The Best Places to Retire in the U.S. by Region

As you consider the best place to live in retirement in the U.S., here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Weather: Of course, the weather and climate of your retirement location makes a huge difference. Maybe you’re hoping for a warmer climate to live out your golden years—or maybe you’re an avid hiker or outdoorsman and can’t wait to settle down in the northwest. Regardless of your perfect climate, check out this database from the National Centers for Environmental Information. It compiles daily, monthly, seasonal, and yearly weather data so you can find the best place to retire in the U.S.
• Healthcare: As you determine the best place to live in retirement in the U.S., do research on amenities and healthcare in your new location. It’s often recommended that retirees seek out locations with top-tier hospitals or assisted living facilities—so if the time comes and you need a little extra support, you’ll have plenty of help at your fingertips.
• Cost of Living and Affordability: Because retirees can expect to spend a large portion of their current income in retirement, finding a place to retire in the U.S. with a low cost of living and low housing costs is a helpful way to stretch your retirement funds further. With that in mind, not all locations are the most affordable destinations. States like Mississippi, Oklahoma, Arkansas, New Mexico, and Kansas have the lowest cost of living, according to Blacktower Financial Management. Relatedly, the lowest median housing prices are found in West Virginia, Mississippi, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Alabama. As you search for the best places to live in retirement in the U.S., keep these in mind—and do further research to find the perfect spot.
• Amenities and Quality of Life: Finding the perfect place to retire includes finding a location that suits your lifestyle—including your favorite hobbies, activities, and local amenities. Do you want access to a large body of water? Are you a big “foodie” who wants to be close to the best restaurants and dining experiences available? Or do you prefer to spend your time visiting local art museums or taking part in volunteer activities? However you plan to spend your time in retirement, it’s important to consider what amenities you’re looking for in your new destination.
• Staying Local: Last but not least, if your current hometown is affordable, consider staying local in your retirement. You can even try selling your home at a profit and downsizing. This can even help reduce your utility bills and repair and maintenance costs. One of the best places for your retirement might just be in your backyard.

If you’re searching for the best places to retire in the Western U.S., buckle up: We’ve found the top three places for you to call home during your retirement years.

Wenatchee, Washington

By the Numbers

• Total Population: 35,000
• Population that is 50+: 16.4% of the residents of Wenatchee are 65 or older.
• Average temperatures: Summer, mid 70s to high 80s; Winter, low 20s to high 30s
• Median home price: $372,000, 13% above national median

Wenatchee, Washington, ranks as one of the best places to retire in the northwest U.S. for several reasons: a lot of fantastic doctors, minimal rain (for Washington state, at least), and high quality of life for seniors to enjoy successful aging.

Located 150 miles east of Seattle on the Cascade Mountain Range, Wenatchee is a small city with a lot to offer highly active retirees — making it one of the best places to retire young in the U.S. Experience the full range of seasons—with sunny summertime and snowy winter—and endless opportunities for outdoor activities. Whether you love hiking with your friends, family, or partner, or you’re a life-long adventurer, Wenatchee is one of the best spots to put down roots and retire in the northwest U.S.

One downside to keep in mind: Wenatchee’s cost of living is about 10 percent above the national average. Although it’s certainly not the end of the world, it is definitely something to keep in mind as you consider all your options and uncover the best places to retire in the U.S.

Scottsdale, Arizona

By the Numbers

• Total Population: 259,000
• Population that is 50+: 50%
• Average temperatures: Summer, low 90s to mid 100s; Winter, high 30s to Mid 40s
• Median home price: $715,000

Consistently ranked as one of the best places to retire in the southwest U.S., Scottsdale is a popular destination to call home. With a medium-sized population, Scottsdale boosts a high quality of life score—including a connected community with a high percentage of senior citizens.

If you’re a fan of mid-century modern architecture or art, Scottsdale has become an architectural mecca thanks to the influence of the iconic Frank Lloyd Wright. Wright built a school called Taliesin West, which is now open for tours to the public. Scottsdale is also a booming center for public art—if you visit, you’ll likely notice the ambitious, magnificent works of art sprinkled throughout the city limits and beyond.

One of the best places to retire in the western U.S., Scottsdale is also one of the best places to retire in the U.S. for active adults. Although it gets a bit too hot during the summer months for outdoor excursions, Scottsdale’s Sonoran Desert is a remarkable place to explore during the rest of the year. It’s home to a number of incredible plants and animals that any adventurer will enjoy.

When it comes to the nitty-gritty financial details, Scottsdale tends to be an affordable place in the southwest for many seniors to settle. Property taxes fall below the national average and the cost of living is manageable for most. And when it comes to the long-term, there are a number of highly-rated assisted living facilities with trained staff members to support you—if and when that time comes.

Cheyenne, Wyoming

By the Numbers

• Total Population: 64,000
• Population that is 50+: 35%
• Average temperatures: Summer, low 70s to low 80s; Winters, mid-teens to mid-20s
• Median home price: $456,700

An early western railroad and stock town, Cheyenne is certainly one of the best places to retire in the southwest U.S.

