23 of the Best Places to Retire in Florida: Our Top Picks for Sun, Fun & Affordability

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Last Updated March 27, 2025

Are you nearing retirement and starting to think about where you’d love to spend your golden years? The right location can make all the difference to your wellbeing, how you spend your time, and stretch your savings. With its warm weather, tax-friendly benefits, and endless opportunities for fun in the sun, Florida is a top choice for retirees. 

With so many options, choosing where to retire in Florida can feel overwhelming. In this guide, we’ll highlight the best places to retire in Florida, breaking down what makes each location unique to help you find your perfect retirement haven. 

Why Florida is a Great Place to Retire

Florida’s warm climate and mild winters mean you can stay active with endless outdoor activities like golfing, fishing, hiking, and enjoying the beaches and parks anytime. There are ample museums, art festivals, and entertainment options to explore, too. 

Additionally, many active adult communities in Florida have amenities like fitness centers, pools, and social events. Here, meeting new people is easy and fun, filling your later years with friendships. 

And let’s not forget about the financial side of things. With no state income tax, you can keep more of your Social Security benefits, pension income, and retirement savings. Plus, many areas have affordable homes and property tax exemptions for seniors, making your budget go further..

Best Places To Retire In Florida

Florida has many great communities that are perfect for enjoying your golden years. No matter if you’re looking for an adventurous and active life, a community-centric vibe, or a laid-back paradise, the Sunshine State delivers plenty of options to choose from. 

Below, we’ve compiled our 23 best places to retire in Florida – each with their own perks. Let us know if there’s any we’ve missed! 

Gulf Coast and Southwest Florida

botanical gardens at the ringling museum in sarasota. stone pillar wall with landscaped hedging, potted plants, palm trees and colourful summer flowers in raised beds with stone paths between.

Sarasota – Culture & the Arts

  • Population: Approximately 53,786 residents
  • Share of Population 65+: Approximately 27% 
  • Cost of Living: Approximately 5.3% higher than the national average
  • Median Household Income: $62,615
  • Average Home Value: $454,200

Sarasota is one of our favorite places for retirees. Located on Florida’s Southwest Coast, it’s part of the Suncoast Region along the Gulf of Mexico. The area is renowned for its vibrant arts scene, pristine beaches, and high quality of life. It regularly ranks in the top ten places to live in the U.S., which is no surprise when you weigh up the pros and cons of living here

>>Download our free Sarasota Relocation Guide here

The city offers a wide range of cultural attractions, including theaters, art galleries, and music festivals, while The Ringling Museum showcases an impressive art collection and circus history. From craft breweries to opera houses, sports games to nature preserves, and golf courses to boating tours, Sarasota offers something to do for all lifestyles, ensuring retirees have plenty of fun to fill their days. 

Another major draw for this area is the easy accessibility of healthcare. Sarasota Memorial Hospital ranks among the top 10 safest large hospitals in the U.S. 

While the cost of living is slightly above the national average, many retirees find the lifestyle and amenities well worth the investment.

 Search all homes for sale in Sarasota here

sharky's on the pier venice fishing pier in venice florida at sunset looking toward water with thatched roof tiki restaurant and live music

Venice – Charming Beach Town

  • Population: 24,876
  • Share of Population 65+: Approximately 61%
  • Cost of Living: 5.3% higher than the national average
  • Median Household Income: $65,478
  • Average Home Value: $441,900

>>Download our free Venice Relocation Guide here

Venice, Florida, is a dream destination for many visitors—and for good reason. This charming Gulf Coast town blends natural beauty, small-town warmth, and vibrant community life. With its manicured boulevards, historic downtown, and miles of unspoiled beaches, Venice consistently ranks among the best and happiest beach towns in the U.S. 

Retirees enjoy the walkable streets in friendly neighborhoods, top-notch healthcare facilities, and various recreational activities, from golf and fishing to the area’s rich arts and culture scene. And Venice is just a short drive from Sarasota, offering a great balance for those who want access to world-class arts and culture while spending their days in a smaller, laid back charming beach town. 

Beyond its stunning coastline, South Venice offers unique perks like a private beach ferry, making waterfront living even more accessible. If you’re thinking about making Venice your home, check out the pros and cons of living in Venice to see why so many people choose to retire here.

