12 Most Beautiful Places in the US To Retire 2024

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If you’re ready to start the next chapter, finding the best place to retire can significantly improve your quality of life. The following list includes towns with low crime rates, affordable living costs, and abundant things to keep you occupied. Whether outdoor activities, dining out, or local history appeal the most, here are some top spots for American retirees.

Ann Arbor, Michigan

Most beautiful places to retire in the US, Ann Arbor — © Dark Vader / Shutterstock

Home to the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor is the archetypal Midwestern college town – yet has so much more to offer besides. The city is packed with parkland, offering various outdoor opportunities beyond the boundaries. It’s very walkable, and the historic main street has lovely places to shop, eat and drink.

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Fredericksburg, Texas

If you’d like to spend your later years somewhere with a European feel, then Fredericksburg in Texas has to be worth considering. Marktplatz, the main square, even has a replica German church, and you can delve into German heritage at the Pioneer Museum. The climate is pleasant, and the local area offers boutique shopping, galleries, restaurants, and wineries.

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York, Pennsylvania

York in southern Pennsylvania is a historic city set among vineyards, and it also offers tip-top health care services for post-work residents. There are plenty of restaurants here, plus parks, walking trails, museums, and galleries. Affordable living costs and the nearby Mason-Dixon Wine Trail add to the city’s charms.

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Astoria, Oregon

The port city of Astoria in Oregon offers an appealing waterside setting, which is by the banks of the Columbia River and close to the ocean. Affordable Victorian housing, local breweries, fine museums, fishing, and other outdoor activities make this a lovely place to live. Oregon’s oldest city also has low rates of crime.

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Lakewood Ranch, Florida

Florida’s sunny climate and the state’s personal income tax perk make it one of the most popular places for retired people. Crime rates and living costs are low, and there’s housing stock to suit everyone. Lakewood Ranch is ideal for shoppers, runners, foodies, golfers, and lovers of outdoor life.

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Naples, Florida

Like its Italian namesake, Naples in Florida is also blessed with sultry weather. And as with other Florida hotspots, the lack of personal income tax makes it attractive to retired people. Naples is abundant in golf courses, restaurants, and beaches. The city also has a low crime rate, plus a good choice of affordable housing.

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Youngstown, Ohio

Perhaps it’s the irony of the name that appeals, or maybe it’s the low living costs and community atmosphere. Whatever the reason, there’s no doubt that Youngstown in the Mahoning Valley is a lovely place to live. Expect a thriving performing arts scene, many miles of hiking and biking trails, historic sites, top-class golf courses, and an ever-increasing number of breweries, distilleries, and wineries.

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Lake Placid, New York

Another option for those who want to unwind by the water is Lake Placid, in the Adirondack Mountains of New York State. Once a Winter Olympics venue, the town is ideal for lively sorts seeking winter sports or outdoor activities. The lake and forest offer many outdoor opportunities, and the area is particularly stunning during fall.

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Charlottesville, Virginia

The local student population and surrounding infrastructure might help keep retirees living in Charlottesville young. As well as the city itself, you’ll also be based right by the Blue Ridge Mountains. Friendly locals, a low cost of living, plenty of history, and a vibrant food scene ensure the universal appeal of this Virginian city.

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Saratoga Springs, New York

Another town good for the young-at-heart is Saratoga Springs, which is as popular with families as retirees. It’s thus the perfect pick for anyone considering inter-generational living. Low crime rates are a local plus, and the town center has attractive cafes, boutiques, and galleries.

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Cumberland, Maryland

Historic Cumberland is an American retiree’s dream, with a lower-than-average cost of living. Despite the affordability, it offers plenty of appeal, with local wineries, the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad, and canals, mountains, and trails to discover. Cumberland also offers George Washington’s old headquarters and original Victorian architecture.

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Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

Rivalling York in Pennsylvania is Harrisburg, the picturesque state capital by the Susquehanna River. Nearby Hersheypark practically guarantees visits from the grandchildren, while the adults may be happy to explore civil war history. Low living costs, big city attractions, and the position at the base of the Appalachians ensure all-round appeal.

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