Should You Move to a Beach Town?

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Many people desire to live near a beach or have a sea-facing property. The ocean is where you want to live if you desire beauty, wildness, mystery, and freedom. The sound of waves crashing on the shore is a piece of eternal music that can heal and soothe the soul. And there’s nothing like a long walk on the beach to clear your head and ease your stress.

Moving is a time-consuming and stressful procedure, but it will be worth it if you end up in a place that you love. A house near the beach, surrounded by natural beauty, can be an excellent investment. Moving to a beach town has benefits that you may not have considered. To know these benefits and if you should to move to a beach town, keep reading.

Reasons why you should move to a beach town:

Being near the beach is enough in itself; you’ll discover a new, unexpected area of your life that you never knew existed. You’ll live where others vacation. Apart from this, here are some additional advantages of living in a beach town.

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1. Ocean

The ocean is a huge benefit of living in a beach town. It’s beautiful, calming, and therapeutic to look at. The sound of waves crashing on the shore is a piece of eternal music that can heal and soothe the soul. You’ll also come across various animals that you’ve never seen before. You can find rare species of birds flying over your head. You may view a variety of fish, and they’re worth seeing! If you enjoy exploring hidden areas, moving to a beach town is something you’ll like.

2. Nature

Beach towns are usually surrounded by nature. This means that you’ll be able to enjoy hikes, walks on the beach, and picnics in the park. You’ll also be able to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some peace. If you love being surrounded by nature, then a beach town is the perfect place for you.

3. Community

Beach towns usually have a strong sense of community. This is because people in beach towns are typically friendly and welcoming. People in beach towns also tend to be more active and outdoor-oriented. If you’re looking for a close-knit community, then a beach town is the place for you.

4. Lifestyle

Living in a beach town means that you’ll enjoy a more relaxed lifestyle. You’ll have more time to enjoy the things you love. If you’re looking for a slower-paced lifestyle, then a beach town is the perfect place for you.

See Also: Best Cities to Move to Start a New Life

5. Weather

The weather in a beach town is usually sunny and bright. This means that you’ll be able to enjoy the outdoors all year round. The presence of the sun makes everything about the beach appealing. Almost every day, you may witness sunrise and sunset. If you love the sun, then a beach town is the place for you.

6. Health

Living near the beach has many health benefits. Sun exposure is a healthy way to get vitamin D, and the fresh air can do wonders for your lungs. Air is better near the water; the air at the beach is salty, which may assist in curing asthma and other breathing difficulties. It also aids in lowering cholesterol. Sand removes dead skin cells, leaving your skin smooth. You may help your heart stay healthy by eating fish. Beach towns are also usually surrounded by nature, which is great for your mental health. Being surrounded by nature can reduce stress and anxiety levels. A dive in a day keeps the anxiety, depression, and doctor away. If you’re looking for a healthy lifestyle, then a beach town is the perfect place for you.

7. Activities

Living in a beach town comes with various activities that you can enjoy. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to get active and have fun. Here are some activities that you can enjoy in a beach town:

  • Swimming: Swimming is a great way to get active and have fun. In a beach town, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to swim in the ocean, pools, and lakes. You’ll also be able to participate in various swimming competitions.
  • Surfing: Surfing is a popular activity in beach towns. If you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping activity, surfing is definitely for you. You can also take lessons and learn how to surf.
  • Sunbathing: If you love the sun, then you’ll be able to enjoy plenty of sunbathing in a beach town. You can lay out on the beach and soak up the sun’s rays. You can also get a tan while enjoying the beautiful view.
  • Fishing: Fishing is a popular activity in beach towns. You’ll be able to go fishing in the ocean, lakes, and rivers. You can also take part in fishing competitions.
  • Hiking: If you love nature, then you’ll be able to enjoy plenty of hiking in a beach town. Beach towns are usually surrounded by beautiful scenery, making them the perfect place for hiking.
  • Boating: If you love the water, you’ll enjoy plenty of boating in a beach town. You can go sailing, canoeing, and kayaking. You’ll also be able to participate in various boating competitions.

