8 College Towns That Are Surprisingly Perfect for Retirees on Social Security
These affordable cities prove that college towns are great for more than just students.
Edited by Sara Albertelli
Updated Dec. 13, 2025
Fact checked
Plenty of seniors dream of retiring to cozy beachside towns, but have you ever considered retiring to a college town? It might seem contradictory at first, but cities that are home to universities aren’t just great for college students: they often offer perks like affordable housing, free cultural events, and access to great hospitals that benefit retirees just as much as they do 20-somethings.
As of October 2025, the average social security monthly benefit was $1,869.20. Keep reading for our list of college towns across the country that can help you stretch your retirement dollars further and offer the best benefits for seniors, from low housing costs to vibrant communities.
Editor’s note: Unless otherwise noted, all rent prices are from Apartments.com, and all average home prices are from Zillow.com.
Lawrence, Kansas
Average rent: $984
Average home price: $319,579
Lawrence is home to the beautiful University of Kansas (home of the Jayhawks for sports fans). The city invests heavily in its senior community, offering a lifelong recreation program for everyone over 50.
Senior strength training courses help retirees stay active, while senior-centric day trips to butterfly farms, local community theater productions, and historic sites help foster a strong sense of community.
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Ames, Iowa
Average rent: $900
Average home price: $269,322
Like many of the universities on our list, Iowa State University offers lifelong learning programs with discounted tuition rates for retirees. Through the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, you can take classes in person or via Zoom on topics that range from authentic Italian home cooking to nonverbal communication.
Plus, while snowy winters may keep you inside, the city’s Parks and Rec department hosts opportunities to join an indoor sports team for slow-pitch softball, pickleball, and more.
Jacksonville, Florida
Average rent: $1,291
Average home price: $281,507
As a liberal arts college, Jacksonville University hosts year-round cultural events that showcase its students’ skills. The vocal arts Winter Fest performance is a great way to kick off the holiday season, but choir concerts, student gallery exhibits, and dance performances happen frequently throughout the year.
Jacksonville is also located on the Atlantic Coast, so opportunities to enjoy the Sunshine State’s mild climate and gorgeous beaches abound.
Continue/Read Original Article Here: 8 College Towns That Are Surprisingly Perfect for Retirees on Social Security | FinanceBuzz
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