Looking for the best U.S. beach towns to live in? This guide highlights the top coastal communities where sunshine, ocean views, and laid-back living come together. From charming small towns to lively beachfront cities, these destinations offer beautiful scenery, great amenities, and year-round coastal appeal. Whether you’re dreaming of retirement by the sea or searching for the perfect place to relocate, these amazing beach towns deliver an unforgettable coastal lifestyle.
Dreaming about living by the ocean? The best U.S. beach towns to live in offer sunny days, fresh sea breezes, and a relaxed lifestyle that feels good year-round. Many people move to the coast for the scenery, and they often stay because life feels lighter and more enjoyable by the water. You also get great outdoor activities, so every day can include something simple like a beach walk, a bike ride, or time spent near the waves.
Across the country, each coastline has its own personality. Some towns feel perfect for families because they offer safe neighborhoods and good schools. Others work well for retirees or remote workers who want warm weather and quiet beaches. Larger coastal cities add energy, and you’ll find restaurants, events, and waterfront fun when you want it. As you explore different areas, you’ll notice that each place has its own rhythm and charm.
This guide highlights the top towns where beauty, comfort, and a true coastal lifestyle come together. So if you’re ready to find a place where ocean living feels natural and inspiring, let’s get started.
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Why Live in a U.S. Beach Town?
Living in a U.S. beach town brings a level of calm you can feel the moment you step outside. The ocean air stays fresh, the days move at a slower pace, and the scenery makes every routine feel lighter. Many people choose coastal living because the water encourages a healthier lifestyle. For example, long morning walks, swims, and outdoor activities become part of everyday life instead of something you plan for only on vacations.
Beach towns also offer a strong sense of community. Locals greet each other, small shops thrive, and seasonal traditions bring everyone together. In fact, many coastal areas have a relaxed, welcoming vibe that makes newcomers feel right at home. Even better, the weather stays mild in most regions, so you can enjoy the outdoors during every season.
The natural beauty adds another reason to live near the coast. Sunrises and sunsets turn into daily events, and the changing colors of the water create moments that stay with you. On top of that, living near the ocean reduces stress for many people because the environment feels peaceful and grounding. So if you dream of a lifestyle filled with sunshine, nature, and simplicity, a U.S. beach town might be the perfect place to call home.
Cost of Living & What to Expect
The cost of living in U.S. beach towns can vary a lot, so it helps to know what to expect before you make the move. Some coastal communities feel surprisingly affordable. For example, smaller towns on the Gulf Coast or the Carolinas offer lower housing costs, cheaper dining, and everyday expenses that stay close to the national average. Other destinations, especially popular beaches in California or Florida, can cost more because demand stays high year-round.
Housing is usually the biggest expense. Waterfront homes tend to be the most expensive, but neighborhoods a few blocks back often offer better value. Groceries and dining can also run slightly higher in beach areas because many towns rely on tourism. Even so, residents often spend less on entertainment because the outdoors provides so much to enjoy. In fact, beaches, trails, and free events create a lifestyle that doesn’t depend on expensive activities.
Weather is another part of the cost equation. Because coastal climates stay mild, many people save on heating bills and enjoy more time outside. On top of that, many beach towns have walkable centers, so you can drive less and cut down on gas. Overall, the cost of living depends on your location and lifestyle, but the payoff is huge. You gain ocean views, a slower pace, and daily access to nature — and that comfort adds value that goes far beyond the basics.
How We Chose the Top 10 Beach Towns
Choosing the best U.S. beach towns takes more than just looking at pretty shorelines. To build this list, we focused on places that offer a balanced lifestyle. First, each town needed great year-round access to the beach, not just a seasonal scene. Then we looked closely at long-term livability, including walkability, cost of living, weather, and local services residents use every day.
We also considered community atmosphere. Some towns feel lively and full of events, while others offer quiet neighborhoods and small-town charm. Because everyone has different priorities, we included a mix of both. Schools, safety, and healthcare access also played a big part in the selection process since they matter to families and retirees who want a stable place to call home.
Local culture helped guide the list as well. Beach towns with fresh seafood, friendly locals, and unique coastal character always rank higher. We also checked recreation options like biking paths, waterfront parks, marinas, and outdoor fitness opportunities. After reviewing all these factors, the top ten stood out for the same reason: they make everyday life feel like a vacation while still offering the comfort and convenience of a true hometown.
Top 10 Best U.S. Beach Towns to Live In
1. Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston blends beach life with classic southern charm. Folly Beach and Sullivan’s Island are close by, so you can enjoy the coast any time. The weather is mild, and the food scene is incredible. In addition, eighborhoods are walkable, and locals are warm and welcoming. It’s a great choice if you want history, community, and easy beach access.
Best For: Food lovers, history fans, as well as anyone who wants beach life with strong southern charm.
2. Naples, Florida
Naples is known for calm Gulf waters, safe streets, and clean beaches. It offers strong healthcare, great dining, as well as warm weather year-round. Many people move here for a relaxed lifestyle and beautiful views. Housing can be higher than average, but the quality of life makes up for it.
Best For: Retirees, calm-water swimmers, as well as anyone seeking luxury coastal living.
3. Santa Barbara, California
Santa Barbara feels like the “American Riviera.” The weather stays pleasant all year, and the beaches are stunning. Also, you’ll find hiking trails, local shops, and a strong arts community. It is one of the pricier spots on the list, but the coastal lifestyle is hard to beat.
Best For: Year-round sunshine, scenic beaches, outdoor lovers, as well as upscale living.
4. Wilmington, North Carolina
Wilmington is an affordable and friendly beach town. It has charming neighborhoods, nearby beaches, as well as an easy pace of life. The cost of living stays close to the national average, which makes it great for families. The mild weather and strong arts scene add to its appeal.
Best For: Families, budget-friendly beach living, as well as easy access to nearby island beaches.
5. Sarasota, Florida
Sarasota offers beautiful beaches like Siesta Key, along with great schools and a lively cultural scene. The sand is soft and bright white, and the water stays warm. Many residents choose Sarasota for its mix of ocean views, music events, as well as outdoor living.
Best For: Culture seekers, beach walkers, and anyone who loves a blend of arts as well as ocean life.
6. Laguna Beach, California
Laguna Beach is perfect for people who love art and nature. The coastline has rocky cliffs, tide pools, and quiet coves. The town is walkable and full of galleries and cafés. It does cost more to live here, but the scenery and lifestyle are amazing.
Best For: Artists, creatives, and people who want dramatic coastline views as well as a lively art scene.
7. Gulf Shores, Alabama
Gulf Shores is one of the most affordable beach towns in the U.S. It offers long white-sand beaches and a laid-back atmosphere. The community is small and friendly. Outdoor activities like fishing, biking, and beach days are part of everyday life.
Best For: Budget-minded movers, relaxed living, as well as long white-sand beach days.
8. Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Hilton Head has a calm, polished feel. People come here for the bike trails, golf courses, and beautiful beaches. The island is clean and peaceful, and it’s ideal for families or retirees. The sense of community is strong and welcoming.
Best For: Families, cyclists, golf lovers, and anyone who wants a peaceful island lifestyle.
9. Cape May, New Jersey
Cape May blends Victorian charm with beautiful Atlantic beaches. Summers feel lively, but the off-season is quiet and relaxing. The town is walkable, safe, and full of character. It’s a great fit if you want a coastal lifestyle with a historic twist.
Best For: History lovers, seasonal living, as well as a charming small-town beach vibe.
10. Destin, Florida
Destin has emerald-green waters and a fun, active lifestyle. The cost of living is reasonable, and the beaches are some of the prettiest in Florida. Fishing, boating, and outdoor festivals are part of the local rhythm. Families love the warm weather and friendly feel.