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8. Kids

Moving to a small beach town may be the best place to raise children. You will reside in a safe, secure, and joyful environment. Your youngster will be healthier if they grow up in a place where there’s a lot of fresh air, seafood, and sunshine. Beaches are ideal for family bonding and enjoying quality time together.

9. Employment

Employment opportunities are usually plentiful in beach towns. This is because beach towns are often located near tourist destinations, which means that there are many tourism-based employment opportunities. You’ll be able to find jobs in restaurants, hotels, and other businesses that cater to tourists. You can also find employment in the fishing and boating industry. You may open bars, clubs, restaurants, spa centers, and other leisure and recreational facilities. Hobbies such as painting, photography, seashell artwork, and other hobbies are also possible ways to make money.

You can do many things to make a living in a beach town. The fertile agricultural lands near the beach can provide you with an opportunity to start a farm. You may cultivate tropical fruits, vegetables, and other crops.

The world is at your feet because of the internet; you can simply make a living by working online. There are many opportunities for freelancers, writers, web designers, and other online professionals because of the internet.

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Reasons Why You Should Rethink Moving to a Beach Town

There are advantages and disadvantages to everything that is good. It’s up to us to deal with them, accept them as a challenge, or let them go due to the difficulty of overcoming them.

1. Traffic

One of the biggest disadvantages of living in a beach town is the traffic. Beach towns are often located near tourist destinations, which means that there is a lot of traffic. This can often be a frustrating experience for residents. In many coastal areas, anticipate a substantial rise in visitors. Most tourists depart on vacation during the summer months and travel to nearby beaches, causing congestion. Renting a home outside the city in high season is one simple way to save yourself from traffic.

2. Crowd

Another downside to living in a beach town is the crowd. Beach towns are often popular tourist destinations, which means that there are often many people. If you live near the beach during the summer season, you’re likely to experience hundreds of people making noise, leaving trash behind, clogging up the beach, restaurants, and shops. During the peak season, it’s difficult to discover your own space on the beach. You can never expect privacy on the beach.

3. Expensive

The third reason you should think twice about moving to a beach town is that they are often expensive. This is because beach towns are usually located in desirable areas. The cost of living in a beach town is often higher than in other places. This means that you’ll have to pay more for housing, food, and transportation. Maintenance is costly because of the high number of tourists and traffic. It necessitates frequent repairs and replacements.

Insurance premiums are expensive as well. The rates are high because of beach erosion and the constant risk of flooding.

See Also: Most Walkable Cities In The US

4. High risk of damage

Living in a beach town can be risky because of the high risk of damage from natural disasters such as hurricanes and floods. In addition, there is also the risk of damage from things like high tides, storms, and erosion. This can often lead to costly repairs and replacements.

5. Erosion

Erosion is a natural process that can cause the land to sink and disappear into the ocean. It’s a serious problem in many beach towns because of the constant pounding of waves against the shoreline. This can often lead to property damage and loss. Beach erosion is a major problem in many coastal areas and is a serious concern for residents.

Despite the disadvantages, many people still choose to live in beach towns because of the advantages. The scenery is beautiful, and the lifestyle is relaxed. The climate is often mild, and there are many outdoor activities to enjoy. If you can afford it, living in a beach town can be a great experience.

See Also: Tips for Moving Across Town

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Things you can Experience Living in a Beach Town

1. You get used to the quiet

One of the benefits of living in a beach town is quiet. Although it is extremely crowded, it is considerably quieter than the city. This can be a refreshing change for city dwellers. You can get used to the quiet and relax in a peaceful environment. 

See Also: What Salary Do You Need to Live in Long Beach, CA

2. The scenery will make you a spoiled kid

The scenery in a beach town is often beautiful, leading to residents becoming spoiled. The beaches are often clean, and the water is crystal clear. The sunsets are often breathtaking, and the stars are often visible at night. In addition, there are often many restaurants and shops in beach towns, which can be convenient.

