Retirement Retired Life

9 Small Cities Where Homes Have Small Backyards (Perfect for Retirees)

These cities offer low-maintenance yards and big-time retirement perks

By Amanda Teague

Edited by Lauren Wellbank

Updated May 2, 2025

Looking to downsize without giving up the perks of homeownership? For many retirees, a small backyard can be a big win, offering less upkeep, lower water bills, and fewer landscaping chores, all while helping you avoid wasting money and maximize your senior benefits. Whether you're looking to spend more time traveling or just enjoying life without yard work, a compact outdoor space can mean more freedom and fewer responsibilities.

To do this, we used data from LawnStarter, which analyzed the lawn sizes of homes in the 2,000 largest U.S. cities based off of information pulled from the Federal Housing Finance Agency.

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Summerlin South, Nevada

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

With an average yard size of .115 acres and a ranking score of 1,829, Summerlin South is a great fit for retirees who want low-maintenance outdoor space without giving up scenery or amenities.

Home to just under 30,000 people, this peaceful spot sits on the edge of the Las Vegas Valley, right next to Red Rock Canyon. It's perfect for anyone who loves warm weather, easy access to hiking trails, and a few good rounds of golf.

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Leisure City, Florida

Leisure City, Florida has an average yard size of .112 acres and a ranking score of 1,847. The community has a population of 27,033 people, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, and about 10.4% of them are over 65, making it a welcoming place for seniors.

Located in the Miami metropolitan area, it offers close proximity to healthcare, shopping, and entertainment while maintaining a laid-back vibe.

San Luis, Arizona

With an average yard size of .109 acres and a ranking score of 1,861, San Luis is a charming and affordable option for retirees. This city, with a population of 35,189, is located on the Colorado River, just 90 miles from the ocean.

It offers beautiful natural surroundings and a relaxed lifestyle, all at an affordable price, with a median home price of just $232,000, according to Redfin.

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Key West, Florida

If you want to enjoy island life without the hassle of large property upkeep, then consider Key West. Key West has an average yard size of .104 acres and a ranking score of 1,887. This beautiful city has a population of 26,078 and is known for its stunning views and amazing beaches.

Though the cost of living can be higher, Florida's lack of a state income tax on pensions, 401(k) accounts, and IRAs makes it a great place to stretch your retirement savings while enjoying small yard maintenance.

Kapolei, Hawaii

Oahu's second city of Kapolei looking east

With an average yard size of .099 acres and a ranking score of 1,904, Kapolei is perfect for retirees who want the beauty of Hawaii without the hassle of yard work.

This planned community in Honolulu has a population of 22,701 and offers easy access to beaches, scenic views, and a safe, relaxed environment. The smaller yard size means less maintenance, leaving you more time to enjoy the islands' natural beauty and warm weather year-round.

Seal Beach, California

Located in Orange County, Seal Beach offers retirees a coastal lifestyle with the added benefit of a small yard. Ranking 1,966 with a population of 25,046, the city has an average yard size of .067 acres.

While Seal Beach is on the more expensive side, it provides easy access to beautiful beaches and a relaxed, waterfront community. The smaller yard means less maintenance, allowing you to focus more on enjoying the sun, surf, and all that Southern California has to offer.

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Hamtramck, Michigan

Ranked 1,970 with a population of 27,842, Hamtramck offers retirees an affordable community with an average yard size of .061 acres. This small city is known for its diverse culture, strong sense of community, and an incredible food scene.

With a median home price of just $222,500, according to Redfin, it's a great place for retirees looking to downsize.

Central, Louisiana

Spanish moss dripping from an alley of old trees

Central, Louisiana ranks 1,977 with a population of 29,518 and an average yard size of just .056 acres, making it a smart choice for retirees who want low-maintenance living.

This quiet suburb offers a small-town feel while still being just a short drive from the amenities and healthcare options of Baton Rouge. With a median home price of $274,500, according to Redfin, it's an affordable spot to settle down, enjoy some peace and quiet, and skip the hassle of a big yard.

Chester, Pennsylvania

Chester, Pennsylvania is ranked 1,988 with an average yard size of only .034 acres. Located along the Delaware River, this historic and affordable city has a median home price of just $159,000, according to Redfin, and a population of 33,048.

Chester offers easy access to both Philadelphia and Wilmington, plus local perks like Widener University (including adult education programs), Harrah's Philadelphia, and Subaru Park.

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Bottom line

If you're looking to retire in comfort without the burden of maintaining a large yard, these small cities offer the perfect balance of affordability, convenience, and community. From beachside towns to cultural hubs, each location gives retirees a chance to downsize smartly and enjoy a more relaxed lifestyle.

The number of Americans ages 65 and older is projected to increase from 58 million to 82 million by 2050, according to PBR, making it more important than ever to plan ahead and avoid money mistakes when choosing where to live. A smaller yard might just be the key to a simpler, more budget-friendly retirement.

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