Top 5 Cities for Seniors to Retire

04.27.2026 | Category: Travel & Living

Estimated Read Time: ~10 min

Key Takeaways

Choosing a retirement location involves evaluating the cost of living, taxes, healthcare access, climate and lifestyle priorities.
Retirees should review how relocating may affect Medicare coverage, especially regarding Medicare Advantage and Part D prescription plans.
Planning a retirement move should include budgeting, healthcare planning, housing decisions and building community connections before relocating.

Figuring out where to retire isn’t a decision to make lightly, since your location influences everything from your budget to your social life.

The best cities for retirees to live in offer way more than just nice weather and tax breaks. They offer strong healthcare systems, activities to enjoy and neighbors you’ll love spending time with.

The top retirement locations are affordable without requiring you to sacrifice the lifestyle you’ve been looking forward to. Your priorities matter here. Maybe you’re considering retirement complexes, or perhaps you’d rather be in a regular neighborhood.

Either way, you’ll need to think about how your budget fits into this decision. And honestly, what you’ll actually do with your time matters just as much as the cost of living.

We’ve rounded up the cities where retirees consistently say they’re glad they made the move.

Why location matters for your retirement

Location plays a vital role when choosing where to retire, whether you prefer coastal living, a vibrant urban setting, a quiet suburban community or a peaceful countryside retreat.

This decision impacts every aspect of your retirement experience, from making good use of your retirement income to ensuring financial security and maintaining a high quality of life.

Your retirement destination can impact your ability to maintain your desired lifestyle and make your retirement savings last. In the top states for retirement, the cost of living can vary significantly, and tax considerations are a key factor in your decision-making.

The housing market in top retirement destinations can impact your retirement savings milestones and strategies. Higher property costs may limit your ability to allocate funds elsewhere, while more affordable areas can help you stretch your savings further.

Healthcare access and quality across states

Healthcare access is another important factor in selecting the best cities to retire. As we age, our healthcare needs typically increase. This makes access to quality medical care essential for a comfortable retirement.

For people of retirement age on Medicare, you should also look into how moving to a different state may affect your Medicare coverage. While Medicare Part A & B and Medicare supplement insurance coverages carry over state lines, Medicare Advantage and Part D prescription coverage may differ from one state to another.

Understand Medicare in 2026

The best of the best: Top 5 places to retire in the U.S.

The U.S. News & World Report has named the best places to retire in the U.S. in 2026¹, ranking cities based on factors such as affordability, access to healthcare, taxes for retirees and overall desirability.

We used U.S. News & World Report’s rankings, as well as those on Niche.com, for this list of five of the best cities to retire in the U.S.

City	Population (Approx.)	Median home value (Approx.)	Healthcare access/ Quality	Taxes for retirees
Naples, Florida	19,500	$765,000	Strong healthcare network with high Medicare provider access	No state income tax; no tax on Social Security or pension benefits
Virginia Beach, Virginia	457,000	$375,000	Strong healthcare facilities; highly rated health and fitness resources	Social Security benefits are not taxed; seniors 65+ may qualify for an income-limited age deduction
Boise, Idaho	247,000	$475,000	Quality medical centers; strong health outcomes	Social Security benefits are not taxed; most retirement withdrawals taxed at ~5.8%
Raleigh, North Carolina	479,000	$415,000	Notable healthcare systems, including Duke, UNC and WakeMed	Social Security benefits are not taxed; other retirement income is taxed at a 3.99% flat rate
Scottsdale, Arizona	244,000	$750,000	Abundant senior-focused healthcare resources	Social Security benefits are not taxed; qualifying pensions are taxed with a small deduction and most other retirement income is taxed at Arizona’s 2.5% flat rate

1. Naples, Florida

Retirees love Florida for its warm weather and tax benefits, such as no state income tax and no tax on Social Security benefits. Many Florida communities consistently rank among the best places to retire due to these benefits. However, for 2025, Naples ranks as the number one spot for retirees.

Though the cost of living in Naples is relatively high, it offers a less congested and safer environment compared to larger cities in Florida, such as Tampa and Miami. Naples is ranked one of the best places to retire in Florida.²

2. Virginia Beach, Virginia

Retirees looking for a more affordable place to retire may want to consider Virginia Beach, Virginia. This city has an A-rating, scoring high for health and fitness and outdoor activities.³

In Virginia, Social Security isn’t taxed, and the state also allows qualifying individuals age 65 and older to subtract a certain amount from their income, helping lower their state income tax.⁴

3. Boise, Idaho

Boise, Idaho, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with countless trails, rivers and parks right at your doorstep. The city’s natural landscape offers endless opportunities for hiking, fishing and skiing, making it an ideal place to stay active and explore.

This capital city is often listed among the best places to live in the U.S. Property and sales taxes are low, and there is no tax on Social Security benefits. However, home prices in the area are relatively high, and income from retirement accounts is subject to a flat tax rate.

4. Raleigh, North Carolina

Raleigh, North Carolina, is a popular choice for “half-back” retirees — those who relocated from colder states to Florida but found the heat and humidity too overwhelming. With its milder climate, Raleigh offers a comfortable middle ground for those seeking a more temperate retirement location.

The state has a flat income tax rate and doesn’t tax Social Security benefits. Raleigh gets all four seasons, but usually doesn’t experience extreme cold or hot weather. The cost of living in Raleigh is on par with the national average.

5. Scottsdale, Arizona

Scottsdale is known for its low humidity, warm climate and abundant healthcare options, making it ideal for retirees seeking both comfort and health security. The city’s vibrant cultural scene, coupled with a range of outdoor activities, ensures there’s always something to enjoy in retirement.

