Retirement is a major life transition and choosing the right city to settle down can have a big impact on your quality of life. From warm, beachside locales to serene, affordable towns, retirees in the United States have diverse options. Here’s a look at the best city to retire in every state in 2024, taking into consideration factors like cost of living, healthcare, recreation and overall quality of life.
Alabama: Fairhope
Nestled along the shores of Mobile Bay, Fairhope offers a peaceful yet vibrant lifestyle. With its walkable downtown, stunning parks and an artistic community, it’s a perfect spot for retirees seeking Southern charm. The mild winters and low cost of living add to its appeal.
“We moved to Fairhope after visiting the area for a family vacation and it felt like home right away,” shares Mary, 67. “The slower pace, the waterfront and the art festivals make every day feel like a celebration.” With its beautiful views of Mobile Bay and a tight-knit community, Fairhope is perfect for retirees looking for a mix of charm and convenience. The mild weather is an added bonus, making it ideal for year-round outdoor activities.
Alaska: Juneau
Juneau offers breathtaking natural beauty for outdoor enthusiasts, from hiking trails to wildlife watching. While Alaska has higher healthcare costs, the state’s lack of income tax and majestic scenery make it appealing for adventurous retirees.
“It sounds crazy to some, but we love Alaska!” says Steve, 70, who retired with his wife to Juneau. “The beauty here is beyond compare, and we spend our days hiking and fishing. Plus, the sense of community is stronger than anywhere else we’ve lived.” While Alaska can be remote and chilly for adventurous retirees like Steve, the stunning landscapes and quiet life far outweigh any challenges.
Arizona: Prescott
Prescott boasts a mild four-season climate, unlike the desert heat of other Arizona cities. Its rich history, art galleries and proximity to nature make it a great place for retirees who want both comfort and outdoor activities.
“Prescott gave me my love for hiking back,” says Susan, 64. “After years in the Phoenix heat, we wanted somewhere cooler but still in Arizona. Prescott’s pine forests and mild seasons are a dream.” With a vibrant art scene, walkable downtown and affordable living costs, Prescott offers the perfect balance for retirees who want outdoor recreation without scorching temperatures.
Arkansas: Hot Springs
Famous for its natural thermal baths, Hot Springs combines affordability with stunning natural scenery. The town’s low cost of living and access to quality healthcare make it an ideal destination for retirees.
“My wife and I come here every year for the spa-like hot springs and it just clicked one day—why not retire here?” says Bill, 68. The town’s famous natural thermal baths are just one of the many reasons retirees flock to Hot Springs. With affordable living costs, charming historical districts and beautiful national parks nearby it’s a relaxing haven.
California: San Luis Obispo
Known for its Mediterranean climate, San Luis Obispo offers access to stunning coastlines, wine country and cultural activities. While California can be expensive, San Luis Obispo strikes a balance with its relaxed pace and beauty.
Colorado: Fort Collins
A college town with plenty of amenities, Fort Collins boasts outdoor recreation and a vibrant cultural scene. Its proximity to the Rocky Mountains, excellent healthcare and friendly community make it a great retirement spot.
Connecticut: West Hartford
West Hartford offers a suburban feel with urban conveniences. The town is home to great healthcare facilities, cultural attractions and top-rated restaurants, making it a prime spot for retirees in New England.
Delaware: Rehoboth Beach
For those looking to retire by the coast, Rehoboth Beach provides a charming small-town atmosphere, tax advantages and a tight-knit community. It’s especially attractive to beach lovers and those looking for a quieter lifestyle.
“We always dreamed of retiring by the beach and Rehoboth Beach has delivered. Every morning we walk along the shoreline and it feels like a permanent vacation,” shares Paul, 66. Known for its beautiful coastline and tax-friendly environment, Rehoboth Beach attracts retirees looking for a laid-back, beachside retirement.
Florida: Sarasota
Sarasota remains a top choice for retirees, with its world-class beaches, arts scene and healthcare facilities. The city combines Florida’s warm climate with a slower pace and great amenities for an ideal retirement experience.
Georgia: Savannah
Known for its historic charm and moss-covered oak trees, Savannah offers a unique blend of Southern hospitality, affordable living and a vibrant cultural scene making it an excellent choice for retirees.
Hawaii: Kailua-Kona
Retiring in Hawaii is a dream for many and Kailua-Kona provides a tropical paradise with a relaxed pace. Known for its beaches, fishing and outdoor activities it’s a stunning place to spend your golden years—though it comes with a higher cost of living.
Idaho: Coeur d’Alene
Coeur d’Alene offers retirees breathtaking lake views, outdoor recreation and an affordable cost of living. The town’s friendly community and mild summers make it especially attractive for retirees looking for peace and nature.