Search all homes for sale in Venice here

lakespur wellen park resort-style swimming pool area with new construction homes for sale that are great for families with children. Wellen Park is also one of the best places to retire in Florida, with over 20 communities to choose from !

Wellen Park 6th Hottest Master-Planned Development

  • Population: 18,760
  • Share of Population 65+: approximately 56%
  • Average Home Value: $300s – $1M+

Wellen Park is one of Florida’s most sought-after retirement destinations, offering an unbeatable combination of top-tier amenities, thoughtfully designed neighborhoods, and an award-winning community layout. This master-planned paradise provides everything retirees could want—stunning homes, world-class healthcare, vibrant social opportunities, proximity to the thriving Downtown Wellen area, and easy access to the Gulf Coast’s best beaches. 

With excellent medical facilities nearby, including Sarasota Memorial’s state-of-the-art hospital, residents can enjoy peace of mind knowing quality healthcare is just around the corner.

For those looking for an active and engaging 55+ community, Brightmore at Wellen Park is a standout choice. This brand-new state-of-the-art neighborhood offers resort-style living with incredible amenities, social events organized by the on-site lifestyle director, and a laid-back Florida lifestyle. 

We’ve helped hundreds of families move to Wellen Park. With so many beautiful homes available, it’s easy to see why. Book a tour today and discover why Wellen Park is the perfect retirement place!

Search all Welen Park homes for sale here

port charlotte beach at sunset showing bright orange sk reflecting on the water along the coastline of rippling water and palm trees

Port Charlotte – Affordable Near Coasts & Boating

  • Population: 62,531
  • Share of Population 65+: Approximately 33% of the population
  • Cost of Living: 6.3% lower than the national average
  • Median Household Income: $54,956
  • Average Home Value: $296,500

>>Download our free Port Charlotte Relocation Guide here 

Boasting over 165 miles of waterways, Port Charlotte is a paradise for boating, fishing, and nature lovers. The area’s peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty make it ideal for those looking to slow down and savor their retirement years. It’s centrally located between Sarasota and Fort Myers, so residents can easily access bigger-city amenities while enjoying a small-town feel.

Beyond its scenic charm, Port Charlotte provides a fantastic quality of life, with plenty of activities and entertainment, including seven of the twenty golf courses in Charlotte County. Many neighborhoods feature canals where homeowners can dock their boats right in their backyards, which is ideal for those who love life on the water.

It’s also a practical choice for retirees thanks to its affordability and excellent healthcare options. The town is home to top medical facilities and a network of specialty care providers. Plenty of housing options fit different lifestyles and budgets, including an impressive variety of 55+ communities.

Browse all homes for sale in Port Charlotte 

strolling downtown Punta Gorda Florida on saturday farmers market with colorful flowers food stands and shopping

Punta Gorda – Charming Boat Lifestyle

  • Population: 19,230
  • Share of Population 65+: Approximately 50% of the population
  • Cost of Living: Approximately 6.3% lower than the national average
  • Median Household Income: $68,923
  • Average Home Value: $388,800

Punta Gorda is celebrated for its historic charm, waterfront views, and a strong sense of community. As one of the best retirement cities in Florida, it features a picturesque downtown area with quaint shops and restaurants and a variety of recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and walking along the scenic Harborwalk. The Fisherman’s Village, a popular shopping and dining destination, and local farmer’s markets are popular destinations for local retirees. 

You’ll love to know that the high quality of life comes with a relatively low price tag, as Punta Gorda rates below the national and state average cost of living. 

The area offers a strong sense of community and ample housing options, from waterfront homes with private docks to low-maintenance condos in active adult communities, and excellent healthcare facilities.

Browse all homes for sale in Punta Gorda 

stump pass beach state park englewood florida clear blue turqoise water looking out the pass from lemon bay to the gulf of mexico

Englewood – Coastal Living in “Old Florida”

  • Population: 19,683
  • Share of Population 65+: Approximately 57% of the population
  • Cost of Living: 5.3% higher than the national average
  • Median Household Income: $55,788
  • Average Home Value: $388,200

Englewood offers a peaceful coastal lifestyle with a lower cost of living than many other Florida beach towns. The area feels more like “old Florida” and boasts beautiful beaches, scenic state parks, and plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, including fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. You’re also just a short drive away from the magnificent Gasparilla Island and Boca Grande, an affluent winter-haven for wealthy families over the years including the Rockefellers.