3. You will find sand everywhere

When you live in a beach town, you will find sand everywhere. This is because sand is often brought in by the wind and waves. Sand can get into your house, car, and even food. It’s a hassle to clean up sand constantly, and it can be difficult to get rid of it completely.

4. A breath of salt air

Living in a beach town can be refreshing because you’re constantly exposed to the salty air. This can often lead to residents feeling more relaxed and calm. In addition, salt air can be beneficial for your health.

5. You can forget Bob Marley, Sublime, Jack Johnson

All of the eateries are jam-packed with local talent and traditional music. It’s so relaxing that you’ll forget about listening to other music. If you’re ready to change your favorite singer, then only beach town is a place for you. It’s an excellent time for you and your family to have fun together at the beach or carnival. It’s like walking about in different cultures when you listen to them.

6. You can decorate your home with coastal items

If you live in a beach town, you can decorate your home with coastal items. This is because coastal things are often inspired by the ocean and beach towns. Some popular coastal items include seashells, sand dollars, starfish, and coral. You can use these items to decorate your walls, floors, ceilings, and furniture.

7. You can get a tan without spending money

If you live in a beach town, you can get a tan without spending money on tanning beds or sunblock. This is because the sun is often out and the weather is warm. You can lie on the sand and enjoy the sun for free. Just be sure to wear sunscreen to protect your skin.

8. You will taste seafood as you’ve never tasted before!

If you live in a beach town, you will taste seafood as you’ve never tasted before! This is because seafood is often fresh and affordable in beach towns. You can buy seafood from local fishers or restaurants. Some popular seafood items include fish, shrimp, crab, lobster, and oysters.

Ask some of these questions to yourself before moving

  • Ask yourself about transportation? Since, transportation might be a problem in small cities, it is best to research the amenities, choose a town that is well connected to big cities, and research the mode of transportation.
  • How will this change your family? Make an informed decision based on what is best for your family. If you have kids at school, adjusting to a new environment or school may be simple, or it might be tough; it all depends on the kid’s age and ability to make new friends quickly.
  • What about your job? It might be good to move to a beach town if you’re self-employed or have a remote job. But, if you work in an office, you’ll have to commute every day, which can be time-consuming and expensive.
  • How is healthcare? If you have to go to the hospital frequently, you should think again since hospitals in a small seaside town are usually less accessible, with not so great medical facilities.

5 Best Beach Towns to Move

Beach towns offer a relaxed lifestyle, fresh seafood, and beautiful views. If you’re considering moving to a beach town, here are five of the best options:

1. Naples, Florida

Naples is Florida’s sixth-highest per capita income city. It is located in southwest Florida, situated next to the Gulf of Mexico. Naples is best known for its high-end shopping, golf courses, and beaches with the best sunsets. It has white sand beaches and offers day trips to nearby Everglades National Park.

The average monthly rent for an apartment in Naples is $2,252. Rent costs vary depending on various criteria, including location, size, and quality. The cost of living indices is based on a US average of 100. A number below 100 indicates that Naples is less expensive than the national average. A cost of living index above 100 indicates that Naples, Florida, is more costly than the US average. According to the Bureau of Economic Analysis, the cost of living in Naples is 111.9, which is greater than 100 and indicates that Naples is more expensive. The average cost of a two-bedroom apartment is $349,995, according to Zillow.

2. Boca Raton, Florida

This town is perfect to live in, with a thriving economy and pleasant weather. It is home to beautiful Atlantic beaches. It’s recognized for its thriving music and delectable cuisine.

The average monthly rent for an apartment in Boca Raton is $2,838. Rent costs vary depending on various criteria, including location, size, and quality. The cost of living indices is based on a US average of 100. A number below 100 indicates that Boca Raton is less expensive than the national average. A cost of living index above 100 indicates that Boca Raton is more costly than the US average. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Boca Raton’s cost of living is greater than 100, demonstrating that it is more expensive. According to Zillow, the average cost of a two-bedroom apartment is $309,900.

