11 Safest and Most Affordable Florida Cities Perfect For Retirement

When assessing options for relocation in retirement, many zero in on areas with warm weather and a manageable cost of living. But retirees looking to make the right moves when it comes to budgeting should look beyond these basic criteria. Other factors like the crime rate, which can affect property values, should be assessed as well to avoid money mistakes.

These 11 Florida cities check all the boxes for affordability, low violent crime rates, and that sunny weather many retirees crave.

Editor's note: All home price data comes from Zillow, and the crime rate for violent crimes is sourced from Neighborhood Scout.

Average home value: $338,218

Crime rate: 0.87 per 1,000 residents

Cape Coral is located on Florida's southwest coast, about 15 minutes from Fort Myers. The average home value is slightly below the national average, according to Zillow, and the violent crime rate is exceedingly low, making it a solid option for a stress-free retirement in an affordable area. It's also ideal for outdoorsy types, with more than 1,500 acres of parks.

Average home value: $336,814

Crime rate: 0.49 per 1,000 residents

Port Orange has many draws for retirees, from great golf courses and excellent dining options to a range of outdoor activities. It's located just south of Daytona Beach. The home value is currently below the national average, and the area is considered very safe, reducing the risk of a decline in value for retirees looking to buy.

Average home value: $311,175

Crime rate: 0.66 per 1,000 residents

This central Florida city is home to the Tavares Seaplane Base & Marina and is known as "America's Seaplane City." It also offers plenty for those who would prefer to spend time on the water rather than in the air, as it's surrounded by the lakes Eustis, Harris, and Dora. With a low crime rate and affordable homes, many retirees are drawn to Tavares.

Average home value: $358,870

Crime rate: 1.5 per 1,000 residents

Vero Beach is part of Florida's "Treasure Coast," which is made up of more than two dozen miles of stunning Atlantic beaches. The area has many other draws for retirees hoping to relocate, like a charming historic downtown and excellent arts and dining scenes, while remaining quite affordable.

Average home value: $240,749

Crime rate: 2.18 per 1,000 residents

South Daytona has a slightly higher crime rate than many of the other cities on this list. However, it does boast a significantly lower cost of living, and there are many additional draws for relocating retirees. It's a small town with many well-kept, charming residential areas, is located along the Halifax River, and provides easy access to the Sunshine State's stunning beaches.

Average home value: $363,632

Crime rate: 1.99 per 1,000 residents

Ormond Beach is just south of Daytona Beach but offers a more small-town feel. The average home value is slightly higher than in other retirement hotspots on this list. Still, the area remains attractive for several reasons, including a relaxing beach atmosphere and easy access to stunning state and local parks.

Average home value: $310,685

Crime rate: 2.5 per 1,000 residents

Lakeland is located in central Florida, about 45 minutes from Tampa. While it offers proximity to some of the state's biggest attractions (it's also close to Orlando's theme parks), the area is a particular draw for outdoorsy retirees. Lakeland has a range of parks, gardens, and hiking opportunities, as well as a very manageable cost of living.

Average home value: $259,932

Crime rate: 1.34 per 1,000 residents

Pensacola is considered safe and affordable, and it offers miles and miles of white-sand beaches for residents to enjoy. The Gulf Coast city is located in Florida's Panhandle. While the low prices and natural beauty of the area attract many retirees, those considering buying property in Pensacola should be aware that securing home insurance may be difficult.

Average home value: $268,170

Crime rate: 2.62 per 1,000 residents

Titusville is about 50 minutes east of Orlando. In addition to proximity to the city's many theme parks, it also offers easy access to attractions like Cocoa Beach and the Kennedy Space Center. For retirees, it offers an affordable, safe option that grandkids will love visiting.

Average home value: $268,139

Crime rate: 5.31 per 1,000 residents

While Ocala may have a higher crime rate than other cities on this list, it's still a major draw for retirees looking for affordable living and warm, pleasant weather. The northern Florida city is about 40 miles from lively Gainesville and is known as the "Horse Capital of the World." It's home to around 600 horse farms and is near many beautiful parks and freshwater springs.

Average home value: $243,754

Crime rate: 4.08 per 1,000 residents

Lake Wales is another central Florida gem where retirees can invest in cheap real estate, with home values far below Zillow's current national average. It offers sunny weather, citrus groves, and easy access to Orlando's hustle and bustle, about 50 miles away.

With a rise in home rental opportunities, many of the cities listed here would be solid options for those looking to invest in real estate to help generate retirement income. If you are interested in purchasing a Florida home you can enjoy in the winter months and rent out for the rest of the year, purchasing in one of these cities can help make those snowbird dreams a reality.