Discovering America’s Most Affordable Beach Towns
When dreaming of a beachside retreat, whether it’s for a weekend getaway or a retirement sanctuary, visions of clear blue waters, sandy shores, and the crisp ocean air immediately come to mind. However, the assumption that such idyllic settings come with an exorbitant price tag is not always accurate. Thanks to a recent analysis by Realtor.com, finding an affordable haven along the vast American coastline is more tangible than you might think, especially if your sights are set on the serene settings of Ocean Shores, Washington.
Realtor.com embarked on a mission to identify the most budget-friendly coastal cities in the United States by examining federal data for coastal cities and towns that had a sandy, public-access ocean beach within city limits. They focused on single-family homes, including condominiums, basing their rankings on median list prices in March, and intentionally excluded manufactured housing to preserve consistency. The criteria also ensured that only one beach town per state would make it into the exclusive top 10 list.
Ocean Shores, a quaint city that is home to approximately 6,700 residents, proudly lands on this prestigious list, offering direct access to both the Pacific Ocean and Grays Harbor’s north bay. This coastal gem is not only a prime spot for those wishing to own a piece of paradise without breaking the bank, but it also doubles as an ideal vacation destination with its variety of attractions. From hiking and equestrian trails, a public golf course, to the allure of the Quinault Beach Resort and Casino, Ocean Shores encapsulates the beauty and tranquility one seeks in a beach town.
Another West Coast city that finds itself on the list is Newport, Oregon. Known for its historic Nye Beach, Newport has been a beloved vacation spot on the Oregon coast since the late 19th century. The town’s charm is augmented by its attainable listing prices, a mix of beachfront condos, and smaller homes within walking distance of the shore, offering breathtaking vistas without a hefty price tag.
However, the allure of the affordable beach life isn’t confined to the West Coast. The list spans across the nation, from the remote barrier island of Grand Isle, Louisiana, known for its beautiful beaches and unique bird habitats, to Sunset Beach, North Carolina, which offers direct sandy shore access and an array of family-friendly attractions, including the Ingram Planetarium.
Further down the coast, Corpus Christi, Texas, invites beach lovers with its diverse mix of houses and condos, bountiful local attractions like the USS Lexington Museum, and the convenience of beach-driving on Padre Island’s national seashore. Meanwhile, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, entices with its high density of condos along the 60-mile uninterrupted stretch of sandy beaches known as the Grand Strand, famed for its golf courses and family entertainment options.
In the heart of Cape Cod, Dennis Port, Massachusetts challenges preconceived notions with its lineup of small, World War II-era beach cottages offering ocean views and direct beach access at unexpectedly attainable prices. Then there’s Deerfield Beach, Florida, topping the affordability chart with its moderate ebb between luxury and accessibility, halfway between the buzzing cities of Miami and Palm Beach.
Beyond the sun and surf, Atlantic City, New Jersey, offers a bustling boardwalk filled with dining, shopping, and entertainment options, proving that a beach locale can also thrive as a cultural hotspot. Lastly, Pascagoula, Mississippi, celebrates its resilience and recovery post-Hurricane Katrina, with tribute to the “Cheeseburger in Paradise” singer, Jimmy Buffett, enhancing its appeal with new bars, restaurants, and shops.
From the serene shores of Ocean Shores, Washington, to the vibrant community of Pascagoula, Mississippi, the variety and vibrancy of America’s most affordable beach towns offer a beacon of hope for those yearning to own a slice of coastal life. The dream of beachside living, it seems, is not as far-fetched as it once appeared, laying within reach for those willing to seek out these hidden gems along America’s extensive shoreline.
