Top 15 Must-experience Places To Retire in America

As housing prices continue to climb and the cost of living soars in many places, people are increasingly concerned about their retirement plans. Retirees need to live within their financial plan but want to retire somewhere with kind people, plentiful amenities, and a comfortable quality of life.

The best places to retire are often cities that fly under the radar, offering retirees a quieter atmosphere without sacrificing entertainment and culture. Luckily, there are many sensational places for people heading toward retirement.

1. Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

Pride of the Susquehanna riverboat on the Susquehanna River, Harrisburg, PA
Image Credit: David Flores – CC BY 2.0/Wiki Commons.

Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, is one of the best places for retirees because the taxes are low for retired residents, and it has plenty of enticing things to do. The capital city of Pennsylvania looks as pretty as a postcard in the winter and has stunning fall foliage. With art festivals, exceptional restaurants, and an affordable cost of living, it’s a prime place for retirees.

2. Pensacola, Florida

Bruce Beach Park Pensacola, Florida
Image Credit: City of Pensacola.

For retirees who love being by the ocean, Pensacola is a dream. The area has an eclectic and energetic vibe, with community holiday celebrations and delicious food. The reasonable cost of living means that retired people can enjoy a luxurious beachfront lifestyle without breaking the bank.

3. Lancaster, Pennsylvania

North Duke Street in Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Image Credit: Scanlan – CC BY-SA 3.0/Wiki Commons.

Lancaster is ranked high on lists of best places to retire because of the spacious atmosphere and diverse community. Many folks love the location because you can enjoy all four seasons with distinct weather changes. It has a small-town vibe but no shortage of entertaining amenities, including restaurants, shops, and more.

4. Naples, Florida

Naples, Florida
Image Credit: Charles Patrick Ewing – CC BY 2.0/Wiki Commons.

This desirable retirement destination offers a lavish lifestyle for a discounted rate. With many gated communities and massive homes, retirees can spread out here and enjoy their golden years in a peaceful and sunny location. Dreamy sunsets, soft sand beaches, and access to golfing, boating, and more make it an idyllic place to unwind.

5. Ann Arbor, Michigan

Downtown Ann Arbor as seen from E Huron St
Image Credit: CC BY-SA 4.0/Wiki Commons.

Ann Arbor is a brilliant option for those who want a stimulating and rich retirement experience. The many museums, universities, libraries, theaters, and other cultural attractions mean it’s an exciting place to live. However, it’s not a stellar choice for people who loathe the cold and snow.

6. York, Pennsylvania

Home of William C. Goodridge, a successful black businessman who ran an Underground Railway station
Image Credit: Wiki Commons.

York, Pennsylvania, has a lovable country vibe, offering folks a picturesque and rustic retirement. The area is home to top-notch restaurants, historical sites, and a meaningful arts scene. The many parks, markets, and galleries make it perfect for both outdoorsy and artistic retirees.

7. Savannah, Georgia

River Street. Savannah, Georgia
Image Credit: Daniel Mayer, Own Work – CC BY-SA 3.0/Wiki Commons.

Savannah, Georgia, has a low cost of living, which makes it appealing, but it’s also one of the most beautiful cities in America. Retirees can enjoy tax exemptions, outdoor beauty, and vibrant entertainment. The warm climate makes it comfortable for many, but it can also be a prime location for adventurous retirees.

8. Mequon, Wisconsin

The clay bluffs in Virmond Park along Lake Michigan
Image Credit: CC BY-SA 4.0/Wiki Commons.

Mequon is one of Wisconsin’s most sought-after retirement locations because it combines a laidback suburban lifestyle with the excitement of an urban setting. It’s close to Milwaukee for those who want to enjoy city life, but Mequon has a tranquil and cozy vibe. It’s especially perfect for outdoor enthusiasts with hiking trails, diverse wildlife, and nature preserves.

9. Youngstown, Ohio

A view of Lanterman's Mill and Lanterman's Falls in Mill Creek Park in Youngstown, Ohio
Image Credit: CC BY-SA 4.0/Wiki Commons.

People recommend retiring in Youngstown because the housing is affordable, the retiree taxes are low, and the area has excellent healthcare. Youngstown has recently seen a business boom and is becoming a fabulous place to live. However, it’s still highly affordable, so retirees are taking advantage of the town’s steady improvement.

10. Fort Wayne, Indiana

Fort Wayne, Indiana
Image Credit: Austin Ochoa – CC0/Wiki Commons.

Fort Wayne has a warm, community vibe but offers the enticing amenities of a major city. The flourishing art scene, long life expectancy, and plethora of public parks are just a few reasons people adore this area. With consistently mild weather, stunning nature, and an active community, it’s lovely for retirees who want to remain active and social.

11. Manchester, New Hampshire

Manchester, New Hampshire
Image Credit: CC BY-SA 3.0/Wiki Commons.

Aside from the low cost of living, Manchester is a superb place to retire because it offers an abundance of appealing elements. You can experience the dazzling natural scenery of mountains and lush forests and enjoy the mouthwatering New England seafood. But compared to many other New England cities, it’s quite affordable and relaxed.

12. Winston-Salem, North Carolina

Skyline of Winston-Salem, North Carolina
Image Credit: CC BY-SA 2.0/Wiki Commons.

People are heading to Winston-Salem, North Carolina, for retirement because of the top-notch medical facilities, an artsy vibe, and a high quality of life. The area has an eccentric and colorful atmosphere with fresh businesses, trendy activities, and friendly people. However, it still has that Southern charm people love.

13. Trenton, New Jersey

NJ State House or Capitol, Trenton, NJ
Image Credit: CC BY-SA 4.0/Wiki Commons.

Trenton, New Jersey, is one of the larger cities people recommend for retirement, with a thriving economy and dynamic energy. Specifically, the food scene here is incredible and only getting better. With affordable homes, historic buildings, and modern amenities, it’s hard to find something to dislike about Trenton.

14. Rochester, New York

Rochester, New York
Image Credit: Patrick Ashley – CC BY 2.0/Wiki Commons.

Rochester has a low cost of living and well-ranked healthcare, but many people move there for retirement because of the warmhearted and convivial atmosphere. It’s considered one of the friendliest cities in the nation, ranked number two in neighborliness. While it has many other benefits, many love it because of the people who make them feel welcome.

15. Daytona Beach, Florida

Flock of seagulls gathered near the shoreline in Daytona Beach, FL
Image Credit: CC BY-SA 4.0/Wiki Commons.

Daytona Beach can be a retirement paradise for beach lovers. Compared to many places in Florida, it has a low cost of living, and the residents are among the happiest people in the country. Plenty of gated communities and retiree neighborhoods allow newly retired people to feel right at home and enjoy an active community.

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