Retirement is no longer just about relaxing on a porch with a good book—today’s retirees are seeking adventure, affordability, and a lifestyle that aligns with their values. Whether you’re looking to stretch your dollar, soak up warm weather, or immerse yourself in a vibrant community, these top retirement destinations offer something for everyone.
Orlando, Florida (and The Villages)
Orlando is a top choice for retirees, and it’s easy to see why! With its warm winters and no state income tax, it’s a haven for those looking to enjoy their golden years. The city is packed with recreational activities, from world-famous theme parks to beautiful golf courses. Whether seniors are seeking an active lifestyle or a more leisurely retirement, Orlando offers activities to suit every preference. Plus, Orlando is close to The Villages, the largest retirement community in the world, offering even more chances to connect and engage with others.
- Median Home Price: $379,154.
- Healthcare: Orlando is home to several high-quality medical centers and hospitals that cater to seniors.
- Lifestyle Perks: One of the standout features of Orlando is its large senior population, about 11% of the city’s residents are 65 and older. The abundance of Orlando retirement communities makes it a favorite among retirees.
Sarasota, Florida: Sunshine and Sophistication
Sarasota is a paradise for retirees, offering a wealth of recreational activities and stunning beaches. From golfing at one of the many beautiful courses to fishing, boating, and hiking, there’s something for everyone. Known for its vibrant arts scene, coastal proximity, and luxury amenities, Sarasota offers retirees both relaxation and engagement. The cost of living is higher than some other Florida towns, but the benefits of low taxes and abundant recreational opportunities make it worth considering.
- Median Home Price: $447,812.
- Healthcare: Sarasota Memorial Hospital is one of the top-rated hospitals in Florida.
- Lifestyle Perks: Sarasota offers a perfect mix of beaches and sunshine, easy access to nearby cities, and top-notch amenities, making it an especially attractive destination for the 55+ community.
Asheville, North Carolina: Mountain Charm and Active Living
Asheville, North Carolina, is celebrated for its stunning mountain views, artsy downtown, and moderate climate. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville combines breathtaking natural beauty with small-town charm and urban amenities, making it an ideal spot for retirees seeking a variety of recreational options. Asheville is a premier destination for retirees looking to enjoy an active and fulfilling lifestyle.
- Median Home Price: $473,126.
- Healthcare: Mission Hospital is highly rated and provides comprehensive medical services
- Lifestyle Perks: The city’s calendar is packed with festivals and events, providing plenty of opportunities for socializing and entertainment. Plus, the city is home to numerous galleries, music venues, farm-to-table restaurants, and craft breweries.
Tucson, Arizona: Affordable Desert Living
Tucson offers mild winters with over 300 days (about 10 months) of sunshine a year and affordable housing with housing costs averaging 25% less than the national average. The city is surrounded by beautiful desert scenery, including the landscapes of the Sonoran Desert and the nearby Saguaro National Park and the city is known for its diverse cultural scene and historic sites. Arizona is also tax-friendly for retirees, with no state income tax on Social Security benefits and low property taxes, making it an attractive option.
- Median Home Price: $328,032.
- Healthcare: The University Medical Center offers comprehensive medical services and specialized care for seniors. Also, there are a high number of primary care doctors per capita.
- Lifestyle Perks: Whether you’re exploring the trails of Saguaro National Park or simply enjoying the view from your backyard, the desert scenery provides a serene and picturesque backdrop. The mild winters and clear skies also make it ideal for stargazing and a slower pace of life.
Scottsdale, Arizona: Desert Luxury
If warm, dry weather and upscale living appeal to you, Scottsdale is a prime choice. It’s renowned for its warm, dry climate and luxurious lifestyle, making it a paradise for golf enthusiasts. With its high quality of life, low crime rates, and abundant recreational opportunities, Scottsdale is a top choice for retirees seeking an active and upscale retirement. Known for its luxury amenities, world-class golf courses, and top-notch healthcare, it’s ideal for those who want an active and social lifestyle. While Scottsdale can be pricey, its high quality of life and low property taxes make it an attractive destination for retirees.
- Median Home Price: $830,954.
- Healthcare: Premier healthcare facilities.
- Lifestyle Perks: Scottsdale offers a luxurious lifestyle with world-class golf, diverse outdoor activities, vibrant shopping and dining, cultural attractions like Taliesin West, and stunning desert landscapes. It’s perfect for an active, upscale retirement with plenty of opportunities for adventure and relaxation.
Boise, Idaho: Nature and Active Living
Boise, Idaho, has become a popular retirement destination thanks to its safety and access to a variety of outdoor activities. In the summer, you can enjoy lakes and beaches, while winter offers the chance to hit the slopes. For those who love adventure, there is also rafting. Boise is ideal for those who appreciate all four seasons and a small-town feel with big-city amenities like coffee shops and shopping. The city offers a strong sense of community, with numerous events and activities that bring residents together.
- Median Home Price: $478,245.
- Healthcare: Boise is home to St. Luke’s Boise Medical Center, which provides high-quality healthcare services.
- Lifestyle Perks: The city is close to the Boise National Forest, offering endless hiking in the mountains, fishing in pristine rivers, or simply taking in the beautiful scenery. With its blend of natural beauty, active lifestyle options, and strong community spirit, Boise stands out as an excellent choice for retirees.