Despite its small-town feel, Englewood has all the essential amenities, including healthcare facilities, shopping, and dining options. There are some great local farmers’ markets,as well as cultural events on historic Dearborn Street, and access to top-rated golf courses. Named the “Best Affordable Place in America to Retire,” Englewood blends old Florida charm with modern conveniences. 

More than half of the population here are retirees, so the consensus is that it’s an ideal destination to spend your golden years! 

Browse all homes for sale in Englewood

aerial view of cape coral, florida. overhead image of the gulf of mexico surrounding homes and trees with aa large lake in the middle, and clear blue skies.

Cape Coral – Largest Canal & Boating  Lifestyle Community!

  • Population: 193,003
  • Share of Population 65+: Approximately 24% of the population
  • Cost of Living: 4.2% higher than the national average
  • Median Household Income: $65,282
  • Average Home Value: $377,400

>>Download our free Cape Coral Relocation Guide here

Cape Coral is a fantastic place to retire, offering an affordable cost of living, beautiful waterfront properties, and endless recreational opportunities

Known as the “Waterfront Wonderland,” the city boasts over 400 miles of canals—more than any other city in the world—making it perfect for retirees who love boating, fishing, or simply enjoying scenic water views, and one of the best places to retire in Florida on the water.

Located just north of Fort Myers, residents can easily access top-rated healthcare and amenities. Nearby, you can relax on Sanibel and Captiva Islands’ pristine tropical beaches or take advantage of the city’s many parks and golf courses. 

Search all Cape Coral homes for sale 

downtown fort myers storefront - historic buildings with high arches aand balconies, painted in bright pinks and blues. Out front is lined with palm trees.

Fort Myers – Sports, Culture & Beaches

  • Population: 84,694
  • Share of Population 65+: Approximately 21% of the population
  • Cost of Living: 4.2% higher than the national average
  • Median Household Income: $51,682
  • Average home value: $349,500

>>Download our free Fort Myers  Relocation Guide here

Fort Myers is one of the fastest-growing areas in Florida. Despite this, it has retained its laid-back, welcoming vibe. It has a warm climate, top-rated beaches, and abundant things to do

The city caters to golf enthusiasts, nature lovers, and baseball fans who can catch spring training games for the Boston Red Sox and Minnesota Twins here. Downtown Fort Myers also serves plenty of arts and culture, waterside dining, and shopping galore. 

Lee Memorial Hospital services the area, and ranks in the top 1% of U.S. healthcare facilities. With a low cost of living and a high quality of life, retirees can spend their days fishing along the Caloosahatchee River, exploring the Edison and Ford Winter Estates, or simply relaxing on nearby Sanibel and Captiva Islands.

Search all homes for sale in Fort Myers 

entrance sign to lakewood ranch development in sarasota bradenton florida

Lakewood Ranch – Top Selling Master-Planned Community in US

  • Population: 29,408
  • Share of Population 65+: Approximately 30% of the population
  • Cost of Living: 5% higher than the national average
  • Median Household Income: $110,026
  • Average home value: $697,450

Lakewood Ranch is a top-selling master-planned community spanning 50 square miles across Sarasota and Manatee counties. Some homes here have a Sarasota address, while others will have a Bradenton address. 

It offers retirees a vibrant lifestyle with over 20 villages featuring golf courses, gated communities, and 55+ options. The cost of living is slightly higher than the national average. Still, the community provides excellent amenities like shopping, dining, and local activities. 

Safety is a top priority, with a dedicated police department and gated neighborhoods. 

Lakewood Ranch also boasts award-winning wellness and fitness offerings, top-notch healthcare options, and easy access to Sarasota and Manatee County’s resources, making it an ideal place to retire if you enjoy an active and accessible lifestyle. 

Search all homes for sale in Lakewood Ranch

large solar panels fixed on the grassy garden hill angled towards the clear bright sky

Babcock Ranch – Sustainable Resort-Living

  • Population: 5,000+
  • Share of Population 65+: Approximately 28% of the population
  • Cost of Living: 6% lower than the national average
  • Median Household Income: $62,909
  • Average home value: $414,900

Babcock Ranch near Fort Myers in Southwest Florida is an innovative, solar-powered master-planned community perfect for retirees. 