Cheyenne, which is the state capital of Wyoming, offers a dynamic balance of lush countryside and booming city life for retirees. In addition to absolutely stunning views and just about the most perfect summertime you can imagine, Cheyenne is an outdoor paradise.

If you want to balance your outdoor adventures with cultural activities, Cheyenne is home to a number of art galleries, a civic center, and the Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum, which includes popular exhibits about early rodeos and wild west artifacts (including a 19th-century passenger wagon!). The lush Cheyenne Botanic Gardens are also a very popular destination for seniors and young people alike.

The city has a below-average cost of living—and was named by U.S. News as the #1 most tax-friendly town in the U.S. If you’re looking to save on taxes, Cheyenne is a great option for one of the best places to live in the U.S. for retirees with a budget in mind.

The South is home to some of the best warm places to retire in the U.S. If you’ve lived most of your life in a colder climate, now might be the perfect time to try the “snowbird” life and settle in some of the best warm weather places to retire: Florida, South Carolina, Georgia, and more.

Jacksonville, Florida

By the Numbers

• Total Population: 912,000
• Population that is 50+: 33%
• Average temperatures: Summer, mid 80s to mid 90s; Winter, mid 40s to mid 50s
• Median home price: $221,000

Florida’s largest city, located on the state’s northeastern corner, is one of the best warm climate places to retire in the U.S. Consistently ranked as one of the very best cities for retirees, Jacksonville features a relatively low of cost of living, accessible public transportation, and a number of cultural programs and events for you to enjoy.

Not only will you enjoy the quintessential Florida beaches and casual flip-flops-all-day lifestyle, but Jacksonville is also home to a plethora of art, culture, and history. Whether you’re looking for the classic Florida sunrise on the beach or a fun night out on the town with friends, Jacksonville is teeming with many options for you to explore.

Plus, Jacksonville is well-known and loved for its fresh seafood. If there’s nothing you love more than fresh fish caught daily, this is the place for you. All around Jacksonville’s downtown and surrounding neighborhoods, you’ll find a wonderful array of local seafood, eclectic fare, and Southern comfort food. One of the best places to retire in the U.S.? We’d certainly say so.

Virginia Beach, Virginia

By the Numbers

• Total Population: 450,000
• Population that is 50+: 33%
• Average temperatures: Summers, high 70s to high 80s; Winter, low 30s to low 40s
• Median home price: $319,000

Another one of the best warm weather places to retire in the U.S., Virginia Beach is well-loved for an incredible number of beautiful beaches and scenic nature trails—and did we mention free beach access? Take your retirement to a new level with a daily stroll alongside the Atlantic Ocean or Chesapeake Bay, catching sightings of the area’s local flora and fauna along the way.

In addition to plentiful beach adventures, Virginia Beach is a thriving metropolis with a myriad of award-winning medical facilities located throughout the area to give you peace of mind. If you’re hoping to escape harsh winters or snowy drives, Virginia Beach has a temperate climate.

Compared to the other northern regions of the U.S., Virginia has relatively low taxes—so you can save money and spend your time shopping at local boutiques or frequenting some of Virginia Beach’s wonderful performing arts centers to enjoy the theater, opera, or dance. All of these excellent benefits make Virginia Beach one of the most attractive places to retire in the U.S.

Sarasota, Florida

By the Numbers

• Total Population: 57,000
• Population that is 50+: 50%
• Average temperatures: 52–71 degrees
• Median home price: $333,400

Home to white-sand beaches and cerulean water, Sarasota is the quintessential spot in Florida that many retirees dream of. And although this beachside destination is beautiful, it isn’t out of budget. With a relatively affordable cost of living (and no state income tax!), Sarasota is a popular destination for many retirees as one of the best places to retire in the southeastern U.S..

In addition to stunning beach views, including the majestic sightings of dolphins jumping out of the waves, Sarasota is also a thriving city with world-class medical facilities. With a number of highly-rated hospitals and plenty of top-notch assisted living facilities, this city is well-prepared for its senior population.

If you’re curious about the best places to retire in the eastern U.S., you’re not alone: Eastern U.S. contenders include a mix of quaint beach towns to nature’s splendor. Whether you’re looking to spend your golden years swinging a golf club or reading novels at a cozy coffee shop, you have plenty of fantastic options.

Salem, New Hampshire

By the Numbers

• Total Population: 30,448
• Population that is 50+: 46%
• Average temperatures: Summers, high 60s to low 80s; Winters, low teens to high 30s
• Median home price: $406,600

Although Salem is undeniably a small town, nearly half its 30,000 residents are over the age of 50—which makes it a perfect community for many retirees and one of the best places to live after retirement in the U.S. Located just north of Boston, Salem is home to a number of golf courses, hiking trails, and plenty of shopping and extracurricular activities for you to enjoy.

Salem is perhaps best known for its live music scene—particularly classical music. The New Hampshire Philharmonic Orchestra is based in the town and performs regularly throughout the year. Sit back and relax as you take in all the beautiful orchestral music. One popular event is The Phil’s Holiday Pops concert—a festive event filled with both classic and modern holiday hits and performed by the best musicians in all of New Hampshire.

