America's 10 most affordable retirement-friendly beach towns - with SIX in one state

Florida has long been seen as America's retirement hotspot, but many coastal getaways in the state have become increasingly unaffordable. 

However, new research has revealed the top ten most affordable beach towns for retirees - and six of them are in the Sunshine State. 

In order to pinpoint the best - and cheapest - coastal spots for people to spend their golden years, Realtor.com analyzed census data to find areas with a large share of residents over the age of 55. 

Researchers then considered listing data from May to find places where properties sell for a low price per square foot. 

Landing at the top of the list is Calabash, North Carolina - a quaint fishing village which is recognized as the seafood capital of the world. 

In Calabash, the average home is listed for $367,100, Realtor.com found, which is below the national average. 

Along with its famous food scene, the town also offers a host of senior-friendly features. 

'Retirees appreciate the affordable cost of living, a comfortable climate, and easy access to medical facilities, major highways, and two airports,' said Lisa Ragland, from Epique Realty. 

'This charming coastal area at the North Carolina/South Carolina border is far enough away from the fast-paced Myrtle Beach area yet moments away from highly-acclaimed golf courses, entertainment, culture, dining, and shopping along Grand Strand.'

Second on the list is Lillian, Alabama, where the median list price for a home is $349,500. 

The town is known for its serene waterways and natural beauty, boasting plenty of opportunities for fishing and boating in Perdido Bay.  

While it has a population of under 2,000 people, according to Realtor.com, Lillian is also just a short drive away from the beautiful beaches of the bustling Gulf Coast.

Third on the list is Punta Gorda, Florida, where the average home is listed for $429,000.

While Florida is an attractive retirement destination for many Americans due to its warm weather and lack of state income tax, this serene seaside town also offers its residents a host of big-city perks. 

That includes an award-winning hospital and convention center which is home to art, wine and jazz festivals. 

Sunset Beach, North Carolina, ranked fourth. 

Alongside beautiful seaside homes, which are listed for a median price of $339,900, residents also benefit from the lower tax burden offered in the state. 

Not only does North Carolina not tax Social Security benefits, but all other retirement income is also taxed at just 4.75 percent. 

In fifth place is Grant-Valkaria, Florida, where the average home is listed on the market for $497,500. 

Alongside more affordable properties, the town is also set along five miles of the scenic Indian River Lagoon, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, fishing and boating. 

Also in the Sunshine State is Englewood, which ranked sixth in the list. 

Located on the Southwest coast, the town has a median list price of $439,300 and offers plenty of historic charm, markets and fine dining. 

Crystal River, Florida, is next in Realtor.com's ranking, where the average property is on the market for $369,900.

Known as the Manatee Capital of the World, the area is rich in parks and wildlife and offers easy access to golf courses and the Gulf of Mexico. 

Plus, Orlando and Tampa are just over an hour away by car for those looking for big-city amenities.

Arapahoe, North Carolina, is the eighth pick, with a median list price of just $342,000.

With a population of under 500, it is perfect for anyone looking for a small-town experience. 

There is also a golf course and country club, a sailing school and a hospital. 

Ninth on the list is Venice, Florida, which boasts a vibrant downtown district with dozens of restaurants and shops, alongside a beautiful shoreline.

The median list price in the town is also $459,900, according to Realtor.com - far less than some nearby locations. 

Rounding out the ranking is Hudson, Florida, where homes are on the market for an average of just $350,000.

Only 125 miles northwest of Miami and southeast of Orlando, the surfside town boasts natural beauty and a laid-back environment, as well as being close to the state's major cities.