Realtors Predict These 11 Retirement Cities Will Become Unaffordable by 2030

When buying a home in retirement, the cost can have a significant impact on your nest egg. Unfortunately, some of the most popular retirement cities are seeing home prices soar, potentially putting a home purchase in these areas out of reach for most retirees.

Understanding which markets are seeing higher prices could help you avoid wasting money as you set up a retirement plan.

Editor's note: All housing data comes from Zillow, unless otherwise stated.

Average home value: $548,175

Retirees have been flocking to this Southwestern corner of Florida for years. But the never-ending stream of new residents is putting upward pressure on housing costs in the area.

"Retirees are hit with home prices, insurance, HOAs, and a higher cost of living," says Ben Mizes, president of Clever Real Estate and licensed real estate agent. "Even if home prices stabilize, owning a home in Naples will become too expensive for people on a fixed income living in Naples."

Average home value: $408,978

Sarasota is another long-running favorite among retirees moving down to the Sunshine State. Decades of incoming retirees have pushed housing prices higher, and Mizes believes the city will be unaffordable for most retirees by 2030.

"Retirees come to Sarasota because it has the beaches, culture, and no taxes, but as more demand comes to the area, it will become more expensive," says Mizes.

Average home value: $848,565

Scottsdale was once known for being a top retirement spot. But now it's becoming a more expensive market.

"I always caution retirees on unforeseen expenses in Southwest markets. Your total monthly 'carry cost' on a fully paid off home can reach $4,500 when you factor in property taxes, insurance premiums, and utilities," says Blaz Korosec, licensed Realtor and founder of Investorade, "For retirees on a fixed income, that kills a lot of your flexibility."

Average home value: $454,142

Asheville's mix of great scenery and local flair has begun to draw in a crowd. But the increased interest might soon make it unaffordable for most retirees.

"Asheville has all the right elements to be a market where buyers from out of state push prices to a level that local retirees cannot afford," says Mizes.

Average home value: $989,768

San Diego attracts a crowd of sunseekers of all ages from all over the country.

"With San Diego's beautiful weather and coastline, we've always been a dream retirement destination for many, especially for those who've endured a lifetime of harsh weather in the Midwest or on the East Coast," says Kimberly Schmidt, San Diego Real Estate Expert and Team Lead of Kimberly Schmidt & Associates at Compass.

But according to Schmidt, prices may soon be out of reach for most retirees.

Schmidt continues, "Will most people be able to afford it? I'm afraid that answer, unfortunately, is going to be a resounding no. With the cost of living already being so high in 2026, I can only imagine what it's going to be by 2030."

Average home value: $989,678

Housing prices in this charming coastal town have been climbing in recent years. On top of soaring housing costs, most homeowners face sky-high insurance premiums, sometimes north of $5,000 per year for a basic policy, according to Blaz Korosec, licensed Realtor and founder of Investorade.

"All of that starts to add up quickly for retirees seeking walkable communities or waterfront properties, as both premiums and taxes are rising much more quickly than for inland neighborhoods," says Korosec.

Average home value: $429,861

The City of Music offers a mix of city life paired with beautiful rolling hills. In addition to the amenities, Tennessee's lack of a state income tax attracts many transplants, including retirees and remote workers.

"Between now and 2028 to 2030, I think Nashville will price itself out of reach for most households making under $80k/year," says Korosec.

Average home value: $598,415

For retirees seeking waterfront living, Suttons Bay is a popular option.

"Suttons Bay offers a more active village environment while maintaining direct access to Suttons Bay, Grand Traverse Bay, and Lake Michigan," says Sanders Scott, Northern Michigan Real Estate Broker.

Scott foresees rising prices in this waterfront town.

Average home value: $335,921

Cape Coral offers seemingly endless waterfront living options, thanks to an extensive canal system. But the dream of an affordable retirement might soon be out of reach in this Sunshine State retirement destination.

"Cape Coral in southern Florida will likely strain fixed incomes," says Andrew Fortune, real estate agent at Great Colorado Homes. "I'm dealing with a past client there right now who is struggling. Older condo buildings face large special assessment fee hikes, and new state laws force associations to fully fund reserves. Retirees can't afford $50k repair bills, so some older people need to sell their properties because of these fees."

Average home value: $901,982

When it comes to picturesque views, Sedona is difficult to beat. But for retirees craving an affordable slice of the Southwest, Sedona is quickly becoming an unaffordable option.

The city "has a clear labor shortage, making daily life much harder. You can't find a local plumber for under $300. Restaurants and grocery stores constantly raise their daily prices to keep up with the labor shortage," says Fortune, "Service costs will drain retirement accounts very quickly in today's elevated prices."

Average home price: $494,696

During the pandemic years, Boise saw an influx of residents seeking affordable prices paired with natural beauty. But the rising demand may create a problem for retirees on a budget.

"Formerly value-oriented retirees who saw Boise as an affordable destination are now vying with out-of-state buyers willing to pay even lower prices," says Ryan Fitzgerald, owner and broker at Raleigh Realty, "Inventory hasn't completely kept up with demand, leading to a rapid shift in affordability that has surprised many."

With rising housing prices, it might make sense to jump on a purchase sooner rather than later, if you can afford it. But before committing to a major purchase, like a second home, it's critical to confirm that you're on track for retirement. If you're light on retirement savings, it might make more sense to opt for a more affordable retirement destination that better suits your wallet.