If you’re looking to retire soon, these cities offer the best mix of desirability, affordability, health care, job prospects and more.
What makes a city a great retirement destination? Every town offers pluses, minuses, quirks and character. That said, some locations are better than others at meeting the needs of people easing their way out of the workforce and into a more leisurely lifestyle.
A new U.S. News analysis compares 150 major U.S. cities and ranks them according to the factors most important to retirees and those about to retire. This analysis includes data on residents’ happiness, affordability, job market, retiree taxes, desirability and availability of quality health care. These attributes were weighted based on the factors people consider most important, determined by a survey of 3,500 people age 45 and older throughout the U.S., asking what matters most to them when choosing their retirement destination. This year, happiness took over the top spot, while affordability moved to second on the list of considerations.
In addition to a change in priorities, this year’s analysis shifted from metro data, used in previous editions of the rankings, to city-based data.
These changes delivered a new top-ranked city and a general shift from the Northeast to the South, with a healthy dose of the Midwest and a few new up-and-comers sprinkled in. The 25 top-rated cities possess a winning combination of happiness, affordability, health care, taxes, desirability and job markets. One of them may be the best place to begin your next chapter.
Take a look at the 25 Best Places to Retire in 2025:
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25. Omaha, Nebraska
Population: 544,284
Share of population 65+: 14%
Average monthly mortgage cost: $1,757
Average monthly rent: $1,244
Hospital: Nebraska Medicine-Nebraska Medical Center
Omaha offers retirees a blend of urban amenities and Midwestern charm. The city’s cultural attractions include the Joslyn Art Museum and the Holland Performing Arts Center. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy numerous parks, trails and the renowned Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium. Omaha’s strong sense of community is evident in its festivals and events, while a respected and diverse dining scene adds to its appeal. The city situated on the banks of the Missouri River gets high marks for overall value, at No. 8, and an attainable housing market, ranking No. 6 for housing affordability. Retirees may feel a pinch from taxes, however, as Omaha ranks No. 143 of 150 top cities.
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24. Fort Myers, Florida
Population: 109,595
Share of population 65+: 27%
Average monthly mortgage: $1,760
Average monthly rent: $1,394
Fort Myers attracts over-55s with its active, resort-like retirement communities, warm climate and abundant recreation. Residents enjoy year-round golfing, fishing and beachcombing. The city’s vibrant arts scene features numerous museums, theaters and art galleries. Southwest Florida International Airport is conveniently located nearby. Fort Myers retirees may find a little extra money in their pockets, as Florida has no state income tax and ranks No. 6 for being one of the most tax-friendly states for retirees. Social Security income, pension income and income from an IRA or 401(k) all go untaxed. Fort Myers ranks No. 12 for desirability, which accounts for U.S. residents’ interest in retiring there, based on a SurveyMonkey survey of more than 3,500 people, as well as entertainment and attraction establishments relative to the population size. This Gulf Coast city also boasts good air quality, ranking No. 12.
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23. Oklahoma City
Population: 681,446
Share of population 65+: 13%
Average monthly mortgage: $1,537
Average monthly rent: $1,116
Oklahoma City offers retirees cowboy culture with a blend of affordability and amenities. For its size, Oklahoma City gives residents a lot of bang for their buck: OKC ranks No. 9 for housing affordability and No. 10 for overall value, with no state tax on Social Security income or military pensions. OKC is known for its Native American culture, hunting and fishing opportunities, numerous parks and pro sports teams, including the NBA’s Oklahoma City Thunder. Mild winters and a central location between Dallas and Kansas City make it an attractive retirement destination.
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22. Seattle
Population: 773,497
Share of population 65+: 13%
Average monthly mortgage: $3,187
Average monthly rent: $2,096
Hospital: University of Washington Medical Center
With abundant outdoor recreation, a thriving arts and restaurant scene and no state income tax, Seattle offers retirees a high quality of life. Residents report exceptional levels of well-being and are generally happy with their day-to-day lives, ranking No. 9 per data from Sharecare’s Community Well-Being Index. Air quality in the Emerald City is good, ranking No. 7 out of 150 top U.S. cities. Seattle winters are mild but rainy and summers are generally comfortable. Retirees can explore fun attractions like Pike Place Market and enjoy easy access to international travel via Sea-Tac Airport. Retirees still in the workforce can tap into a healthy job market and good salaries, both ranking No. 2.
