If you’re thinking about moving to the US after you retire, you won’t be disappointed. While some cities in America have a reputation for being more suitable for retirement than others, there are actually a broad range of landscapes, climates and demographics to choose from when you make the move.
Are you considering packing up and spending your sunset years in the USA? This guide will describe:
- The best cities in the USA to move to after retirement
- Cities that are great for both warm- and cold-weather lovers
- Cities that are inclusive to all nationalities – you’ll feel right at home!
Whether you’re seriously considering an American retirement or are just tossing the idea around, this guide includes what you need to know before you go. Here are the best American cities to retire to.
1. El Paso, Texas
Climate: Mild winters, hot summers
Median income: $44,416
Population: 683,577
Number of seniors: 12%
Median apartment rent: $791
Who should retire here: Nature lovers, history lovers
El Paso, Texas is known for its proximity to the Mexican border and the Rio Grande River. Bordered by gorgeous mountains and home to wide open skies, it’s hard to find a place in El Paso that doesn’t offer extraordinary views, courtesy of Mother Nature.
El Paso is a great place to retire in America because the climate is dry, warm and well suited to those on a tight budget. You’ll feel inspired to get outdoors in the El Paso autumn, winter and spring, and in the summer central air conditioning is a given.
If you’re considering a move to retire in the USA, El Paso is a fantastic place to look into. Housing prices are low, so you can invest your retirement savings in a place you can pass on to your children.
- El Paso summers are hot, but the rest of the year is quite mild and comfortable
- You’ll love the natural views El Paso offers
- The low cost of living makes El Paso a great choice for those on a budget
2. Orlando, Florida
Climate: Mild winters, warm rainy summers
Median income: $41,901
Population: 280,257
Number of seniors: 10%
Median apartment rent: $1,262
Who should retire here: Seniors who want plenty of activities to fill their days
In America, it’s a long-running joke that when people retire, they move to Florida. There’s good reason for that, too. The climate is great for those seniors who want to retire to sunshine, though Florida does have a “rainy season.” In the summers, you can expect a seemingly random rainstorm every afternoon, but it passes just as soon as it comes on.
Because of its proximity to Disney World, Sea World and other theme parks, Orlando residents do see a lot of tourists come through. But the upside to that is that there’s always something to do! Go visit the world’s largest alligator in Christmas, Florida or spend the day with Mickey Mouse at Epcot.
Orlando’s cost of living isn’t the lowest in the United States, but if you’ve saved enough to purchase a home you’re in good shape. Can’t afford Orlando proper? Consider neighboring Kissimmee for lower cost per square foot.
- Orlando, Florida isn’t just about Disney and Sea World – there’s plenty for everyone!
- The climate of Orlando is comfortable for most seniors, but expect a bit of rain!
- Neighboring Kissimmee offers good, affordable options for those withing to retire to the area
3. Chattanooga, Tennessee
Climate: Temperate, mountain weather
Median income: $41,911
Population: 179,139
Number of seniors: 20%
Median apartment rent: $771
Who should retire here: Nature lovers, seniors who want a small town feel
Chattanooga is one of the most beautiful cities in the United States. In fact, it’s not fair to call it a city – the location has more of an American small town feel. Your neighbors will become your friends, and even the people you pass on the street will be friendly and inclusive.
The population of seniors in Chattanooga is exceptionally high. Around 20% of residents are in the over 60 crowd, so if you want to retire to Chattanooga you’ll find plenty of people your age to socialize with. You’ll never lack things to do, either. From the Lookout Mountain Incline Railway to simply checking out the gorgeous rock formations, Chattanooga is an adventurer’s – and photographer’s – paradise.
If you’re not familiar with American “mountain weather,” you’re in for a treat. Summers in the Tennessee mountains are warm but not oppressively hot. Winters will be snowy, so expect to ski. Spring weather is cool and crisp, and falls are stunningly beautiful with foliage of hundreds of colors.
