Here Are Some of the Most Ideal Places to Retire (Not Including Florida or Arizona)
Finding that perfect retirement spot can be tricky. Most people tend to settle in Arizona or Florida. But there are plenty of affordable spots around the country that are just as sunny, fun, and welcoming. Ready to find your perfect place to call home? Keep reading and see where you should settle.
Asheville, North Carolina
If it’s an artsy vibe and lots of nature you want, Asheville is the place to be. It’s peaceful, but never boring - just the right balance for retirement. The housing costs are reasonable compared to other mountain towns, and the healthcare is top-tier.
Greenville, South Carolina
Greenville is small, but lively. Downtown has shops, restaurants, and even waterfalls right in the middle of it. Housing is affordable, and the weather is mild year-round. You don’t get the Florida crowds, but you do get that great Southern charm.
Chattanooga, Tennessee
Chattanooga is an outdoor lover’s dream. The city sits by the river and mountains, so there’s always something to do. Tennessee has no state income tax, so it’s one of the cheapest places to retire. Housing is also pretty affordable, so your money stretches further.
Knoxville, Tennessee
The city of Knoxville is a retiree’s dream. It’s got that “big small town” feeling. There’s also so much to do - from sports and music to a busy downtown area. Housing and healthcare are solid and affordable, and it’s easy to get around.
Huntsville, Alabama
Huntsville might be known for space and rockets, but it’s also one of the most affordable and safe spots in the South. The housing market is reasonable, the healthcare is top-notch, and you get a mix of charm and calm living all in one package.
Mobile, Alabama
Mobile conjures up mental images of fresh seafood, friendly neighbors, and mild winters. Can you think of anything more idyllic for your retirement? It’s much cheaper than living in Florida beach towns, but you still get the same sunny lifestyle.
Lexington, Kentucky
The city of Lexington is safe, affordable, and friendly. You get seasons, charms, and bourbon nearby. Retirement here feels like settling into an easy lifestyle that’s filled with fun and people. Sure, it’s known for its horses, but it’s also people country.
Louisville, Kentucky
Louisville is bigger and has a bit more going on than Lexington. Here, the cost of living is low, and there’s plenty of music, culture, and great food. Healthcare access is good, and housing is affordable. Plus, you’ve got the Kentucky Derby to look forward to each year.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Pittsburgh used to be all steel and smoke. Today, it’s parks, culture, and sport. The cost of living is much lower than in many big cities, and the healthcare is world-class. Pittsburgh is full of character. Retirement here means affordable city life without the stress.
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
Want a small-town vibe that’s still affordable? Harrisburg gives you four seasons, history, and easy access to nature. It feels like a hometown where neighbors know each other. Housing is budget-friendly, and healthcare is close by if you need it.
Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Lancaster is known for two things: its Amish country charm and its affordability. Downtown Lancaster is a fun little hub of things to do and see. You get fresh food, a slower pace of life, and affordable living to enjoy a stress-free retirement.
Cleveland, Ohio
Cleveland is making a comeback as a great place to retire. Housing is cheap compared to other cities, and healthcare is excellent. Sports fans will never be bored, and the lake gives you a waterfront feel without the Florida price tag.
Cincinnati, Ohio
Cincinnati really mixes that old charm with modern growth. The cost of living is relatively low, and there’s a strong healthcare system. It also has rivers, fun neighborhoods, and plenty of culture. Retiring here means lots of things to do without the chaos of bigger cities.
Toledo, Ohio
Simple, affordable, and easy to navigate - that’s Toledo in a nutshell. Housing prices are some of the lowest around. The city feels small, but it’s super friendly. And Lake Erie gives you that waterfront bonus. It’s a no-fuss kind of place to retire comfortably.
Grand Rapids, Michigan
Grand Rapids has a cool mix of art, breweries, and outdoor fun. With the cost of living far lower than most cities its size, and solid healthcare options, retirement here feels simple and easy without spending a fortune. You get seasons, lakes, and a lively downtown to enjoy.
Kalamazoo, Michigan
Yes, Kalamazoo is a real place. And, best of all, it’s affordable. Housing prices are low, healthcare is nearby, and there’s a lot to do to keep you busy. If you want a retirement spot that’s a little off the beaten path, Kalamazoo should be at the top of your list.
Green Bay, Wisconsin
Forget what you’ve heard - Green Bay isn’t just about football. It’s a friendly, affordable town with a strong sense of community. Sounds great, right? Housing is reasonable, and healthcare is reliable. Yes, winters are cold, but you get plenty of charm in return.
