Thinking Retirement? Top Seven Places to Move

It may be possible to improve your quality of life—and make your retirement savings last longer—by relocating to a destination that better fits your lifestyle, health needs, and financial goals.

Across the United States, certain cities stand out for retirees. Some offer lower taxes and a reduced cost of living. Others provide access to high-quality healthcare, walkable communities, and opportunities to stay active and socially engaged. The right environment can play a major role in maintaining your independence as you age.

Here, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best places to retire, based on data from the Gallup National Health and Well-Being Index. The index evaluates key factors including physical health, emotional well-being, financial security, and community connection—giving you a more complete picture of where you may be able to not just live longer, but live better.

As you review these locations, think about what matters most to you. Do you want to be closer to family? Reduce everyday expenses? Improve access to medical care? Or enjoy a slower, more comfortable pace of life? Your priorities will shape the right choice—but where you live can make all the difference.

Here, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best cities to retire to, based on data collected as part of the Gallup National Health and Well-Being Index.

#1 - Sarasota, Florida

Population: 785,997

Percentage of population over 60: 39%

Median monthly rent: $1,152

Median monthly mortgage repayments: $1,481

Siesta Key Beach is located on the gulf coast of Sarasota, Florida.

The white sand beaches of Sarasota, including Siesta Key and Lido Key, are a sublime drawcard for retirees. Sarasota received a high well-being score in a Gallup survey, with residents reporting that the area was rich in community and supportive social relationships. The moderate cost of real estate in Sarasota enables those retiring on a budget to get in on the Florida beach retirement action. There’s also no state income tax in Florida, which considerably benefits anyone planning to continue working part-time into their retirement.

Health Care in Sarasota

There is plenty of health care available in Sarasota. The Sarasota Memorial Health Care System is one of the largest public hospitals in the United States. It offers inpatient, outpatient, and rehabilitation services. It is an 839-bed regional medical center with more than 900 physicians, 7,000 staff, and 750 volunteers.

In addition, Tampa is only 61 miles away and has many top medical facilities and specialists available.

There are several other hospitals and clinics available. Long-term health care costs are moderate, with many available assisted living facilities, in-home health care agencies, memory care, and nursing homes available.

The LTC News Cost of Care Calculator can help you determine the current and future cost of long-term care services and supports in Florida and nationwide.

#2 - Port St. Lucie, Florida

Population: 463,172

Percentage of population over 60: 33%

Median monthly rent: $1,126

Median monthly mortgage repayments: $1,436

Situated along Florida’s Atlantic coast, Port St. Lucie offers desirable living at a reasonably affordable cost. The area also scored well on the Gallup survey’s happiness metric, with residents reporting a lack of economic stress in their lives. As well as the beautiful ocean beaches, you can adventure around the Hillmoor Lake boardwalk trails, and the Savannas Preserve freshwater marshes. Sports fans can get their fix of the live-action at Clover Park while the New York Mets conduct their spring training.

There is plenty of available health care, including hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities, and in-home health agencies available throughout the Port St. Lucie and Atlantic coast area.

The LTC News Cost of Care Calculator can help you determine the current and future cost of long-term care services and supports in Florida and nationwide. 

#3 - Lancaster, Pennsylvania

Population: 538,347

Percentage of population over 60: 23%

Median monthly rent: $978

Median monthly mortgage repayments: $1,516

Located between Harrisburg and Philadelphia, Lancaster is the former capital of Pennsylvania. According to Gallup, residents reported feeling safe in their community. The area is surrounded by farmland. Plus, there are plenty of local stores and the vibrant Lancaster Central Markets that offer an assortment of wonderful Amish baked goods and craft items. The city, in fact, boasts a diverse collection of delicious cuisines - creating quite the foodie scene, with old buildings and warehouses being converted into hip bars and restaurants.

There are plenty of medical services available in Lancaster with hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation facilities, in-home health agencies, long-term care facilities, and more.  

The LTC News Cost of Care Calculator can help you determine the current and future cost of long-term care services and supports in Pennsylvania and nationwide. 