3. Newport Beach, California

The city of Newport Beach is located on the Pacific coast in Southern California, in the area nearby known as Hollywood. This is one of the 15 cities that provide excellent health, education, and living conditions. Settling down at the beautiful seaside of California will provide you with many benefits.

Rent costs are determined by many factors, including location, size, and quality. The cost of living indices is based on a typical US cost of living of 100. A number below 100 indicates that Newport is less costly than the national average; a score above 100 indicates it is more expensive. According to the Bureau of Economic Analysis, the cost of living in Newport is 134.3, which is greater than 100 and indicates that Newport is more expensive. The typical monthly rent for a flat in Newport is $3,470. According to Zillow, the average price of a two-bedroom apartment is $369,675.

4. Santa Monica, California

Another California beach, this city offers the advantages of being a major metropolis and a coastal town. Santa Monica is one of California’s most picturesque and well-known beach towns, known for its nearly four miles of beaches and Santa Monica pier. This is another fantastic city for artists, with notable buildings.

In Santa Monica, California, the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $3,891. Rent prices vary significantly depending on various variables, including location and size. The cost of living in Santa Monica is 304.5, which is greater than 100 and indicates that Santa Monica is more expensive, according to the bureau of economic analysis. According to Zillow, the average cost of a two-bedroom apartment is $762,500

5. Sarasota, Florida

It is highly regarded for the quality of life it provides. The Lido Key and Siesta Key beaches, located in Sarasota, Florida, offer stunning vistas. The region is a great place to work. It’s an ideal spot for artists.

The average monthly rent for a residence in Sarasota is $2,131. Rent varies by several variables, including location, size, and quality. The cost of living indices is calculated using a 100 as the baseline. A number less than 100 indicates that Sarasota is cheaper than the national average. A cost of living index greater than or equal to 100 indicates that Sarasota is more expensive than the US norm. The cost of living in Sarasota is 102.7, which is greater than 100 and indicates that Sarasota is more expensive, according to the bureau of economic analysis. According to Zillow, the average cost of a two-bedroom flat is $299,000.

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Conclusion

So, if you’re considering a move to a beach town, do your research first. Consider the pros and cons of moving to a beach town before deciding. Weigh the benefits of living near an ocean against the disadvantages of small-town life. If you decide that a beach town is right for you, be sure to keep in touch with locals and explore the area so you can make the most of your new home. Thanks for Reading!

Frequently Asked Questions:

Is beach town good for retirees?

There is no right answer, as each person’s retirement situation is unique. However, many retirees enjoy the relaxed lifestyle and fresh seafood available in beach towns.

When do they have the best weather?

Most beach towns have great weather year-round, but the best weather is typical during the summer months.

What are the benefits of living near water?

There are many benefits of living near water, including:

  • Enjoying the natural beauty of the water
  • Having easy access to water for recreational activities like swimming, fishing, and boating
  • Reducing stress levels and improving overall mental health
  • Experiencing the calming effect of waves and the sound of water moving
  • Living near water can also provide economic benefits, such as increased property values and tourism revenue.

What is a beach climate like in wintertime?

The beach climate in winter is typically very mild, with temperatures hovering just above the freezing point. The average temperature in Destin during December, January, and February is 47.6 degrees Fahrenheit (8.1 Celsius), while the average temperature for June, July, and August is 86 degrees Fahrenheit (30 Celsius).

Where is the cheapest coastal living?

As an example, low-impact coastal cities could be:

  • Atlantic City, New Jersey
  • Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
  • Daytona Beach, Florida
  • Rockland, Maine
  • Swansboro, North Carolina

These are some of the most affordable beach towns to move to.

Written by


Alex Sherr is the founder of My Long Distance Movers, a blog that provides moving information and resources for people who are relocating. He has more than two decades of experience in the moving and relocation industry, and he is passionate about helping people relocate smoothly and efficiently. When he's not writing or blogging, Alex enjoys spending time with his wife and two young children.