10 Best and Worst Cities to Retire in Right Now
Retirement shouldn’t be about stretching your dollars or worrying about where all your hard-earned money is going. It should be relaxing, worry-free, and waking up to a life that still feels exciting.
But if we’re being completely honest, not every city gets a gold star for golden years. Let’s just say they could use a little polish. Here’s a look at the top and bottom retirement cities across the country.
San Bernardino, California
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The weather may be sunny, but San Bernardino comes with some serious storm clouds. Crime rates are unsettling, healthcare access is limited, and air quality often lands in the red zone. Tack on a high cost of living without the lifestyle perks to justify it, and it’s not exactly where you’d want your rocking chair.
Newark, New Jersey
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If you’re planning to retire here, you might need a second job just to afford it. The cost of living is above the national average, and crumbling infrastructure doesn’t help. Plus, the high crime rate and housing costs chew up a huge chunk of the average resident’s income.
Stockton, California
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Stockton’s comeback story still feels stuck in the second act. Foreclosure rates remain high, property values are inflated, and while nearby cities offer cultural vibrancy, Stockton doesn’t quite measure up. You’ll pay city prices without city perks—and that’s not the kind of math retirees appreciate.
Detroit, Michigan
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There’s grit, and then there’s grit fatigue. Detroit has its charms, but aging infrastructure, high property taxes, and harsh winters don’t exactly scream “easy living.” Blocks of vacant homes and uneven neighborhood development have forced it to lose its shine.
Bakersfield, California
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You know it’s bad when even the air feels tired. Bakersfield battles poor air quality year-round thanks to agriculture and oil, while also dealing with extreme heat and limited walkability. Crime stats aren’t encouraging either. This city demands constant driving and extra caution, neither ideal for retirement.
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
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You could call it Miami’s calmer cousin, with less chaos and more charm. Fort Lauderdale delivers easy beach access, a built-in retiree community, and public transportation that makes getting around feel effortless. Golfing, boating, and walkable neighborhoods balance relaxation with accessibility.
Greenville, South Carolina
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This small city has a big heart. Greenville has the sweetest mix of affordability and greenery. The walkable town has nearby mountain escapes, which makes it easy to enjoy life at your own pace. Most importantly, you can access all this and more without breaking the bank or battling big-city chaos.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
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Once known for steel, now known for stability–it’s no wonder that Pittsburgh is becoming such a hit and the perfect city to spend your relaxing retirement years. It has low housing costs, top-notch medical centers, and a thriving cultural scene.
Orlando, Florida
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Beyond the theme parks, Orlando stands out for tax advantages and strong healthcare systems. The weather is reliably warm, and the city offers a surprisingly affordable cost of living. Entertainment and outdoor spaces abound, too.
Scottsdale, Arizona
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Scottsdale doesn’t do anything halfway. The upscale dining and world-class healthcare make for quite a polished lifestyle. The cost of living is higher, yes—but for those who can swing it, the city gives back in quality of life and vibrant community energy.
Lincoln, Nebraska
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Who says laid-back can’t be lovely? Lincoln is quiet, clean, and packed with practical perks. Low crime, great bike paths, and housing that won’t drain your savings make it a smart pick for retirees who want just enough to do on a Tuesday afternoon.
Madison, Wisconsin
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Madison pairs excellent healthcare access with a walkable layout and strong public amenities. Winters are cold, but the city compensates with a thoughtful design that includes cultural institutions, green space, and accessible transit.
Sioux Falls, South Dakota
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Let’s talk numbers: Sioux Falls has more physicians per capita than most U.S. cities. And when you consider the low crime, low taxes, and affordable housing, the math just makes sense. It’s also got parks, bike trails, and a strong healthcare safety net.
College Station, Texas
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Anchored by Texas A&M, the city has youthful energy and senior-friendly infrastructure. Clean air, low crime, and no state income tax make it a low-stress, high-comfort option—ideal for retirees who like their peace with a dash of local pride.
The Villages, Florida
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You won’t just find shuffleboard here, but you’ll find full-on festivals. The Villages is built with retirees in mind; it offers social clubs, golf cart highways, and healthcare centers in every direction. It’s like a college campus for grown-ups, only with less homework and better wine.