Best For: Families, boaters, and anyone who loves clear emerald water as well as fun outdoor activities.
U.S. Beach Town Comparison Chart
Choosing the right beach town depends on your lifestyle, priorities, and budget. For example, some people want mild weather all year, while others prefer a lively coastal scene. Because of that, the chart below gives you a quick side-by-side look at cost, vibe, and overall appeal. As a result, it’s much easier to compare your options and find a perfect match.
| Beach Town | Cost of Living | Vibe / Lifestyle | Best For | Weather Appeal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Charleston, SC | Moderate | Historic + Coastal | Foodies, culture lovers | Warm & Mild |
| Naples, FL | High | Quiet + Luxurious | Retirees, calm-water fans | Hot & Sunny |
| Santa Barbara, CA | High | Scenic + Upscale | Outdoor lovers, sun seekers | Year-Round Mild |
| Wilmington, NC | Low-Moderate | Friendly + Laid-Back | Families, budget movers | Warm & Mild |
| Sarasota, FL | Moderate | Artsy + Beachy | Culture lovers, beach walkers | Hot & Sunny |
| Laguna Beach, CA | High | Artsy + Dramatic Coast | Creatives, scenic-view seekers | Mild Year-Round |
| Gulf Shores, AL | Low | Relaxed + Affordable | Budget movers, casual beach living | Warm & Pleasant |
| Hilton Head, SC | Moderate | Clean + Peaceful | Families, golfers, cyclists | Warm & Mild |
| Cape May, NJ | Moderate | Historic + Charming | Seasonal living, history fans | Warm Summers |
| Destin, FL | Moderate | Fun + Family-Friendly | Families, boaters, clear-water lovers | Hot & Sunny |
The chart gives a simple overview, but even so, each town brings its own charm. In the same way, your personal goals will shape which coastal community feels right. After that, you can look deeper into housing, schools, and local culture. In the end, the best beach town is the one that matches your daily lifestyle.
Conclusion: The Best U.S. Beach Towns to Live In
Choosing the right beach town can shape your entire way of life, especially if you dream of waking up to ocean views and quiet coastal mornings. These ten U.S. beach towns offer a mix of natural beauty, community feel, and long-term livability that is hard to match. Some stand out for affordability, while others shine with walkable neighborhoods or small-town charm. No matter which one you connect with, each offers the chance to enjoy a slower pace, easy access to the water, and a lifestyle that feels refreshing day after day. If coastal living has been on your mind, one of these towns may be the perfect place to start your next chapter.
✅ FAQs
What is the most affordable U.S. beach town to live in?
Many coastal areas have become pricey, yet several towns still offer reasonable living costs. Gulf Coast destinations often provide the best value because housing tends to be lower than other regions. Places like Gulfport, MS and Pensacola, FL offer beach access, mild winters, and steady amenities without the higher price tags of major coastal cities.
Which beach town is safest for year-round living?
Safety varies widely, but smaller communities with strong local engagement often rank highest. Towns with walkable neighborhoods, local shops, and long-time residents tend to offer a more secure environment. Even so, it’s always smart to review recent crime statistics and talk to locals before committing.
Are beach towns more expensive to live in?
Beach towns can be more expensive because coastal real estate is in high demand. However, the total cost of living depends on the region. Some towns offer surprisingly moderate housing prices, especially outside major metro areas. You can often save money by choosing places with lower taxes or more available long-term rentals.
Is coastal living practical for families?
Yes, many beach towns are great for families. They offer outdoor activities, relaxed neighborhoods, and easy access to parks and schools. At the same time, it’s important to consider job opportunities and proximity to larger cities. Some families prefer towns with strong school districts or short commutes to urban job markets.
Do all beach towns deal with hurricanes?
Not all of them. Hurricane risk mainly affects the Gulf Coast and Atlantic Coast. However, West Coast beach towns do not experience hurricanes. If storms are a concern, researching risk zones and understanding local building codes can help you choose a safer location.
