The 6 Best Places To Retire In The US (2024 Guide)

Last updated 04/16/2024 by

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Summary:

This article explores the best places to retire in the US, highlighting cities like Harrisburg, Reading, Sheboygan, Barnstable, Pensacola, and Roanoke. Each city offers a unique blend of affordability, healthcare access, and recreational and cultural opportunities, making them ideal destinations for retirees seeking a fulfilling lifestyle. From coastal beauty in Barnstable to cultural richness in Roanoke, these cities cater to diverse preferences and needs.

If you want to know about the landmass in America, then “from sea to shining sea” should give you an idea of how big it is. This huge landmass is home to a lot of amazing things, but they are not all the same depending on what you are looking for. Young people like to live in big cities, but as you get older, this isn’t necessarily the case. When it comes to retirement, affordability and quality of life matter. A Lot! That’s why we choose these top 6 cities as the best places to retire in the US

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Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

Harrisburg, the capital city of Pennsylvania, offers historical charm, cultural richness, and accessible healthcare. Known for its position along the Susquehanna River, vibrant downtown area, and community-focused lifestyle, Harrisburg is an awesome location for retirees, and it’s affordable too! The city’s dedication to maintaining a high quality of life through various recreational activities and healthcare makes it a desirable place for retirees.

Harrisburg Retirement Snapshot

ASPECT	DETAILS
Average Home Price	$227,208
Cost of Living	89.008 RPP Regional Price Parity (RPP for the US is 100, lower = lower than average, higher = higher than average)
Crime	22.50 incidents per 1,000 residents(Average crime rate in the US is 23.48 per 1,000 residents (FBI, US Census))
Weather	Experiences all four seasons, with mild summers and cold winters, ideal for those who enjoy seasonal changes.
Notable Hospitals	Home to UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg, a major healthcare provider in the region.
Assisted Living Facilities	Facilities like Brookdale Harrisburg and Viva Senior Living offer comprehensive care and vibrant community life.
Notable Retirement Communities	Communities such as The Pond on Fulling Mill and Bent Creek Crossing cater to active adults with various amenities.

Why Harrisburg is a good place to spend your Social Security money

Cost of Living: Harrisburg’s living costs are manageable, allowing retirees to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without overspending.
Cultural and Recreational Activities: From the Pennsylvania State Capitol and Susquehanna Art Museum to riverfront parks and green spaces, there’s always something to explore.
Healthcare Access: With several notable hospitals and medical centers, retirees have access to quality healthcare services.
Community-Focused Living: Retirement communities in Harrisburg offer a range of activities and amenities, fostering a strong sense of belonging and engagement among residents.

“When retirees evaluate potential locations, they should prioritize climate, cost of living, healthcare access, tax implications, and quality of life. For instance, a temperate climate can offer year-round comfort and outdoor activities, which is vital for staying active and engaged.
The cost of living is a crucial factor as it directly impacts the retiree’s budget and lifestyle sustainability. States like Florida and Texas are popular due to their favorable tax policies, with no state income tax, which can significantly benefit retirees on a fixed income.” – Stephanie Edenburgh, CEO of Bizzie Mommy

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Reading, Pennsylvania

With its strategic location within the scenic landscapes of Berks County, Reading offers retirees a unique mix of urban amenities and natural beauty. The city features a commitment to community well-being, healthcare services, and a variety of recreational and cultural activities.

Reading retirement snapshot

ASPECT	DETAILS
Average Home Price	$231,492
Cost of Living	96.305 Regional Price Parity (RPP for the US is 100, lower = lower than average, higher = higher than average)
Crime	25.76 incidents per 1,000 residents
Weather	Experiences all four seasons, with warm summers and cold, snowy winters.
Notable Hospitals	Reading Hospital recognized on Newsweek’s World’s Best Hospitals 2023 list.
Assisted Living Facilities	Facilities like The Villa offer comprehensive care and a vibrant community life for seniors.
Notable Retirement Communities	Independent living communities such as The Highlands at Wyomissing provide a range of amenities and lifestyles for active adults.

Why Reading is a good place to spend your Social Security money

Affordable Living: Reading’s cost of living is lower than many parts of the U.S., allowing retirees to stretch their Social Security further.
Cultural Attractions: Reading’s vibrant arts scene, historical sites, and annual festivals are awesome and not to be missed
Natural Beauty: Reading has a bunch of nearby parks, trails, and the scenic Schuylkill River offering a ton of recreational activities.
Community Support: Benefit from strong community support with various services and programs aimed at enhancing the general health and well being of seniors.

Sheboygan, Wisconsin

Offering a mix of urban amenities and natural beauty, Sheboygan attracts retirees with its affordable living, access to Lake Michigan, and a variety of recreational and unique way of life. The city’s focus on healthcare, safety, and diverse senior living options make it shoe on on the list of best places to retire stateside.