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21. Anchorage, Alaska
Population: 294,897
Share of population 65+: 13%
Average monthly mortgage: $2,388
Average monthly rent: $1,590
Active retirees will find outstanding access to outdoor adventures in Anchorage. Abundant wildlife and scenic views are everywhere, making the city an urban oasis surrounded by wilderness. Annual events include a film festival, spring carnival, summer solstice and the ceremonial lead-up to its famous Iditarod sled dog race – the 10-day Fur Rendezvous, known locally as the Fur Rondy. Though winters are cold, summers are mild, and with all that fresh, open air, the city ranks No. 1 for air quality. There’s no state income tax in Alaska, so retirees get some extra bang for their buck.
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20. Melbourne, Florida
Population: 103,275
Share of population 65+: 24%
Average monthly mortgage: $1,640
Average monthly rent: $1,385
Melbourne is popular with retirees because of its mild winters and beachside living. But warm breezes and sandy toes aren’t the only reasons to relax in this Space Coast city. Melbourne feels safe because its crime rate is low, at No. 9. Housing is relatively affordable for a coastal area and Florida imposes no state income tax. Outdoor enthusiasts can find plenty of golfing and fishing, while science buffs can indulge their inner nerd at nearby Kennedy Space Center. The city also boasts an engaging downtown with many shops, restaurants and cultural attractions.
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19. Port St. Lucie, Florida
Population: 220,637
Share of population 65+: 24%
Average monthly mortgage: $1,771
Average monthly rent: $1,748
Port St. Lucie is safe, clean and beautiful, offering ample opportunities for water-based activities like paddleboarding, surfing, fishing and exploring nearby beaches. The town prides itself on its family-friendly atmosphere, which may be important for visiting grandchildren, and it ranks No. 5 for its low crime rate. Like all Floridians, Port St. Lucie residents pay no state income taxes. Port St. Lucie ranks No. 7 for desirability. Its welcoming neighborhoods and excellent golf courses contribute to a high quality of life for retirees.
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18. Tampa, Florida
Population: 515,872
Share of population 65+: 13%
Average monthly mortgage: $1,967
Average monthly rent: $1,466
Hospitals: Tampa General Hospital
Tampa attracts retirees with its warm Floridian climate, low tax burden and abundance of restaurants, establishments and attractions. Residents enjoy the outdoors in the city’s numerous parks, on the Hillsborough River and at nearby Gulf Coast beaches. Tampa’s cultural scene includes the Straz Center for the Performing Arts and the Tampa Museum of Art. Fans of professional sports embrace Tampa Bay Buccaneers football, Rays baseball and Lightning hockey. All of this diverse food and fun makes Tampa a well-rounded and popular retirement destination.
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17. Pensacola, Florida
Population: 93,735
Share of population 65+: 18%
Average monthly mortgage: $1,551
Average monthly rent: $1,183
Known as the “City of Five Flags,” Pensacola has been ruled by Spain, France, Britain, the Confederacy and the United States, each contributing to the city’s unique history. Pensacola serves up a safe, charming coastal lifestyle with its rich 500-year history, sugary beaches and access to food and fun. Pensacola ranks No. 4 for its low crime rate and No. 7 for its establishments-to-population ratio. Mild winters encourage year-round hiking, snorkeling, kayaking, golfing and fishing. Pensacola’s art museum, symphony orchestra and opera keep culture vultures happy and, as all in Florida towns, no state income tax is collected, giving residents’ wallets a boost.
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16. Lexington, Kentucky
Population: 328,225
Share of population 65+: 15%
Average monthly mortgage: $1,610
Average monthly rent: $1,154
Hospital: University of Kentucky Albert B. Chandler Hospital
Lexington cultivates a unique blend of classic Southern charm and modern urban conveniences. Widely known for thoroughbred horses and bourbon distilleries, the city is also blessed with scenic trails and world-class golf courses. Lexington has decent health care access and a good job market. Retirees can afford the good life in this city. It ranks No. 10 for affordability because its housing costs are relatively low. The median home price is $268,163, below the national average of $281,900. Lexington’s friendly communities and mild four-season climate contribute to a high quality of life.
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15. South Bend, Indiana
Population: 119,280
Share of population 65+: 15%
Average monthly mortgage: $1,141
Average monthly rent: $975
South Bend stands out for its rock-bottom crime rate, ranking No. 2, and its affordability, which comes in at No. 17. Its median home price of $133,774 is less than half the national average.Residents of this friendly Midwestern town are justifiably proud of its famous attractions, like the University of Notre Dame and the Studebaker National Museum. Annual events in “the Bend” include its unique Dyngus Day festival celebrating Polish food and culture. South Bend’s extensive park system and riverwalk provide ample access to outdoor recreation. The city’s retirees enjoy its four-season climate, small-town vibe and balanced lifestyle.
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14. San Francisco
Population: 876,910
Share of population 65+: 17%
Average monthly mortgage: $3,713
Average monthly rent: $2,550
Hospital: UCSF Health-UCSF Medical Center
San Francisco’s retirees enjoy a dynamic, urban lifestyle with lovely bay views and mild year-round temperatures, except for its famously chilly summers. Residents report high levels of well-being and are generally happy with their day-to-day lives, ranking the city No. 1 per data from Sharecare’s Community Well-Being Index. San Francisco has the No. 1 job market of 150 top cities, offering retirees a chance to afford the city’s high housing costs. San Francisco’s renowned cultural offerings include world-class theaters, museums and galleries. The City by the Bay also enjoys clean air and excellent health care. Dining is top-rated, as are outdoor activities like hiking and sailing. While the cost of living is high, the city’s desirability can’t be discounted.
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13. Charleston, South Carolina
Population: 175,795
Share of population 65+: 17%
Average monthly mortgage: $2,255
Average monthly rent: $1,594
Hospital: MUSC Health-University Medical Center
Charleston combines historic Southern charm with modern comforts, making it an attractive retirement destination. The city’s mild climate, beautiful beaches and rich cultural scene keep its residents busy and happy. Charleston is a foodie paradise, known for local favorites like shrimp and grits, she-crab soup and fried green tomatoes. Its lively City Market showcases local art, crafts, souvenirs, street performers and food vendors. This classic yet modern city’s appeal lies in its unique blend of history, natural beauty and Southern hospitality. Its healthy job market ranks No. 5 and offers options for retirees who want to stay in the workforce.
As winter loosens its grip on Washington D.C., the city gives its skyline over to thousands of bright-pink cherry blossoms. You’ll find the best views along the scenic Tidal Basin. But be warned: You won’t be the only one looking for that perfect photo op. Our nation’s capital welcomes thousands of visitors every spring. Find out more about: The Best Hotels in Washington D.C. The Best Things to Do in Washington D.C.
12. Washington, D.C.
Population: 688,462
Share of population 65+: 13%
Average monthly mortgage: $2,924
Average monthly rent: $1,964
Hospitals: Inova Fairfax Hospital, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, MedStar Georgetown University Hospital
Washington, D.C., is a great retirement destination for people who dread boredom, because there’s so much to do. The nation’s capital keeps its residents and millions of visitors busy with world-class museums, theaters, galleries and historic sites, many with free admission. D.C. residents are generally happy with their day-to-day lives, ranking the city No. 3 on the Sharecare Community Well-Being Index. The District ranks No. 10 for its access to quality health care, and its extensive public transit system and walkable neighborhoods make exploration a breeze.