Designed for walkability, biking, and golf cart accessibility, it offers an active and eco-friendly lifestyle. With a rich history dating back to 1914, the community sits on 18,000 acres, half of which remain green space and preserve. 

Retirees enjoy resort-style pools, scenic lakes, hiking trails, and a public 18-hole golf course. Homes range from $ 300K to over $1 million, and healthcare is conveniently available at the on-site Lee Health Life Center. Founder’s Square hosts social events, making it a vibrant, connected place to retire for the eco-conscious. 

Search all homes for sale in Babcock Ranch

underwater view of a person snorkeling with a manatee in clear waters of florida springs

Parrish – Affordable New Construction

  • Population: 34,608
  • Share of Population 65+: Approximately 25% of the population
  • Cost of Living: 5% lower than the national average
  • Median Household Income: $101,213
  • Average home value: $400,000

Parrish is a growing community in Manatee County with a laid-back, small-town vibe. It sits right between Tampa and Sarasota, making day trips and city conveniences easy. 

Home prices here tend to be lower than in bigger cities, which is a big draw for retirees, as are the lower-than-average crime rates. Plus, there’s plenty of nature to enjoy. Little Manatee River State Park is home to one of Southwest Florida’s most pristine blackwater rivers, which flows nearly 40 miles through diverse ecosystems and aquatic preserves. Just a short drive away, Terra Ceia Preserve State Park features 2,000 acres of mangrove forests, wetlands, and uplands, with miles of trails, kayak routes, and fantastic fishing spots. 

With new shops, restaurants, and healthcare facilities popping up, Parrish offers a quiet, scenic lifestyle without sacrificing conveniences. It definitely ranks up there as one of the best small towns to retire in Florida. 

Search all homes for sale in Parrish

Central & North Florida

st petersburg harbor - high rise flats and glass fronted buildings line the walkway along the harbor front where the water is crystal clear

St Petersburg – Vibrant Urban Living Near the Beach

  • Population: 258,245
  • Share of population 65+: Approximately 19% of the population
  • Cost of living: 2.8% higher than the national average
  • Median household income: $64,375
  • Average home value: $346,900

St. Petersburg, Florida, is a fantastic place to retire. It offers affordable living, beautiful weather, and a vibrant lifestyle. Known as “Sunshine City,” it boasts 361 days of sunshine per year and an average comfortable temperature of 74 degrees. 

Surrounded by the Gulf , Tampa Bay, and Boca Ciega Bay, St. Pete is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts who love boating, fishing, and beach life. Downtown St. Pete features world-class museums, art galleries, and diverse dining. 

The area has excellent healthcare, with Bayfront Health, St. Anthony’s, and Morton Plant Hospital nearby. With home prices starting around $200,000, it’s accessible compared to other Florida hotspots. St. Petersburg is one of our top-rated cities for Zoombirds, making it ideal for remote workers planning an eventual retirement.

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Tampa skyline showing Tampa Bay leading into the city buildings along the wters edge. In front to the right are waterfront homes nestled amongst greenery and trees.

Tampa – Urban Hot Spot With Great Lifestyle

  • Population: 380,476
  • Share of population 65+: Approximately 12% of the population
  • Cost of living: 4.2% higher than the national average
  • Median household income: $59,893
  • Average home value: $381,000

>>Download our free Tampa Relocation Guide here

Situated on Tampa Bay along the Gulf Coast, Tampa is a popular retirement location for retirees who want to be near the water for the boating lifestyle but still have access to city amenities. Home prices vary, with waterfront properties commanding higher prices. Still, overall, the cost of living is reasonable compared to other major Florida cities. 

Temperatures dip a bit in the winter, but humid summers can reach 90 degrees. As with most of Florida, hurricanes are possible between June and November. However, the last time the area had a direct hit was 1921, so it’s a fairly promising climate! 

The city is rich in culture, featuring the Straz Center for Broadway shows and concerts, world-class museums, and the city has become a major sports town with teams like the Buccaneers, Lightning, and Rays. 

Tampa General Hospital ensures excellent healthcare, and the area has a trauma center. With an international airport and easy interstate access, Tampa provides a perfect blend of convenience, entertainment, and relaxation for retirees.

