Reading Time: 16 minutes Planning Your Retirement? These Are the 16 Best U.S. Cities to Settle Down
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Retirement is an exciting time, but figuring out where to live during those years can feel overwhelming. You want a place that fits your lifestyle, budget, and health needs, right?
The closer you get to retirement, the more important this decision becomes. Picking the wrong spot could mean spending more than planned or not having easy access to the healthcare you might need. Nobody wants to deal with that.
With more than 10,000 Americans retiring every day, you’re definitely not alone in this. I retired early at 42, so I know firsthand how tricky these decisions can be. There are really factors to look out for, including taxes and local healthcare options.
In this article, we’ll help you find the best retirement cities in each state, focusing on what really matters: affordability, healthcare, climate, and lifestyle. By the end, you’ll feel confident about where to start your next chapter.
What do you think? Do you have specific cities or states in mind? Let us know in the comments!
Table of Contents
Florida: Sunshine, Savings, and Senior-Friendly Living
Florida has long been a top retirement destination, known for its warm weather, no state income tax, and active lifestyle. The state also boasts a growing senior population, with 21.2% of residents aged 65 and over, which speaks to its retiree-friendly environment.
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Orlando: More Than Just Theme Parks
Orlando isn’t just for tourists and Disney-goers. It’s a hidden gem for retirees! They wake up to sunshine and spend their afternoons exploring the local parks or enjoying low-impact community fitness classes.
Orlando’s cost of living is relatively low, with a median home price of about $380,000, making it an affordable option for many retirees. In addition to the natural beauty, the city offers a rich arts scene, numerous senior-friendly activities, and a booming healthcare industry.
The abundance of hospitals and health care providers makes it an ideal choice for those looking for great care options as they age. While Orlando boasts a low cost of living and excellent healthcare options, its humid climate can be tough to adjust to, especially for those unaccustomed to Florida’s heat.
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Nevertheless, there are still plenty of indoor activities, air-conditioned spaces, and easy access to nature wherein retirees can still enjoy an active lifestyle without being at the mercy of the weather.
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Miami: For Culture and Lively Atmosphere
If you thrive in a more bustling environment, Miami may be the perfect retirement destination for you. Yes, the cost of living is higher compared to other cities, plus around $580,000 for a median home, but it’s worth it if you want to experience vibrant city life, world-class cultural activities, and some of the best beaches in the country.
Miami is a melting pot of cultures, offering retirees an exciting and diverse place to live. Enjoy everything from art galleries and theaters to beach strolls and Cuban cuisine.
The city is also home to over 100 senior centers and organizations, providing ample opportunities for social engagement and community involvement.
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St. Petersburg: Artsy Vibes and Tranquil Waters
For retirees who prefer a quieter pace, St. Petersburg offers the perfect mix of tranquility and enrichment. Located along the peaceful Tampa Bay, this city has a charming art scene and access to peaceful waterfront parks.
The cost of living is more affordable than Miami, and the community is tight-knit and welcoming. St. Petersburg’s median home price is around $400,000, making it a great choice for retirees who want to stay active and engaged in a less hectic environment.
In addition to its affordability, St. Petersburg is known for its beautiful weather, with an average annual temperature of 73°F, perfect for outdoor activities year-round. The local farmer’s markets, art walks, and live performances offer a peaceful yet stimulating lifestyle.
But it does have its downsides, including occasional flooding and the risk of hurricanes due to its coastal location. Fortunately, the city has strong community preparedness plans in place, which makes it a peaceful and an enriching place to call home.
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Colorado: Majestic Views and Outdoor Fun
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, Colorado might be your perfect retirement spot. With its breathtaking mountain landscapes, outdoor recreational activities, and a strong sense of community, the Centennial State offers the ideal retirement for active seniors.
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Grand Junction: Affordable Mountain Living
For retirees who want the beauty of Colorado without the high price tag of cities like Denver, Grand Junction is a fantastic alternative. You can hike and bike regularly, enjoying the stunning views and affordable cost of living.
With a median home price around $350,000, Grand Junction is more affordable than most Colorado cities, and its proximity to national parks like the Colorado National Monument offers endless outdoor activities.
It does have fewer big-city amenities, such as major shopping centers or large hospitals but the breathtaking mountain views, outdoor recreational opportunities, make up for it. You can enjoy fishing, hiking, and bird watching, making it perfect if you love the outdoors.
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Fort Collins: Vibrant and Active
Fort Collins combines the best of both worlds for retirees. You’ll be able to access nature and a lively downtown area. Known for its breweries, restaurants, and cultural events, Fort Collins offers an engaging atmosphere for retirees who love staying busy and active.
Retirees can enjoy everything from hiking trails and river walks to arts festivals and farmers markets. The city’s proximity to the Rocky Mountains means outdoor activities are always available.
With a median home price around $490,000, it’s a bit more expensive, but the lifestyle is worth it if you value an active and engaging retirement.
Fort Collins also boasts an impressive range of cultural events, with over 200 festivals held annually, ensuring that there’s always something exciting happening.