Is it hard to find year-round rentals in beach towns?
Some popular destinations convert many rentals to vacation homes during high season. Even so, year-round rentals are still available in most towns, especially in areas with larger local populations. Searching during the off-season often gives you better availability and pricing.
What should I look for when choosing a coastal town to live in?
Think about your priorities: cost of living, climate, community feel, and long-term amenities. Some people want walkable neighborhoods, while others prefer quiet beaches or strong job markets. Visiting in different seasons can also help you understand what daily life feels like beyond peak summer months.
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I love the idea of comparing different beach towns to live in, but I’m wondering if this page might need a little updating. Home prices and cost-of-living have changed a lot in the last few years, so I wasn’t sure if the info here is still current. Some of your newer destination posts seem much more detailed, so I’d love to see this one expanded too—maybe with updated housing prices, lifestyle tips, or even pros and cons for each town. Have you thought about refreshing it? It seems like it could be a really helpful resource with a bit more info.
Great observation, and thank you for pointing that out! This page was one of the earlier guides on the site, and real estate prices, cost-of-living trends, and relocation details have definitely shifted since then. We are in the process of updating it with current housing averages, lifestyle insights, beach access details, climate considerations, and expanded recommendations, similar to the depth found in our more recent destination posts. We also plan to add more photos, retirement tips, remote-worker insights, and comparison links to make it even more useful. We appreciate your feedback, and a refreshed version of this page is on the way!
This list makes me want to pack up and move to the coast right now! Santa Cruz and Naples both sound like amazing places to live — sunshine, ocean views, and that relaxed beach vibe all year long. I’d love to know which of these towns feels the most affordable for someone thinking about a long-term move.
It’s hard to go wrong with any of them! Santa Cruz has that classic California charm and creative energy, while Naples, Florida offers warm weather and a slower pace perfect for retirees. If affordability is top of your list, places like La Porte, Texas or Coos Bay, Oregon are great choices — they offer coastal living at a fraction of the price of big-name beach towns. Living by the beach really does bring a little peace every day!
I love this roundup of beach towns! It’s such a great mix of options — from the warm Florida coasts to the cool, misty shores of Washington. I’ve always dreamed of living near the beach, and your descriptions really highlight how unique each place is. Port Angeles sounds especially peaceful, but Fort Lauderdale and Charleston are calling my name too. If you had to pick one for year-round living, which would you say offers the best balance of affordability and lifestyle?
That’s a great question! For the best mix of affordability and lifestyle, I’d say Oxnard, California or La Porte, Texas are wonderful choices. Both offer that relaxed coastal atmosphere without the overwhelming crowds or sky-high prices. Oxnard gives you access to California’s natural beauty and nearby cities, while La Porte has that friendly small-town feel with plenty of nearby amenities. They’re both great spots to enjoy the beach life year-round without breaking the bank.
This is such a fun list! I’ve been dreaming about moving closer to the coast, and this gave me so many great ideas. Santa Cruz and Naples sound incredible, but I’m also drawn to the smaller towns like Coos Bay and La Porte for something quieter. Do you think living in a smaller beach town is better long-term, or does it make sense to pick one with more tourist activity for extra things to do?
I’m so glad you enjoyed it! Each beach town really does have its own personality, so it depends on the lifestyle you’re after. If you love peace, open space, and that small-town charm, places like Coos Bay (Oregon) or La Porte (Texas) are perfect for a slower pace and affordable coastal living. On the other hand, busier spots like Santa Cruz or Naples offer more restaurants, events, and a steady flow of visitors — ideal if you enjoy staying active year-round. Personally, I love the balance of somewhere that has a little bit of both — peaceful weekdays and lively weekends.