Browse all Tampa homes for sale here

dunedin marina at night. The water is almost black with the moon and flood lights reflecting into it. Bots are docked along the pier and the skyline is a deep ornge sunset glow along the hoizon.

Dunedin – Unique Culture & Vibes on the Coast

  • Population: 36,110
  • Share of population 65+: Approximately 36% of the population
  • Cost of living: 2.8% higher than the national average
  • Median household income: $55,729
  • Average home value: $410,500

Dunedin has a charming coastal lifestyle just north of Clearwater with a strong sense of community. Its Scottish heritage, walkable downtown, great breweries, and scenic trails blend history, culture, and nature. 

Residents enjoy waterfront views, access to Caladesi and Honeymoon Island State Parks, and a thriving arts scene. The Dunedin History Museum and historic Fenway Hotel add to its character. Events like the Highland Games and Mardi Gras celebration bring people together. 

A diverse economy, mild climate, and proximity to Clearwater and Tampa provide convenience without the congestion of larger cities, making Dunedin a peaceful yet engaging place to call home. 

Browse all Dunedin homes for sale here

Turquoise blue spring water pool surrounded by overhanging bushes with purple flowers on them, in Ocala, FL

Ocala – Rolling Green Hills & Equestrian Lovers

  • Population: 62,351
  • Share of population 65+: Approximately 18% of the population
  • Cost of living: 13.0% lower than the national average
  • Median household income: $46,841
  • Average home value: $278,500

Known as the “Horse Capital of the World,” Ocala is home to over 400 thoroughbred farms and the impressive World Equestrian Center. Beyond horses, Silver Springs State Park provides stunning natural beauty with historic glass-bottom boats, hiking trails, and kayaking. 

Located in Central Florida, Ocala sits about 45 minutes from Gainesville, offering a relaxed pace without sacrificing convenience. The cost of living is below the national and state average, making it another of our most affordable places to retire in Florida and an attractive choice for those looking to stretch their retirement budget. Quality healthcare is available through facilities like HCA Florida Ocala Hospital and AdventHealth Ocala, ensuring peace of mind alongside the area’s scenic charm.

Browse all Ocala homes for sale here

large still blue lake with trees at the fr end and a small islet to the far left with waaterfront houses set on it

St. Cloud – Peaceful Living Near Attractions

  • Population: 57,610
  • Share of population 65+: Approximately 12% of the population
  • Cost of living: 1.1% higher than the national average
  • Median household income: $65,274
  • Average home value: $385,400

St. Cloud offers a peaceful small-town atmosphere with easy access to the world-class amenities of nearby Orlando. Originally founded as a retirement community for Civil War veterans, it retains a strong sense of history while providing modern conveniences. 

Nestled along East Lake Tohopekaliga, the area boasts scenic waterfront views, fishing, and outdoor recreation. 

The cost of living is reasonable compared to many other Florida cities, and healthcare options are readily available in both St. Cloud and Orlando. With charming local shops, parks, and a welcoming community, St. Cloud blends old Florida charm with the convenience of city life just minutes away.

Browse all St Cloud homes for sale here

long sandy shore lined with palm trees and dunes, a cluster of palm trees at the far end and clear blue water lapping on to the sand.

Nature Coast (Crystal River, Homosassa, Cedar Key, etc.)

  • Population: Varies by town; for example, Crystal River has approximately 3,161 residents, and there’s a total of 140,453 in Citrus County but almost double that in Hernando County, which are both within the Nature Coast area
  • Share of population 65+: Approximately 35% in some areas
  • Cost of living: 12% lower than the national average
  • Median household income: $40,000
  • Average home value: $229,900

Nature Coast is vast, including counties like Citrus, Levy, Hernando, and Pasco. We’ve spent a lot of time in this area RVing, and it is a beautiful and peaceful area full of nature!

Known for crystal-clear springs & manatees, sprawling state parks, and abundant wildlife, it’s ideal for outdoor activities like fishing, kayaking, and hiking. 

The cost of living is lower than in many Florida coastal areas and also a good bit lower than the national average, making it one of the most affordable places to retire in Florida. There’s a good mix of waterfront homes, rural properties, and small-town communities. With a slower pace of life and easy access to nature, the Nature Coast is perfect for relaxed, scenic living throughout your retirement.

