4 Cities Where You Can Retire for $2,500 a Month and Enjoy All Four Seasons
Written by
G. Brian Davis
Edited by
Brendan McGinley
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It ain’t easy living comfortably on $2,500 a month in the U.S. these days. But it’s certainly easier in some cities than others.
Visit for a week to get a sense for the community feel, and plan your move once you’ve fallen in love with a place. Consider these four cities if you want to savor four true seasons on a tight budget.
Fort Wayne, Indiana
With its family-friendly culture and abundant parks and recreation, Fort Wayne makes a great home for active families.
The average rent will set you back $957 as per Apartments.com, a steep savings compared to the national average of $1,630.
“Fort Wayne has an impressive city library that hosts senior activities, a network of healthcare clinics and hospitals and local senior centers that cater to the needs and interests of older residents,” said real estate specialist Ben Allgeyer of Fast Kansas City Home Buyers.
Dayton, Ohio
Dayton offers a strong balance between city amenities and small-town vibe, with its rich arts and culture scene and outdoor activities.
Real estate expert Adam Hamilton of REI Hub recommended Dayton for retirees trying to stretch their dollar further.
“The housing market is both stable and affordable, and more people are catching on and moving there,” he said.
Indeed, the average rent has ticked up faster than the national average last year, but remains in the triple digits at $992.
Pittsburgh
Looking for a major city? Pittsburgh has it all, from a thriving food scene to a vibrant riverfront to an international airport and major league sports teams.
You’ll pay more, of course, with rents averaging $1,382. That makes for a tight squeeze on $2,500 a month, but if you live downtown you may be able to live car-free and save money on that front.
“Pittsburgh offers plenty of urban and suburban neighborhoods, robust healthcare systems and services that cater to an aging population — all key factors for retirement planning,” said real estate advisor Sain Rhodes of Clever Offers.
Erie, Pennsylvania
If you love lakefront living, you can score a bargain in Erie. Beyond instant access to water sports on the lake, residents enjoy plenty of trails and beaches at nearby parks like Presque Isle State Park. Residents enjoy all four seasons, from vibrant autumns to plenty of snow in the winter.
The average rent costs $926, keeping it affordable. And in less than two hours you can reach Cleveland, Buffalo and Pittsburgh.
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