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Realtors Reveal 9 Retirement Towns That Aren't Worth Moving To

You might want to avoid retiring in these places.

By Chris Lewis, CEPF , Edited by Calista Headrick

Updated Oct. 18, 2026

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As you build out a retirement plan, one of the key details is where you plan to spend your golden years. Of course, there are lots of popular retirement towns that attract new retirees. But some of those towns aren't really worth putting down roots in, at least according to real estate agents.

Explore the retirement towns that you might want to avoid below.

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

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Scottsdale, Arizona

Average home price: $851,107

Although Scottsdale has long been known as a haven for retirees, the seasonal nature of living here might not be for everyone.

"A lot of the retiree population in Scottsdale only calls the city home for a few months a year," says Omer Reiner, realtor and president of FL Cash Home Buyers, LLC and Texas Home Buyers Group, LLC. "For people who move there to live year-round, that can make it hard to create friendships and cultivate a real sense of community when that population is transient."

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Naples, Florida

Average home price: $544,120

Naples looks like an oasis for retirees seeking beachside living. But the cost of living in this coastal city could make it a bad option for many retirees on a budget.

"The cost of entry can be shocking," says Dell Jeanty, Realtor at Dell Residential, "For example, home prices, homeowners insurance, and potential flood-related expenses can far more easily wipe out a fixed retirement budget than most buyers expect."

Sarasota, Florida

Average home price: $409,878

Retirees often seek out warmer weather in the Sunshine State and bask in the glow of paying no state income taxes. But while Florida might feel more affordable at first glance, the costs can add up quickly.

Sarasota "may not be that affordable when property taxes, insurance costs, HOA fees, and day-to-day expenses are taken into account," says Matt Brown, Broker Associate at William Raveis Real Estate.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Average home price: $323,058

"Myrtle Beach can look inexpensive compared with many Northeast retirement markets, particularly for buyers attracted by golf and coastal living," says Jeanty.

But the true cost of living in this coastal town can add up rather quickly. That's especially true when you factor in potential insurance costs for winds and flooding.

He says, "Retirees should get property-specific insurance estimates before assuming Myrtle Beach will significantly lower their housing expenses."

Fort Myers, Florida

Average home price: $305,650

Living on the Gulf Coast can be beautiful. But it can also come with significant risks. In recent years, the Fort Myers area has seen several damaging hurricanes. Unfortunately, the threat of damaging storms won't subside here.

"Hurricane and flood exposure shouldn't be treated as a minor consideration," says Jeanty, "Insurance costs and the potential financial impact of severe storms can significantly change the prospect of buying a retirement home there."

St. Petersburg, Florida

Average home price: $354,074

St. Petersburg offers residents a beautiful waterfront and lots of activity in the growing downtown area. The wide mix of things to do can be a positive for many retirees. But living on the coast comes at a cost.

"Retirees should make sure they're comfortable with those long-term ownership costs rather than select the city primarily for lifestyle and Florida's lack of a state income tax," says Jeanty.

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The Villages, Florida

Average home price: $392,083

It's no secret that retirees move to The Villages in droves. But for some, it might not be a great option.

As Thomas O'Shaughnessy, VP Marketing at Clever Real Estate, points out, The Villages can come with "very high home insurance, housing costs, and potential heat issues in summer."

Cape Coral, Florida

Average home price: $335,825

Cape Coral offers seemingly endless waterfront living opportunities. With a series of canals, you'll find lots of waterfront properties to match your retirement dream. But there's a catch.

"Flooding and increasing insurance costs can be a problem for retirees," says O'Shaughnessy.

Sedona, Arizona

Average home price: $899,296

The breathtaking beauty of Sedona has long drawn in a crowd, including retirees who want to soak up this place year-round.

"Warm, but higher housing and living costs, and limited access to specialized health care for some," says O'Shaughnessy.

It's important to keep your ability to access necessary medical care into account when deciding on a place to live long-term. Unfortunately, the resources in Sedona might not be enough for some retirees.

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Bottom line

Picking the right spot to call home in retirement can significantly impact your financial situation. Opting for the wrong spot could turn into an expensive mistake. Before committing to a new town to call home, consider taking a trip to explore the place for at least a few weeks. If you can't picture yourself living there, it might not be the right option.

As you set up your retirement finances, keep in mind that making the right moves could set you up for a better future.

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment advice.

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