5 of the 10 Best Cities to Retire Are in Florida, According to Study
Choosing the ideal city to retire in is a big decision. You want a place that’s affordable, fun, and has good healthcare.
WalletHub ran a study comparing over 180 U.S. cities to find the best ones for retirees. They looked at things like affordability, taxes, activities, quality of life, and healthcare. Here are the top cities they determined are the cream of the crop for retirees.
Orlando, Florida
Orland is the best city for retirement, according to WalletHub. The City Beautiful is famous for its theme parks, but it’s also a great place to retire. The city offers warm weather and plenty of entertainment options. Whether you enjoy golfing, shopping, or dining out, Orlando has something for almost every retiree.
The cost of living in Orlando is significantly more reasonable than, say, Miami and Naples, although it’s 1% higher than the national average. Florida doesn’t have a state income tax, which is good news for retirees on a fixed income. The city also has quality healthcare facilities to take care of your medical needs.
Miami, Florida
Miami offers beautiful beaches and a lively cultural scene. The city is known for its diverse population and vibrant arts community. If you love music, art, and festivals, Miami could be the place for you to spend your golden years.
While Miami’s cost of living is uber-high (19% higher than the national average), the lack of state income tax in Florida helps offset this. The city also has numerous healthcare facilities to help you stay well cared for during your retirement years.
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Let’s move away from Florida for a moment (and, yes, we mean just a moment). If you don’t mind cooler weather, Minneapolis has a lot to offer. The city boasts numerous parks and lakes, making it great for outdoor enthusiasts. There are also many museums and theaters for those who enjoy cultural activities.
Minneapolis has a low cost of living, sitting at 6% below the national average. The city also has a strong sense of community, which can be important during retirement.
Tampa, Florida
Tampa combines the charm of a coastal city with the amenities of urban living. With its beautiful waterfronts and vibrant downtown, it’s a great place to keep your retired self active. The city also hosts various festivals and events throughout the year.
The cost of living in Tampa is decent, as it’s about 5% lower than the national average. And like other Florida cities, there’s no state income tax. Healthcare facilities are plentiful, ensuring that medical care is accessible when needed.
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Fort Lauderdale is known for its boating canals and stunning beaches. The city offers a relaxed atmosphere with plenty of recreational activities to enjoy during retirement while the working-age crowd is at the office, including fishing, boating, and golfing.
The cost of living in Fort Lauderdale is relatively reasonable compared to certain other Florida cities, but healthcare is where it really shines; Fort Lauderdale residents enjoy 6% more affordable healthcare compared to the national average.
Scottsdale, Arizona
Scottsdale is a desert city known for its spa resorts and golf courses. The warm, dry climate is ideal for those who prefer milder winters. The city also has a thriving arts scene and numerous outdoor activities.
While the cost of living in Scottsdale is 13% higher than the national average, Arizona’s tax policies are quite retiree-friendly.
Cincinnati, Ohio
Cincinnati offers a mix of urban and suburban living with a rich history. The city has numerous parks, museums, and a lively restaurant scene. It’s also known for its friendly communities.
The cost of living in Cincinnati is 4% lower than many other cities, making it an affordable option for retirees. The city also has reputable healthcare facilities to meet your medical needs.
St. Petersburg, Florida
St. Petersburg boasts beautiful beaches and a vibrant arts community. The city enjoys sunny weather most of the year, earning it the nickname “The Sunshine City.” There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.
The cost of living is 5% lower than the national average, and the lack of state income tax in Florida is a plus. Healthcare services are readily available, ensuring that retirees have access to medical care.
Casper, Wyoming
For those seeking a quieter retirement, Casper offers natural beauty and a small-town feel. The city is surrounded by mountains and rivers, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and fishing.
Like Florida, Wyoming doesn’t have a state income tax, which is beneficial for retirees. While the healthcare options are fewer than some of the other cities on this list, you can find some great options.
Atlanta, Georgia
Atlanta is a bustling city with a rich history and diverse culture. The city offers numerous museums, theaters, and restaurants. There are also many parks and green spaces to enjoy.
The cost of living in Atlanta is reasonable, at 3% lower than the national average. To top it off, Georgia offers tax benefits for retirees.
Runners Up
WalletHub ranked 182 cities for retirees in their study. We won’t give you the full breakdown of them here, but these are the cities that came in 11th to 20th place as ideal retirement locations.
11th place: Las Vegas, Nevada
12th place: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
13th place: Wilmington, Delaware
14th place: Denver, Colorado
15th place: Madison, Wisconsin
16th place: Charleston, South Carolina
17th place: Richmond, Virginia
17th place (tie): Pembroke Pines, Florida
19th place: Sioux Falls, South Dakota
20th place: Cape Coral, Florida
Worst Cities to Retire
If you’re on the hunt for a new city to move to during retirement, it’s important to know the best and worst cities for retirees. These are the cities that WalletHub recommends retirees avoid calling home:
- San Bernardino, California
- Stockton, California
- Rancho Cucamonga, California
- Bakersfield, California
- Newark, New Jersey
- Detroit, Michigan
- Fresno, California
- Bridgeport, Connecticut
- Wichita, Kansas
- Fontana, California
In many cases, these cities rank poorly for affordability and retirement-friendly activities in the area.
Most to Least Expensive States To Retire
Are you hoping to settle down in a cheaper state during retirement? These are the states to consider and, equally important, those you’re better off avoiding.
Most to Least Expensive States to Retire Ranked From 1 to 50
7 Types of Drivers You’ll Meet on I-95
If you’ve ever driven on Florida’s I-95, you know it’s more than just a highway—it’s an experience. With such a mix of locals, tourists, and commuters, you’re bound to encounter some unique driving styles. These are some of the most common types of drivers you’ll meet and how to deal with them safely.
7 Types of Drivers You’ll Meet on Florida’s I-95 (And How to Handle Them)
