06/08/2024

18 American Cities Where Retirees Are Thriving

If you’re thinking about where to hang your hat when you retire, then don’t worry because the U.S. is packed with cities that are perfect for retirees. Some have great food, and some are just truly beautiful places to sit back and relax. No matter what you’re looking for, there’s a spot for everyone, and here are 18 cities that many retirees rave about.

Asheville, North Carolina

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Asheville may seem like another pretty place in the mountains, but it’s also popular with retirees who love a bit of culture and nature. Here, you can catch a jazz band, visit an art gallery, or even explore craft breweries. The town feels brilliantly cozy, thanks to its historic architecture, and the weather’s just right, too.

Sarasota, Florida

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In Sarasota, Florida, the dream of lounging on a sandy beach as the sun dips below the horizon could be your everyday. It’s perfect for retirees for several reasons, including its stunning beaches and some of the best seafood around. There are also plenty of golf courses and parks where you can soak up the sunshine year-round.

Scottsdale, Arizona

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Scottsdale is great for retirees who want to stay active and healthy in the golden years, as it has many amazing golf courses and trails that are perfect for morning hikes. The weather’s always sunny, so it’ll be a breeze to plan your days. Let’s not forget about the arts district, where you can tap into your creative side at your own pace.

Ann Arbor, Michigan

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If you retire to Ann Arbor, you’ll find yourself in a lively college town that’s simply buzzing with energy. This is mostly thanks to the University of Michigan, which makes any retiree feel about 20 years younger. Of course, education isn’t for everyone, and that’s why they have many local farmers’ markets that are a treat for any foodie.

Charleston, South Carolina

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Charleston is a city where every street tells a story, draped in Spanish moss and Southern charm. For retirees, it’s like stepping into a history book but with all the modern cuisine and comfort you could ever want. The locals are as warm as the weather, and there’s always a festival to get involved in.

Boulder, Colorado

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In Boulder, life’s a mix of outdoor adventures and community spirit. It’s a place that’s hidden at the foothills of the Rockies, which makes it perfect for retirees who love the outdoors but still want a good social scene. Boulder has craft fairs and unbeatable views galore, so you’ll never get bored.

St. Petersburg, Florida

St. Petersburg, Florida, is where the sun shines on all who walk through its colorful streets and incredible art scenes. For retirees, the pace of life is relaxing enough for you to enjoy your golden years with an arty twist. If you want to go for a lazy afternoon stroll, there are also many peaceful parks and a gorgeous waterfront.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe will steal your heart with its adobe buildings and mountain views. It’s great for culturally minded retirees, as it’s rich in Native American and Spanish histories and has an art scene that’s sure to inspire. Soon enough, you’ll feel like you’re home because the community’s so close-knit and welcoming to newcomers.

Madison, Wisconsin

Madison mixes the charm of a small town with the benefits of city living, meaning there’s always something happening, especially with its extensive park systems and community-focused lifestyle. As such, it’s great for retirees who want to stay active and engaged. It also has more farm-to-table eateries and craft breweries than you can count.

Alexandria, Virginia

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Just a stone’s throw from the hustle and bustle of Washington, D.C., is Alexandria, Virginia, which has a slower-paced lifestyle. But don’t worry, you won’t be sacrificing any convenience for its cobblestone streets and historic buildings. You can enjoy the peace here while never being too far from the city’s attractions.

San Luis Obispo, California

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San Luis Obispo, or SLO for short, is a beautiful place hidden on the California coast. It’s laid-back with a big heart and has practically everything you could want, including beautiful hikes and wine-country tours. The community is super friendly, and the weather’s great all year round, making it the perfect place to take things easy.

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Pittsburgh has shed its steel city image and blossomed into a wonderful cultural city, which is made even better by the fact it’s so affordable. This is a city filled with parks and a unique mix of traditional and modern facilities that are great for retirees. If you’re looking for somewhere you can socialize and stay current as a retiree, this is the place for you.

Omaha, Nebraska

Omaha will certainly surprise you with its urban chic and country charm. It’s got all the cultural benefits of a big city with a low cost of living and a fantastic sense of community that’ll make it easy to fit right in. Omaha’s parks and green spaces are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic, so you’ll always have somewhere lovely to unwind.

Portland, Maine

Who wouldn’t want to retire in a place with fresh seafood and breathtaking views? Portland, Maine, is just that, as it promotes a quiet seaside lifestyle with an incredible local food scene that’s a dream come true for any retiree. The city’s downtown is just as charming, thanks to its small boutiques and coffee shops.

Providence, Rhode Island

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For such a small city, you’d be surprised at how much there is to do in Providence, which is mostly thanks to its several colleges. Being so small makes it easy to get around, and the historical charm adds to its appeal. Providence is a place where you can enjoy city culture without any of the chaos of larger places.

Knoxville, Tennessee

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Knoxville is a city that’s buzzing with music, and it’s also pretty affordable. No matter if you’re into live music, hiking, or both, Knoxville has you covered. The city also supports many local businesses and cafes where you can spend your mornings sipping coffee and your evenings listening to live bands. Every day really does feel like a festival.

Reno, Nevada

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Forget what you think you know about Reno because today, it’s a place for retirees who want a bit of adventure with their relaxation. Being so close to Lake Tahoe, you’ll have unmatched opportunities for things like kayaking and hiking. Meanwhile, Reno itself has countless galleries and theaters that’ll fill up those rainy days.

Tucson, Arizona

With over 300 sunny days a year, it’s no surprise retirees are flocking to Tucson to escape the cold. It’s also popular for astronomers, thanks to its clear skies, so you could even add a bit of star-gazing to your retirement plans. Beyond the stars, Tucson’s many universities make it a place where you’ll never have to stop learning.