Are you tired of the hustle and bustle of city life? Do you dream of waking up to the sound of waves crashing on the shore? If so, you might want to consider moving to a beach town.
Living in a beach town is a dream come true for many people. The ocean breeze, the sound of seagulls, and the laid-back lifestyle are all reasons why people flock to these towns. However, finding an affordable beach town can be a challenge.
How the Research Was Conducted: Realtor.com
The quest to discover idyllic and budget-friendly beach towns for prospective homeowners in 2023 began with the aid of a comprehensive federal listing that highlighted the locations of all the beaches. There were plenty!
To narrow down this search, they meticulously combed through Realtor.com’s extensive database, scrutinizing every property listed for sale within a mile of each beach.
After scouring the sandy shores, they meticulously handpicked the most budget-friendly beach towns, taking into account the price per square foot.
The rigorous selection process ensured that only destinations with a minimum of 50 available properties within a one-mile radius of the crystal-clear water made the cut.
Lastly, to ensure a vibrant variety of locales, we’ve narrowed our list to a singular seaside sanctuary per state.
While we may have a soft spot for the majesty of the ocean, we couldn’t resist throwing in a handful of charming coves and bayside beauties. Those have their quaint beaches as well.
Things We Love Most About Living in a Beach Town
Living in a beach town is a dream for many people. The sun, sand, and surf create an idyllic lifestyle that many people crave.
However, the high cost of living in a beach town can be a deal-breaker for many. Thankfully, there are affordable beach towns in America where you can actually live on a modest budget. We’ll expand on this which each attainable town, but here are some of the broad strokes:
- The calming effect of the ocean
- Access to outdoor activities such as fishing, surfing, and boating
- A laid-back lifestyle
- A strong sense of community
- The opportunity to enjoy fresh seafood regularly
- Majestic bike trails
Gulfport, Mississippi
Gulfport, Mississippi, is one of the cheapest beach towns along the Gulf Coast. This city covers about 55.63 square miles and is home to 72,000 people, making it the second-largest city in Mississippi.
Gulfport features over 6 miles of white sand beaches and nearby barrier islands with clear water and abundant wildlife.
The city is home to hallmark locations such as the Port of Gulfport, Gulfport/Biloxi International Airport, Gulf Blue, Gulfport Sportsplex, Mississippi Aquarium, Jones Park, Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, and much more. Gulfport offers endless activities to try and unique tourist destinations while you’re on vacation.
Any list of the top family-friendly attractions in Gulfport will never be complete without a chance to hang out at the Gulf Island Water Park, the largest water park on the coast.
With miles of slides and an island theme, Gulf Islands Water Park offers celebrity meet and greets, special events, and satisfying treats.
Have a blast with the water park’s water slides, pools, and wild rides, and if you’re lucky, catch spectacular shows involving dogs, sea lions, or celebrities!
Cost of Living
Gulfport is one of the most affordable beach towns in America. The median housing price within one mile of the beach is $225,000, according to Realtor.com.
Beach Access and Activities
Gulfport offers residents and visitors plenty of opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. The town also has a number of parks and trails for hiking and biking.
Local Attractions and Events
Gulfport is home to a number of local attractions, including the Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, the Gulf Islands Waterpark, and the Institute for Marine Mammal Studies.
The town also hosts a range of events throughout the year, including the Gulfport Music Festival and the Gulf Coast Winter Classic Horse Show.
Newport News, Virginia
Newport News is famous for its shipbuilding industry, particularly the Newport News Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Company, established in 1886.
This company has built many of the U.S. super aircraft carriers, including the Enterprise, Kennedy, Washington, Vinson, and Roosevelt. During World War I, Newport News was designated as a Port of Embarkation by the U.S. Army.
The city offers a great quality of life for its residents, with ample shopping, entertainment, and housing options. Housing in Newport News aligns with market rates, and there are many nice housing options available.
The community is welcoming and conveniently located near other cities, providing plenty of opportunities for work and leisure.
Newport News is home to several attractions and museums, such as the Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center, Ferguson Center for the Arts, Historic Endview, Historic Hilton Village, and James A. Fields House.