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Virginia: Coastal Charm and Historical Appeal
Virginia’s coastal cities are rich with history, charm, and top-tier healthcare, making it an excellent option for retirees. Virginia boasts some of the best hospitals in the country, so you can feel confident in your health care as you enjoy the beauty of the state.
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Virginia Beach: Sun, Sand, and Community
Virginia Beach offers retirees a laid-back coastal lifestyle without the high price tag of many other beach towns. With a median home price of around $370,000, Virginia Beach is affordable, especially considering the miles of sandy beaches and the many outdoor activities retirees can enjoy.
The local community is welcoming, and retirees can easily make friends at community events, farmers markets, or by joining local volunteer groups. While Virginia Beach offers an affordable coastal lifestyle, it can get quite crowded during the summer months, with tourists flocking to the beaches.
Despite this, retirees can still find plenty of quieter spots along the coast to enjoy peaceful walks and local community events year-round. Virginia Beach’s proximity to excellent health care facilities makes it a top choice for retirees who want to enjoy the sun while feeling secure about their health.
The city is also known for its low crime rate, which is 27% lower than the national average, adding an extra layer of peace of mind for retirees.
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Richmond: History and Culture Meet Affordability
If you’re a history buff or simply love arts and culture, Richmond should be on your list. With its museums, theaters, and historical landmarks, Richmond offers retirees a rich cultural life.
Plus, the cost of living here is more affordable than coastal cities, with a median home price around $320,000. Richmond’s rich cultural history and affordability come with a trade-off: the summers can be hot and humid, which may not be ideal for everyone.
Thankfully, the city’s charming historical sites, lively arts scene, and walkable neighborhoods offer plenty of ways to stay cool and entertained during the hotter months.
Richmond also has a vibrant cultural scene with over 30 annual events, including music festivals and art exhibitions, ensuring that retirees have a range of activities to enjoy.
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Delaware: Tax-Friendly and Scenic
Despite its small size, Delaware packs a punch when it comes to retirement perks. The state is tax-friendly, with no state or local sales tax, and offers affordable property taxes, making it a great choice for retirees looking to stretch their dollars.
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Wilmington: Urban Living Without the Price Tag
For retirees who want the amenities of a city without the high cost of living, Wilmington is an ideal spot. The median home price in Wilmington is around $300,000, making it an affordable choice for city-loving retirees.
Wilmington offers retirees a charming downtown area filled with art galleries, shopping, and easy access to healthcare. Plus, the state’s tax benefits mean you can enjoy more of your retirement savings.
Though its relatively small size might mean fewer options for entertainment and dining compared to larger cities. Despite that, its close-knit community, charming downtown area, and proximity to top-notch healthcare facilities make it an attractive choice for retirees seeking both affordability and convenience.
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Wyoming: Wide-Open Spaces and Adventure
For retirees seeking wide-open spaces, stunning landscapes, and affordable living, Wyoming is a hidden gem. With plenty of outdoor activities and small-town charm, Wyoming offers the perfect blend of peace and adventure.
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Casper: Outdoor Adventures Await
Casper is ideal for retirees who enjoy fishing, hiking, or simply soaking in the beautiful Wyoming scenery. The median home price is under $300,000, making it one of the more affordable cities in the state.
Retirees can explore the North Platte River for fishing or take hikes along Casper Mountain, making it easy to stay active. The small-town vibe and affordable living make Casper a fantastic retirement destination for those who enjoy peace and quiet with plenty of outdoor adventure.
Casper’s wide-open spaces and outdoor activities are perfect for nature lovers, but the cold winters can be tough for retirees who prefer warmer climates. Despite the chilly weather, the affordability of Casper, combined with its strong sense of community and stunning outdoor landscapes, makes it a rewarding place to retire for those who enjoy adventure.
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Laramie: Education and Culture in a Small Town
Laramie is a small, charming town with a unique retirement experience, thanks to its proximity to the University of Wyoming. Retirees can attend cultural events and educational programs offered by the university, making it a great spot for lifelong learners.
The town has a friendly, welcoming atmosphere, and the cost of living is low, with a median home price under $350,000. Retirees in Laramie can enjoy a peaceful, engaging lifestyle while staying connected to a larger community through university events and activities.
Laramie’s small-town charm may also mean fewer amenities and cultural events compared to larger cities. But don’t worry, the cultural offerings include more than 100 annual events and educational programs, providing continuous learning and enrichment opportunities for retirees.
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Idaho: Scenic Beauty and Active Retirement
Idaho is quickly becoming a top retirement destination for those seeking scenic beauty and an active, laid-back lifestyle. The state’s cities offer a great mix of outdoor recreation, low crime rates, and affordable living.
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Boise: A Hidden Gem for Active Retirees
Boise is the perfect mix of city and nature, offering retirees a vibrant downtown area alongside easy access to hiking trails, parks, and rivers. The city’s thriving arts scene and restaurants give it a cultural edge, making it a great spot for retirees who want to stay active and engaged.