- Chattanooga is a beautiful mountain city with a small town feel
- The population of seniors in Chattanooga is very high relative to the general population
- If you love nature, Chattanooga is an excellent place to consider for retirement in the USA
4. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Climate: Cold winters, moderate summers
Median income: $58,521
Population: 302,407
Number of seniors: 18%
Median apartment rent: $1,252
Who should retire here: Sports fans, those with medical needs
The cost of living in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania is a little higher than some other cities in America you could choose to retire to. But the payoff may be worth it for you. Most Americans think of Pittsburgh as a college town, with Carnegie-Mellon and the University of Pittsburgh right there. But the city is a hotspot for world-class medical facilities as a result.
Pittsburgh is a sports fan’s dream come true. Get to know American football with the Steelers. Like hockey or baseball? Catch a Penguins or Pirates game. Or, simply head to one of the universities and learn about American tailgating at an event there.
If you’re not into sports, that’s okay too. There’s plenty to do and see in Pittsburgh including museums, aquariums and more. When the grandkids come to visit, they’ll love the theme parks, water parks and the zoo! There’s something for everyone in Pittsburgh.
- Sports fans will love Pittsburgh for its American football, hockey and baseball
- Medical facilities in Pittsburgh are second to none due to its proximity to universities and colleges
- You and the grandkids will always have something to do in Pittsburgh, from water parks to zoos
5. Fort Wayne, Indiana
Climate: Cold winters, warm to hot summers
Median income: $43,994
Population: 265,904
Number of seniors: 18%
Median apartment rent: $787
Who should retire here: Nature lovers, entertainment seekers
Fort Wayne, Indiana isn’t usually on most people’s top ten list of places to retire. But if you’ve overlooked this Indiana city, you’re missing out! The landscape of this location is typical of a mid-sized city in America, but you’ll love the huge skies and lush greenery Fort Wayne offers.
Fort Wayne has two things seniors will love: a high percentage of seniors are the population, and it has a low cost of living. That means you can get more bang for your buck whether you’re renting or purchasing a home.
There are plenty of ways to spend your hours in Fort Wayne, too. This US city offers botanical gardens, a zoo, art and science museums, and plenty of riverfront nightlife (and daylife). Be sure you check out the annual music festivals and more in Fort Wayne, as well.
- Fort Wayne is often overlooked as a retirement city
- There are many opportunities for entertainment in the city, no matter your age
- The cost of living in Fort Wayne makes this an accessible option for retirement
6. Miami, Florida
Climate: Hot summers, mild winters
Median income: $40,327
Population: 463,347
Number of seniors: 20%
Median apartment rent: $1,704
Who should retire here: Shoppers, beach lovers, golfers
Miami certainly isn’t the least expensive place to retire in America. But if you’re looking for a posh, beachfront retirement home, this is the place for you. Average home prices in Miami are actually quite high. But if you don’t have need for a huge home with many bedrooms, you can still find a two bedroom home for a reasonable price.
Miami is an adventure, to put it mildly. The tropical feel of the US city can’t be beat, and you’ll love the high-end shopping and boutiques if that’s your thing. The city is everything you imagine for retirement: pools, cabanas, golf, museums and elaborate and elegant events year round.
But Miami isn’t just about retirement. Your extended family can learn to surf, visit museums and waterparks, check out aquariums or just relax on the beaches of this city with a tropical feel.
- The cost of living in Miami is higher than other American cities to retire
- This price might be worth it if you enjoy a true “retirement lifestyle”
- You’ll have access to golf, shopping, cabanas and more in Miami
7. Manchester, New Hampshire
Climate: Mild summers, cold winters
Median income: $56,467
Population: 111,196
Number of seniors: 13%
Median apartment rent: $1,150
Who should retire here: Nature lovers, UK citizens
There’s nothing like a New Hampshire autumn. It’s the stuff of postcards and calendars, and many artists have immortalized the bright and vivid hues of New Hampshire falls. The skiing and snow sports in Manchester are incredible in the winter, and the summers are mild and comfortable.