At this lovely beach community, you can immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring Mariners’ Museum, where cutting-edge displays and a top-tier preservation laboratory harmoniously blend, preserving a staggering 210 tons of Civil War ironclad Monitor artifacts for future generations to behold.
Cost of Living
Newport News is one of the most affordable beach towns in America. The median housing price within one mile of the beach is $224,900, according to Realtor.com.
Beach Access and Activities
Newport News offers easy access to Virginia Beach, which has 35 miles of beaches. The town itself also has a number of parks and trails for hiking and biking.
Local Attractions and Events
Newport News is home to a number of local attractions, including the Virginia Living Museum and the Mariners’ Museum and Park. The town also hosts a range of events throughout the year, including the Newport News Fall Festival of Folklife and the One City Marathon.
New London, Connecticut
The town of New London is considered a hidden gem. The town is just a few miles west of Mystic, Connecticut — which has beach homes costing more than three times as much per square foot as in New London.
New London is a coastal town with a rich maritime history. Today, it is known for its beautiful Ocean Beach Park, historic Fort Trumbull, the prestigious Coast Guard Academy, and Main Street, which is part of the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s “Main Street” program.
Explore the wonders of New London, where breathtaking seaside parks and scrumptious seafood await you. Marvel at the magnificent Cross Sound Ferry Lighthouse Cruises, and discover the historic Fort Trumbull State Park.
Whether you crave the hustle and bustle of city life or the tranquility of suburbia, New London has it all. With its plethora of cozy cafes, lively bars, delectable restaurants, and lush green spaces, this town is the perfect destination for both locals and tourists alike.
Cost of Living
New London boasts affordable beachfront real estate with a median home price within one mile of the beach at $257,000. This affordability is a rare find in an otherwise expensive state for beachfront properties.
Beach Access and Activities
New London offers miles of sandy beaches and a long boardwalk, providing plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.
Additionally, Ocean Beach Park is considered one of the best beaches in the state, offering a mini-golf course, rides, and a spray park for added entertainment.
Local Attractions and Events
New London is rich in history and culture, with attractions such as the Custom House Maritime Museum, Garde Arts Center, and the Lyman Allyn Art Museum.
The town also hosts several events throughout the year, including Sailfest, a popular summer festival featuring live music, food, and fireworks.
Grand Isle, Louisiana
Grand Isle, Louisiana, ranks fourth on the list of most affordable beach towns in America in 2023. This barrier island town is connected by bridge to the mainland of Louisiana and is the smallest town on the Realtor.com list.
Nestled amidst the sprawling coastline of Louisiana, lies a hidden gem – Grand Isle – a remote oasis that stands as the state’s solitary inhabited barrier island.
Dubbed a “Sportsman’s Paradise,” this wondrous 8-mile-long and 1.5-mile-wide island boasts of world-renowned fishing spots, sprawling birding habitats, and breathtaking views of the pristine Gulf of Mexico – a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
Nestled in the heart of Grand Isle lies a natural wonder – a magnificent ridge known as a “chenier,” an oak-covered oasis, unlike any other barrier island in the Gulf.
As a result of this elevated terrain, the island boasts an array of sprawling oak groves, making it a haven for those seeking a livable land amidst the salty waves.
And if that wasn’t enough to lure you in, Grand Isle is also home to over 280 species of fish, making it a fisherman’s paradise and an angler’s dream destination.
Cost of Living
Grand Isle offers a median home price within one mile of the beach at $309,500, making it an attractive option for those seeking an affordable beachfront home.
Beach Access and Activities
Grand Isle features 7 miles of sandy beaches, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing. The town is also known for its world-class fishing opportunities and hosts several fishing tournaments throughout the year.
Local Attractions and Events
Grand Isle is home to the Grand Isle Migratory Bird Festival, which celebrates the island’s unique position along the Mississippi Flyway bird migration route. The town also hosts the Grand Isle Tarpon Rodeo, the oldest fishing tournament in the United States.
