Introduction

Choosing where to retire is one of the most important and exciting decisions you’ll ever make.

After decades of work, you deserve to live somewhere that truly fits your lifestyle, budget, and dreams. Maybe you picture warm weather and beautiful beaches, a cozy mountain town, or a vibrant city with plenty to do. Or perhaps your priorities are more practical: access to excellent healthcare, affordable living, or being close to family and friends.

Retirement is your chance to redesign your daily life. It is not just about leaving work behind. It is about deciding how you want to spend your time, where you want to wake up each morning, and the community you want around you. The right location can help you stay active, make new friends, explore hobbies, and get the care you need as you age.

But with so many options across the United States, how do you choose the right city? The cost of living alone can vary by more than 40% between states. Climate, taxes, healthcare access, cultural amenities, and overall vibe also matter a lot. What is perfect for one retiree may not suit another.

This guide will help you navigate those choices. We have researched the top 10 retirement-friendly cities in the U.S., considering factors like:

• Cost of living
• Climate
• Healthcare quality
• Recreational opportunities
• Safety
• Community vibe

Whether you are looking for a bustling city with lots to do, a laid-back spot with beautiful scenery, or a charming small town full of character, there is something here for you. Read on to find your perfect place to enjoy the retirement you have earned.

Why Choosing the Right City Matters

Retirement isn’t just about stopping work—it’s about starting a new chapter of life. Where you live can shape your health, happiness, and finances for years to come.

Consider these statistics:

• About 1 million Americans move each year for retirement
• Cost of living varies by more than 40% between states
• Access to healthcare can reduce hospitalization and increase lifespan

Choosing well means your retirement savings go further, your quality of life improves, and you stay active and engaged.

If you’re supporting an older adult—or planning for yourself—make sure you’re taking full advantage of available programs. Our blog Are You Missing Out on These Senior Benefits? explores financial, healthcare, and lifestyle support that could ease the transition.

How We Selected These Cities

We looked at data and rankings from sources like U.S. News & World Report, AARP, and real estate studies. Criteria included:

• Median home prices and overall cost of living
• Climate and natural beauty
• Access to quality hospitals and doctors
• Recreational and cultural amenities
• Tax-friendliness for retirees
• Crime rates and overall safety
• Senior-friendly community resources

The Top 10 Retirement-Friendly Cities in the U.S.

Let’s dive in.

1. Sarasota, Florida

Sarasota offers retirees miles of Gulf Coast beaches, warm weather year-round, and a lively cultural scene with theaters, art galleries, and festivals. The city has a relaxed yet sophisticated vibe, perfect for those who love the outdoors but also want top-tier dining and entertainment.

Why it’s great

• Beautiful beaches
• Warm, sunny climate
• Strong arts and cultural scene

Stats

• Median home price: ~$400,000 (2025 data)
• No state income tax
• Dozens of golf courses

Healthcare
Highly rated Sarasota Memorial Hospital.

Anecdote
Linda and Mark retired here from Chicago. “We love biking to the farmers market, watching sunsets at Siesta Key, and meeting friends for art shows downtown.”

2. Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville sits in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering stunning views, mild seasons, and a thriving arts community. Known for its craft breweries and vibrant food scene, it’s an ideal spot for retirees who want natural beauty alongside cultural energy.

Why it’s great

• Mountain scenery
• Mild four-season climate
• Thriving food and craft beer scene

Stats

• Median home price: ~$420,000
• Cost of living slightly below national average
• Over 100 hiking trails nearby

Healthcare
Mission Hospital, ranked among the region’s best.

Community vibe
Artsy, progressive, active retirees.

3. Scottsdale, Arizona

Scottsdale is famous for its desert beauty, luxurious resorts, and exceptional golf courses. With over 330 sunny days each year, it’s great for those who want dry warmth, upscale amenities, and excellent healthcare options including the renowned Mayo Clinic.