New Hampshire is one of six states in a region of the United States called New England. New England states boast some of America’s richest history, and have a climate that’s somewhat similar to that of the UK. You can expect temperatures to be comfortable if that’s where you’re coming from.
The city of Manchester itself has a slightly higher cost of living than some of the other cities to retire on this list, but the average income is higher to match. Many residents find that the lifestyle in the small town is worth the extra cost. Plus, there’s no sales tax and no earned income tax, which is rare in the United States and will save you some money.
- Manchester, New Hampshire is one of the most beautiful cities in the US
- You’ll enjoy four distinct seasons with plenty of outdoor activities year round
- The cost of living is slightly higher, but so is the average income and you’ll save on tax as well
8. Raleigh, North Carolina
Climate: Hot summers, mild to cool winters
Median income: $64,660
Population: 464,758
Number of seniors: 8%
Median apartment rent: $1,109
Who should retire here: Tech lovers, people with medical needs, those who value diversity
Raleigh, North Carolina doesn’t currently have a huge population of seniors. However, studies show that the city has one of the fastest growing populations of seniors in the country. Whether you’re well or have a disability and would like to move to an assisted living facility, Raleigh has options for every lifestyle.
It would be unfair to single out Raleigh as one of the best places in North Carolina to retire. The city is nearby to other large metropolitan locations like Durham, Cary and Chapel Hill. All of these cities celebrate diversity – you’ll find people of every ethnicity there and local culture to reflect that.
Hospitals are world class in the Raleigh area. Choose from Duke, UNC, WakeMed, Rex and more as you care for yourself and your loved ones. And there’s never a lack of excitement in Raleigh and surrounding areas. Parks, museums, theater, fine dining and even food trucks are commonplace in the Raleigh area.
Though Raleigh has a city-type landscape, it’s a great place to retire if you’re a nature lover. You’ll be living about three hours from North Carolina’s beaches on the Atlantic and three hours from the Appalachian Mountains.
- Raleigh’s senior population is very quickly growing – it’s one of the fastest growing places to retire in the USA
- Medical facilities, nightlife, entertainment and dining are excellent in Raleigh and surrounding areas
- Like to travel? It’s a short 3 hour drive to the beach or the mountains from Raleigh, North Carolina
9. Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Climate: Cold winters, moderate summers
Median income: $57,120
Population: 59,708
Number of seniors: 22%
Median apartment rent: $813
Who should retire here: Privacy seekers
If you love rolling hills and wide open countryside, you’ll love Lancaster, Pennsylvania. This city is wel-known in America as the home of a large Amish population. If you’re not familiar, the Amish are a religious sect who are quite traditionalist: you’ll see them driving horses and buggies down the road and selling handmade quilts and furniture at local shops.
But Lancaster isn’t all about religion and farming. Sure, you’ll find some great homemade bread and organic produce at the shops in Lancaster. But you’ll also enjoy the railroad, theaters, museums, balloon rides and more that Lancaster has to offer.
Best of all, Lancaster is known for sprawling countryside and a low population. You won’t have to deal with crowds in Lancaster – though there are some tourists – and your neighbors will be just as private as you want them to be.
If the median income of Lancaster seems high to you, don’t worry. Most of the families within that income range are “old money.” Those who are younger or renters get by quite nicely on an income around half that amount.
- Lancaster, Pennsylvania is known as Amish country in the US – you’ll see handmade goods as well as horse-drawn buggies every day
- The city isn’t just about Amish people, though – there’s plenty of culture and activity
- Lancaster has a low-density population, so you can retire with privacy
10. Portland, Oregon
Climate: Rainy and cool to moderate
Median income: $53,230
Population: 647,805
Number of seniors: 12%
Median apartment rent: $1,392
Who should retire here: Varied demographics and lifestyles
Travelling back to the west coast of the United States, let’s look at Portland, Oregon as a great place to retire in the US. This city is known for rainy days more than sunshine, but the mild climate is quite tolerable, whether you prefer heat or cold.