Corpus Christi, Texas
Corpus Christi ranks fifth on the list of most affordable beach towns in America, according to Realtor.com. Located on the Gulf of Mexico, it’s the largest city on the list with a population of around 320,000.
Surprisingly, housing in this city is an impressive 18% cheaper than the U.S. average, although utilities may set you back by a reasonable 18%.
Nestled in the heart of the Lone Star State, Corpus Christi boasts a reputation for its fierce winds, granting adventurous spirits the perfect playground for kiteboarding, windsurfing, kite flying, and sailing.
This coastal gem has even played host to the most elite athletes in the world during the revered Windsurfing World Championships.
The gusty climate of Corpus Christi has not only captivated nature lovers but also kindled a heated debate around the wind energy sector.
This picturesque coastal gem of South Texas allures tourists with its plethora of exciting activities, ranging from exploring the great outdoors to indulging in local delicacies, shopping, and soaking in the local culture.
With a diverse range of accommodations, cultural venues, and captivating landmarks, a visit to Corpus Christi is a journey of unbridled discovery and unforgettable experiences.
Cost of Living
Corpus Christi offers a median housing price within one mile of the beach at $289,948, making it an attractive option for those seeking an affordable beachfront home.
Beach Access and Activities
Corpus Christi’s beaches span 192 square miles and offer various options for vacationers, such as jetty fishing, windsurfing, and kiteboarding. The town also has numerous parks and trails for hiking and biking.
Local Attractions and Events
Corpus Christi is home to several attractions, including the Texas State Aquarium, the USS Lexington Museum on the Bay, and the Art Museum of South Texas.
The town also hosts numerous events throughout the year, such as the Texas SandFest and the Corpus Christi Dia de los Muertos Street Festival.
Atlantic City, NJ
Enshrined in the popular imagination for its casinos and boardwalks, Atlantic City also boasts an abundance of affordable housing as well as long sandy beaches.
Atlantic City, located on the East Coast of the United States, is a renowned seaside gaming and resort destination that attracts over 27 million visitors annually.
The iconic four-mile-long Boardwalk, which began construction in 1870, is the most popular area to stay in Atlantic City, featuring numerous well-known hotels.
The city offers a plethora of tourist attractions, including the famous Steel Pier, Absecon Lighthouse, and various entertainment venues. Visitors can also indulge in shopping at outlet malls, relaxing at luxurious day spas, or trying their luck at gaming tables.
Cost of Living
The average price within a mile of the beach is $185,000 in Atlantic City. While properties are smaller than some of the others on this list, the affordability makes it an attractive option for potential residents.
Beach Access and Activities
Atlantic City offers miles of sandy beaches and a famous boardwalk, providing ample opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. The town is also home to several casinos, making it an entertainment hotspot.
Local Attractions and Events
Besides the casinos, Atlantic City is home to attractions such as the Atlantic City Aquarium and the Absecon Lighthouse. The town also hosts various events throughout the year, including the Atlantic City Airshow, the Miss America Pageant, and several music festivals.
Navarre, Florida, is an affordable beach town located along the Gulf Coast. Known for its pristine white sand beaches and emerald-green waters, Navarre offers a laid-back atmosphere.
Navarre Beach is not only famous for its pristine waters but also for its abundance of bike and jogging paths, making it a popular destination for picnics and outdoor activities.
The Navarre Beach Boardwalk is a well-liked spot for visitors to enjoy views from the pier, dine at local restaurants, and swim in the inviting waters. There are also numerous beach access points throughout the city.
Outdoor enthusiasts can find plenty of recreational activities in Navarre, such as hiking, biking, and paddleboarding. Salty Lab Charters is one of the many options available for those looking to explore the area’s natural beauty.
Cost of Living
Navarre offers a median housing price within one mile of the beach at $275,000, making it an attractive option for those seeking an affordable beachfront home.
Beach Access and Activities
Navarre Beach offers miles of beautiful shoreline for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. The area is also known for its fishing opportunities and is home to the Navarre Beach Fishing Pier, the longest pier on the Gulf of Mexico.
Local Attractions and Events
Navarre is home to the Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center, where visitors can learn about sea turtle conservation efforts in the area.