Why it’s great

• Warm, dry desert climate
• Luxury amenities, golf, spas
• Excellent healthcare facilities

Stats

• Median home price: ~$700,000
• Partial Social Security tax exemptions
• Over 330 sunny days per year

Healthcare
Mayo Clinic has a major campus here.

Fun fact
Scottsdale’s Old Town offers galleries, restaurants, and lively events year-round.

4. Boise, Idaho

Boise offers an appealing blend of small-city friendliness and access to outdoor adventure. Retirees love the low crime rate, affordable living, and easy access to rivers, mountains, and trails—all with a growing, welcoming community vibe.

Why it’s great

• Outdoor paradise
• Low crime rates
• Affordable cost of living

Stats

• Median home price: ~$450,000
• No tax on Social Security income
• Excellent air quality

Healthcare
St. Luke’s Boise Medical Center highly rated.

Anecdote
Tom, a retired teacher, says: “I can fly-fish in the morning, bike along the Greenbelt in the afternoon, and grab dinner downtown with friends.”

5. Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston charms retirees with its historic architecture, cobblestone streets, and waterfront views. Warm weather, friendly locals, and a strong sense of history make it perfect for those who want Southern hospitality alongside modern amenities and cultural events.

Why it’s great

• Rich history and culture
• Warm coastal climate
• Charming architecture

Stats

• Median home price: ~$475,000
• Tax breaks for retirees
• Beaches and golf courses nearby

Healthcare
MUSC Health rated highly.

Community vibe
Friendly Southern hospitality with a modern twist.

6. Fort Collins, Colorado

Nestled near the foothills of the Rockies, Fort Collins offers retirees four distinct seasons, excellent outdoor recreation, and a youthful, college-town vibe. The city is known for its craft breweries, bike paths, and easy access to hiking, fishing, and skiing.

Why it’s great

• Beautiful mountain views
• Mild winters with four seasons
• Active, college-town energy

Stats

• Median home price: ~$525,000
• Generous retirement income deductions
• Top-ranked for cycling and walking paths

Healthcare
UCHealth facilities among the best.

Lifestyle
Beer lovers enjoy over 20 craft breweries. Outdoor enthusiasts love year-round hiking and fishing.

7. Lancaster, Pennsylvania

Lancaster combines small-town charm with affordability and rich history. Retirees appreciate the rolling farmland, local markets, and relaxed pace, along with a strong sense of community and easy access to healthcare without big-city hassles.

Why it’s great

• Charming vibe
• Affordable living
• Rich farmland and history

Stats

• Median home price: ~$300,000
• No tax on retirement income
• Ranked one of the healthiest communities for seniors

Healthcare
Penn Medicine Lancaster General Hospital.

Fun fact
Amish markets, covered bridges, and rolling green hills make it postcard-perfect.

8. Portland, Maine

Portland is a picturesque coastal city with a working waterfront, historic buildings, and excellent local dining, especially seafood. Summers are mild and breezy, while winters are snowy but scenic, attracting retirees who enjoy coastal living with a small-city feel.

Why it’s great

• Stunning coastal scenery
• Seafood and farm-to-table dining
• Historic, walkable downtown

Stats

• Median home price: ~$475,000
• Maine exempts most Social Security income
• Mild summers, snowy winters

Healthcare
Maine Medical Center is a top hospital in New England.

Anecdote
Mary and Joe moved from Boston. “We love the friendly vibe, lighthouses, and fresh lobster rolls!”

9. Austin, Texas

Austin is a dynamic city with a strong cultural scene, famous live music, and warm weather. Retirees are drawn to its no state income tax policy, diverse neighborhoods, and endless events and festivals, creating an energetic but accessible lifestyle.

Why it’s great

• Lively music scene
• No state income tax
• Warm climate

Stats

• Median home price: ~$500,000
• Lower cost of living than many big cities
• Growing retiree population

Healthcare
Multiple highly rated hospitals including St. David’s and Ascension Seton.

Lifestyle
Festivals, food trucks, and live music on any night of the week.

