Travel 5 Beach Towns You Can Actually Afford By Jessica Ritz Jessica Ritz Jessica Ritz is Los Angeles-based freelance journalist with a professional background in architectural history and historic preservation. An incurable generalist, she contributes to a range of print and digital media outlets, mostly covering design, culture, food, and travel, as well as whatever else she can learn about while dragging along her two kids and TV writer/producer husband. Jessica has a B.A. in Art History and American Studies from Wesleyan University in Connecticut, and an M.A. in Urban Planning from UCLA. Follow her on Instagram and see more work at https://www.jessnritz.com/. Southern Living's editorial guidelines Updated on June 6, 2022 Share Tweet Pin Email Trending Videos Photo: Robbe Caponetto Whether making a permanent move or just looking for a second home, these picturesque coastal hideaways have community amenities and scenic views you need to check out. If gorgeous beaches and charming downtowns are not enough for you to want to visit, then the surprisingly reasonable cost of living is sure to be. From Gulf Shore gems to a Atlantic Coast paradise, there's a beach town designed to meet your and your family's needs without breaking the bank. It only takes a little time and research to find these budget-approved towns to make snagging a piece of the shoreline within reach. Is it time to make a move to the shore? The answer is a big, wallet-approved yes. 01 of 05 St. Marys, Georgia Posnov / Getty Images The small-town appeal makes this Southern city a sure thing for those looking for a more relaxed way of life. Stay close and hang out at locally-owned restaurants, boutiques, and museums that showcase St. Mary's spirit and soul. If you get the itch to explore, hop on the ferry to neighboring Cumberland Island National Seashore or head to Jacksonville, Florida, a quick 45-minute drive. 02 of 05 Pensacola, Florida lightphoto / Getty Images Want a spot where you can splash in the water year-round? This Gulf Coast town is the answer. Caribbean-quality beaches with calm waters and plenty of historical and cultural attractions make Pensacola an accessible gem along Florida's panhandle. 03 of 05 Beaufort, North Carolina Gary W. Carter / Getty Images North Carolina's third oldest town certainly has much to brag about in the history department. Founded in 1709 as a fishing hub, it was once a frequent haunt of Blackbeard. The quaint old homes, charming boardwalk, and environmental assets—Beaufort is home to the North Carolina Maritime Museum and the NOAA Southeast Fisheries Science Center—have us pining for a piece of real estate to call home. 04 of 05 Galveston, Texas Mabry Campbel / Getty Images The 32 miles of pristine beachfront and lively Pleasure Pier amusement park attract tourists, but this Gulf Coast barrier island offers more. The storied industrial past and quiet streets lined with pastel-colored Victorian homes make you want to stay forever. This town on the Gulf Coast of Texas is a destination worth investigating. 05 of 05 Bay St. Louis, Mississippi Robbe Caponetto When tearing through, Hurricane Katrina tested this character-loaded Gulf Coast town, but it's since bounced back. The city has gorgeous historic architecture and a robust downtown with its Southern charm. This town, bordered by water on three sides, offers limitless outdoor excursions. The marsh, Bay, and Gulf waterways and proximity to New Orleans are considerable advantages of this area. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit