Retirement in the United States is no longer just about finding a quiet corner with a golf course; it is about discovering a location that matches your lifestyle, healthcare needs, and financial goals. At Top 10 America, we believe the “best” place to retire is where your personal definition of freedom meets the practical realities of daily living. Whether you crave the energy of a metropolis or the serenity of a mountain valley, the American landscape offers a diverse array of sanctuaries for your golden years.
As of late 2025, the shifting economic landscape has altered the traditional retirement map. While Florida remains a heavyweight, we are seeing a surge in popularity for mid-sized cities that offer a “Goldilocks” blend of big-city amenities and small-town affordability. Our team has analyzed the latest data on housing markets, tax friendliness, healthcare quality, and “happiness indices” to curate this definitive list. We look beyond the brochures to understand why locals choose to stay.
In this article, Top 10 America ranks the elite destinations that define modern retirement. Our criteria balance the objective hard data—cost of living and crime rates—with the subjective “soul” of a city. From the sunny coasts of the South to the surprising cultural hubs of the Midwest, here are the places where life’s next chapter truly shines.
Overview: Top 10 Best Places to Retire in the USA
| Rank | City | Location/State | Best Known For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Naples | Florida | Luxury Living & Beaches |
| 2 | Virginia Beach | Virginia | Coastal Calm & Safety |
| 3 | New York City | New York | World-Class Healthcare & Culture |
| 4 | Sarasota | Florida | Arts & Gulf Coast Charm |
| 5 | Boise | Idaho | Outdoor Adventure & Safety |
| 6 | Raleigh | North Carolina | Education & Tech Hub |
| 7 | Jacksonville | Florida | Urban Amenities & Waterways |
| 8 | Huntsville | Alabama | Affordability & Innovation |
| 9 | Charlotte | North Carolina | Banking & New South Energy |
| 10 | Fort Wayne | Indiana | Midwest Value & Community |
Top 10. Fort Wayne
Located in the heart of the Midwest, Fort Wayne, Indiana, often surprises those looking for a high quality of life on a modest budget. While it may not have the palm trees of the south, it possesses a deep sense of community and stability. We suggest looking at Fort Wayne if your priority is stretching your retirement dollar without sacrificing cultural amenities like festivals, a renowned zoo, and a thriving riverfront district.
The reasoning for its placement on this list is rooted in strict economic data. According to 2025 market reports, Fort Wayne consistently ranks as one of the most affordable housing markets in the nation. It offers a low cost of living that allows retirees to own property and maintain a comfortable lifestyle that might be impossible in coastal cities. It is a practical, value-driven choice that doesn’t feel “cheap.”
A lovely insider detail about Fort Wayne is its “Three Rivers” identity. The St. Marys, St. Joseph, and Maumee rivers converge here, and the city has invested heavily in the Promenade Park. It is a fantastic spot for an evening stroll, proving that you don’t need an ocean to enjoy beautiful waterfront living.
Key Highlights
- Affordability: consistently ranked top 10 for lowest cost of living in the US.
- Healthcare: Home to the Parkview Regional Medical Center.
- Nickname: “Summit City” due to its position on the Wabash and Erie Canal.
Top 9. Charlotte
Charlotte, North Carolina, is a dynamic metropolis that balances the charm of the “Old South” with the energy of a modern financial hub. Located in the Piedmont region of North Carolina, it serves as a sweet spot for those who want four distinct seasons without the brutal freeze of the north or the intense humidity of the deep south. It is a city of neighborhoods, each with a distinct personality.
Our analysis points to Charlotte as a top contender because of its connectivity and infrastructure. Being a major banking center means it has a massive international airport (CLT), making travel easy for active retirees. Furthermore, the healthcare systems here, including Atrium Health, are top-tier. We view Charlotte as the perfect transition city for those moving from the Northeast who aren’t quite ready for a sleepy beach town.
Locals love the “Queen City” for its greenways. The Little Sugar Creek Greenway offers miles of paved paths perfect for walking and biking, connecting urban areas with quiet parks. It’s a testament to the city’s commitment to an active, outdoor lifestyle amidst urban growth.
Key Highlights
- Climate: Mild winters and warm summers (humid subtropical).
- Economy: Second largest banking hub in the US after NYC.
- Connectivity: Charlotte Douglas International Airport is a major global hub.
Top 8. Huntsville
Known globally as “Rocket City,” Huntsville, Alabama, is a unique blend of high-tech intelligence and Southern hospitality. Nestled in the Tennessee Valley of northern Alabama, this city has exploded in popularity—and population—in recent years. It is no longer just a stopover; it is a destination for educated retirees who value intellectual stimulation alongside affordability.
From an objective standpoint, Huntsville’s economic stability is its strongest asset. Anchored by NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center and the Redstone Arsenal, the local economy is recession-resistant, which supports high-quality infrastructure and public services. Real estate data shows that while prices have risen, they remain significantly lower than the national average, providing immense value.
A fascinating aspect of retiring here is the demographic mix. Because of the aerospace industry, Huntsville has the highest concentration of engineers per capita in the US. This results in a highly educated community with a surprising array of cultural activities, from symphony orchestras to science lectures, that you rarely find in cities of this size.
Key Highlights
- accolades: Consistently ranked #1 or #2 “Best Place to Live” by US News in recent years.
- Attraction: Home to the U.S. Space & Rocket Center.
- Cost: Housing costs remain well below the national median.
Top 7. Jacksonville
Jacksonville, Florida, is a sprawling city that offers a different flavor of the Sunshine State. Located in the northeast corner of Florida, it is the largest city by area in the contiguous US. This vastness means diverse living options, from the riverfront condos of downtown to the laid-back beach vibes of Atlantic Beach and Neptune Beach.
We rank Jacksonville here because it offers the Florida tax benefits (no state income tax) without the density and price tag of Miami. It is a practical coastal choice. The presence of the Mayo Clinic’s Florida campus adds a layer of medical security that is critical for retirees. It is a robust city where you can live a cosmopolitan life or a quiet coastal life depending on your zip code.
An insider tip for nature lovers is the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve. Unlike the manicured golf courses of southern Florida, this is 46,000 acres of unspoiled coastal wetlands and dunes. It represents the “real” Florida, offering kayaking and birdwatching that feels worlds away from the city center.
Key Highlights
- Tax Benefit: No state income tax on Social Security or pension income.
- Geography: Largest city by land area in the contiguous USA.
- Healthcare: Home to one of three Mayo Clinic campuses in the US.
Top 6. Raleigh
As part of the famous Research Triangle, Raleigh, North Carolina, is a beacon of education and innovation. Located centrally in North Carolina, Raleigh offers a sophisticated retirement surrounded by universities (NC State, Duke, and UNC Chapel Hill are all nearby). This creates a youthful energy that many retirees find invigorating.
The data supporting Raleigh is compelling. It consistently ranks high for safety and economic growth. We suggest this area specifically for “lifelong learners”—retirees who want to take university classes, attend lectures, or engage in a community that values history and science. The “Oak City” provides a lush, tree-lined environment that feels established and welcoming.
One specific draw is the extensive museum network, often dubbed the “Smithsonian of the South.” Most of the state-run museums in Raleigh are free to the public. Spending a Tuesday afternoon wandering through the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences without paying a dime is a perk that locals cherish.
Key Highlights
- Region: A key pillar of the “Research Triangle” (Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill).
- Growth: One of the fastest-growing cities in the US for the last decade.
- Education: Extremely high density of PhDs and higher-education degrees.
Top 5. Boise
Representing the Mountain West, Boise, Idaho, has transformed from a hidden gem into a premier destination. Located in the high desert of southwestern Idaho at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Boise is the ultimate sanctuary for the active, outdoorsy retiree. If your dream retirement involves hiking boots, fishing rods, and fresh mountain air, this is the place.
Our analysis highlights Boise for its exceptional safety ratings and clean environment. While housing prices have spiked due to popularity, the overall tax burden remains moderate compared to coastal states. It offers a four-season climate that is generally milder than the Midwest, with low humidity that many seniors find beneficial for their health.
The crown jewel of the city is the Boise River Greenbelt. This 25-mile tree-lined pathway follows the river right through the heart of town. It’s not just a path; it’s a social artery where you see cyclists, walkers, and nature lovers every day of the year. It perfectly encapsulates the city’s blend of urban convenience and wild beauty.
Key Highlights
- Safety: Consistently ranks as one of the safest state capitals in the US.
- Recreation: Immediate access to skiing, hiking, and river rafting.
- Climate: High desert climate with low humidity and sunny days.
Top 4. Sarasota
Sarasota, Florida, has long been the gold standard for a refined retirement. Located on Florida’s Gulf Coast south of Tampa, it distinguishes itself from other beach towns with a profound dedication to the arts. This is where culture meets the coast, offering an opera house, a ballet, and a symphony orchestra alongside white sand beaches.
We view Sarasota as a “lifestyle” choice. It is not the cheapest option on this list, but the value proposition is high for those who want luxury amenities. The Sarasota Memorial Health Care System is consistently ranked among the best in the nation, providing peace of mind. It is a city designed with seniors in mind, offering high walkability in the downtown area and excellent services.
A unique feature here is the Ringling legacy. John Ringling (of circus fame) left an indelible mark on the city, including the stunning Ringling Museum of Art. Wandering the grounds of the Ca’ d’Zan mansion gives the city a historic, almost European flair that you simply don’t find in typical Florida retirement communities.
Key Highlights
- Beaches: Home to Siesta Key Beach, frequently ranked #1 in the USA.
- Culture: Known as Florida’s “Cultural Coast” for its high density of arts venues.
- Healthcare: Sarasota Memorial Hospital is a top-100 hospital nationally.
Top 3. New York City
It might seem counter-intuitive to place New York City, New York, on a retirement list, but for a specific type of retiree, it is unrivaled. Located at the mouth of the Hudson River in New York state, NYC offers something no other place can: total accessibility without a car. For those who want to age without worrying about driving, the subway and bus systems are liberating.
Data supports this ranking surprisingly well, particularly regarding longevity and healthcare. NYC is home to many of the world’s best hospitals (Mount Sinai, NYU Langone, Presbyterian). While the cost of living is high, the “happiness factor” for those who love art, theatre, and food is off the charts. We suggest NYC for the “urban warrior” who refuses to slow down.
The “insider” reality of retiring here is the neighborhood micro-community. Whether it’s the Upper West Side or Brooklyn Heights, life becomes very local. You know your bodega owner, your pharmacist, and your neighbors. It provides a dense social fabric that prevents the isolation many seniors feel in suburban sprawl.
Key Highlights
- Walkability: Rank #1 in the US; no car ownership needed.
- Healthcare: Highest concentration of top-ranked hospitals in the nation.
- Culture: Unmatched access to Broadway, museums, and libraries.
Top 2. Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach, Virginia, offers a compelling mix of resort living and suburban safety. Located where the Chesapeake Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean in Virginia, it is a city that feels like a perpetual vacation but operates with the efficiency of a major municipality. It is less humid than Florida and less frenetic than the Northeast corridor.
Our team ranks Virginia Beach highly due to its unique safety profile and tax benefits. Virginia does not tax Social Security benefits, which is a major financial plus. Furthermore, the city consistently has one of the lowest crime rates for a city of its size. It strikes a balance, offering miles of oceanfront boardwalks alongside quiet, wooded inland neighborhoods.
A lovely detail about this area is the “First Landing” history. It is where English colonists first landed in 1607 before moving to Jamestown. First Landing State Park offers Spanish moss-draped cypress swamps and hiking trails that feel ancient and serene, a stark and beautiful contrast to the bright energy of the oceanfront strip.
Key Highlights
- Safety: Frequently named one of the safest large cities in America.
- Taxes: Virginia does not tax Social Security benefits.
- Geography: Holds the Guinness World Record for the longest pleasure beach.
Top 1. Naples
Topping our list for late 2025 is the crown jewel of the Gulf Coast: Naples, Florida. Located in southwest Florida, Naples is more than just a retirement destination; it is a meticulously curated paradise. It consistently ranks #1 in various national polls for well-being and life expectancy, and our analysis confirms it is the premier spot for a healthy, active, and luxurious retirement.
The reason Naples takes the top spot is its unmatched “Desirability Index.” While housing is expensive, the return on investment is a lifestyle focused on health. The city has one of the highest concentrations of golf courses in the world, pristine beaches, and a local government heavily invested in public beauty and safety. It is a low-stress, high-reward environment.
Locals know that the true magic of Naples isn’t just the shopping on Fifth Avenue South; it’s the sunsets at the Naples Pier. It is a daily community ritual where residents gather to watch the sun dip below the Gulf of Mexico, often spotting dolphins in the water. It represents the peace and natural beauty that every retiree has earned.
Key Highlights
- Well-being: Residents have the highest life expectancy in the US.
- Recreation: Self-proclaimed “Golf Capital of the World.”
- Economy: Extremely low unemployment and a robust local economy.
Conclusion
From the bustling avenues of New York City to the pristine sands of Naples, Florida, the United States offers a retirement destination for every temperament. The “best” place is ultimately where you feel most alive, safe, and connected. We hope this list by Top 10 America has illuminated options you may not have considered, proving that your golden years can be your most adventurous yet.