#4 - Asheville, North Carolina

Population: 449,937

Percentage of population over 60: 29%

Median monthly rent: $874

Median monthly mortgage repayments: $1,286

Asheville, North Carolina skyline

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Nantahala National Forests, and the Pisgah provide idyllic spots to enjoy some outdoor adventure. Just a relaxing drive along the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway is enough for an enjoyable day out. The mountain town of Asheville scored high Gallup survey marks for desirability and affordability of living. Residents expressed enjoying taking great pride in their community. The area attracts many writers, musicians, and artists and is growing increasingly popular with emerging and innovative chefs. It’s easy to enjoy delicious creations sourced from local ingredients and unique brewery offerings in beautiful Asheville.

Ashville has an abundance of available health care services, which is essential if you plan on relocating. They have state-of-the-art medical facilities, including Mission Health System that offers cancer, heart, and neurology services. There are specialists in every major area of medicine available. Ashville is also home to the region's only Level II Trauma Center.

In addition, Charlotte, North Carolina, is 131 miles away, and Knoxville, Tennessee is 116 miles away. Both metro areas also have state-of-the-art medical facilities available. 

There are many in-home health agencies, adult day care centers, assisted living facilities, memory care facilities, and nursing homes in the Ashville area. 

The LTC News Cost of Care Calculator can help you determine the current and future cost of long-term care services and supports in the Ashville area and throughout North Carolina and Tennessee.

#5 - Miami, Florida

Population: 6,070,944

Percentage of population over 60: 23%

Median monthly rent: $1,295

Median monthly mortgage repayments: $1,774

While it is the more expensive option within Florida, the amenities that Miami offers are well worth the cost to many residents looking to retire. At the southern tip of the state, Miami allows for beach retirement while staying close to the services that a big city offers. The University of Miami hosts the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, which provides regular discussions and lectures for the over-fifties. Residents over the age of 65 are also eligible to use public transport for free.

Since Miami is a major metropolitan center, it is home to some of the top medical professionals in Florida. Many leading hospitals, surgery centers, clinics, medical specialists, doctors and urgent care centers, and more accessible in Miami.

In addition, there are numerous long-term health care choices in the Miami area. You can find plenty of in-home care providers, adult day care centers, assisted living facilities, memory care facilities, rehabilitation centers, and nursing homes. 

The cost of long-term health care is higher than the state average. You can use the LTC News Cost of Care Calculator to find the current and future cost of extended health care in Miami and throughout Florida.

#6 - Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Population: 447,775

Percentage of population over 60: 33%

Median monthly rent: $913

Median monthly mortgage repayments: $1,267

Myrtle Beach South Carolina aerial view at sunset.

Myrtle Beach is popular as a well-known vacation destination; however, the area’s reasonable cost of housing allows retirees to enjoy a permanent vacation lifestyle. There are a whopping 60 miles of beautiful beaches along the Atlantic shoreline. The area also boasts many golf courses designed by top architects, including Jack Nicklaus, Robert Trent Jones, and Arnold Palmer. It’s easy to find a quiet place to indulge in some local seafood or join in with the tourists at the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Skywheel.

Myrtle Beach has plenty of health care services available to provide peace of mind when you relocate. Three available hospital systems serve the Myrtle Beach region: Grand Strand Regional Medical Center, Georgetown Hospital System, and McLeod Health. They all offer urgent care and specialty services as well. 

There are many doctors and clinics in Myrtle Beach that offer basic primary care and many specialties. 

There are also several long-term health care facilities in Myrtle Beach, including assisted living facilities, memory care facilities, rehabilitation facilities, and nursing homes. There are plenty of in-home health agencies and adult day care centers that can also provide long-term care services and supports.

You can use the LTC News Cost of Care Calculator to see both the current and future costs of long-term care service in Myrtle Beach and throughout South Carolina.

#7 Pensacola, Florida

Population: 481,964

Percentage of population over 60: 22%

Median monthly rent: $992

Median monthly mortgage repayments: $1,287

Pensacola, Florida, offers up an affordable spot for beach retirement living on a budget. With famous white-sand beaches, including Perdido Key and Pensacola Beach, you can spot stunning wildlife, including sea turtles, dolphins, and rays. Or you can head to the Gulf Islands National Seashore to explore the old military forts. Pensacola scored well for housing affordability and general desirability of lifestyle. It is also located in the northwestern corner of Florida, near the Alabama border, for convenient proximity to the Gulf of Mexico and Pensacola Bay.