The cost of living is still reasonable, with median home prices around $480,000, and the community is welcoming and family-friendly. Retirees can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities like kayaking and biking while taking advantage of the city’s affordable healthcare options.
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Coeur d’Alene: Stunning Lake Views and Relaxation
If you’re dreaming of lakeside living, Coeur d’Alene is the ideal retirement spot. Nestled by the beautiful Lake Coeur d’Alene, this city offers retirees a peaceful yet engaged community. With plenty of hiking, boating, and outdoor activities, it’s perfect for nature lovers.
The median home price is around $550,000, but the stunning views and outdoor lifestyle make it well worth the investment. The city’s relaxed pace and strong sense of community make it a great place for retirees looking for a peaceful, scenic environment.
Coeur d’Alene also boasts a low crime rate and a high level of community engagement, with over 30 local clubs and organizations for retirees to join.
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Texas: Warm Weather and No State Income Tax
Texas is one of the most popular retirement states, and for good reason, its lack of a state income tax, affordable living, and warm weather make it attractive to retirees from all walks of life.
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Austin: Music, Culture, and Outdoor Fun
Austin, known for its vibrant music scene and dynamic culture, offers retirees a fun and active retirement. With plenty of live music venues, art galleries, and festivals, there’s always something to do in Austin.
The cost of living is higher, with a median home price around $550,000, but the city’s amenities make it worth it for retirees who love staying engaged in the arts and culture scene. Outdoor lovers can also enjoy kayaking on Lady Bird Lake or hiking in the nearby Hill Country.
Austin’s cultural calendar is packed, with over 200 annual events and festivals, ensuring that retirees have plenty of opportunities to stay entertained and involved.
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San Antonio: Historical Charm and Affordable Living
San Antonio is a fantastic option for retirees looking for an affordable yet culturally rich city. The median home price is about $300,000, and the city’s mix of historic sites, vibrant Mexican culture, and welcoming community make it a great spot for retirees.
The River Walk offers a scenic and peaceful area for walking, dining, or enjoying boat tours, and the city’s many festivals and community events keep retirees engaged.
San Antonio offers affordability and charm, but the hot, humid summers can be tough for those sensitive to heat. But the low cost of living and strong sense of community make up for it, making it one of the top retirement cities in Texas.
San Antonio also features a well-developed network of senior services and community centers, enhancing the overall quality of life for retirees.
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Arizona: Desert Beauty and Low-Cost Living
Arizona’s sunny climate and affordable cost of living make it another top retirement destination. The state’s tax benefits and abundance of outdoor activities make it attractive to retirees looking for a peaceful, affordable lifestyle.
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Phoenix: Urban Living Meets Outdoor Adventure
Phoenix is a top choice for retirees who want a mix of urban amenities and outdoor activities. The city offers a variety of restaurants, shopping, and cultural attractions, as well as plenty of hiking and golfing opportunities.
The cost of living is still reasonable compared to many other cities, with a median home price around $510,000. Phoenix is a fantastic place for retirees who love warm weather and outdoor activities, but the scorching summers can be overwhelming, especially for those unaccustomed to desert heat.
The good news is that Phoenix offers plenty of indoor options for staying active and entertained, along with stunning natural surroundings to explore during the cooler months.
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Sedona: Artistic Community and Scenic Red Rocks
Sedona’s stunning red rock formations and thriving art community make it a picturesque and enriching place to retire. Retirees who love nature and art will find plenty of inspiration in Sedona, from the local galleries to the breathtaking scenery.
The cost of living is quite high, with median home prices around $940,000, but the town’s beauty and community-focused lifestyle make it worth the investment. You can enjoy hiking, photography, and even art shows. Sedona offers a peaceful and fulfilling retirement.
Sedona’s artistic and cultural scene is robust, with over 50 galleries and annual art festivals, providing retirees with endless creative and cultural experiences.
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What to Look for When Choosing a Retirement City
When choosing the perfect city to retire in, think about a few key factors. Affordability is a big one. Look for cities with low property taxes, affordable housing, and a reasonable cost of living. States like Florida and Texas, which have no income tax, can also help you stretch your retirement savings.
Healthcare is another crucial consideration. Make sure the city you pick has good hospitals and medical facilities nearby. Access to quality healthcare can make all the difference in your comfort and well-being during retirement.
It’s also important to stay active and engaged. Choose a city with plenty of recreational opportunities, volunteer programs, and community events to keep your days fulfilling. Don’t forget to check for low crime rates and senior-friendly communities to ensure your safety and peace of mind.
Finally, think about the climate. Your ideal retirement spot should have the weather that makes you feel at home, like Arizona’s year-round sunshine or Colorado’s cooler mountain air.
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Your Best Retirement Awaits
Finding the right city for retirement is a deeply personal choice, depending on factors like affordability, healthcare, and lifestyle preferences.
Take the time to visit a few cities that stand out to you, explore their amenities, and think about what matters most for your golden years.
Your dream retirement home is waiting, and with the right city, you’ll enjoy all the benefits of this exciting new chapter in life. Happy retirement planning!
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