This is such a fun roundup! I love the idea of living in a beach town, but I’m torn between the energy of places like Fort Lauderdale and the more peaceful vibe of somewhere like Port Angeles. Do you think it’s better to choose based on cost of living first, or lifestyle
Thank you! That’s the big question, isn’t it? 😊 Cost of living is important, but lifestyle makes a huge difference in how happy you’ll be day to day. If you want nightlife, art, and constant activity, a place like Fort Lauderdale is amazing. But if you love quiet mornings, outdoor adventure, and a slower pace, Port Angeles might feel more fulfilling. I’d suggest narrowing it down by asking yourself which you’d miss more — the buzz of a big city beach scene, or the calm of a quieter coastal town. Which way do you think you’re leaning?
Wow, I didn’t realize there were so many different options for beach living — from luxury places like Westport to affordable ones like La Porte. I’m curious, do you think towns like Coos Bay or Oxnard still have that ‘small town’ feel, or are they getting busier with people moving in
Great point! Coastal towns are definitely attracting more people these days. Coos Bay has kept its small-town charm, with a relaxed pace and friendly community — it still feels a bit hidden. Oxnard, being closer to Los Angeles, has grown more, but it still manages to balance agriculture and ocean living, so it doesn’t feel as crowded as bigger California cities. It really depends on how much connection to a city you want. Do you see yourself happiest in a laid-back, tucked-away spot, or somewhere that still gives easy access to urban life?
Oxnard caught my eye — beaches and strawberry fields sound dreamy! Is it a good balance between beach life and city access?
Absolutely! Oxnard offers a wonderful mix. You get those quiet, local beaches and fresh farmland, while being just 30 miles from Los Angeles. It’s often called the ‘Gateway to the Channel Islands,’ so you’ll have national park access too. Do you usually like your beach towns calm and hidden, or buzzing with nightlife and activity?
Santa Cruz sounds so vibrant! But I’m worried about California housing costs. Do you think it’s still worth considering if budget is tight?
That’s a thoughtful question! Santa Cruz definitely leans pricey, but you’re paying for an incredible mix of beach lifestyle, intellectual energy, and natural beauty. If budget is a concern, Oxnard or Coos Bay might give you that California coastal charm at a more affordable level. Do you prefer staying close to big cities, or would you enjoy something quieter and more rural?
“I’ve always dreamed of Naples, Florida — it seems so relaxing. Is it mostly a retiree spot, or is there a younger crowd too?
Naples does have a strong retiree community thanks to its peaceful, upscale atmosphere. But younger families and professionals are drawn there too, especially with the job market growing in the wider Southwest Florida area. The beach life really appeals to all ages. Would you be looking for a vacation home, or more of a permanent move?
This post really makes me dream about waking up to the sound of waves every morning. I love the idea of beach life as a daily escape from stress—it sounds so peaceful. But I imagine the hardest part is exactly what you said, choosing which beach to settle on! Do you think it’s better to pick a smaller, quieter spot or go for a livelier beach town with more things to do year-round?
I think it really depends on what you’re looking for long-term. A smaller, quieter beach town is perfect if you want true peace and a slower pace, but some people find it a little too quiet after a while. Livelier towns give you more restaurants, events, and community activities, which can make day-to-day life easier. Personally, I think the best choice is somewhere in between — a place that offers calm beaches but still has enough going on so you don’t feel isolated.
I’ve always thought about what it would be like to actually live at the beach instead of just vacationing there. Sunshine and sand every day sounds amazing, but I wonder if people ever get used to it and take it for granted? I’d love to hear what you think are the biggest advantages—and maybe some challenges—of making the beach your permanent home.
That’s such a thoughtful question! I think most people never truly get tired of the sunshine and ocean views — it stays special, especially when you slow down enough to enjoy it. The biggest advantage is definitely the relaxed pace and that constant connection to nature. But there are a few challenges too, like higher maintenance from salt air, hurricane season in some areas, and sometimes the cost of living can be higher. For most people though, the trade-off is more than worth it.