Miami, Florida: Culture, Beaches and Taxes
Miami stands out as a top retirement destination for several reasons. One of the biggest draws is its tax-friendliness—there’s no state income tax, no estate or inheritance taxes, and overall low taxes, allowing retirees to stretch their savings further. With a large and diverse senior population, Miami provides ample opportunities for socializing and making new friends. The city’s numerous senior centers and community organizations offer a variety of programs and events tailored to retirees, making it an ideal place to enjoy your golden years.
- Median Home Price: $583,030.
- Healthcare: The city also boasts some of the best healthcare facilities in the country, ensuring top-notch medical care.
- Lifestyle Perks: Miami is a true Florida gem, offering a vibrant cultural scene, beautiful beaches, and a warm climate. It ranks high for its abundance of adult volunteer activities, art galleries, and fishing facilities per capita. Additionally, Miami has excellent public transportation that makes it easy to get around.
Ann Arbor, Michigan: Don’t Mind the Cold?
For retirees who don’t mind a colder climate and are looking for rich cultural and educational opportunities, Ann Arbor is a standout choice. Home to the University of Michigan, this vibrant city offers a bustling arts scene, top-tier healthcare, and a welcoming community. Michigan is one of 41 states that does not tax Social Security benefits, providing significant financial relief for retirees. While federal taxes on benefits may still apply, retirees are exempt at the state level. The state sales tax is 6%, which is lower than many states.
- Median Home Price: $506,562.
- Healthcare: Michigan Medicine is a leading healthcare provider.
- Lifestyle Perks: Access to lifelong learning programs through the university. A vibrant cultural scene with museums, theaters, and festivals. Moderate housing costs compared to other towns.
Savannah, Georgia: Historic Charm and Modern Comforts
Savannah combines historic charm with modern amenities, making it an attractive option for retirees. The city’s affordability and rich cultural scene offer a high quality of life. Savannah’s walkable downtown and scenic riverfront provide plenty of opportunities for leisurely strolls and social gatherings. The city’s beautiful parks, historic sites, and lively arts community create a vibrant atmosphere. With a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, there’s always something to look forward to in Savannah.
- Median Home Price: $318,055.
- Healthcare: St. Joseph’s/Candler Health System is highly rated.
- Lifestyle Perks: Beautiful parks, historic sites, and a lively arts community.
Austin, Texas: A Culinary and Music Oasis with Tax Perks
Austin is known as the “Live Music Capital of the World,” with venues and festivals showcasing a wide range of musical genres. The culinary scene offers is wildly diverse range of dining options and there are numerous 55+ communities. The cost of living in Austin is slightly above the national average. However, Texas compensates for this by being one of the most tax-friendly states in the U.S. As a retiree, you won’t have to worry about taxes on pension income, Social Security benefits, personal income, or corporate income. However, be aware that Texas has a combined sales tax rate of 7.8%.
- Median Home Price: $515,342.
- Healthcare: Austin is home to several highly-rated hospitals, including Seton Medical Center and St. David’s HealthCare.
- Lifestyle Perks: Austin’s combination of cultural richness, nearly 500 parks and green spaces, excellent healthcare, and tax benefits make it an appealing choice for retirees seeking a dynamic and fulfilling lifestyle.
Lexington, Kentucky: Southern Charm and Tax Benefits for Retirees
Known for its horse farms and bourbon distilleries, Lexington offers a low cost of living and plenty of recreational activities. The city’s scenic beauty and educational opportunities make it a great place for retirees. Seniors aged 65 and older can benefit from the homestead exemption, which reduces the taxable value of their primary residence. This exemption amount varies yearly but significantly lowers property tax bills. The state allows a sizable deduction per person for other types of retirement income, such as pensions, 401(k), and IRA distributions. The modest sales tax rate of 6% is lower than in many other states, which is a nice bonus.
- Median Home Price: $301,468.
- Healthcare: University of Kentucky Albert B. Chandler Hospital is a leading healthcare provider.
- Lifestyle Perks: Lexington’s numerous parks and trails are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, while the city’s cultural events and festivals provide ample entertainment. The strong sense of community and friendly atmosphere make Lexington a welcoming place to call home.
How to Choose the Right Destination:
When deciding on a retirement destination, consider these factors:
Transportation: Is it easy to get around or close to major airports?
Affordability: Ensure housing, healthcare, and daily expenses fit your budget.
Healthcare Access: Proximity to quality medical facilities is important.
Proximity to Loved Ones: Being close to family and friends can enhance your golden years and be there to help in times of healthcare needs.
Entertainment: Consider what you enjoy most in your free time. Do you prefer being near major league sports teams, or do you value the tranquility of a scenic beach or mountain view?
Helpful Tools
Use these calculators to compare costs of living:
NerdWallet Cost of Living Tool
Best Places Cost of Living Comparison
SmartAsset Cost of Living Calculator
Retirement is your time to thrive. Whether you dream of sunny beaches, desert serenity, or mountain vistas, there’s a destination perfectly suited to your needs and lifestyle. Choosing the right retirement destination depends on your personal preferences and needs. Take your time, explore your options, and find a place where you can enjoy the life you’ve worked so hard to build.
