6 Affordable Travel Destinations Perfect for Retirees in 2025
Written by
John Csiszar
Edited by
Zuri Anderson
Commitment to Our Readers
GOBankingRates' editorial team is committed to bringing you unbiased reviews and information. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and services - our reviews and ratings are not influenced by advertisers. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and our products and services review methodology.
20 Years
Helping You Live Richer
Reviewed
by Experts
Trusted by
Millions of Readers
For many seniors, retirement is not only the time to enjoy traveling but also to check things off the bucket list — like visiting all the national parks, exploring ancient temples or finally seeing the Grand Canyon.
With so many incredible destinations to see in the world, both foreign and domestic, you could easily spend the rest of your days visiting exciting places and beautiful beaches. If you’re a bit more adventurous, you could even pick one of these places to call your new home.
You don’t have to decide on that as soon as you stop working because your golden years will be filled with time to explore and visit every place you want to see along with family members and old friends. Simply put, your retirement travel dance card will be filled with trips including adventures both domestic and abroad.
Of course, if you’re like many retirees, you may be living on a fixed income which doesn’t always financially add up to river cruises down the Rhine. However, that shouldn’t necessarily limit your retirement travel destinations or dreams, as there are plenty of budget-friendly spots that allow for affordable travel — or relocation. Here are some of the best.
Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston is just oozing with Southern charm, and once you visit, you just might consider staying. From its historic districts with cobblestone streets to its gorgeous seaside location, storied history and excellent cuisine, Charleston is a mecca for retirees.
If you decide to relocate, you’ll only be paying the national average in terms of expenses, according to Payscale, and transportation costs, including bus fare, runs 9% below the national average.
San Antonio
In the heart of south-central Texas, San Antonio offers retirees a rich blend of culture, history, good food — and no state taxes! The vibrant city is a destination unto itself but is also within easy reach of other exciting cities like Austin, Houston and Dallas.
And best of all, the cost of living in San Antonio is about 9% lower than the national average, according to Payscale, with housing 20% cheaper than average.
Asheville, North Carolina
For such a highly-rated city, it might seem like Asheville’s cost of living should be above the national average, not right at it. But Asheville residents are lucky that they get to enjoy all of the city’s charms without having to pay a premium.
If you’re a nature lover, you’ve got the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Appalachian Trail to explore. If you’re a foodie or an art lover, Asheville’s got you covered, as well. Regardless of what you enjoy doing, Asheville offers a temperate climate with four seasons in which to enjoy it.
Orlando, Florida
It’s hard to imagine a list of retiree destinations without including Florida, and with good reason. Statewide, Florida offers abundant sunshine, plenty of recreational activities and no state taxes, all of which are popular with seniors.
Orlando in particular is a good choice, as it is a large, vibrant city with nearly unlimited entertainment and recreational options while still having a cost of living 1% below the national average.
Portugal
If you’re looking for something with international flair, consider Portugal. Once you start looking around you’ll likely notice that the country has shot to the top of many “hot places to retire” lists, and with good reason.
The closest country in continental Europe to the United States, Portugal boasts low costs, spectacular scenery, historic districts and sandy shores — enough to keep nearly any retiree dazzled.
If you’re looking to stay permanently, it’s fairly easy to get a retirement visa in Portugal. According to Global Citizen Solutions, a D7 visa only requires showing a passive income of 870 euros per month, or about $906, to qualify, although you’ll also need to keep about $20,000 in a Portuguese bank during the two-year qualification period.
The Philippines
The Philippines is a beautiful tropical archipelago of over 7,000 islands, and for many retirees, it’s a slice of paradise. Although a bit further afield than some other destinations on this list, it’s also the most affordable.
Once you get away from the major cities, which can feel overcrowded, you’ll have nearly unlimited white sand beaches to choose from. Meanwhile, local meals can be had for just a few bucks and your monthly rent can be as little as a few hundred dollars.
The Philippines is also a very popular permanent retirement destination for seniors on a budget. You can acquire a Special Resident Retiree’s Visa just by keeping $20,000 in a Philippine bank, or $10,000 if you have a pension of at least $1,000 per month, according to the Philippine Retirement Authority.
Caitlyn Moorhead contributed to the reporting for this article.
More From GOBankingRates
