Thinking About Retirement? Here Are the Top Places to Kick Back!
After years of hard work, most of us dream of enjoying the good life in retirement, right? You know, days filled with relaxation, maybe some golf, and plenty of time to do what we love. But let’s be real—retirement can also be a little stressful if you’re not sure you have enough saved up.
In fact, about 68% of workers feel somewhat confident they’ll have enough money to retire comfortably, while only 21% are very confident. As a result, many people plan to retire at age 65 or later, and about three-quarters of retirees expect they’ll still be working at least part-time. Who knew retirement came with a side of work?
To help with retirement plans, WalletHub compared over 180 U.S. cities based on things like the cost of living, fun activities, healthcare, and taxes. They crunched the numbers so you don’t have to!
If you’re thinking about moving to a new city when you retire, WalletHub’s “Best & Worst States to Retire” list is also worth checking out.
Top 5 Cities for Retirees (Where You Can Finally Relax…or Not)
- Orlando, FL – The land of Mickey Mouse is also the top spot for retirees! No income tax and plenty of activities make it a winner.
- Miami, FL – Sun, sand, and senior-friendly recreation, plus no income tax. What’s not to love?
- Minneapolis, MN – It might be cold, but there’s great healthcare and job opportunities if you want to stay busy.
- Tampa, FL – Warm weather and tons of recreational options. Who needs snow?
- Fort Lauderdale, FL – Think of it as Miami’s chill cousin, with all the perks but less hustle.
Why These Cities Are Great for Retirement
Let’s be honest—retiring isn’t just about lying on a beach. You need a place where the cost of living is manageable, healthcare is good, and there are things to do that don’t break the bank. The best retirement spots are those where you can enjoy life and stretch your dollars.
According to Chip Lupo from WalletHub:
“It’s important to choose wisely when picking where to retire. The best cities minimize taxes and expenses while offering plenty of activities for retirees. And if you want to keep working, there should be opportunities for that too!”
A Quick Look at Retirement-Friendly Cities
Here’s a sneak peek of the top cities ranked by WalletHub. Whether you’re looking for sunny beaches, outdoor adventures, or city vibes, there’s something for everyone:
- Orlando, FL
- Miami, FL
- Minneapolis, MN
- Tampa, FL
- Fort Lauderdale, FL
- Scottsdale, AZ
- Cincinnati, OH
- St. Petersburg, FL
- Casper, WY
- Atlanta, GA
Feeling adventurous? Cities like Las Vegas, Denver, and San Diego also make the top 40 list. But if you prefer a slower pace, spots like Cheyenne, WY, and Sioux Falls, SD might be more your speed.
In A Nutshell . . .
Whether you’re thinking about retiring soon or just dreaming about it, the key is to find a place that fits your lifestyle and your budget. With all the options out there, it’s good to have some help figuring out where you’ll get the most out of your retirement chapter.
And remember—retirement isn’t the end of the road. It’s just the start of a new adventure! Whether you’re fishing, volunteering, or trying out a new hobby, these cities have you covered. So, where will you call home when the time comes? Reach out if you’d like some counsel on your specific scenario.