6. Roanoke, Virginia
Known as the “Star City of the South,” Roanoke sits in a spectacular valley surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains. If you want an active retirement filled with hiking, scenic drives along the Blue Ridge Parkway, and a thriving downtown farmers market, Roanoke is tough to beat.
Despite its natural beauty and vibrant culture, Roanoke maintains a cost of living that falls well below the national average. You can easily find comfortable housing options that fit neatly within a $40,000 annual budget.
Furthermore, the city is a regional healthcare hub. The Carilion Clinic operates a massive, highly-rated hospital system in Roanoke, drawing top-tier medical talent to this affordable mountain town.
