Retirement is a new adventure and an exhilarating milestone. Whether you need a rest from the working grind or you’re gearing up for a second act, the first question you’ll want to answer is where to retire.
The United States is a beautiful country, but maybe you’ve only visited a few locations in our expansive territory during your lifetime. If you want to explore new possibilities, there are many retirement-friendly places in America. Some offer an affordable cost of living or low taxes, allowing your retirement income to go further. Others provide beauty and adventure so you can do what you’ve always wanted.
Whether you’re looking for retirement communities, a new home, or a condo, here are seven top retirement locations in the U.S.
1. Grand Haven, Michigan, for the Fiscally Responsible
For retirees who love all four seasons, Grand Haven is a beautiful and financially savvy choice. With its light tax burden on retirement income and low cost of living, Michigan boasts incredible affordability if you’re looking for the most bang for your buck.
Grand Haven is nestled on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan. Life here revolves around the nationally acclaimed beaches and active Grand Haven Boardwalk, which stretches 1.5 miles. The city boasts beautiful walking spots, waterfront festivals, outdoor activities, and fascinating museums. You’ll also find tons of great dining.
This Michigan town has excellent access to health care and a minimal crime rate. If you don’t mind chillier winter months, Grand Haven is a fantastic retirement location.
2. St. Lucie, Florida, for Beach Bums
For many people, Florida is always in the mix when considering retirement locations — and for good reason. The state boasts year-round warm weather and incredible financial benefits for retirees.
If you would love to spend your golden years exploring pristine beaches, St. Lucie could be ideal. This town sits along the state’s Treasure Coast, famed for the Spanish treasure fleet that sunk in a 1715 storm.
Beach life reigns supreme in St. Lucie. There are 21 miles of uncrowded beaches, so you’ll surely find your favorite sandy spot in no time. The area also hosts protected scenic waterways, wildlife preserves, a gorgeous barrier island 12 miles off the coast, and dog-friendly beaches for your four-legged friends.
St. Lucie is a quiet community and one of the safest and cleanest places to retire. There is lots to do when you’re not on the beach. With this town located halfway between Miami and Orlando, you can visit a nearby metro area. Or, stay put and enjoy world-class golfing and tons of boating and fishing opportunities. You can even watch the St. Lucie Mets during their spring training season.
3. Greer, South Carolina, for Small-Town Enthusiasts
Located just 12 miles from Greenville, Greer is a charming small town with a heart of gold. Greer sits nestled in the foothills of the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains. The low cost of living and mild year-round weather are attractive draws. This idyllic town offers a leisurely lifestyle for those looking to slow things down.
Visit the weekly farmers market and grab some greens. The historic downtown area is perfect for a stroll under the twinkling lights at twilight. You can also visit one of the many nature spots to bring beauty into your day. The welcoming residents will be happy to share their favorite restaurants and parks.
While Greer is still considered a small town, it recently underwent a revitalization effort to bring more attractions and amenities for locals. Plus, there’s easy access to nearby urban hubs if you need more options.
4. Austin, Texas, for Metro Mavens
Some retirees prefer to bask by the beach or find a quiet spot to nestle down in. Others want to experience big-city adventure. If you prefer to stay active and surrounded by exciting activities, Austin has everything your heart could desire.
In general, Texas is a retirement-friendly state. Retirement accounts and Social Security remain untaxed. Austin’s cost of living is relatively low compared to its East Coast counterparts. Retirees also love the mild temperatures, which average around 70 degrees.
Austin is a thriving metroplex — there is no end of things to do. This city is the arts capital of Texas and hosts a huge variety of cultural attractions and public art projects. It’s also a foodie paradise and boasts many culinary experiences. Live music and nightlife are a given in Austin. There is also an astounding array of recreational options, including cycling, hiking, golf, and beautiful waterside spots.
5. Sarasota, Florida, for Snowbirds
Warm weather is a must for many reaching retirement age. Snowbirds are retirees who no longer want to deal with cold temperatures and decide to flock South, where they can enjoy a temperate climate year-round. If that’s you, Sarasota could be the place you fly to.
Sarasota has long been touted as a playground for retirees and hosts a vibrant retirement community. With its white-sand beaches and adorable downtown, this Gulf city is picturesque.
Residents enjoy a charming ambiance as they stroll from shop to shop. Explore the many cultural highlights, including art galleries, a renowned opera house, and fascinating museums. Or, relax in a more intimate seaside nature spot. Sarasota has something for everyone.
6. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, a Golfer’s Paradise
Whether you’re a true golfer or something of a duffer, no retirement location has more for golfers than Myrtle Beach. South Carolina is a great state for retirees to settle. It offers zero Social Security tax, low property taxes, and special tax deductions for people over 65.
Myrtle Beach has almost 100 golf courses, earning it the nickname “Golf Capital of the World.” Golfers of all calibers come here to test their mettle, and there’s a green for everyone. High-end tracks by some of the world’s most well-known architects and small mom-and-pop stops offer great value and loads of fun.
Visit Pine Lakes Country Club — built in 1927, this was the Grand Strand’s first course and continues to be a sought-after experience among golfers. Or, try your skills at Pawleys Plantation, designed by golf’s greatest champion, Jack Nicklaus. Whiling your days by the greens of Myrtle Beach is a great way to spend your golden years.
7. Asheville, North Carolina, for Mountain Adventurers
If the mountains are calling your name, you’ll love the majestic peaks of Asheville. This town boasts the stunning scenery of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
One of the top reasons to retire here is the clean mountain air and the amount of outdoor activities you can partake in. Hike your way through the Pisgah National Forest, or take up mountain biking among the lush mountain valleys and shaded forests. Explore cascading waterfalls, and discover a new passion for camping, fishing, or kayaking. Or, enjoy 469 miles of mountain views from the comfort of your car as you cruise the nearby Blue Ridge Parkway.
Although Asheville has a four-season climate, its winters and summers remain relatively mild. There’s plenty of access to top-notch medical care, and you can enjoy reasonable housing costs. North Carolina is moderately retirement friendly, with no income tax on Social Security benefits or estate taxes.
Enjoy Your Retirement in Peace and Security
You’ve worked hard your whole life. Now is the time to rest and enjoy your retirement years. No matter where you settle, you can add peace and security to your golden years with Medical Guardian.
A medical alert system means that help is always one button push away. No matter the emergency, you can rest assured knowing that a highly trained operator can walk you through the situation and connect you with the right kind of support. Connect with us today to learn more about how our system can help.