With numerous golf courses, hiking trails and outdoor activities, Scottsdale offers plenty of opportunities to stay active and social. Additionally, the well-established community of retirees here creates a welcoming environment, making it easy to connect with others and enjoy a fulfilling retirement.

Essential factors to consider when choosing where to retire

If these five cities aren’t quite what you’re looking for, many other great retirement destinations might be a better fit.

Here are some factors you should consider when deciding on the best place to retire:

Retirement budget

When evaluating your retirement budget, create a comprehensive plan that includes property taxes, state taxes on retirement income, healthcare costs and lifestyle expenses such as travel and entertainment.

This will help you determine how much you need for your retirement and is vital when selecting from the best states for retirement.

Healthcare planning

Healthcare planning involves researching healthcare infrastructure in potential retirement destinations and considering proximity to healthcare facilities and long-term care options.

It’s important to evaluate the quality of local healthcare providers, including hospitals, specialists and emergency services. Additionally, consider whether the area offers the long-term care services you may need as you age, such as assisted living or nursing homes.

Lifestyle and community

Lifestyle and community are equally important when choosing the best cities to retire in the U.S. A strong sense of community and access to amenities that align with your interests can significantly improve your day-to-day happiness and overall well-being in retirement.

Evaluate climate preferences and health needs, research community centers, volunteer opportunities and lifelong learning options. Furthermore, you should consider proximity to family and friends when choosing from the best states for retirement.

Planning your interstate move for retirement

Start planning your move about two to three years before your intended relocation. Research and visit potential best places to retire in the U.S. during different seasons. You should also gradually declutter your current home, prepare it for sale and build connections in your new community before moving.

Create a detailed timeline for your move. This should include researching and choosing a location, finding a new home, updating legal documents, transferring medical care and establishing new banking relationships.

To ensure a smooth transition to any of our picks from the great places to retire, update all legal documents, including creating a will and your driver’s license and understanding residency requirements.

You should also plan your healthcare transition by finding new providers and reviewing any changes to your insurance coverage. Also, adjust your financial accounts and understand tax implications. Finally, research community groups in your new location while planning to stay in touch with current friends and family.

Your path to the ideal retirement location

Finding an ideal retirement city works differently for everyone. What your neighbor loves might not suit you at all. Start by writing what you absolutely need, such as warm winters, being close to an airport or having access to your favorite activities.

Then see how different cities measure up. Visit places more than once, ideally in different seasons. Chat with people who already live there, especially folks who recently retired there. You’re not looking for perfect. You’re looking for somewhere you’ll genuinely enjoy waking up each day.

Make informed retirement decisions with Mutual of Omaha

The retirement landscape has gotten more complex, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. Consider speaking with a Mutual of Omaha financial professional to help you make an informed decision about planning your ideal retirement.

At Mutual of Omaha, we understand the complex nature of retirement planning and are here to help you navigate it. Take the next step toward your ideal retirement with personalized guidance from Mutual of Omaha.

Looking for Medicare solutions?

We have an easy tool to help you find what’s right for you.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Which states offer the best tax advantages for retirees?

Some of the best states for retirement tax rates include Alaska, Florida, Nevada, South Dakota, Texas, Washington and Wyoming. These states are attractive because they do not tax retirement income. Consider the overall tax picture when choosing the best places to retire in the U.S.

How do I ensure my Medicare coverage transfers to my new state?

If you’re already retired and currently have Medicare coverage, your Original Medicare (Parts A and B) transfers automatically when you move to another state. For Medicare Advantage, Medicare supplement insurance plans or Part D coverage, you must enroll in a new plan in your new location. A permanent move qualifies you for a Special Enrollment Period, allowing you to switch plans without penalty.

What’s the ideal timeline for planning a retirement move?

The ideal timeline for planning a retirement move is to start two to three years before your intended relocation date. Use the first year to research and explore potential destinations, the second year to decide and begin preparations, and the final year to complete details and execute your move.

Should I rent or buy in my chosen retirement location?

The decision to rent or buy in your chosen retirement location depends on factors such as market conditions, your financial situation and how long you plan to stay. Renting may offer flexibility if you’re unsure about the area, while buying could be a better option if you plan to settle in the area long-term. Consider these factors carefully to ensure you make the best choice for your retirement plans.

Sources:

S. News & World Report, 250 best places to retire in the U.S. in 2026
Niche.com, Naples
Virginia Beach, Naples
Virginia Department of Taxation, Virginia Taxes and Your Retirement

Disclosures:

Mutual of Omaha and its representatives do not provide tax and/or legal advice, and the information provided herein is general in nature and should not be considered tax and/or legal advice.

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Video transcript:

Thinking about retirement? Here’s something to consider. Where you retire can be almost as important as how much you’ve saved. Factors such as a city’s cost of living, taxes, healthcare access, and housing prices all play a role in how far your savings will go and show much you’ll enjoy this exciting chapter of life. US News and World Report recently compiled a list of the best places to retire. These are its top five destinations.

Scottsdale, Arizona offers low humidity, warm temperatures, and excellent healthcare options. Perfect if comfort and health security are your top priorities.

Raleigh, North Carolina combines a pleasant climate with a flat income tax and no taxes on social security benefits, making it easy on your wallet.

Love the outdoors? Check out Boise, Idaho. You’ll enjoy low taxes, including no tax on social security, plus amazing recreational opportunities right outside your door.

Virginia Beach, Virginia scores high marks for healthcare and outdoor activities with the bonus of low taxes, including no taxes on social security.

And the number one spot, Naples, Florida, where low crime, tax benefits, and beautiful sunny weather come together to create the ultimate retirement destination. Wherever you choose to retire, here’s to a retirement that’s everything you’ve dreamed of. For more helpful information on retirement planning, visit mutualofomaha.com.