Retirement isn't about slowing down — it's about choosing a place where your money goes further and your quality of life improves. That's the key to a stress-free retirement, more so than having a massive amount of money in the bank.
Across the U.S., cities large and small are rolling out the welcome mat for retirees with offerings like low taxes, affordable housing, strong healthcare, and endless opportunities to stay active and engaged.
Here are 10 cities that have great retirement perks.
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Pocatello, Idaho
Situated at the southeastern edge of the state, Pocatello offers a unique blend of northwestern living. One of the biggest perks about living in Idaho is that Social Security income isn't taxed, and you'll have access to plenty of outdoor attractions.
The city has a senior activity center and has hosted the Southeast Idaho Senior Games, where people over the age of 50 compete in over 200 events. Beyond that, a low cost of living, including affordable housing, makes Pocatello an ideal retirement spot.
Carson City, Nevada
The state capitol is situated just 20 miles from Lake Tahoe, so you'll get all the benefits of mountain living without the high costs. Nevada has no state income tax and doesn't tax Social Security, pensions, or retirement accounts — keeping more money in your pocket each month.
The state of Nevada also offers a Community Options Program for the elderly (COPE), which provides people over the age of 65 with non-medical services at home like cleaning, cooking, companionship, and other care.
Sebring, Florida
Located about 90 miles south of Orlando, Sebring offers a far more affordable retirement option than Florida's larger metro areas. In addition to no income tax, no tax on retirement income, and year-round sunshine, Sebring stands out with a median housing cost of just $765 per month, making it an appealing choice for retirees looking to stretch their savings.
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Asheville, North Carolina
Access to boundless outdoor adventures and world-class healthcare make Asheville a sleeper pick for one of the best retirement spots in the country. Mission Hospital offers an all-encompassing CarePartners PACE program (covering nursing, medical, therapy, transportation, and social services) for people over the age of 55.
Additionally, there's a rich cultural and arts scene in the city, so you'll have plenty to do.
Rochester, Minnesota
The main perk of Rochester is its close proximity to the Mayo Clinic, so you'll have access to world-class healthcare right at your doorstep, a deciding factor for many retirees who may be dealing with medical issues. Minnesota has plenty of natural beauty, as well as some tax exemptions on Social Security income.
Rochester Community & Technical College also offers tuition-free courses for adults 62 and older, space permitting.
Harlingen, Texas
As one of the most affordable cities in Texas, Harlingen has plenty to offer retirees. From the lack of state income tax to the warm temperatures and close beach access, the city is an ideal destination for cheap living on the Gulf Coast. The city even has an Elderly Assistance Program that lets community members nominate seniors or people with disabilities who need help keeping up their yards.
Harlingen is also right next to the Mexico border, so you can go adventuring in another country on the cheap.
Prescott, Arizona
Between scenic beauty and a gorgeous downtown, Prescott has a lot to offer for retirees looking to experience that classic western vibe. Arizona has low taxes, the cost of living is affordable, and there's a variety of senior programs to take advantage of.
Unlike other parts of the state, Prescott is surrounded by forests and has a moderate climate for most of the year.
Evanston, Wyoming
This idyllic western town is a retiree's dream, with vast open spaces and 300 sunny days a year. With no state income tax, you'll have more cash in your pocket to try all sorts of outdoor adventures.
Many of the houses are not only affordable but are a senior-friendly ranch-style, so you can say goodbye to climbing up the stairs. Retirees can also take part in free and low-cost activities at the local Uinta Senior Center to stay active and involved.
Great Falls, Montana
Nestled between four mountain ranges and home to an international airport, Great Falls has plenty of incentives for people looking to retire there. Montana has expanded its Property Tax Assistance Program to give more financial relief to people on a fixed income.
The state also does not tax retirement income. Coupled with a low cost of living and plenty of scenic outdoor adventures, Great Falls is a fantastic retirement destination.
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Ontario, Oregon
With no tax on Social Security, low food and housing costs, and plenty of scenic beauty, Ontario is one of the best-kept secrets for retirement spots. Located on the Snake River, the city has plenty of outdoor attractions and milder weather than the rest of the state.
You're close enough to major cities like Boise, so you can easily pop over for a night out on the town if you want or get access to more specialized medical care.
Bottom line
No matter how much you have saved, what really matters in retirement is making that money go as far as possible. Having a solid retirement plan means moving from your current residence to a place that delivers value, comfort, and a vibrant life. This typically means moving to states and cities with low taxes, affordable housing, and abundant activities to keep you occupied.
According to U.S. Census data, over 3 million Americans aged 65 and older move each year, showing that many retirees are actively seeking new places to live.
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