The town also hosts several events throughout the year, including the Navarre Beach Mardi Gras Parade and the Taste of Navarre.
North Beach, Maryland
North Beach, Maryland, is an affordable beach town located along the Chesapeake Bay. Known for its small-town charm and beautiful waterfront, North Beach offers a peaceful retreat.
Located on the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay, this picturesque beach offers minimal wave action and stunning views of the bay. While there is no fee to enter the town or enjoy the boardwalk, non-residents are required to pay a fee to access the beach and fish on the pier.
Venturing into North Beach is like stepping into a treasure trove of endless possibilities. From the breathtaking Wetlands Overlook Park to the enchanting Sunrise Garden, visitors have an abundance of choices with numerous attractions and activities to indulge in.
For example, you can take a stroll through the serene Callis Park or immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of the Walton Beach Nature Preserve.
Cost of Living
North Beach offers a median housing price within one mile of the beach at $295,000, making it an attractive option for those seeking an affordable beachfront home.
Beach Access and Activities
North Beach features a boardwalk and sandy beaches for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. The town also offers access to the Chesapeake Bay for boating and fishing.
Local Attractions and Events
North Beach is home to several attractions, including the Bayside History Museum and the Chesapeake Beach Railway Museum.
The town also hosts various events throughout the year, such as the North Beach Farmers’ Market, Movies on the Beach, and the Annual Polar Bear Plunge.
Crescent City, California
Crescent City is an affordable beach town located along the Northern California coast. Known for its rugged coastline and spectacular scenery, Crescent City offers a unique coastal living experience.
With a population of 6,676 as of 2021, this small city offers a quiet, conservative lifestyle surrounded by spectacular beaches and breathtaking redwood forests. No wonder you’ll also find our top West Coast wellness retreats in this neck of the woods.
As the only incorporated city in Del Norte County, Crescent City serves as the county seat and is home to the Redwood National Park headquarters.
The historic Battery Point Light is another notable landmark in the area. Nestled on the edge of the vast and bountiful Pacific Ocean, the bustling harbor of the city serves as a thriving hub for commercial fishing vessels.
This translates to a cornucopia of delectable delicacies that swim in its crystal clear waters – from succulent salmon and juicy shrimp to savory tuna, cod, and the coveted Dungeness crab.
Cost of Living
Crescent City offers a median housing price within one mile of the beach at $265,000, making it an attractive option for those seeking an affordable beachfront home.
Beach Access and Activities
Crescent City provides access to several beautiful beaches, including Pebble Beach- especially if you love golf, Enderts Beach, and Crescent Beach. Locals love to indulge in the sheer bliss of beachcombing along the tranquil shores of Crescent Beach and soak up the rejuvenating aura of the salty air.
A mere 0.75-mile jaunt through a rugged canyon will lead you to the stunning Enderts Beach, where the low tide unveils a mesmerizing world of tidepools.
Shirley, New York
Shirley, a city in Suffolk County, New York, is home to a diverse population of 28,059 residents as of 2023. Named after developer Walter T. Shirley, the city was envisioned in the 1940s as an affordable enclave on Mastic Bay.
Shirley offers various attractions and activities for both residents and visitors. Some of the top attractions include Smith Point County Park, TWA Flight 800 International Memorial, Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge, The Museum Manor of St. George, and Smith Point Beach.
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as visiting the ABC Gum Wall of Patchogue, exploring the Li Live Steamers, or having fun at the Country Fair Entertainment Park.
Location and Access
Located just an hour-and-a-half drive east of Manhattan, Shirley is a small community on Long Island.
It is a short drive to Outer Beach at Smith Point, one of the barrier islands that make up Fire Island National Seashore. With its white-sand beaches, Shirley offers something for everyone, from surfers to campers.
Affordability
Shirley is known for being pretty inexpensive, making it an attractive option for those looking for an affordable beach town.
According to Realtor.com, the median home price within one mile of the beach in Shirley is $414,990. While this may seem high, it is relatively low compared to other expensive beach towns in the US.