Illinois: Springfield
Springfield, the state capital, offers a lower cost of living, rich history and easy access to healthcare. Retirees can enjoy parks, museums and a laid-back lifestyle making it a top choice for Illinois retirees.
Indiana: Bloomington
A vibrant college town with cultural offerings, Bloomington has a friendly atmosphere and low living costs. Its proximity to Indianapolis adds convenience, while its charming downtown makes it ideal for retirees.
Iowa: Des Moines
Iowa’s capital city combines small-town friendliness with urban amenities. Des Moines offers affordable living, a growing arts scene and top-tier healthcare, making it an attractive place to retire.
Kansas: Lawrence
Lawrence is known for its affordability, cultural activities and proximity to Kansas City. Its low cost of living, friendly community and excellent healthcare options make it ideal for retirees.
Kentucky: Lexington
Lexington, the “Horse Capital of the World,” offers retirees a mix of Southern hospitality, rich history and a relatively low cost of living. The city’s vibrant arts scene and excellent healthcare are added bonuses.
Louisiana: Lafayette
Known for its Cajun culture and cuisine, Lafayette offers retirees an affordable, vibrant lifestyle. The warm climate and lively cultural scene make it one of Louisiana’s best spots for retirement.
Maine: Portland
Portland, Maine, offers a coastal lifestyle with a growing food scene, access to outdoor activities, and quality healthcare. Retirees looking for natural beauty and quaint charm will find Portland appealing.
Maryland: Frederick
Frederick provides a small-town feel with easy access to big cities like Washington, D.C. and Baltimore. The town’s rich history, outdoor activities and healthcare options make it an ideal retirement spot.
Massachusetts: Plymouth
Plymouth’s seaside location, combined with its historical significance, makes it a perfect place for retirees. Its charm, along with the availability of top healthcare facilities, gives it an edge for retirees in Massachusetts.
Michigan: Traverse City
Traverse City offers retirees a mix of affordable living, natural beauty and a thriving local community. With its access to lakes, wineries and top-notch healthcare, it’s a top choice for retirees in the Midwest.
Minnesota: Duluth
Duluth, located on the shores of Lake Superior, is perfect for retirees who love the outdoors. Its lower cost of living, vibrant community and access to healthcare make it a strong choice for retirement in Minnesota.
Mississippi: Oxford
Known for its literary and cultural history, Oxford offers affordable living and a peaceful, intellectual environment. The town’s university brings in cultural events and healthcare, making it an attractive option for retirees.
Missouri: Branson
Famous for its entertainment scene, Branson also offers affordable living and beautiful natural surroundings. The mild climate and numerous recreational activities make it a retirement haven.
Montana: Bozeman
Bozeman offers breathtaking scenery and a vibrant outdoor lifestyle. While housing costs have risen, the town’s access to nature, healthcare and a growing arts scene keep it attractive to retirees.
Nebraska: Omaha
Omaha provides a mix of urban and suburban living, with top healthcare, a low cost of living and a friendly community. Its arts scene and local amenities make it a great retirement choice.
Nevada: Reno
Reno combines the excitement of a casino town with access to outdoor recreation. Its affordable living, proximity to Lake Tahoe and tax advantages make it a top choice for Nevada retirees.
New Hampshire: Portsmouth
Portsmouth offers a charming, coastal New England lifestyle with access to top-notch healthcare and cultural activities. Retirees seeking a peaceful yet engaging community will find Portsmouth ideal.
New Jersey: Morristown
Morristown offers the best of both worlds with suburban charm and proximity to New York City. The town boasts great healthcare and cultural amenities, making it a top choice for New Jersey retirees.
New Mexico: Santa Fe
Santa Fe’s art scene, pleasant climate and outdoor activities make it a cultural hotspot for retirees. Its lower cost of living and slower pace appeal to those looking to unwind in a beautiful setting.
New York: Ithaca
Known for its scenic beauty and vibrant college-town atmosphere, Ithaca offers retirees access to outdoor activities, cultural events and a relatively affordable cost of living for New York state.
North Carolina: Asheville
Asheville is known for its artsy vibe, stunning mountains, and laid-back lifestyle. It’s ideal for retirees who want a mix of outdoor recreation, a mild climate and vibrant community life.
North Dakota: Bismarck
Bismarck’s low cost of living, growing healthcare facilities, and proximity to nature make it an appealing spot for retirees. The city offers a peaceful and affordable lifestyle in the heart of North Dakota.
Conclusion
Whether you’re seeking sunny beaches, mountainous retreats or small-town charm, the U.S. offers diverse options for retirees across states. By considering factors like affordability, healthcare and lifestyle preferences you can find the perfect retirement city that fits your needs and ensures a happy, fulfilling post-career life.
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