This list really speaks to me because I’ve always dreamed of trading the noise of the city for the calm rhythm of the waves. The idea of sunshine and sea air every day sounds perfect for reducing stress. I’m curious though — which of these beach towns do you think offers the best mix of solitude while still being practical for everyday living, like groceries, healthcare, and basic conveniences?
That’s such a great question! I’ve found that many of these towns balance the beauty of beach life with practical amenities, though some lean more rural than others. Places like Gulf Shores or Cape May offer that quiet, small-town vibe but still have easy access to shopping, healthcare, and community activities. It really comes down to whether you prefer convenience or absolute seclusion.
Such a wonderful roundup of beach towns! I’ve been exploring the idea of a coastal move for years, but it’s tough to balance affordability with quality of life. Reading your list makes me wonder — for someone moving from a colder climate, do you think adjusting to year-round warmth and humidity is easier than most people expect, or does it take time to truly embrace that lifestyle?
That’s such a great point, because the climate change can be a big adjustment. At first, the humidity and constant warmth can feel overwhelming if you’re used to four seasons. But most people adapt faster than they expect, and the ocean breeze really helps. The bonus is that you can spend so much more time outdoors, and it’s amazing how quickly that becomes your new normal. After a little while, many people say they can’t imagine going back to cold winters!
Your list of beach towns really made me think about the realities as well as the dreams. We all picture sunny days and ocean breezes, but things like hurricane season, tourism swings, and even cost of living can make a huge difference. Out of all the places you included, which do you feel offers the best year-round balance of beauty, affordability, and resilience?
You’re absolutely right — there’s always a balance between the dream and the day-to-day realities. Some towns really shine in that way, though. Sarasota is one that offers a great mix of culture, affordability, and strong infrastructure, so it holds up well year-round. Cape May is another favorite because it blends charm, resilience, and a close-knit community feel. It really comes down to what matters most to you, but those two stand out for their overall balance.
I actually lived in a small beach town for a couple of years, and while the peace and slower pace were amazing, I did notice how quickly little things like salt air wore down cars and outdoor furniture. Your list made me smile because it reminded me of those challenges, but also the joy of walking barefoot on the sand every evening. Did you find that locals in the towns you featured have tips for handling those everyday quirks?
I’m so glad my list brought back those memories for you! And yes, the salt air is definitely one of those hidden challenges of coastal living. Locals usually have lots of little tricks, like rinsing cars often, using stainless steel or treated wood outdoors, and keeping covers on patio furniture when not in use. It’s extra maintenance for sure, but like you said, the trade-off of barefoot walks on the beach every evening makes it more than worthwhile.
I love how you described the balance of sunshine, sand, and solitude. It makes me want to plan a long road trip to visit each of these towns just to get a real feel for them. If you personally had to pick one from your list to settle in for the next 10 years, which one would you choose — and what tipped the scale for you?
That sounds like such a fun idea — a road trip would be the perfect way to get a true feel for each place. If I had to choose just one to settle in for the long haul, I’d probably lean toward Sarasota. It has such a nice balance of beautiful beaches, cultural activities, and everyday conveniences that make life easier. The mix of natural beauty and a vibrant community really tips the scale for me.
I have to say that you’ve outdone yourself! These are awesome beach towns!
I’ve been to Ft. Lauderdale and Naples because I live in Florida and these are all such beautiful places to live.
Your first image is breathtaking to say the least!
There isn’t one of these places I wouldn’t want to live except maybe Westport CT. I don’t do snow anymore!
If you had to pick just one, which one would it be?
I love Florida, so it would be between Fort Lauderdale and Naples. Probably Naples as that is closer to where I am at now. I don’t do snow anymore either and would probably nix Coos Bay as well. Although beautiful, my aunt and uncle live there and it rains a LOT. LOL Thanks for visiting beach travel destinations.
WOW, beautiful place to live:)
My son always dreams to live in a beach city and lately, he speaks about it more and more often. He is 17 years old and the time passes very fast. Anyway, I will show him this list of beach cities so he can already get an idea:) Just a question, please. What does a non-US citizen need to do in order to be able to live in one of these beach cities? Is it easy to get a visa?
