Best Places to Retire

Retiree on the beach

With masses of baby boomers exiting the work force over the next 25 years, the need to consider the best places to retire has never been greater. Focusing on the leisure time available to retirees, most rankings place a premium on warm weather, ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, and cultural and educational offerings. However, more practical concerns like the affordability of housing and distance to medical facilities also come into play. Whether you're winding down a long career or just dreaming of the future, it's never too early to evaluate which city would be the best place to retire.

1. Walla Walla, Washington

With a population of 30,000, Walla Walla provides many of the opportunities of big-city living like art galleries and nearby colleges, while still offering affordable housing.

2. Fort Collins, Colorado

Home to Colorado State University, this Rocky Mountain terrain of Fort Collins, Colorado offers the cultural and educational advantages of a college town and plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun.

3. Portland, Oregon

Portland earned the top spot on Sperling's Best Places Top Ten Cities for Seniors. Sperling's cited Portland's high-quality senior health services, targeted resources like meal services and adult day cares. Additionally, there is an excellent public transportation service, making it easy for older residents to get around the city, even when they no longer feel comfortable driving.

4. St. George, Utah

Kiplinger.com included St. George in its list of 12 Great Places to Retire as a prime location for retirees seeking to live an active life. With an average of 300 days of sunshine a year, this is a great place for anyone desiring to escape a cold Northern climate. The desert weather allows for the year-round enjoyment of outdoor sports or just taking in the scenery.

5. Bellingham, Washington

AARP The Magazine included Bellingham in its list of the best places to retire for natural diversity and affordable housing in a variety of neighborhoods. Kiplinger.com also touted the natural beauty of the area and a thriving arts community. Abundant opportunities for recreation mean retirees won't be forced to sit around the house with nothing to do.

6. Prescott, Arizona

Prescott falls third in Money's rankings, with the magazine focusing on the city's appeal to those who love the outdoors. Prescott National Forest offers endless enjoyment for nature lovers, including 450 miles of trails. A Fine Arts Association provides entertainment and culture, while three hospitals in the area help ensure the continued good health of aging retirees.

7. Raleigh/Durham/Chapel Hill, North Carolina

Featured by AARP The Magazine, the Raleigh area is notable as a progressive urban area featuring Southern hospitality. With ten universities in the area and numerous high-tech businesses, retirees can enjoy an intelligent and vibrant community.

8. Sarasota, Florida

Florida has long been a popular retirement destination, and Sarasota is considered a notable destination within the state by AARP The Magazine. Cultural opportunities include a symphony, museums, opera, a film society, theaters, and art galleries. Kiplinger.com also included the city in its list for the mild climate, offering numerous chances to take advantage of the 60 golf courses and 150 parks in the area.

9. Holland, Michigan

Listed number four in Money magazine's best places to retire, Holland is a nontraditional addition to the list. Money highlights plentiful summer recreation on nearby Lake Michigan, a classic downtown featuring independent shops and restaurants, and the town's proximity to the larger city of Grand Rapids. Those concerned about Michigan's cold winters can take heart in the town's heated sidewalks and streets.

10. San Francisco, California

Since the city's high cost of living puts it out of the range of many seniors, it's an unconventional choice for the retirement years. However, San Francisco earned the number three spot on Sperling's list for public transportation, senior services, and a mild climate. It also has a high concentration of seniors in the built-in community settings, with low crime rates, so new residents can feel safe.