Another thing Portland is known for is being exceptionally friendly. The people of Portland are ultra-accepting of every nationality, sexual orientation and religion. Of course, that’s a generalization, but we think you’ll find that moving to Portland will make you feel right at home no matter your lifestyle.
When you move to Portland, expect to pay more for housing. The city’s median home value is around $452,000, so you’ll be spending a fair percentage of your savings if you choose to buy. Even renting can be pricey, so if this is a deterrent, consider moving to a neighboring city with lower housing costs.
- Portland is known for its rain, but the climate is actually quite agreeable for most people
- The senior population in Portland isn’t hugely high but is quickly growing
- Portland, Oregon is one of the most liberal cities in the US – you’ll find that you’re accepted no matter your lifestyle
11. Colorado Springs, Colorado
Climate: Mild summers, cold winters
Median income: $54,228
Population: 464,474
Number of seniors: 17%
Median apartment rent: $1,199
Who should retire here: Snow bunnies, ski bums
Colorado Springs boasts an elevation of over 6,000 feet, putting it on the list of one of the highest cities in the US. To retire to Colorado Springs, you’ll need a love for snow, as the winters average around 57 inches of snowfall each year! That’s not great if you love to golf, but it’s perfect if you’re a skier or snowboarder!
Colorado Springs is a gorgeous city. Rocky Mountain views, bright blue skies and beautiful snowfalls make this a picturesque place to retire. Choosing Colorado Springs to retire to when you move to America means tax deductions for seniors, great healthcare, and assisted living options if you’re interested.
When you move to Colorado, you’ll be within driving distance of some beautiful sights. Drive to the top of Pike’s Peak or visit the Garden of the Gods. Then return home to quitter Colorado Springs and enjoy your mountain views.
- Colorado Springs gets a lot of snow each year – snow bunnies welcome!
- Moving to Colorado Springs means access to some beautiful sights and landmarks
- It also means tax breaks and incentives for seniors – it’s a great place to retire
12. Jackson, Mississippi
Climate: Mild winters, hot humid summers
Median income: $33,080
Population: 166,965
Number of seniors: 16%
Median apartment rent: $795
Who should retire here: People who love to fish, nature lovers
Last on our list of the top places to retire in the US is Jackson, Mississippi. Now, like some of the others on this list, Jackson may not be the first place to come to mind when Americans consider retirement. But if you’ve spent your whole life looking for “the one that got away,” Jackson is your retirement paradise.
Fishing is a way of life in Jackson. You’ll find creeks, lakes, dams and more that will allow your to snag that perfect catch, whether it’s sturgeon, drum or sunfish you’re after. Then, if you feel like wetting your line in some salt water, you can take a weekend trip to Biloxi for some Gulf fishing.
Mississippi reflects the true American South. Hospitality and warmth are second nature to your neighbors in Jackson, and you’ll love sampling some true Southern food. Cornbread, sweet tea and chess pie are three of our favorites.
If you don’t like to fish, that’s okay! Jackson is still an excellent place to retire in the US. You’ll be close to historical sites, parks, gardens and annual events. Check out the storytelling festivals, art festivals and more in Jackson.
- Jackson, Mississippi is home to true Southern hospitality – be sure to try the sweet tea!
- You’ll be steps away from great fishing when you move to Jackson
- Jackson is located about 3 hours from the Gulf of Mexico if you prefer saltwater fishing
Conclusion
There are states and cities in America that people commonly plan to retire to. But don’t be afraid to step outside the box and check out one of these great places to go once you quite the rat race. No matter your interest, your lifestyle or even your climate preference, the varied landscape of the United States has something to offer everyone in retirement.
