15 Up and Coming Retirement Havens in the U.S.A.
While traditional retirement spots like Florida and Arizona have long been popular, a new wave of up-and-coming retirement havens is emerging across the United States. These destinations offer affordability, scenic beauty, and beautiful communities, making them attractive options for today’s retirees. In this guide, we explore some of these rising stars in retirement.
1. Lakeland, FL
Lakeland combines a small-town feel between Orlando and Tampa and easy access to big-city amenities. Known for its 38 scenic lakes, it offers retirees a tranquil lifestyle with plenty of hiking and walking trails. Despite being inland, Clearwater Beach is just a 75-minute drive away. History and architecture enthusiasts can enjoy the Frank Lloyd Wright Museum at Florida Southern College. Lakeland is also financially attractive, ranking sixth for retiree taxes thanks to Florida’s lack of personal income tax and a state income tax of only 6%.
2. Allentown, PA
Allentown, located 90 miles from New York City and 60 miles from Philadelphia, offers lower housing costs and easy access to top-quality healthcare, earning it a No. 4 ranking. As Pennsylvania’s third-largest metro area, it combines big-city amenities with small-town charm, featuring many historic homes. Winters are cold, attracting skiing enthusiasts, while numerous hiking trails cater to walkers and runners. The city is family-friendly, with attractions like the Da Vinci Science Center and the America On Wheels Museum. This mix of affordability, healthcare access, and recreational options makes Allentown an appealing retirement destination.
3. Urbandale, IA
Residents of Urbandale give it a high livability score of 89, making it one of the top-rated places on this list. This impressive rating helps position Urbandale among the five safest and most affordable retirement places. Located in Iowa, Urbandale offers a combination of safety, affordability, and quality of life that appeals to retirees. The city’s excellent amenities, strong sense of community, and overall livability make it an attractive option for those looking to enjoy their retirement in a welcoming and well-rounded environment.
4. Lancaster, PA
Although Lancaster dropped two spots in the rankings, it remains a top choice for retirees due to its excellent senior healthcare, low taxes, and the happiness of its residents. Just 90 minutes from Philadelphia, Lancaster offers the affordability of a smaller town with the perks of proximity to a significant city. Known for its scenic farmlands and vibrant Amish community, Lancaster boasts numerous farmers’ markets. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy its hiking trails and water sports. The city’s burgeoning foodie scene features a variety of cuisines, with old warehouses and buildings repurposed into trendy restaurants and bars.
5. Asheville, NC
Asheville, North Carolina, is an ideal retirement haven in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains known for its arts and culture scene. The city’s mild climate makes it perfect for an active outdoor lifestyle. The River Arts District is a highlight, featuring numerous studios, galleries, and cultural events, attracting artists and art enthusiasts alike. Outdoor activities abound, with extensive hiking trails and opportunities for rafting on the French Broad River. Asheville’s diverse culinary scene, with a collection of unique restaurants and bars housed in repurposed buildings, is a draw to locals and visitors. Natural beauty and cultural richness make Asheville a top retirement destination.
6. Rockport, MA
Rockport presents an intriguing paradox: despite its high cost of living and a moderate livability score of 70, it has some of the lowest crime rates, both violent and property-related. This unique combination has earned Rockport the silver medal on the GOBankingRates list of desirable retirement locations. The town’s low crime rates give its residents a strong sense of security, making it an attractive option for retirees who prioritize safety, even though they might have to manage higher living expenses.
7. Frankfort, KY
Frankfort offers an affordable retirement option for under $60,000 annually. Residents have rated it highly, giving it a livability score of 91. This high rating reflects the town’s quality of life, combining affordability with a pleasant living environment. Retirees can enjoy their golden years without financial strain, benefiting from the community’s amenities and services. Frankfort’s strong sense of community and budget-friendly lifestyle make it an appealing choice for those looking to retire comfortably.
8. Montpelier, VT
Vermont’s capital, Montpelier, stands out as one of the best places to retire for those seeking safety and security in their finances, property, and overall well-being. This historic city, surrounded by lush scenery, provides retirees with a tranquil and enriching environment.
With a high livability score of 84, Montpelier offers a blend of cultural richness, scenic beauty, and community amenities that contribute to a high quality of life. The city’s strong sense of safety and financial security makes it an attractive destination for retirees searching for peace of mind and a fulfilling lifestyle.