Seboygan retirement snapshot

ASPECT	DETAILS
Average Home Price	$235,000
Cost of Living	89.708 Regional Price Parity (RPP for the US is 100, lower = lower than average, higher = higher than average)
Crime	17 incidents per 1,000 residents(Average crime rate in the US is 23.48 per 1,000 residents (FBI, US Census))
Weather	Experiences all four seasons, with mild summers and cold, snowy winters, ideal for those who enjoy seasonal outdoor activities.
Notable Hospitals	Aurora Sheboygan Memorial Medical Center is recognized for its healthcare services in the region.
Assisted Living Facilities	Facilities like The Shores of Sheboygan and LakeHouse Sheboygan offer comprehensive care and vibrant community life.
Notable Retirement Communities	Communities such as Pine Haven Christian Communities and Landmark Square provide a range of amenities and lifestyles for active adults.

Why Sheboygan is a good place to spend your Social Security money

Lakeside Living: Sheboygan has a stunning lakefront, beaches, and maritime activities, including sailing and fishing on Lake Michigan.
Cultural Attractions: The city is known for its culture, with museums, art galleries, and the renowned John Michael Kohler Arts Center.
Outdoor Recreation: There are numerous parks, golf courses, and the scenic Sheboygan Riverwalk for outdoor enjoyment.
Community-Focused Senior Living: Benefit from a variety of senior living options that foster community engagement and offer diverse activities.

“Niche retirement communities, such as active adult neighborhoods and age-restricted developments, cater to the specific needs and preferences of retirees. These communities offer tailored amenities and lifestyle experiences, such as golf courses, fitness centers, social clubs, and organized activities, to enhance retirees’ quality of life. Residents enjoy a sense of belonging and camaraderie within their age group, fostering social connections and community engagement.” – Joshua Haley, Founder of Moving Astute

Pensacola, Florida

Pensacola stands out for its affordable housing, with a median home sale price significantly lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for retirees. The city’s quality of life is bolstered by its safety, healthcare services, and a variety of leisure and cultural activities. Pensacola’s blend of affordability and quality living conditions places it among the top retirement destinations.

Pensacola retirement Snapshot

ASPECT	DETAILS
Average Home Price	$257,482
Cost of Living	95.497 Regional Price Parity (RPP for the US is 100, lower = lower than average, higher = higher than average)
Crime	30.20 incidents per 1,000 residents(Average crime rate in the US is 23.48 per 1,000 residents (FBI, US Census))
Weather	Summers are long, hot, and oppressive; winters are short, cold, and windy. The average temperature varies from 45°F to 89°F.
Notable Hospitals	Ascension Sacred Heart Pensacola, Baptist Hospital
Assisted Living Facilities	Assisted living cost averages $3,655, slightly higher than the state average. Facilities include Belvedere Commons of Fort Walton Beach, The Meridian at Waterways, and more.
Notable Retirement Communities	Communities such as The Arbors of Gulf Breeze, Sodalis Cantonment, Brookdale Pensacola, and The Waterford at Carpenter’s Creek are known in the area.

Why Pensacola is a good place to spend your Social Security money

Beachfront Living: Miles of beautiful beaches and waterfront activities.
Historical Attractions: Rich history with sites like the Pensacola Naval Air Station.
Affordable Housing: Lower cost of living compared to many other Florida cities.
Community Events: Frequent festivals, markets, and concerts in a tight-knit community.
Outdoor Adventures: Fishing, boating, and exploring the Gulf Islands National Seashore.

“One critical aspect often overlooked is the legal and healthcare landscape of a potential retirement destination. States differ significantly in terms of estate laws and healthcare systems, which can impact your quality of life and legacy planning. For example, some states offer favorable tax benefits for retirees, which can make a substantial difference in your financial well-veing. Engaging with local communities through my teaching and nonprofit work has shown me the importance of choosing a location that not only meets your recreational and climate preferences but also supports your long-term legal and healthcare needs.” – Marty Burbank, expert in estate planning and elder law.

Barnstable, Massachusetts

Barnstable, located on Cape Cod, is known for its scenic beauty, historic charm, and maritime lifestyle. It offers retirees a peaceful environment with access to beautiful beaches, quaint villages, and a variety of cultural and recreational activities. The city’s focus on healthcare, community safety, and a range of senior living options makes it an attractive destination for retirees looking for a serene coastal lifestyle.

Barnstable retirement Snapshot

ASPECT	DETAILS
Average Home Price	$636,500
Cost of Living	109.068 Regional Price Parity (RPP for the US is 100, lower = lower than average, higher = higher than average)
Crime	12.86 incidents per 1,000 residents(Average crime rate in the US is 23.48 per 1,000 residents (FBI, US Census))
Weather	Mild coastal climate with cool summers and mild winters, ideal for enjoying outdoor activities year-round.
Notable Hospitals	Cape Cod Hospital in nearby Hyannis provides comprehensive healthcare services to the region.
Assisted Living Facilities	Brookdale Cape Cod and Atria Woodbriar are among the high-quality facilities offering senior care.
Notable Retirement Communities	Communities like Maplewood at Brewster and Thirwood Place in South Yarmouth cater to seniors with various amenities.

