Summary
- Waynesville, North Carolina: A picturesque town nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains, Waynesville offers outdoor activities, cultural events, and a thriving arts scene for retirees on a budge, with a cost of living index of 97.3.
- Pigeon Forge, Tennessee: This family-friendly town in the Tennessee mountains has a cost of living index of 96.6 and combines natural beauty with entertainment, making it an ideal destination for retirees looking for affordable retirement options in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
- Brevard, North Carolina: For golden agers seeking natural splendor and cultural enrichment, Brevard offers a peaceful haven amidst rolling hills and dense forests, with a blend of affordability and outdoor and artistic experiences, along with an attractive cost of living index of 93.8.
The eastern United States cradles a haven of natural beauty and cultural heritage within the embrace of the Blue Ridge Mountains. With rolling hills, dense forests, and quaint communities, this region beckons those yearning for respite from the chaos of urban life. It's the perfect setting for retirement in the US, especially for people drawn to small-town charm and seeking small towns to retire for less than $2,000 a month. However, with the vast array of beautiful small towns in the Blue Ridge Mountains to live in, how does one navigate the choices to find the perfect retreat for their golden years, not to mention, one that fits a lower budget?
Fortunately for those looking for a new (and budget-friendly) place to call home in these glorious mountainscapes, there are plenty of small and affordable Blue Ridge Mountains towns to retire to that boast a lower-than-average cost of living. Read on to discover which towns in the Blue Ridge Mountains are great for retirement on a budget, from Waynesville to Galax, each promising a retirement filled with tranquility, community warmth, and the simple pleasures of life.
The cost of living index used in this list evaluates the relative expense of living in the town mentioned compared to the US national average. Where the figure is below 100, it means that the cost of living in that town is cheaper than the national average. For instance, if the cost of living is 80.7, it means that life in that town is 19.3 percent cheaper compared to the national average.
This Small, Scenic Town In Maine Is One Of The Best (And Safest) Places To Retire
Camden, Maine's quaint seaside downtown and charming colonial homes are just a few reasons to consider retiring here.10 Waynesville, North Carolina
Cost of living index: 97.3
Golden-agers wondering where to retire in the Blue Ridge Mountains on a budget will find this little town in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains an appealing option. Waynesville beckons retirees with its picturesque Main Street and friendly community atmosphere. The town also offers a blend of outdoor activities, cultural events, and a thriving arts scene.
For those interested in exploring some of the many amazing hiking trails in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, settling in this town is the perfect choice. Waynesville also provides ample opportunities for retirees to indulge in fishing, golfing, and biking.
- Population: 10,320 people
- Average home price: $354,185
- Average rent: $1,408
- Crime rate: 56.18 per 1,000 residents
- Main attractions: Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and Haywood County Arts Center
9 Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
Cost of living index: 96.6
One of the most beautiful small towns in the Tennessee mountains, Pigeon Forge is famous for its family-friendly charm. The town offers retirees a unique blend of natural beauty and entertainment. There are plenty of surprisingly free things to do in Pigeon Forge as well, making the town ideal for retirees on a budget.
Enjoy a slower pace of life while having access to theaters, shopping, and outdoor activities.
- Population: 6,265 people
- Average home price: $461,041
- Median rent: $1,750
- Crime rate: 48.59 per 1,000 residents
- Main attractions: Titanic Museum Pigeon Forge, Parrot Mountain and Gardens, and The Island in Pigeon Forge
10 Unique & Fun Things To Do In Tennessee
See underground caves and other fascinating attractions during a trip to Tennessee.8 Brevard, North Carolina
Cost of living index: 93.8
Tucked away in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Brevard, North Carolina, is among the many affordable Blue Ridge towns to retire to, especially for golden agers seeking both natural splendor and cultural enrichment. The town offers a peaceful haven amidst rolling hills and dense forests.
Nature enthusiasts can explore nearby national forests, while the local arts scene, including the prestigious Brevard Music Center, adds a cultural flair to retirement. With a perfect blend of affordability and a rich tapestry of outdoor and artistic experiences, Brevard beckons retirees to savor the serenity of mountain living.
- Population: 7,824 people
- Average home price: $428,326
- Median rent: $2,000
- Crime rate: 15.86 per 1,000 residents
- Main attractions: Transylvania Farmers' Market and Crystal Mountain Gem Mine
7 Murphy, North Carolina
Cost of living index: 88.0
Murphy is yet another one of the numerous affordable retirement towns in the Blue Ridge Mountains, tucked away in the southwestern corner of North Carolina. The town offers retirees a serene escape surrounded by the Nantahala National Forest and the Appalachian Mountains.
The town's affordability, coupled with its friendly community, makes it an appealing destination for those seeking a close-knit retirement community. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore hiking trails, fishing spots, and the scenic beauty of the Hiwassee River.
- Population: 1,668 people
- Average home price: $287,045
- Median rent: $1,800
- Crime rate: 72 per 1,000 residents
- Main attraction: Nantahala National Forest
North Carolina City Bites: 10 Must-Try Food And Drinks Across The State
From barbecue to seafood, craft beer to wine, and Southern cuisine to farm-to-table, North Carolina's cities have something for every taste bud.6 Ellijay, Georgia
Cost of living index: 86.0
There are many small and underrated towns in Georgia worth exploring, and Ellijay is certainly one of them, especially for seniors seeking scenic yet affordable towns to retire in the Blue Ridge Mountains area. Nestled in the Georgia mountains, this charming town is known for its apple orchards, wineries, and the picturesque Cartecay River. Retirees can enjoy a relaxed lifestyle while exploring the town's vibrant arts scene and participating in community events.
