Best Places to Retire in the US

If money didn’t matter, we might all retire on our own private island, a wine estate in Napa Valley, or maybe a chateau in France. But money does matter to most of us, as does the quality of life.

So, where are the best places to retire that are at least relatively affordable while offering plenty of things to do?

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

If you’re looking for a big city with lots to do to keep your mind and body in motion, consider touring the Philadelphia houses for sale. The “City of Brotherly Love” has been making its way onto many lists of best cities to retire. It has a lower cost of living than other major cities like San Francisco and New York; there’s no tax on retirement income, it’s one of the most walkable cities in the country, and it has an outstanding public transportation system. 

Philadelphia is home to world-class museums for culture vultures, lots of concert venues, and several outstanding university health systems. Scenic Kelly Drive is a popular spot to walk, run, or bike, while the Ninth Street Italian Market is ideal for the health-conscious who want to shop for fresh produce, cheeses, and meats.

Gainesville, Georgia

Gainesville began to draw an increasing number of retirees in 1996 when some of the Olympic rowing and canoeing events were held nearby on Lake Lanier. As a small city on a lake with an affordable cost of living, many have found it an idyllic community to retire in. It has a mild four-season climate and provides easy access to recreation in the Appalachian Mountains. 

Wenatchee, Washington

Located on the east side of the Cascade Mountains, just 22 miles southeast of the Bavarian town of Leavenworth, some have called Wenatchee the “Garden of Eden.” There’s minimal rain,  while the Columbia River winds through, and the jagged mountain peaks provide a magnificent backdrop. Known as the “Apple Capital of the World” orchards encircle the town, producing some of the tastiest fruit in the world. The scenic 10-mile paved Apple Capital Recreation Loop Traill crossing the Columbia and Wenatchee rivers, is a popular place to walk the dog, bike, jog, or walk. 

There’s no state tax on social security or pensions in Wenatchee and it boasts many great doctors per capita. Residents also enjoy a great sense of community and a high quality of life with low crime and fresh air.

Montgomery, Alabama

Alabama’s capital city offers an affordable cost of living – the cost of housing is very low compared to other cities with the median home price just under $115,000. It’s a great place if you want to make those retirement dollars stretch. Plus, it has a subtropical climate with winters averaging just under 60 degrees. 

While it does get a lot of rain, you’ll find plenty to do outdoors, with lots of parks, trails, and golf courses to enjoy when the sun is shining.

Sarasota, Florida

Sarasota is a retiree’s paradise with its own unique vibe that’s different from the state’s other coastal cities. It boasts a vibrant art scene, a wealth of fantastic eateries, a renowned opera house, and a fabulous seaside ambiance, particularly in St. Armands Circle and Siesta Key Village. Siesta Key Beach is often named the most beautiful beach in the country. Its silky white sands edged by clear blue waters will be practically at your doorstep. 

Hurricanes are rare here as the bay it sits on is small and doesn’t pull storms in the way that cities like Naples and Tampa or places on the other coast do. And, the cost of living in Sarasota is reasonable too, making it a great option for retirees on a budget.