There are several hospitals and other medical facilities available in Pensacola. In addition, there are numerous long-term health care options for when you need them, including in-home health agencies, adult day care centers, rehabilitation facilities, assisted living, and memory care facilities, in addition to nursing homes. 

The LTC News Cost of Care Calculator will help you see both the current and future costs of long-term care services and supports in Pensacola and throughout Florida.

Timing Has Never Been Better to Move Elsewhere

There may never be a better time to rethink where you live. Retirement gives you the flexibility to choose a place that supports your lifestyle, your health, and your financial future.

Whether you’re drawn to warmer weather, scenic surroundings, a lower cost of living, or reduced taxes, the right location can make everyday life more enjoyable—and more sustainable over time. A change of pace can also open the door to new experiences, stronger social connections, and greater independence as you age.

At the same time, you need to plan for the realities of aging. The cost of long-term care is rising and varies significantly across the country. What may be affordable in one state can be dramatically more expensive in another, especially when it comes to in-home care, assisted living, or nursing facilities. Without a plan, these costs can quickly erode retirement savings. You can see the availability of caregivers and long-term care facilities anywhere in the United States with the LTC News Caregiver Directory.

Including Long-Term Care Insurance as part of your retirement strategy can help protect your assets and provide access to quality care options, including care at home. Planning ahead gives you more control over where and how you receive care—regardless of where you choose to live.

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The key is to be intentional. Where you choose to live will shape not just your day-to-day lifestyle, but also your access to healthcare, support services, and long-term care resources.

So ask yourself: Are you living where you want to be—or just where you’ve always been? Making a move now, while you have the health and flexibility to choose, could be one of the most important decisions you make for the years ahead. 

Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Places to Retire

What factors should you consider when choosing the best place to retire?

When selecting a retirement destination, you should evaluate cost of living, taxes, access to healthcare, housing affordability, climate, and overall quality of life. Community engagement, safety, and proximity to family are also key considerations that can impact long-term happiness and independence.

Why does location matter so much in retirement?

Where you live affects nearly every aspect of your retirement—from your daily expenses to your access to medical care and support services. As highlighted in this analysis based on Gallup well-being data, certain cities offer stronger community ties, better health outcomes, and lower financial stress, all of which contribute to a higher quality of life.

Which states are the most tax-friendly for retirees?

States like Florida, highlighted multiple times in this list, offer no state income tax, which can significantly reduce your overall tax burden. Other tax-friendly states may also provide exemptions on retirement income, property tax relief, or lower overall living costs.

How important is access to healthcare when choosing where to retire?

Access to high-quality healthcare is one of the most critical factors in retirement planning. As you age, you are more likely to need medical services, specialists, and potentially long-term care. Cities with strong hospital systems, specialists, and rehabilitation services can help you maintain independence longer.

How much does long-term care cost in retirement?

Long-term care costs vary widely depending on location and the type of care you need. In-home care, assisted living, and nursing home care can differ significantly from one state to another. In higher-cost areas, extended care can quickly deplete retirement savings without proper planning.

Does where you live affect long-term care costs?

Yes. Geography plays a major role in long-term care expenses. For example, metropolitan areas and coastal regions often have higher costs than smaller cities or inland communities. Choosing a more affordable location can help manage future care expenses—but planning ahead is still essential.

Why should Long-Term Care Insurance be part of your retirement plan?

Including Long-Term Care Insurance in your retirement strategy helps protect your savings and gives you access to quality care options, including care at home. It allows you to maintain control over your care choices and reduces the financial and emotional burden on your family.

When is the best time to relocate in retirement?

The best time to relocate is before health issues limit your ability to make a move. Relocating while you are still active allows you to choose a location that fits your lifestyle and future care needs, rather than being forced into a decision during a health crisis.

How can relocating improve your quality of life in retirement?

Relocating can lower your cost of living, improve your access to healthcare, provide better weather, and offer more opportunities for social engagement. Many retirees find that the right environment helps them stay active, connected, and independent longer.

What is the biggest mistake people make when choosing where to retire?

One of the biggest mistakes is focusing only on lifestyle factors like weather or scenery while ignoring long-term care access, healthcare quality, and future costs. A well-rounded decision should balance enjoyment today with planning for tomorrow.