Why Barnstable is a good place to spend your Social Security money

Coastal Beauty: Barnstable has beaches, harbors, and maritime activities.
Historic and Cultural Richness: The area has rich history through its museums, historic sites, and cultural events.
Outdoor Recreation: Take advantage of the numerous walking trails, golf courses, and nature preserves for an active lifestyle.
Senior-Friendly Amenities: Benefit from a variety of senior living options that provide engaging community life and care services.

Roanoke, Virginia

Known for its outdoor activities, raging downtown, and happy go lucky Virginia communities, Roanoke stands out as a welcoming destination for retirees seeking both a good time and relaxation. The city’s commitment to healthcare services and a variety of recreational activities make it a good spot to consider spending your golden years in.

Roanoke retirement snapshot

ASPECT	DETAILS
Average Home Price	$256,095
Cost of Living	92.359 Regional Price Parity (RPP for the US is 100, lower = lower than average, higher = higher than average)
Crime	43.3 incidents per 1,000 residents(Average crime rate in the US is 23.48 per 1,000 residents (FBI, US Census))
Weather	Experiences all four seasons, with hot summers and cool winters, ideal for those who enjoy seasonal outdoor activities.
Notable Hospitals	Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital is recognized for its healthcare services in the region.
Assisted Living Facilities	Facilities like Woodland Hills and Pheasant Ridge offer comprehensive care and vibrant community life.
Notable Retirement Communities	Communities such as The Park Oak Grove and Friendship Retirement Community cater to seniors with various amenities.

Why Roanoke is a good place to spend your Social Security money

Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy Roanoke’s access to the Appalachian Trail, Blue Ridge Parkway, and numerous parks for hiking, biking, and exploring.
Cultural and Arts Scene: Explore the city’s cultural offerings at the Taubman Museum of Art, Mill Mountain Theatre, and annual festivals.
Healthcare Access: With several notable hospitals and medical centers, retirees have access to quality healthcare services.
Community-Focused Senior Living: Benefit from a variety of senior living options that foster community engagement and offer diverse activities.

You should be very mindful of the state and local taxes in the state where you retire. State and local taxes can vary greatly from state to state and even from city to city in some states and every dollar in taxes that you have to pay is a dollar you will not have to live on in retirement when you are often living on a fixed income. The cost of living in different states to include the cost of housing, food, gas in addition to the taxes I mentioned earlier. The availability of healthcare providers and hospitals in the area and their capacity to serve the community you plan to retire in. The weather should be a consideration especially if you plan to maintain an active lifestyle. – Jonathan Breeden, attorney and founder of Breeden Law Firm

FAQ

How does the climate vary across these retirement destinations?

The climate varies significantly across the featured cities. Harrisburg and Reading experience all four seasons with warm summers and cold winters. Sheboygan also has a similar climate but with more emphasis on winter activities due to its location near Lake Michigan. Barnstable enjoys a mild coastal climate, ideal for year-round outdoor activities, while Roanoke offers a mix of all four seasons with the added beauty of the Appalachian Mountains.

Are there any tax benefits for retirees in these cities?

Tax benefits for retirees vary by state. Pennsylvania, for example, does not tax Social Security income and offers property tax rebates to seniors. Wisconsin has a retirement-friendly tax system with provisions for Social Security exemption under certain conditions. Massachusetts and Virginia also offer various tax advantages for seniors, such as income tax deductions on pension and retirement income. It’s important to consult with a tax advisor for detailed information specific to each location.

What types of cultural activities can retirees expect in these cities?

Retirees can enjoy a wide range of cultural activities. Harrisburg and Reading boast historical sites, museums, and theaters. Sheboygan is known for its rich maritime heritage and arts scene. Barnstable offers access to Cape Cod’s vibrant arts and cultural landscape, including galleries, theaters, and maritime festivals. Roanoke is home to numerous museums, art galleries, and is close to the Blue Ridge Music Center, showcasing the area’s musical heritage.

How accessible are healthcare services in these retirement destinations?

Healthcare services are highly accessible in all featured cities. Harrisburg and Reading are served by major healthcare systems like UPMC Pinnacle and Tower Health, respectively. Sheboygan has Aurora Sheboygan Memorial Medical Center, among others. Barnstable residents have access to Cape Cod Hospital, a leading healthcare provider in the region. Roanoke boasts Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital, one of the largest hospitals in Virginia, ensuring retirees have access to comprehensive medical services.

Key Takeaways

Cost of Living: Cities like Harrisburg and Reading offer an affordable lifestyle, making them attractive for retirees on a budget.
Natural Beauty and Outdoor Recreation: Locations such as Sheboygan and Barnstable provide stunning natural landscapes and ample outdoor activities.
Healthcare Access: Each city has notable hospitals and assisted living facilities, ensuring retirees have access to quality healthcare services.
Cultural and Community Engagement: From Roanoke’s arts scene to Pensacola’s historical attractions, these cities offer rich cultural experiences and strong community support for seniors.

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