Thank you very much in advance!
I know that it is not as difficult as most seem to get a Visa to live in the USA. It is all about your presentation to the consulate, and about 100,000 student visas are handed out every year. Please let me know if you have any other questions.
What a great compilation Leahrae.
This will really be helpful in the future.
I already bookmarked this page.
When that time comes, it’ll definitely come in handy.
Thanks.
Great Pearl. Please let me know if you need any additional information 🙂
We all need to relax and go to a good place which can help us feel better.I like this website because it helps me feel the spirit of going to trip with my beloved ones.
I like the view of Fort Lauderdale for sure and if I have money I will take at least one month of vacancy to stay there.
Those beach towns you recommended us are the best in the world.
Thank you for sharing with us this article.
You are very welcome Julienne. I live in Florida so have a bit of preference for anywhere here actually, except mid state which is too far away from the water. I think if you are going to live on the coast, it should be on the water. Thanks for stopping by!
We love holidays and love going to the beach. I believe that visiting beach can impact our health and well-being and sea air is good for sleep because it is generally cleaner and fresher air, with higher levels of oxygen.
Your article is a guide to help those who want to enjoy their time on worlds best beaches. Living a few weeks or months next to the beach allows us to spend our free time relaxing at the beach and spending quality time together.
Exactly Bushra! Thanks for visiting.
Ciao, ciao! I have always loved going to the beach. And I remember as a kid spending even a month each year at a beach town. I have wonderful family memories there. I have always wanted to move over to a beach town. And reading through your list, Fort Lauderdale seems the perfect option for me. I love arts and love Venice. Thank you very much!
You are very welcome. I live in Florida so I can say that Fort Lauderdale and Naples are both great beach towns.
Leahrae,
Love the website and the content. The Top Ten Beach Town’s article was very interesting and offered up a wide variety of beach towns on both coasts and north vs. south – something for everyone. I had not considered several of the areas you mentioned but can see the draw in the entire list.
I have spent considerable time in Charleston, SC and Naples, FL but only visited some of the California and Oregon towns mentioned. If price were no object, Laguna Beach, CA would make my list (we lived there in the late 90’s). The Pacific beaches offer an amazing sunset, moderate temperatures and low humidity year-round. Charleston, SC by comparison is quaint (becoming very expensive) but the summers are blistering.
Your post ties in well with the rest of the site and should offer additional cross-sell opportunities.
It’s clear you are lite years ahead of me in your site and content, as well as advertising. Congratulations!
Pete
You are correct Pete, but being a Floridian, I am kind of biased to the East coast for my top beach town choices. I do live on the beach, so I feel I have it made 🙂
According to your top 10 beach town list, I would first go to Santa Cruz to meet pretty female students since it is a beach location mixed with intellect. My second place would be Fort Lauderdale since it is full of arts and I’m an artist. Third beach would be Charleston since it is nearby the ocean. Anyway, keep dropping that good content.
Thanks Jean 🙂 Glad you enjoyed your visit to the best beach towns to live in.
Beach towns are amazing places to be it’s ever lively with bracing fresh coastal breeze helps to blow away the cobwebs and revive the soul! Interestingly, I discovered that the reason sea air is so healthy and makes us feel great, is that it contains tiny droplets of sea water enriched with salt, iodine, magnesium and trace elements, which are scattered into the air by wind and waves. For sure I will love it.
Me too Seun! Thanks for the visit to the Best Beach Towns to Live I!
I notice that all these beach towns are in the USA. Do you plan on writing an article on beach towns in other parts of the world in the near future? As a canadian, I’d be curious about some beach destinations in Canada. Of the beach towns you have listed here, I think the Coos Bay in Oregon, would appeal more to me, I hate large towns. The average cost of $160,000 of a house there is certainly more affordable too. Thanks
Yes Madeleine I do plan on providing the best beach towns worldwide 🙂 In fact, that is going to be my next review. I will let you know when I have it up for viewing. Thanks for stopping by to see the best beach towns to live in.