Ellijay's affordability and proximity to outdoor adventures make it a delightful choice for those desiring a peaceful retirement.
- Population: 1,889 people
- Average home price: $375,981
- Median rent: $2,200
- Crime rate: 22.31 per 1,000 residents
- Main attractions: Gilmer Arts Center and Amicalola Falls State Park
5 Abingdon, Virginia
Cost of living index: 83.7
Rich in history and surrounded by the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Abingdon is a town that captivates retirees with its cultural offerings and small-town charm. The Barter Theatre, established during the Great Depression, is a local treasure, while the Virginia Creeper Trail invites outdoor enthusiasts to explore the scenic landscape.
Abingdon's affordable cost of living, surrounding nature spots, and cultural amenities make it an inviting destination for retirees.
- Population: 8,155 people
- Average home price: $264,841
- Median rent: $1,275
- Crime rate: 10 per 1,000 residents
- Main attractions: Abingdon Historic District and The Barter Theatre
4 Damascus, Virginia
Cost of living index: 83.7
Known as Trail Town, Damascus is among the more affordable yet beautiful towns in the Blue Ridge Mountains to live in as a retiree and is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, as it's situated at the convergence of four major hiking trails, including the Appalachian Trail.
Retirees can relish a peaceful lifestyle while enjoying the town's proximity to outdoor adventures, including Backbone Rock Recreation Area. With its welcoming community and affordable living, Damascus offers a serene retreat for those seeking a retirement filled with nature and community spirit.
- Population: 772 people
- Average home price: $200,344
- Median rent: $614
- Crime rate: 65.22 per 1,000 residents
- Main attractions: Backbone Rock Recreation Area, Damascus Farmers Market, and Appalachian Trail Days Festival
3 Clayton, Georgia
Cost of living index: 82.3
Perched on the edge of the Chattahoochee National Forest, Clayton was first inhabited by Cherokee tribes and was later founded as a town in 1821 by European settlers. It's also known as the Farm to Table Capital of Georgia. Today, the town combines mountain charm with a vibrant arts scene, and the nearby wineries provide great day trips and even more scenery.
Retirees can explore the town's lovely downtown area, which is home to art galleries and restaurants. The town also has cultural events. Here, retirees can also enjoy easy access to state parks such as Black Mountain State Park and Tallulah Gorge State Park, offering trails and natural scenery.
The cost of living in Clayton, along with its natural beauty and cultural offerings, makes it an appealing choice for those looking for affordable retirement destinations in the Blue Ridge Mountains that seamlessly blend tranquility with cultural experiences on a budget.
- Population: 2,124 people
- Average home price: $343,830
- Median rent: $2,450
- Crime rate: 55.45 per 1,000 residents
- Main attractions: Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, Main Street Gallery, Black Rock Mountain State Park, Dick's Creek Falls, and Tallulah Gorge State Park
A Guide To Georgia's Most Popular Islands
Golden Isles, one of the best islands, has untainted beaches, alluring shorelines, marshlands and historic attractions which makes it worth the visit.2 Lewisburg, West Virginia
Cost of living index: 77.3
Lewisburg is consistently ranked among the most beautiful towns in West Virginia to visit, which makes it such a great choice for retirees looking for an enchanting destination to call home. Nestled in the heart of the Allegheny Mountains, Lewisburg exudes historic charm and a welcoming community spirit.
With its well-preserved downtown area, home to galleries and a theater, retirees can enjoy strolls through historic streets, explore local shops, enjoy the arts, and participate in community events. The town's affordability and the abundance of outdoor activities make Lewisburg an idyllic choice for retirees seeking a peaceful and culturally rich retirement.
- Population: 3,728 people
- Average home price: $260,747
- Median rent: $1,200
- Crime rate: 19.05 per 1,000 residents
- Main attractions: Lewisburg Theatre, Carnegie Hall Gallery, and The Greenbrier Hotel
1 Galax, Virginia
Cost of living index: 72.0
Number one on the list of affordable Blue Ridge Mountains towns to retire to is a scenic place known as the "Gateway to the Blue Ridge". Galax is a charming town that embraces its Appalachian roots; retirees can immerse themselves in the town's bluegrass music heritage, attend festivals, and explore New River Trail State Park.
Galax's affordability, coupled with its cultural vibrancy and outdoor recreational opportunities, makes it an enchanting destination for those seeking an affordable retirement in the Blue Ridge Mountains that blends tradition with activity and natural beauty.
- Population: 6,567 people
- Average home price: $157,380
- Median rent: $835
- Crime rate: 40.27 per 1,000 residents
- Main attractions: Blue Ridge Music Center, Rex Theater, Jeff Matthews Memorial Museum, and New River Trail State Park
Perfect for people thinking about their golden-ager dreams, these affordable towns in the Blue Ridge Mountains for retirement offer a diverse array of options, each with its own unique charm and appeal. From outdoor adventures in state parks to cultural experiences and historic downtowns, these budget-friendly spots in the Blue Ridge Mountains promise a retirement filled with tranquility, community, and the breathtaking beauty of the region.