10. Madison, Wisconsin

Madison offers a lively college-town energy with beautiful lakes, parks, and cultural events. Retirees appreciate its active community, excellent healthcare, and four distinct seasons that bring scenic beauty and plenty of recreational options.

Why it’s great

• Vibrant college-town vibe
• Surrounded by lakes and parks
• Excellent healthcare

Stats

• Median home price: ~$400,000
• Partial exemptions on retirement income
• Four beautiful seasons

Healthcare
UW Health consistently top-ranked.

Community vibe
Active, friendly, with farmers markets, cultural events, and great bike trails.

Comparing Your Options

Here’s a quick comparison chart for easy reference:

City	Median Home Price	Climate	Tax Friendliness	Highlights
Sarasota	~$400K	Warm, sunny	No state income tax	Beaches, arts scene
Asheville	~$420K	Mild four seasons	Low cost of living	Mountains, culture
Scottsdale	~$700K	Hot, dry desert	Partial tax exemptions	Luxury amenities, healthcare
Boise	~$450K	Four seasons	No tax on Social Security	Outdoors, safety
Charleston	~$475K	Warm coastal	Tax breaks for retirees	History, beaches
Fort Collins	~$525K	Mild four seasons	Retirement income deductions	Mountains, craft beer
Lancaster	~$300K	Four seasons	No tax on retirement income	Small-town charm
Portland, ME	~$475K	Cool coastal	Social Security exempt	Seafood, coastal scenery
Austin	~$500K	Warm, sunny	No state income tax	Culture, music
Madison	~$400K	Four seasons	Partial exemptions	Lakes, college-town vibe

These cities differ in housing prices, taxes, and amenities—but each offers real potential to support your retirement lifestyle.

And if you’re considering using your home equity to make a move, our post on Unlocking Home Equity for Seniors walks you through practical ways to leverage your property without taking on unnecessary debt.

Tips for Choosing the Right City for YOU

Remember—there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Here’s how to pick your ideal spot:

• Visit first. Stay a week or two before you decide.
• Consider cost of living. Factor in housing, taxes, insurance.
• Think about healthcare. Access to quality hospitals is essential.
• Check transportation. Do you need a car? Is public transit available?
• Look at community resources. Senior centers, clubs, classes.
• Consider climate preferences. Do you want four seasons or endless sun?
• Plan for family visits. Is it easy for loved ones to reach you?

Some retirees decide a move isn’t necessary at all—they’d rather modify their current home and age where they are.

If that’s your path, be sure to read How to Safely Age in Place for guidance on making your home safe, functional, and future-ready.

Stories from Retirees

“We chose Sarasota for the beach lifestyle and found an amazing circle of friends at our golf club.” – Sarah and Bill

“Asheville’s arts scene is incredible. We love taking painting classes and exploring mountain trails.” – Rebecca

“Boise surprised us. It’s affordable, safe, and offers so many outdoor adventures.” – David

Moving to a new city is also an opportunity to start fresh with fewer possessions and more freedom. Learn how to simplify the process with our blog on The KonMari Method for Downsizing—a joyful, mindful approach to preparing for your next chapter.

Resources to Help You Decide

• Best Places to Retire Rankings: U.S. News, Forbes
• Cost of Living Calculators: NerdWallet, Bankrate
• Local Relocation Guides: City visitor bureaus
• Healthcare Rankings: U.S. News Best Hospitals

Conclusion

Your retirement years should be some of the best of your life. By carefully choosing where to settle, you can stretch your savings, enjoy a vibrant community, and live exactly the way you want.

These 10 retirement-friendly cities offer a wide range of lifestyles, climates, and budgets. Whether you’re drawn to sunny beaches, mountain trails, historic small towns, or lively cultural hubs, there’s a perfect match waiting for you.

Take your time, do your research, and visit a few favorites. The right choice can help you make the most of this exciting new chapter.

Thank you for reading. If you enjoyed this guide, please share it with friends or family considering retirement relocation.