopping. Fairhope Pier is a popular spot for a sunset stroll along the beachfront or fishing off the 1/4 mile pier extending over the water. In addition, the community has a vibrant program for seniors to engage in art classes and festivals or enroll in free classes at Coastal Alabama Community College.
Fairhope offers a range of housing options, from waterfront homes to quaint cottages and luxury apartments. Homes are moderately priced compared to nearby coastal cities (the median home costs around $589,000). With living costs for food, fuel, and utilities running less than the national average, Fairhope continues to attract many area senior adults. Thomas Hospital is an 189-bed complete care facility, meaning that retirees have excellent access to their doctor or any healthcare they might need.
One of the best places to stay in Fairhope is the Grand Hotel, with its championship golf course, 11 pickleball courts, spa, and private beachfront. Gambino's is a delightful Italian eatery featuring authentic dishes and a creme brulee that should be on everyone's bucket list. For a more traditional fare, Tamaras Downtown is a casual steakhouse with fresh seafood served daily that has been a part of the community for about 16 years.
Port St. Joe, Florida
Port St. Joe boasts unspoiled natural beauty, white sandy beaches, and a relaxed pace of life, making it a hidden gem on the Florida peninsula. The nearby St. Joseph Peninsula State Park offers bird-watching, boating, and fishing opportunities. The park features 2,700 acres of serene beauty, extending some 20 miles into the Gulf of Mexico. The town also holds frequent community events and local farmers' markets. Retirees can join in for a round of golf or enjoy the many waterfront dining options.
Nearly 25% of Port St. Joe's residents are over 65, indicating a robust senior community with which to build connections. Housing in Port St. Joe is consistent with other coastal areas, at $492,000 for a typical home. Living costs are 9% less than the rest of the state, helping many budget-minded retirees stretch limited budgets. Ascension Sacred Heart is a small community hospital that serves the town and supports various medical service providers. The HCA Gulf Coast Hospital is a great medical facility about half an hour away.
Joe Mama's Wood-fired Kitchen is a casual pizza joint that has become a local favorite. Whether you dig into the smoke-kissed crust of a specialty pizza, nibble on their baked herb goat cheese dip, or love the clam chowder they've been making for forty years, you can't go wrong eating there.
Ocean Springs, Mississippi
Ocean Springs is a small town of about 18,000 residents filled with Southern charm, oak-lined streets, and a vibrant arts scene. The downtown area has an array of excellent restaurants, antique stores, and galleries, perfect for a day of browsing. For those who are more adventurous, several casinos are situated along the Gulf, so there are plenty of opportunities to press your luck with a slot machine or at the blackjack table. The community hosts the Peter Anderson Arts and Crafts Festival annually, attracting artists and crafters from the South. The Pink Rooster and the Walter Anderson Museum of Art are two must-visit galleries that often feature the work of local painters and sculptors. The town's simple farmers market is held every Saturday morning, offering everything from herbs to vegetables to freshly squeezed lemonade. Front Beach is one of the best-kept secrets along the Gulf Coast, with its mile-long stretch of white sand and gentle waves perfect for relaxing the hours away.
Housing in Ocean Springs is very reasonable at $315,000, with prices slightly higher closer to the water. Living costs are significantly under the national average but slightly higher than the rest of the state. Healthcare is anchored by Ocean Springs Hospital, run by Singing River Health Systems, so seniors have excellent access to doctors and specialists. Nearly 20% of the town's residents are over 65, and the number continues to grow as more senior adults flock to the area to take advantage of the financial savings.
In recent years, Ocean Springs has become a foodie lover's paradise. Vestige, a James Beard-nominated restaurant, serves an exquisite tasting menu, while Mosaic or Maison de Lu are two local eateries serving great food and often live music.
Gulf Shores, Alabama
Gulf Shores is known for its sugar-white beaches and calm waters, making it a dream destination for beach-loving retirees. The town offers a mix of relaxation and activities, with plenty of opportunities to stay active in retirement. The Gulf State Park has over two miles of sun-kissed sand to dig your toes into, and the Fishing Pier is excellent for a day of fishing. The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail has 28 miles of paved hiking and biking trails for retirees who love to get out and explore. The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is a pleasant diversion for a day away from the beach when the grandkids visit.
While beachfront properties can be more expensive, Gulf Shores offers many affordable housing options, especially further inland. The overall cost of living remains reasonable for retirees, with the median home price at $350,000 and living costs are less than the national average. South Baldwin Regional Medical Center is located in Foley and provides comprehensive healthcare services.
