Where is the best place in America to spend your retirement years? That depends a lot on where you want to land. But Investopedia has done some of the legwork for you.
The financial publication reviewed 500 U.S. cities and ranked them on cost of living, healthcare access, sense of community, and more. Then they divided the country into six regions and named the top retirement cities in each. Here is a look at who made the cut.
The Northeast: Four Seasons and Plenty of Options
If you love a real winter (and a real summer) the Northeast has a lot going for it. Investopedia found strong options here, with several top picks clustered in New Hampshire and Pennsylvania.
- Leiston, Maine
- Conway, New Hampshire
- Hermitage, Pennsylvania
Florida: A Region All Its Own
Florida is so popular with retirees that the researchers gave it its own category. Year-round sunshine and favorable tax laws have long made it a top destination. Yes, costs have crept up in recent years, but it still holds strong appeal. The top cities here include:
- South Beach
- Cape Canaveral
- Zephyrhills
The Southeast: Sun, Low Costs, and the Beach
Leaving the snow shovel behind for good has always been a dream for many retirees. The South delivers on that, and it typically offers a lower cost of living, too. Top picks from the Southeast include:
- Wilmington, Delaware
- Nashville, Tennessee
- Pasadena, Texas
The Southwest: Texas Makes Two Lists
Only two cities made the Southwest list: Eagle Pass and Amarillo, both in Texas. Investopedia noted that Texas was split into two separate lists because of its sheer size. The fact that it appeared twice speaks to how much the Lone Star State has to offer retirees.
The Midwest: Community, Space, and Affordability
The Midwest is known for wide-open spaces, a strong sense of community, and a cost of living that tends to be easier on a fixed income. The top picks here are:
- Knoxville, Iowa
- Chicago, Illinois
- Niles, Michigan
- Pierre, South Dakota
- Wausau, Wisconsin
The West: Nature and a Different Kind of Vibe
The West offers something you just cannot find anywhere else: spectacular scenery, outdoor access, and a certain laid-back energy. Not every city here is on the coast, but each one made the list for a reason. The top Western picks are:
- Juneau, Alaska
- Pomeroy, Washington
- Evanston, Wyoming
Why Some States Did Not Make the Cut
You may notice some big names missing. California and New York, for instance, did not earn any spots, likely because of their higher-than-average cost of living. New Jersey also missed out, partly because retirement income there is not fully tax-exempt.
Whether you are dreaming of a beach town, a quiet Midwest community, or a mountain retreat, this list is a solid starting point for thinking about where your next chapter might begin.