Surf’s Up, Prices Down: America’s 10 Most Affordable Beach Towns for Homebuyers in 2024

As the school year winds down and temperatures rise, families across the nation are gearing up for their annual pilgrimage to the coastlines. The allure of the beach, with its sun-soaked sands and calming waves, beckons many to dream of owning a slice of paradise—a seaside retreat where vacations turn into everyday life. However, the reality of purchasing property in these coveted locales often comes with a hefty price tag, leaving many potential buyers feeling priced out of their dreams.

But fear not, aspiring beach dwellers! In the ever-evolving landscape of real estate, there are still pockets of affordability waiting to be discovered. With this in mind, the Reallhub team has diligently scoured the coastal regions of America to uncover the top 10 most affordable beach towns for homebuyers in 2024.

1. Pascagoula, MS
Nestled along Mississippi’s Gulf Shore, Pascagoula reigns supreme as the epitome of affordability. With a median list price of $164,900, this charming city of approximately 22,000 residents offers more than just budget-friendly real estate. From its sandy public beaches to its vibrant community events, including music festivals and golf tournaments, Pascagoula embodies the laid-back coastal lifestyle at a fraction of the cost.

2. Atlantic City, NJ
Known for its bustling casinos and iconic boardwalk, Atlantic City may seem like an unlikely contender for affordability. However, with a median list price of $239,000, this East Coast gem proves that beachfront living doesn’t have to break the bank. Beyond the glitz and glamour of its renowned casinos lies a vibrant seaside community, brimming with dining, shopping, and entertainment options for residents and visitors alike.

3. Deerfield Beach, FL
Located midway between Miami and Palm Beach, Deerfield Beach boasts the title of Florida’s most affordable beach town for 2024. With a median list price of $239,950, this coastal enclave offers a wealth of activities and amenities, including a fishing pier, boardwalk, and arboretum. Nature enthusiasts will delight in exploring Deerfield Island Park, a county-run nature refuge accessible by free boat rides from the mainland.

4. Dennis Port, MA
Surprising many with its inclusion on the list, Dennis Port on Cape Cod proves that beachfront living is within reach, even in upscale locales. With a median list price of $277,500, this seaside village is dotted with quaint World War II-era beach cottages offering ocean views and direct beach access at attainable prices. While the cottages may be cozy, their charm and proximity to the shoreline make them an irresistible option for buyers seeking a slice of Cape Cod paradise.

5. Myrtle Beach, SC
Renowned for its sandy shores and world-class golf courses, Myrtle Beach secures its spot on the list with a median list price of $299,500. With roughly 38,000 residents and a 60-mile stretch of uninterrupted coastline known as the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach offers an abundance of recreational opportunities, from golfing and fishing to exploring attractions like Ripley’s Aquarium and the Hollywood Wax Museum.

6. Corpus Christi, TX
Situated along the Gulf Coast of Texas, Corpus Christi boasts a median list price of $315,000, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers seeking beachfront living. From its pristine beaches on Padre Island to its rich cultural heritage and diverse culinary scene, Corpus Christi offers a laid-back coastal lifestyle with plenty of amenities to enjoy.

7. Sunset Beach, NC
Tucked away on North Carolina’s southeastern coast, Sunset Beach offers a mix of upscale beachfront properties and more attainable options just a short drive inland. With a median list price of $340,000, this seaside town is known for its stunning sunsets, pristine beaches, and charming coastal community. Attractions like the Ingram Planetarium and Bird Island nature preserve add to Sunset Beach’s appeal as a desirable destination for buyers seeking a coastal retreat.

8. Grand Isle, LA
Located on a remote barrier island in Louisiana’s Gulf Shore, Grand Isle offers affordable beachfront living with a median list price of $375,000. Despite its susceptibility to hurricanes and flood insurance premiums, Grand Isle boasts well-maintained sandy shores, abundant seafood, and plenty of fishing charters, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and beachgoers alike.

9. Newport, OR
On the rugged coast of Oregon, Newport emerges as the highest-ranked West Coast beach town on the list with a median list price of $399,950. From its historic Nye Beach district to its scenic bluffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Newport offers a mix of beachfront condos and smaller homes within walking distance of the shore, making it an attractive option for buyers seeking coastal living in the Pacific Northwest.

10. Ocean Shores, WA
Rounding out the list is Ocean Shores, a small city on Washington’s coast with a median list price of $425,000. Situated on the Point Brown peninsula, Ocean Shores offers direct access to both the Pacific Ocean and Grays Harbor, along with a range of outdoor activities, including hiking trails, equestrian trails, and a public golf course.

In conclusion, while the dream of owning a beachfront property may seem out of reach for many, the reality is that affordable options do exist for savvy buyers willing to explore lesser-known coastal towns and regions. From the sandy shores of Mississippi to the rugged coastlines of Oregon, America’s most affordable beach towns offer something for everyone, proving that beachfront living can be both attainable and affordable in 2024.