The Sunliner Diner sits in the heart of downtown Gulf Shores, transporting diners back to the 1950s, and is a must-visit. The Fish River Grill or Bahama Bob's Beachside Cafe are simple eateries with excellent catfish, seafood, and cocktails. If you need a secluded spot to enjoy time with your spouse, we recommend the Eagle Cottages at Gulf Shores State Park. The accommodations are clean and spacious and have screened-in porches to enjoy the view of a setting sun over the water, and better still, they are secluded from the high-rise hotels that often line the Gulf Coast.
Bay St. Louis, Mississippi
Bay St. Louis was recently recognized as one of the best places to live in the nation. This charming small town, home to over 10,000 residents, offers a vibrant coastal vibe and a lively arts scene. Over the years, the community has invested time and effort into rebuilding from Hurricane Katrina, creating a resilient and welcoming environment. The Bay St. Louis Beach is one of the best shallow beach fronts on the coast, perfect for frolicking with the grandkids or wading into the calm ocean waters.
Retirees will appreciate the Old Town area, with its art galleries, antique shops, and quaint cafes. The beautiful L & N Train Depot houses the local Visitor's Center and the Mardi Gras Museum, with fantastic exhibits and interactive history displays. There are plenty of charter boats and Gulf Coast tour excursions that are available for seniors interested in sightseeing or fishing.
Housing is affordable, with the median price for a home being $445,000. With living costs averaging almost 14% below the national average, it's easy to see why Bay St. Louis attracts many retirees. Residents have access to Hancock Medical Center and are within a short drive of major medical facilities in Gulfport.
When you visit, dine at one of the many restaurants in town. The Sunrise Cafe is the place to have a filling breakfast without busting your wallet. If you need a spot away from the loud chaos of beachfront dining establishments, our favorite is the Sycamore House. This elegant, quiet restaurant operates out of a historic boarding house. It has an exquisite menu and is the perfect place for a romantic dinner with the one you love.
Rockport, Texas
Rockport, Texas, is a hidden gem along the Gulf Coast, closely linked with the neighboring city of Fulton—often referred to together as "Rockport-Fulton" by locals. This small coastal town provides retirees a welcoming, tight-knit community, affordable housing, and a peaceful lifestyle that’s hard to find in larger beach cities. Its charm lies in its slower pace, where residents can enjoy the serenity of the Texas coastline.
Retirees will find plenty to love, from bird watching at the nearby Aransas National Wildlife Refuge, a haven for bird enthusiasts, to enjoying the clean and tranquil Rockport Beach—widely regarded as one of the most pristine in the Gulf region. History buffs can explore the stately Fulton Mansion, a grand Victorian home built in the 1870s, which offers a fascinating glimpse into the past.
One of Rockport's biggest draws is its affordability. At $419,000 for the average home, housing costs are considerably lower than in other Texas coastal towns. The overall cost of living is also below the national average, making it an excellent choice for retirees on a budget. Care Regional Medical Center provides medical care with 75 beds and the ability to handle most general and acute healthcare needs. The Old Fulton Seafood Cafe and Steakhouse is one of the best places you'll eat (don't be fooled by its exterior since it is in a local strip mall). Trust us, the food is worth the wait.
Venice, Florida
Venice, Florida, nestled along the Gulf of Mexico, is renowned as the "Shark Tooth Capital of the World" (Venice is famous for its beaches, where visitors and locals scour the sands for prehistoric shark teeth). Beyond the stunning shoreline, the town offers picturesque palm-lined streets, lush parks, and a vibrant downtown that serves as the heart of the community. The town’s historic downtown area features charming shops, outdoor cafes, and regular events like farmers' markets and art festivals, creating a lively social scene. Whether enjoying a leisurely walk along Venice Beach, fishing off the Venice Pier, or cycling the 18.9-mile Legacy Trail, the town provides plenty of opportunities to stay active and connected with nature.
Venice has a strong sense of community, making it ideal for retirees looking to enjoy the Florida beach lifestyle. The average home price is around $432,000, depending on how close you want to live near the water. Venice Regional Bayfront Health ensures access to quality medical care, providing peace of mind for seniors seeking comfort and convenience in retirement.
If you eat anywhere, try Sharkey's on the Pier. This beachfront bar was voted the best and specializes in fresh seafood, live music, and good times. With all the restaurants in Venice and many being just steps away from the shoreline, there is no end to the choices for hungry seniors to enjoy.
These seven welcoming Gulf Coast towns offer retirees an ideal blend of affordability, natural beauty, and various activities, ensuring a fulfilling and enjoyable retirement. Each town has its unique charm, catering to different lifestyles and preferences. Whether you're drawn to the allure of beachside living with serene ocean views, the richness of cultural experiences like art galleries and local festivals, or the tranquility of a quiet, small-town atmosphere, these Gulf Coast gems are perfect for embracing your golden years. These towns provide not just a place to live but a welcoming community where you can truly thrive in your retirement years.
