Top Cities for Retirement in 2025

As older individuals consider retirement, many lean towards the southern regions, attracted by warm weather, affordable living, and beneficial tax structures.

Traditionally, places such as Naples and Fort Lauderdale lead as popular retiree spots. However, the Midwest is gaining traction, as WalletHub's latest analysis highlights.

Analyzing 182 cities, WalletHub evaluated retirement viability based on four major factors: engaging activities, economic affordability, health services, and quality of life. These criteria weighed evenly, yet nuances within each carried different importance; for instance, the cost of living took precedence over in-home care expenses when assessing affordability.

The standout locations blend reasonable costs, superior healthcare, and lively cultures, Chip Lupo from WalletHub explained. These cities often feature moderate climates, robust economic landscapes, and a variety of activities for retirees to stay engaged and socially connected.

It's no surprise that nearly half of the top-ranked cities are in Florida, while California cities fill the majority of the least favorable retirement destinations.

Conversely, the least desirable cities, such as San Bernardino, Stockton, and Rancho Cucamonga in California, are burdened by expensive living costs and subpar healthcare, making them less attractive for retirees.

While southern cities dominate the rankings, notable entries from the Midwest also feature prominently among the best places to retire.

Minneapolis secures third place thanks to its efficient healthcare, vibrant senior community, and job options for those extending their careers.

Leading Cities for Retirees

10. Casper, Wyoming

This city tops cost rankings, offers acceptable healthcare, and has a median property price of $345,000.

9. Madison, Wisconsin

Known for excellent medical facilities, though pricier at $420,000 median home price.

8. Cincinnati, Ohio

Balancing costs and healthcare with a median home value at $295,000.

7. Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Offers a blend of affordability and healthcare access, homes usually priced around $599,000.

6. Atlanta, Georgia

Competitive cost and health rankings with homes around $370,000.

5. Tampa, Florida

Attractive to retirees for its affordability and vibrant culture, houses hover near $469,900.

4. Miami, Florida

Balances moderate healthcare and affordability, homes average $625,000.

3. Minneapolis, Minnesota

Praised for superior healthcare and community engagement, median homes cost $329,000.

2. Scottsdale, Arizona

Higher property prices at $1.1 million, yet renowned for quality healthcare and lifestyle.

1. Orlando, Florida

Combines affordability and healthcare value, median house prices around $385,000.

Challenging Cities for Retirees

10. Bridgeport, Connecticut

High living costs and median homes at $360,000 limit its desirability.

9. Salem, Oregon

Struggles with healthcare access; property values at $485,000.

8. Pearl City, Hawaii

Expensive living and limited care services; homes average $622,000.

7. Fontana, California

High costs and poor healthcare metrics, priced at $669,000.

6. Fresno, California

Faces issues with cost and healthcare, home values about $410,000.

5. Newark, New Jersey

Challenges with affordability and healthcare, homes roughly $419,900.

4. Bakersfield, California

Ranking poorly in medical and living costs, properties at $420,000.

3. Rancho Cucamonga, California

High property costs at $799,000 and lower healthcare access.

2. Stockton, California

Expensive living with inadequate healthcare; homes at $454,900.

1. San Bernardino, California

Ranks low due to costly living and weak medical services, median homes priced at $515,000.