Best Places to Retire in the U.S. | Affordable, Safe & Relaxing

Retirement nowadays means more than simply leaving the workforce; it’s about choosing a place that fits your financial, health, and lifestyle goals. With rising living costs and shifting migration patterns, many older Americans are asking the same big question: What are the best places to retire in the U.S.?

The final decision will depend on what matters most to you. Some retirees seek affordability, while others prioritize safety, and many focus on healthcare. Additionally, many desire a relaxing retirement destination where they can enjoy hobbies and spend quality time with their family. Fortunately, the U.S. has many cities and towns that strike a balance among these various aspects.

In this guide, we’ll highlight the most affordable places to retire in the U.S., the safest cities to retire in America, and those recognized by trusted sources like U.S. News and Forbes.

The Best Places to Retire in the U.S. 

Here are the best places to retire in the U.S., supported by rankings from U.S. News, Forbes, and Kiplinger.

Naples, Florida

Named by U.S. News as the #1 city for retirement, Naples combines Gulf Coast beaches, a large retiree community, and no state income tax. It perfectly represents the best places to retire in Florida. 

Greenville, South Carolina

Forbes recognized Greenville as one of the best affordable retirement towns in the U.S. Housing costs are low, the downtown is lively, and healthcare is expanding rapidly. 

Boise, Idaho

Boise has become a top pick for retirees seeking affordability and safety. It’s one of the most popular retirement destinations, thanks to its outdoor lifestyle and strong sense of community.

Virginia Beach, Virginia

For retirees who love the coast but want affordability, Virginia Beach is a gem. With moderate living costs, ocean access, and good hospitals, it’s a contender among the best places to retire in Virginia 2025.

Asheville, North Carolina

If you prefer mountains to beaches, Asheville shines. Known for its arts, healthcare, and vibrant community life, it has consistently been named one of the best places to retire in North Carolina.

Madison, Wisconsin

Thanks to the University of Wisconsin Hospital, Madison is famous for its healthcare access. It’s also affordable and offers cultural depth, making it one of the best U.S. retirement cities with excellent healthcare.

Tucson, Arizona

For sun-seekers, Tucson offers affordability, desert beauty, and strong healthcare options. It has become a popular relaxing retirement destination in the U.S.

Why 2025 Is the Year to Rethink Retirement Destinations

A few key trends make 2025 unique for retirees:

• Housing affordability shifts: Large coastal metros are becoming less attractive due to higher costs, prompting retirees to move toward mid-sized and smaller cities.

• Healthcare priorities: Retirees need reliable access to hospitals, specialists, and Medicare coverage. Moving to the wrong city can considerably impact the quality of life.

• Safety and community: The search for safe retirement cities 2025 has grown, as older adults want peace of mind in their new homes.

• Retirement migration: Census data shows retirees moving toward the South and Midwest areas that offer affordable housing and low taxes.

These factors explain why many people are researching the best places to retire in the U.S. with a low cost of living.

Key Factors to Consider Before Choosing Where to Retire

Before committing to a move, evaluate:

1. Affordability & Cost of Living: From groceries to healthcare, every dollar matters. Many are explicitly searching for affordable retirement towns.

2. Safety: A city’s crime rates and community trust determine whether it qualifies as one of the safest cities to retire in America.

3. Healthcare Access: Look for proximity to hospitals and Medicare-friendly specialists. Some of the best U.S. retirement cities, ranked by their healthcare, are highly regarded for this reason.

4. Lifestyle & Climate: Do you prefer four seasons, year-round sun, or a mountain retreat?

Affordable & Safe Choices for 2025 Retirees

If affordability tops your list, consider:

• Fort Wayne, Indiana: One of the most affordable places to retire in the U.S., with extremely low housing costs.

• Rochester, New York: Its strong hospitals and lower-than-average home prices make it an attractive location.

• Fargo, North Dakota: A quiet town to retire in the U.S., with a reputation for safety.

When it comes to taxes, Florida, Texas, and New Hampshire stand out as low-tax states for retirees, helping to stretch retirement income further.

What the Experts Are Saying

• U.S. News Best Places to Retire Naples, Florida: Naples continues to lead the rankings due to its unique combination of safety, healthcare, and community.

• Forbes Best Places to Retire, Greenville, South Carolina: Forbes points to Greenville’s affordability and lifestyle advantages.

• Kiplinger & Bankrate: Both emphasize affordability in smaller cities, such as Fort Wayne, Huntsville, and Fargo.

These lists highlight not only major destinations but also 2025 retirement migration destinations where retirees are moving for cost savings and peace of mind.

Benefits of Retiring in These Cities

Choosing from the best cities to retire, according to U.S. News and Forbes, offers clear benefits:

• Cost Savings: Your money goes further in cities with affordable housing and low taxes.

• Safety: Peace of mind in communities recognized as some of the safest cities to retire in America.

• Healthcare Access: Better hospitals and specialists mean healthier retirement years.

• Relaxed Lifestyle: From Naples’ beaches to Asheville’s mountains, retirees can find the environment that suits them best.

Tips for Planning Your 2025 Retirement Move

Before leaping:

1. Visit in Person: Spend a few weeks in your target city to gain a deeper understanding of the lifestyle.

2. Research Taxes & Housing: Not all states treat retirees equally when it comes to income and property taxes.

3. Check Healthcare Networks: Ensure your Medicare plan covers providers in your area.

4. Think Long Term: The best places to retire in the U.S. should match your needs both today and in the future.

Conclusion

Retirement is about more than location; it’s about building the life you want. From Naples, Florida, to Greenville, South Carolina, from Virginia Beach to Asheville, the best places to retire in the U.S. are affordable, safe, and packed with lifestyle perks.

Whether you’re seeking cheap retirement towns, the safest cities to retire in America, or the best U.S. retirement cities with the best healthcare, the options are abundant. 

Choose wisely, and your retirement years can be your most fulfilling chapter yet.