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11. Green Bay, Wisconsin
Population: 111,006
Share of population 65+: 14%
Average monthly mortgage: $1,308
Average monthly rent: $947
Known for its die-hard Packers football fandom (Go Cheeseheads!), Green Bay fosters a strong sense of community that goes beyond its fan-owned team. Green Bay serves up an appealing blend of small-town charm and big-city entertainment. The city also stands out for its affordability, ranked at No. 5, and reasonable housing costs. The average monthly rent of $947 is the lowest on this list of 25 top cities. Retirees can enjoy the Fox River’s scenic beauty and numerous parks, and embrace their inner Thor at its annual Viking Festival. Cultural attractions include the Green Bay Botanical Garden and the Neville Public Museum.
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10. Fort Wayne, Indiana
Population: 324,953
Share of population 65+: 15%
Average monthly mortgage: $1,212
Average monthly rent: $1,017
Fort Wayne is the most affordable of the 150 top cities on this list, a popular benefit for budget-minded retirees. At $169,485, the median home price is well below the national average of $281,900. Residents spend less than a fifth of their income on housing costs, making it the most budget-friendly city we analyzed based on our cost of living index. Friendly locals, quiet streets and Fort Wayne’s strong sense of community welcome new residents. The city boasts numerous parks, trails and cultural attractions such as the Fort Wayne Museum of Art. It honors its unique history with events like the annual celebration of famous resident John Chapman, better known as Johnny Appleseed, and its nine-day Three Rivers Festival, which takes place every July.
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9. Charlotte, North Carolina
Population: 862,609
Share of population 65+: 11%
Average monthly mortgage: $1,788
Median monthly rent: $1,495
Charlotte offers retirees a mild climate, affordable living and a rich cultural landscape. Charlotte’s housing affordability is ranked No. 11, and it’s widely considered a coveted destination, coming in 13th in the desirability survey, which measures U.S. residents’ interest in retiring there. Outdoor enthusiasts love the Queen City’s many parks and golf courses, and its famous U.S. National Whitewater Center. Charlotte’s arts and dining scenes deliver a range of experiences from the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center to the NASCAR Hall of Fame. The city’s strategic location affords easy access to both beaches and mountains. Additionally, Charlotte is home to two professional sports teams – the Carolina Panthers football team and the Hornets basketball team – providing year-round entertainment.
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8. Huntsville, Alabama
Population: 237,887
Share of population 65+: 16%
Average monthly mortgage: $1,501
Average monthly rent: $1,237
Huntsville is a supremely affordable retirement destination and the second-most affordable place to live in our analysis. Nicknamed Rocket City because it’s the home of NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center as well as the U.S. Space & Rocket Center museum, this high-tech mountain town also features abundant outdoor recreation. Residents can explore hiking trails and camp at Monte Sano State Park or picnic at Big Spring Park in the heart of downtown. Cultural offerings include the Huntsville Museum of Art and the Huntsville Symphony Orchestra, and retirees can shop and socialize at the Bridge Street Town Centre, a popular outdoor shopping and dining complex.
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7. Jacksonville, Florida
Population: 977,267
Share of population 65+: 15%
Average monthly mortgage: $1,599
Average monthly rent: $1,296
Hospital: Mayo Clinic Florida
Jacksonville is a triple threat, boasting low taxes, good health care options and abundant recreational opportunities. Florida charges no state income tax, so residents have more cash to spend on fun. Active retirees and visiting families can play to their hearts’ content on its 22 miles of beaches, numerous golf courses and the largest urban park system in the U.S. Football fans cheer on the Jacksonville Jaguars, and culture enthusiasts enjoy the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens. Residents devour local seafood, including the area’s specialty, locally caught Mayport shrimp, and follow the Mayport Shrimp Trail.
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6. Raleigh, North Carolina
Population: 469,960
Share of population 65+: 12%
Average monthly mortgage cost: $1,923
Average monthly rent: $1,432
Hospitals: UNC Hospitals, Duke University Hospital
Raleigh is a well-rounded city that’s easy to like, especially for those who believe that retirement doesn’t equal slowing down. This high-tech hub, part of North Carolina’s famed Research Triangle, is home to several universities as well as the North Carolina Museum of Art. Its Brewgaloo event is the second-largest craft beer festival in the United States, featuring local bands, food trucks and craft beer from over 110 breweries. Easy access to beaches and mountains rounds out Raleigh’s appeal.