Madison, Wisconsin
Madison is a lively little college town, but don’t let that stop you from settling down here. It’s a great place to retire with lakes, culture, and healthcare all wrapped into one. The cost of living is also lower than in bigger cities. Retirement here means fun and easygoing.
Des Moines, Iowa
The pace of life in Des Moines, Iowa, is slow - but in a good way. There are parks and trails everywhere. The housing market is friendly, and healthcare is solid. It’s a place where you can just breathe and enjoy your golden years in peace.
Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Cedar Rapids is the smaller, calmer version of Des Moines. It’s also affordable, safe, and has a community-driven feel. Housing is cheap. Healthcare is nearby. Living in Cedar Rapids feels like a friendly neighborhood where people wave to you from the porch.
Omaha, Nebraska
Omaha might not be flashy, but it’s practical and affordable - just what you’re looking for in a retirement destination. The housing market here is good, and the healthcare is reliable. Omaha is a smart pick if you like simple living and saving money.
Lincoln, Nebraska
Lincoln gives you small-town living. Your retirement should feel calm and community-focused, with just enough city parks to keep life interesting. Lincoln is also affordable, safe, and full of Midwestern friendliness that’s tough to find anywhere else.
Fayetteville, Arkansas
Fancy retiring in the Ozarks? Fayetteville is affordable and artsy. It has a mix of small-town charm and college-town energy. You can hike one day and catch a show the next. Housing costs are reasonable, and healthcare is solid. It’s everything you want and need.
Hot Springs, Arkansas
Hot Springs lives up to its name. The town is famous for its natural baths, and it’s super affordable too. Housing costs are low, and the pace of life is slow. You’ll enjoy a spa-like vibe built right into everyday living. What more could you possibly want?
Tulsa, Oklahoma
Tulsa has art, music, and plenty of personality. Retirement is easy in Tulsa, where you get charm, affordability, and plenty to do and see. The housing prices are still reasonable, and healthcare is good. It's so full of character that you’ll never be bored.
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
There’s always something happening in Oklahoma City to keep things interesting. Housing costs are low, healthcare is solid, and there’s a lively downtown area that’ll have you getting out of the house and enjoying your life in a city that’s affordable and growing constantly.
San Antonio, Texas
San Antonio has history, culture, and warm weather. It’s also cheaper than many other cities, and the healthcare is excellent. The city has a welcoming vibe, and retiring here feels lively, colorful, and different. It’s like a mix of calm and fiesta in one.
El Paso, Texas
El Paso has sunshine almost every day. Sounds great, right? It’s also affordable, safe, and full of Southwest charm. The housing is cheap, and you get a slower pace of life, but with all the essentials nearby. Your retirement feels relaxed and sunny.
Corpus Christi, Texas
Corpus Christ gives you that coastal life without the hefty Florida price tag. The Gulf is right there for fishing, boating, or just sitting on the beach. Healthcare is close, housing is affordable, and the vibe is as laid-back as you’ll get.
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Albuquerque is colorful, sunny, and, best of all, affordable for retirees. Those desert views are stunning. You can soak up the culture, enjoy nature, and live in a place that feels unique without breaking the bank. Oh, and let’s not forget the solid healthcare.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Art, history, and beauty are just some of the things you’ll enjoy when you retire in Santa Fe. It’s a bit pricier than, say, Albuquerque, but it’s still affordable. Retirement in Santa Fe is like living in a painting with sunshine almost every day.
Boise, Idaho
Boise is growing, but it’s still affordable. Housing prices are fair, and the community is friendly. You get mountains, rivers, and plenty of sunshine. Life here is active and outdoorsy, but still laid-back enough to feel like a small town.
Spokane, Washington
Spokane is THE retirement hidden gem you need to know about. It’s cheaper than Seattle or Portland, but you still get a lot of the same perks. Housing is affordable, and healthcare is strong. It won’t be hard to find the perfect home in this little big city.
Salem, Oregon
Salem is much quieter than Portland, and that’s why more people are retiring here. There are vineyards, parks, and a friendly community to enjoy. Housing is cheap, and healthcare is nearby should you need it. This is easy living at its best.
Reno, Nevada
Reno is called the “biggest little city.” It’s also a lot more affordable compared to other West Coast spots. There’s also no state income tax. You’re near Lake Tahoe for outdoor fun, so you can enjoy your retirement in a budget-friendly, sunny city.