Nice! Great job listing the pros of these 10 beach towns.
Coos Bay, Oregon sounds ideal. Though I was born and raised in the city, lately I’ve found myself drawn to peace and quiet and I would definitely have that with a population of only around 20,000.
And the price range for real estate isn’t bad either.
Yes, Coos Bay is absolutely beautiful. I have family there, and I guess the only down side is the rain. Living in the sunshine state though, I am realizing that the rain is not such a bad thing. Thanks for stopping by!
Oh this sets me on some serious day dreaming jaunts! Who wouldn’t love to live in a beach town?For people thinking of where to retire house prices are important and it is good that you included some information about that. I’ve lived on the northwest coast and never found it too cold. Walking the beaches and picking wild blueberries comes to mind…I have also driven around Oxnard CA, and while it’s expensive for many, if you own an ocean going vessel, that’s a great place to make a home with your own handy dock. Whatever coast you’re on, you always have the calming sound of the waves!
Exactly and I am on the East coast, about 10 minutes from the beach. I love it and it is always calling me. Guess I am just a beach bum at heart 🙂 Thanks for visiting beach travel destinations.
Hi again, Leah.
I’ve dropped by for another beach adventure.
If money was no object, it would probably make choosing a beach-lifestyle and a beach-home a lot easier.
As you move further North the climate gets a little more chilly but the activities change as well. I live just North of Washington State in the Vancouver region so I understand a bit about fog and chilly days.
We adapt well to this harsh climate and have even managed to get the “polar bear” crowd swimming on New Year’s Day.
The beach-lifestyle is growing in popularity and is not about to go out of style, any time soon.
Your 9 examples are all worth considering, but since I live on the Pacific Coast I feel that my opinion would be slightly biased.
Wetsuits and red wine are often used to keep the chill at bay, on those foggy days, when the sun has left us for California.
Paul
Well I know too Paul as I lived in Alaska for 22 years. I now live in Florida and I guess I am a beach bum at heart and the beach just calls me. I don’t get much done living so close, that is for sure. Thanks for stopping by!
Those are wonderful places to live and visit if you can be to visit all of them places looks stunning and wonderfully made the only side effects is you must be filthy rich to be able to own one of those homes and beach front house .but that is why they are for the rich the place is great and we’ll taken care so money is no issue because you will be getting a great value of your money
Thanks for visiting Charles and I would have to disagree 🙂 I am certainly by no means “filthy rich” and I live on Clearwater Beach in Florida. There are deals out there for those who really want the beach lifestyle. Thanks for stopping by!
Hello – I love the topic of this post as I always enjoy visiting new beach destinations. I haven’t really thought about living in a beach town, but your post has brought a new consideration into that thought. I have visited some of these destinations in the past, but you have introduced me to some I never would have thought about.
Thank you for the information,
Michele
You are very welcome Michele! Please come back and visit beach travel destinations again soon 🙂
I have lived by the sea before, and I really did enjoy that, and may well like to do it again some time.
The beach towns you mention sound really lovely, and the prices of property sound very reasonable. I would think that if you live in the US you would be happy in any of them.
But I live in the UK, so they would be quite impractical for me. But of all the beach towns I have visited in Europe, the one that I really loved was Barcelona, in Spain. It has all the buzz of a city, beautiful architecture, a great climate and a most beautiful beach too. Although realistically I know that I will never get to live there!!
Thank you so much for your information.
Chrissie 🙂
You are very welcome Chrissie, and yes Barcelona is beautiful !
WOW this is amazing. This article has the best beach locations in the world. Instead of going all over the web and searching for different towns with amazing beach you can come to this article because it has everything at one place.
Thank you for the research about the beach towns and sharing it with us.
You are very welcome Sujandar! Glad you enjoyed!