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5. Boise, Idaho
Population: 277,498
Share of population 65+: 16%
Average monthly mortgage: $1,693
Average monthly rent: $1,398
Hospital: St. Luke’s Boise Medical Center
Boise is a popular destination for those who appreciate four seasons, ample outdoor recreation and decent employment opportunities. It also has the No. 16 job market in the country, including the second-lowest unemployment rate of any city in our analysis. Boise’s residents spend their days enjoying nature and their evenings dining on locally sourced cuisine, enjoying an opera performance and sipping delicious cocktails. Boise is a great value for all it offers, ranking No. 7 for housing affordability.
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4. Sarasota, Florida
Population: 82,472
Share of population 65+: 34%
Average monthly mortgage: $2,009
Average monthly rent: $1,659
Hospital: Sarasota Memorial Hospital
Sarasota picked up the top ranking in the desirability category because so many people want to retire there. The city spoils retirees with its warm climate, beautiful beaches and culture of happiness. Sarasota is renowned for gorgeous, sandy spots like Siesta Key and Lido Beach. Known as Circus City, Sarasota houses numerous arts venues, including the Ringling Museum of Art and the Sarasota Opera. Its lively downtown ranks No. 2 for establishments with its numerous restaurants, shops and attractions. Annual events include the Sarasota Music Festival, Sarasota Film Festival and the Suncoast Super Boat Grand Prix Festival.
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3. New York City
Population: 8,804,330
Share of population 65+: 16%
Average monthly mortgage: $3,098
Average monthly rent: $1,910
Hospitals: Mount Sinai Hospital, NYU Langone Hospitals, New York-Presbyterian Hospital-Columbia and Cornell
There’s always something to do in New York City, home to some of the world’s best theaters, restaurants and museums. It’s a dynamic, culturally rich lifestyle, but residents also enjoy the outdoors, walking pets and jogging in Central Park. The Big Apple is ranked No. 1 for its world-class health care and is home to three hospitals on the U.S. News Best Hospitals Honor Roll. Retirees with financial resources will find any kind of specialist needed in New York City. Its strong job market (No. 22) is a plus for seniors who want to earn a little income. Even though it’s expensive to live there, it still ranks No. 6 for happiness and No. 18 for desirability. If you can retire there, you can retire anywhere.
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2. Virginia Beach, Virginia
Population: 460,069
Share of population 65+: 15%
Average monthly mortgage: $2,079
Average monthly rent: $1,805
Virginia Beach residents enjoy a coastal lifestyle with clean air, warm summers and mild winters. The city boasts 38 miles of beaches and a three-mile boardwalk, providing ample entertainment and gentle exercise. It’s also home to numerous golf courses and parks, including the scenic First Landing State Park, which marks the 1607 arrival of the Jamestown colonists from England. Virginia Beach ranks No. 8 for happiness, No. 4 for air quality and No. 12 for desirability, making it an all-around winner as a retirement destination.
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1. Naples, Florida
Population: 122,578
Share of population 65+: 36%
Average monthly mortgage: $2,367
Average monthly rent: $1,738
Sunny Naples, on Florida’s Paradise Coast, is an ideal retirement destination for people who enjoy the finer things, whether they prefer an active or laid-back lifestyle. The city snagged several high rankings, including No. 2 for desirability, No. 4 for jobs and No. 6 for taxes. This year, it took a double crown as the 2024-2025 Best Place to Live and Best Place to Retire in 2025. Residents appreciate upscale dining and shopping at Fifth Avenue South, waterfront shopping at Tin City and exploring the Baker Museum. Golf enthusiasts can take on numerous championship courses. Tourists visit Naples for its miles of white-sand shorelines and breathtaking sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico. Despite its luxurious amenities, the city maintains a relaxed, small-town atmosphere, making it a charming place to retire.
