been looking into where to actually retire without going broke, and honestly there are way more affordable mountain towns out there than people realize. like, everyone thinks aspen or vail, but those aren't happening on 2500 a month lol. so i started digging and found some legit options that actually work. salida colorado has rent around 1174 for a one-bedroom and a solid arts scene if you're into that. idaho springs is even cheaper at 1146, plus you get brewpubs and galleries walking distance away. if you want to go even lower, ruidoso new mexico is like 957 a month with ski access and hiking nearby. boone north carolina in the blue ridge mountains runs about 1231 but people say it's worth it for the college town energy and four-season stuff. las cruces new mexico sits near these cool organ mountains, around 992 a month, and buffalo wyoming if you want that quiet small-town vibe. honestly the more i look at these affordable mountain towns the more i realize you don't need to pick between mountains and budget. 2500 a month is actually doable if you pick right. anyone else been looking at this stuff?