Whether you’re dreaming of mountain views, culinary delights or a vibrant social scene, there’s a retirement spot out there that won’t drain your nest egg. We analyzed cities across the U.S. for factors such as cost of living, healthcare access, outdoor amenities and tax benefits to identify the best places for retirement living.
2025’S LIST OF THE 6 BEST CITIES TO RETIRE
Based on our analysis, these six cities emerged as the best cities for retirement because of their ideal blend of affordability, lifestyle perks and amenities catering to retirees.
1. San Antonio, Texas
- Best for: History lovers and mild winters
- Cost of living: 9% below national average
- Median home price: $294,000
Why it’s great for retirees:
San Antonio’s combination of low housing costs and affordable living expenses makes it one of the most affordable places to retire on our list. San Antonio’s mild winters mean it’s a joy to explore the city’s rich history year-round. Some highly rated attractions include the Alamo, where Texas fought for its independence, and the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized for its well-preserved Spanish colonial missions and their cultural significance.
The famous River Walk is where older adults can stroll the beautiful waterways or stop to enjoy shopping, entertainment and dining experiences. San Antonio’s numerous parks and outdoor spaces also offer ample opportunities for hiking, biking and golfing.
The city also boasts a robust healthcare network, comprising the Methodist Healthcare System and Baptist Health System, which helps retirees access quality medical care.
2. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Best for: Top-tier healthcare access and cultural attractions
- Cost of living: 2% below national average
- Median home price: $255,000
Why it’s great for retirees:
Pittsburgh offers several financial perks for retirees. Most retirement income, including Social Security benefits, pensions and withdrawals from retirement accounts, is exempt from state income tax.
Pittsburgh provides retirees numerous opportunities to stay active and engaged. The city is home to world-class institutions, including the Andy Warhol Museum, Carnegie Museum of Art and the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium, as well as numerous local parks and green spaces.
For seniors seeking a vibrant social life, luxury retirement communities like Friendship Village of South Hills offer amenities such as chef-driven dining, fitness centers and on-site healthcare.
The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) is nationally recognized for its excellence in geriatrics, cardiology and cancer care, making Pittsburgh one of the top cities in the country for healthcare access.
3. Gainesville, Florida
- Best for: Lifelong learners
- Cost of living: 5% below national average
- Median home price: $310,000
Why it’s great for retirees:
If you’re looking forward to learning new things and expanding your horizons in your golden years, Gainesville offers the perfect setting. Retirees can take free college courses at the University of Florida (space permitting), keeping their minds sharp and curiosity alive. On your way back from class, you can stop at one of the downtown area’s numerous galleries and museums to continue your fine arts education.
While Gainesville boasts a vibrant college-town atmosphere, it is also deeply committed to promoting healthy aging. The University’s Institute on Aging focuses on advancing the health and well-being of seniors through research, education and community programs. This makes Gainesville a place where lifelong learning and healthy aging work together.
4. Cedar Falls, Iowa
- Best for: Small-town living
- Cost of living: 15% below national average
- Median home price: $258,000
Why it’s great for retirees:
Cedar Falls has the lowest cost of living on our list, along with reasonable median home prices. It also has quick access to UnityPoint Clinics and family medicine facilities, which are great for routine care. More specialized care is available in nearby Waterloo.
Older adults who are outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the Cedar Falls Cedar Valley Nature Trail. The trail features 52 miles of paved and unpaved roads, allowing you to bike and walk. Alternatively, you can enjoy the small-town charm with the city’s walkable downtown areas and slower pace of life.
If you prefer indoor activities, you’ll find plenty of options at the Cedar Falls Community Center, which hosts billiards tournaments and other activities for seniors. Senior living communities, such as NewAldaya Lifescapes, also offer a variety of activities to enjoy. Choose from live music events, wellness centers and salons that provide spaces for gathering and relaxation with friends.
5. Greenville, South Carolina
- Best for: Foodies and scenic southern charm
- Cost of living: 7% below national average
- Median home price: $360,000
Why it’s great for retirees:
South Carolina is another tax-friendly state that doesn’t tax Social Security benefits or most forms of retirement income. Residents 65 and older also enjoy a $15,000 income tax deduction.
Greenville’s culinary scene is nationally acclaimed, with recognition in Condé Nast Traveler and Southern Living. You’ll find a variety of cuisines to satisfy your appetite, from classic Italian to authentic Chinese or southern BBQ. Its charming downtown area and nearby scenic mountains also ensure there’s no shortage of beautiful sights to see and things to do, making it one of the best places for retirement living.
Greenville also has a thriving arts community, featuring the Greenville County Museum of Art and the Greenville Symphony Orchestra. For nature lovers, the city’s abundant green spaces, including state parks, local parks and recreation areas, make it easy to enjoy outdoor life with friends and family. Paris Mountain State Park, for example, spans 1,540 acres and is popular for birdwatching and camping.
Greenville is recognized for its strong healthcare network, including Prisma Health and Bon Secours St. Francis.
6. Knoxville, Tennessee
- Best for: Nature lovers on a budget
- Cost of living: 13% below national average
- Median home price: $392,000
Why it’s great for retirees:
Knoxville has one of the lowest costs of living on our list and provides property tax relief for low-income seniors. There are also no state taxes on wages or retirement income from Social Security, pensions, 401(k)s and IRAs. Seniors are left with more room in the budget to spend on the city’s many seasonal festivals, symphony concerts and performances at historic theatres.
If you’d rather hold on to your money, you can enjoy Knoxville’s variety of free or low-cost outdoor activities. There are an impressive 125 miles of greenways and trails, offering perfect opportunities for hiking, biking and paddling.
Moreover, the city’s proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the seven surrounding lakes offers breathtaking views and a chance to connect with nature without spending a dime.
RETIREMENT ON YOUR TERMS
Retirement isn’t all about downsizing. You can uplevel your retirement dreams by moving to one of the best cities to retire, where you’ll find affordability meets a vibrant lifestyle. From small-town charm to bustling downtowns, you can live as abundantly as your budget affords. Paired with smart financial strategies like life settlements, you’ll have more choices of where and how to spend your retirement.
Reach out to a life settlements advisor today to learn how to make even more room in your retirement budget with a life settlement.