9. Ann Arbor, MI
Ann Arbor, home to the University of Michigan, exudes a lively college-town atmosphere. The University of Michigan Health-Ann Arbor, recognized on the U.S. News Best Hospitals Honor Roll, contributes to the city’s No. 17 ranking for healthcare access. Ann Arbor also ranks No. 5 in the happiness index, reflecting residents’ satisfaction with crime rates, well-being, air quality, and resilience to extreme weather.
Art and history enthusiasts can explore the university’s museums. At the same time, outdoor lovers can enjoy kayaking on the Huron River in summer and ice skating and snowshoeing in winter.
10. Beatrice, NE
Beatrice is one of the most affordable retirement cities, making it a top choice for budget-conscious retirees. With a livability score of 78, Beatrice is among the top 10 safest and most affordable places to live during retirement. Its low cost of living, coupled with a safe environment, offers retirees a comfortable and secure lifestyle. The community provides essential amenities and services, ensuring a high quality of life without breaking the bank. Beatrice presents an ideal option for those looking to stretch their retirement savings.
11. Dover, DE
Dover is home to over 5,300 residents aged 65 and older, comprising about 16% of its total population of 32,600. The city has a high livability score of 88, reflecting the satisfaction of its residents with the quality of life. This score indicates Dover’s vital community amenities, safety, and overall well-being, making it an attractive place for retirees to settle. The city offers a welcoming environment with necessary services and a friendly atmosphere, enhancing the quality of life for its senior population.
12. Green Bay, WI
Green Bay, home to the iconic Green Bay Packers, exudes a football spirit, with the team being fan-owned and the excitement palpable throughout the city. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy numerous trails for walking, jogging, skiing, and snowshoeing, while the Fox River offers sunset cruises and water skiing during warmer months. These features contribute to Green Bay’s No. 16 ranking on the happiness index, reflecting residents’ satisfaction with crime rates, air quality, well-being, and resilience to extreme weather.
Green Bay is also noted for its affordability, low cost of living, and favorable price parity for goods and services, making it an appealing place for retirees looking for an active, affordable lifestyle.
13. Toledo, OH
Its residents cherish Toledo for its affordable housing, cultural richness, and outdoor activities. With low rent and mortgage costs, Toledo ranks No. 9 for housing affordability, making it an excellent choice for retirees. Known as the “Glass City” due to its glass-making industry, Toledo has a fantastic culture, highlighted by the Toledo Museum of Art, which features one of the nation’s finest collections.
The city’s slogan, “You Will Do Better In Toledo,” resonates with many retirees who find the combination of affordability, cultural amenities, and engaging activities ideally suited to their retirement needs. The city’s mix of economic benefits and lavish lifestyle makes it a compelling place to call home.
14. Milford, CT
Connecticut is generally known for its higher cost of living, and Milford is no exception, with residents spending nearly $80,000 annually on expenses. However, Milford is an excellent choice for seniors looking to connect with peers, as almost 20% of its population is 65 or older. This significant senior community provides ample opportunities for socializing and support among retirees. Despite the higher living costs, a substantial senior population makes Milford an attractive destination for retirees.
15. Raleigh and Durham, NC
Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill form North Carolina’s Triangle, a hub for research and technology companies. Raleigh, the state capital, and Durham are celebrated for their diverse culinary scene, offering everything from low-country dishes to upscale dining. The region boasts numerous wineries and over two dozen craft breweries. Affordable housing and a vibrant job market attract new residents.
The strong presence of major corporations and esteemed universities contributes to the Raleigh-Durham metro area’s No. 25 ranking for its job market. This mix of economic opportunities, culinary delights, and cultural richness makes the Triangle a desirable place to live and work.
Finding a Perfect Retirement Destination
Choosing the perfect retirement destination is crucial, and these up-and-coming havens in the U.S. offer unique benefits that cater to diverse preferences. From scenic beauty and outdoor activities to vibrant cultural scenes and affordability, these cities provide an ideal mix for retirees seeking comfort, safety, and enjoyment. Exploring these emerging retirement spots can lead to discovering a place that aligns perfectly with your lifestyle and financial goals, ensuring a fulfilling and enriching retirement experience.
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