Looking for the best East Coast beach towns to live in? Whether you’re searching for affordability, charm, or family-friendly living, the East Coast has a variety of beach towns to fit your lifestyle. From quaint communities with historic charm to affordable coastal gems with modern amenities, the East Coast offers some of the best options for those looking to enjoy life by the sea.
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Why Choose East Coast Beach Towns?
The Allure of East Coast Living
The East Coast beach towns offer a unique combination of rich history, diverse cultures, and breathtaking natural beauty. With easy access to major cities like New York, Boston, and Miami, these towns provide the perfect balance of urban convenience and serene coastal living. Unlike the West Coast, the East Coast experiences all four seasons, making it an appealing choice for those who enjoy a mix of warm summers and cooler winters by the beach.
The East Coast Beach Town Lifestyle
Living in a beach town on the East Coast means embracing a laid-back, seaside lifestyle. Whether it’s fishing, boating, or strolling down a boardwalk, these coastal communities offer a year-round opportunity for outdoor fun. East Coast beach towns are known for their friendly, close-knit communities, which is why they’re a top choice for families, retirees, and even remote workers.
Best East Coast Beach Towns for Affordable Living
Why Affordability Matters When Choosing Beach Towns
Coastal living can be expensive, but not all East Coast beach towns come with a hefty price tag. Affordability is a key factor for many people looking to relocate. Thankfully, there are several beach towns on the East Coast that offer a high quality of life without breaking the bank.
Top Affordable East Coast Beach Towns
Beach Town
State
Median Home Price
Cost of Living Index
Myrtle Beach
South Carolina
$265,000
85 (National average: 100)
New Smyrna Beach
Florida
$310,000
92
Rehoboth Beach
Delaware
$405,000
88
Outer Banks
North Carolina
$385,000
90
a. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina Myrtle Beach is famous for its affordable cost of living, making it a top pick for those looking to live near the water without overspending. Its thriving tourism industry offers ample job opportunities, while the town’s entertainment options, such as theaters, golf courses, and amusement parks, make it a fun place to live.
b. New Smyrna Beach, Florida New Smyrna Beach offers affordable coastal living with scenic views and a laid-back atmosphere. Located near major cities like Orlando, it allows easy access to urban amenities while maintaining its small-town beach charm.
c. Rehoboth Beach, Delaware Rehoboth Beach is not only affordable but also benefits from Delaware’s tax-free shopping and low property taxes. This town is ideal for those looking for a cozy, walkable community with a charming boardwalk and year-round activities.
d. Outer Banks, North Carolina For those who prefer a quieter, more remote environment, the Outer Banks offers an affordable alternative to more crowded beach towns in North Carolina. This region is perfect for nature lovers seeking a simple, peaceful life.
Quaint and Charming East Coast Beach Towns to Live
The Appeal of Quaint Beach Towns
If you’re looking for a small, picturesque town full of charm, the East Coast has plenty of quaint beach towns to offer. These places are perfect for those who value a unique, intimate living experience with a strong sense of community.
Top Quaint Beach Towns on the East Coast
Beach Town
State
Known For
Cape May
New Jersey
Victorian architecture, historic charm
Beaufort
South Carolina
Historic waterfront, antebellum homes
Bar Harbor
Maine
Secluded, gateway to Acadia National Park
St. Michaels
Maryland
Quaint harbor town, seafood restaurants
a. Cape May, New Jersey Cape May is a stunning beach town with Victorian-style homes and a historic downtown. Its peaceful environment makes it an excellent spot for retirees or those who simply want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The town is rich in history and hosts many cultural events throughout the year.
b. Beaufort, South Carolina Beaufort offers classic Southern charm with its antebellum architecture and historic waterfront. This quaint town is known for its scenic beauty and strong sense of history, making it an appealing choice for anyone looking for a charming, peaceful setting.
c. Bar Harbor, Maine Nestled near Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor provides a unique combination of natural beauty and a quaint small-town feel. It’s ideal for nature lovers and those seeking a quieter, more secluded coastal lifestyle.
d. St. Michaels, Maryland St. Michaels is a hidden gem along the Chesapeake Bay. Known for its cozy harbor, historic inns, and fresh seafood, it offers a perfect blend of quaintness and coastal charm. It’s the type of place where you can truly slow down and enjoy the beauty of waterfront living.