New Hampshire is also a great state for shoppers. Why? Because the state has no sales tax—and Salem is home to a number of malls, outlet shops, and boutiques.

University Gardens, New York

By the Numbers

• Total Population: 4,182
• Population that is 50+: 42%
• Average temperatures: Summers, high 60s to high 70s; Winters, low 20s to high 30s
• Median home price: $787,700

University Gardens, located in the Great Neck region of Long Island, is one of the best places to retire in the northeast U.S—particularly if you enjoy the finer things in life. University Gardens is filled with affluent retirees with a passion for cultural activities, such as attending local theater performances, wine-tasting many of New York’s delicious local wines, and shopping at local businesses.

Plus, as part of the North Shore of Long Island, University Gardens is close to New York City—so if you want to venture into Manhattan for a show and dinner, it’s simple.

Ocean View, Delaware

By the Numbers

• Total Population: 2,272
• Population that is 50+: 64%
• Average temperatures: Summer, high 60s to low 80s; Winter, low 30s to mid 40s
• Median home price: $346,400

With 64% of the current population over the age of 50, living in Ocean View is a popular destination for many retirees. One of the best rural places to retire in the U.S., Ocean View is a quaint community home to less than 3,000 people. If you love spending time outdoors and your dream retirement location offers seamless access to a beach or ocean, look no further.

Scenic views at Bethany Beach and the Atlantic Ocean are just a few minutes away. And if you’re ready to spend your retirement picnicking by the Atlantic, crabbing, or hiking by the bay, Ocean View is the perfect place for you. There are a number of wildlife areas, state parks, and ecological preserves in the area—so you can put on your hiking shoes, grab your binoculars, and enjoy the eastern seaside.

Delaware is also one of the best places for retirement as it tends to be quite tax-friendly. With no sales or social security tax, retirees can save quite a bit of money compared to other states with higher tax laws.

Last but not least, it’s time to discover some of the best places to retire in the northeast U.S., including Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, and Maine.

Lancaster, Pennsylvania

By the Numbers

• Total Population: 60,000
• Population that is 50+: 26%
• Average temperatures: Summer, high 70s to mid 80s; Winter, low 20s to low 30s
• Median home price: $212,800

Lancaster is the perfect mix of rural countryside and bustling city life—all separated by just a short drive. Home to a diverse blend of farmers, families, college students, and a large Amish population, Lancaster is one of the best places for retirees to live in the U.S. without a doubt.

Residents of Lancaster can enjoy a wide range of activities. Take a drive out into the Amish countryside and enjoy hearty comfort food—or venture to downtown Lancaster and enjoy hip bars, restaurants, and boutiques. If you’re in the mood for a more active retirement adventure, there are a number of hiking trails and parks, interesting museums to explore, and the Lancaster Central Market—a historic food market home to a number of eclectic finds. Grab some Amish-made bread and butter and take it home for a delicious snack.

Lancaster is also well-known for its safe environment, low crime rates, and a quiet pace of life—so you can live out your retirement with peace of mind.

Springfield, Massachusetts

By the Numbers

• Total Population: 154,000
• Population that is 50+: 29%
• Average temperatures: Summer, high 60s to low 80s; Winter, mid teens to mid 20s
• Median home price: $168,000

Springfield is one of the best places to retire in the northeast U.S. for retirees who are searching for a unique destination with a vibrant, eclectic vibe. A major economic and academic hub of Massachusetts, Springfield is home to a number of large company headquarters and college campuses, making it a vibrant, diverse city.

In addition to a plethora of science, history, and art museums, Springfield is home to the renowned Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. And for book lovers, the Dr. Seuss Museum is the perfect adventure for an afternoon.

As a state, Massachusetts has a few tax benefits for senior citizens making it highly attractive as one of the best places to live in the U.S for retirement. The state doesn’t tax Social Security benefits or government pension income—but all other sources of income are taxed at a flat rate of 1.5%. There are also a number of highly-rated assisted living facilities, so if the time comes, you’ll have help on your beck and call.

Portland, Maine

By the Numbers

• Total Population: 67,000
• Population that is 50+: 36%
• Average temperatures: Summer, mid 60s to high 70s; Winter, low teens to mid 20s
• Median home price: $434,800

Portland, Maine, certainly shouldn’t be overlooked as a retirement destination. Perfectly located on the picturesque coastline of Maine, Portland is one of the best places to retire in the northeast U.S., thanks to a multitude of retirement communities and highly-ranked medical centers.

If you choose to retire in Portland, you’ll enjoy a bustling waterfront with working fishing wharves, charming farm-to-table restaurants, and a number of local boutiques. Portland also has a vibrant nightlife with entertainment venues, live music, microbreweries, world-class food and art, and plenty of aquatic adventures—from fishing to sailing to hitting the beach.

Although once quite affordable, Portland has been on the rise and housing costs are increasing. Keep that in mind as you peruse your options to find your perfect retirement location!

Our content is created for educational purposes only. This material is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for tax, legal, or investment advice. Everdays encourages individuals to seek advice from their own investment or tax advisor or legal counsel.