Best East Coast Beach Towns for Families
Family-Friendly Benefits of East Coast Beach Towns
East Coast beach towns offer excellent opportunities for families. From good schools to safe neighborhoods and endless outdoor activities, these towns are perfect for raising children in a coastal environment.
Top Family-Friendly East Coast Beach Towns
a. Virginia Beach, Virginia Virginia Beach is a family-friendly destination with plenty of parks, museums, and attractions for all ages. The public schools are highly rated, and the town is known for its safe neighborhoods and community-focused events.
b. Hilton Head, South Carolina Hilton Head may be known for its golf courses, but it’s also an excellent place for families. With a variety of resorts, recreational activities, and safe communities, it’s a top choice for parents looking for an upscale yet family-friendly environment.
c. Ocean City, Maryland Ocean City is famous for its wide beaches, amusement parks, and family-friendly boardwalk. The town is not only a great vacation spot but also an affordable place to settle down with a family, offering a safe and welcoming environment.
Best East Coast Beach Towns for Retirees
Why Retirees Love East Coast Beach Towns
For retirees, East Coast beach towns provide the perfect mix of relaxation, accessibility to healthcare, and low-maintenance living. Many towns offer vibrant senior communities, great healthcare access, and the kind of peaceful environment retirees crave.
Top Beach Towns for Retirees
a. Sarasota, Florida Sarasota stands out for its cultural offerings, including theaters, art galleries, and a robust retirement community. It’s also known for its excellent healthcare facilities, making it a top choice for retirees.
b. Bethany Beach, Delaware Bethany Beach is a peaceful beach town with low taxes and a slower pace of life. It offers proximity to healthcare services and a welcoming community, making it an ideal spot for retirees seeking tranquility.
Choosing the Right East Coast Beach Town for You
What to Consider Before Moving to an East Coast Beach Town
Before deciding on the perfect East Coast beach town, it’s important to evaluate several factors, including the cost of living, proximity to larger cities, access to healthcare, schools, and employment opportunities.
Cost of Living: Research housing prices and everyday expenses.
Community Resources: Investigate available amenities, like schools, medical services, and recreational facilities.
Seasonality: Visit during different times of the year to understand the seasonal population changes and weather conditions.
Tips for Finding the Perfect East Coast Beach Town
Visit the towns you’re considering at different times of the year to get a sense of what living there year-round would feel like.
Research the local real estate market to ensure affordability.
Consider lifestyle preferences: Do you prefer a quiet, remote setting or a bustling town with plenty of activities?
Conclusion
The East Coast offers a wide variety of beach towns that cater to different lifestyles. Whether you’re looking for affordability, charm, or family-friendly communities, there’s an East Coast beach town that’s perfect for you. From the quaint beauty of Cape May to the affordable serenity of Myrtle Beach, coastal living can be accessible, enjoyable, and fulfilling without breaking the bank. Now is the time to explore the best East Coast beach towns and find your ideal seaside haven.
An avid traveler, Kirk Grover has been to over 50 countries. He has an extensive background in tourism and hospitality management, along with a degree in Hospitality Management from the University of Nevada Las Vegas. Kirk is very knowledgeable about travel-related topics – they are always up to date on the latest deals for flights, hotels, and other adventures around the world.
An avid traveler, Kirk Grover has been to over 50 countries. He has an extensive background in tourism and hospitality management, along with a degree in Hospitality Management from the University of Nevada Las Vegas. Kirk is very knowledgeable about travel-related topics - they are always up to date on the latest deals for flights, hotels, and other adventures around the world.