Browse all Nature Coast homes for sale here

a margarita sits on a wall in frot of the sea, overlooking the pier at watersound, Florida

Watersound – Luxury Resort-Living in the Panhandle

  • Population: 13,141
  • Share of population 65+: Approximately 24%
  • Cost of living: Higher than the national average
  • Median household income: $31,739
  • Average home value: $237,600

Watersound is a luxury, master-planned community in the Florida Panhandle, located along Scenic Highway 30-A, about 17 miles northwest of Panama City Beach and 30 miles east of Destin. 

Jimmy Buffet’s Latitude Margaritaville active adult development has put the area on the map in recent years. However, the stunning Gulf views and laid-back coastal lifestyle have long been attractive for retirees who love outdoor activities like boating, fishing, and golfing. 

The community is gaining attention and is expected to expand significantly in the coming years, potentially rivaling the size of Wellen Park. 

East Coast & South Florida

sandy path between the grassy sand dunes leading down to delray beach. The path hs rope fences on either side and the sky is a stunning pink and blue color

Delray Beach – Quiet Beach Living Near Urban Hot Spots

  • Population: 66,434
  • Share of population 65+: Approximately 26%
  • Cost of living: 14.1% higher than the national average
  • Median household income: $69,804
  • Average home value: $355,700

Delray Beach offers a perfect mix of coastal beauty and top-tier 55+ active adult communities in Florida. Located on the Atlantic Coast between Boca Raton and Boynton Beach, it provides easy access to stunning beaches, upscale amenities, and a lively downtown scene. 

The Pineapple Grove Arts District, Cornell Art Museum, and numerous parks create a rich cultural atmosphere, and public gardens and nature trails offer peaceful retreats. The walkable downtown is a hotspot for all ages, filled with trendy shops, restaurants, and entertainment. 

With warm weather year-round, excellent healthcare facilities, and a welcoming retirement community, Delray Beach is a fabulous location for social and active retirees.

Browse all Delray Beach homes for sale here

a woman in white shorts, pink polo shirt, and white cap, tees off on a lush green golf course in front of the sea on a sunny day

Port St. Lucie – Relaxed & Affordable Florida Living

  • Population: Approximately 204,851 (2020 Census)
  • Share of population 65+: Approximately 20% of the population
  • Cost of living: 1.4% lower than the national average
  • Median household income: $68,647
  • Average home value: $372,300

Port St. Lucie, situated on Florida’s Treasure Coast, about halfway between Miami and Orlando, is an affordable and peaceful retirement location. It’s one of Florida’s best-kept secrets for retirees looking for affordability without sacrificing amenities.

The city started out as a retirement development and was incorporated in 1961, becoming Florida’s third-largest city by land and seventh-most populous. Once lacking key infrastructure, the city’s resilience has shaped it into a thriving, award-winning community that flourishes due to the implementation of resident feedback. 

Affordability is a major draw, with nearly 84% of residents owning homes—one of the highest rates in the nation. It’s also Florida’s safest large city. U.S. News ranked it the second safest place to live in the U.S. in 2022, and it remains in the top five today. 

The area is renowned for scenic waterways winding around lush green golf courses, including the PGA Village. It offers abundant outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and catching the New York Mets’ at their spring training facility. 

Residents enjoy the pristine North Fork of the St. Lucie River, a state-designated aquatic preserve and an engaged community that values growth, safety, and quality of life.

Browse all Port St Lucie homes for sale here

edge of the concrete sidewlk tails off into green edging along the upper sand dunes of Vero Beach. A thin line of white sand pokes through, followed by turquoise sea and clear sky.

Vero Beach – East Coast Beach Life!

  • Population: 16,254
  • Share of population 65+: Approximately 29% of the population
  • Cost of living: 3.2% lower than the national average
  • Median household income: $54,311
  • Average home value: $349,200

Just north of Port St. Lucie is Vero Beach, a hidden gem on Florida’s Atlantic Coast. With top-notch golf courses, endless water activities, and fantastic fishing spots, it’s an excellent place for those who enjoy staying active and exploring the outdoors.

Beyond recreation, Vero Beach has a deep appreciation for arts and culture. The city is home to fascinating museums and vibrant galleries, such as the Vero Beach Museum of Art, and you can catch live performances at Riverside Theatre. You’ll find plenty of unique boutique shopping and dining options to suit any budget. 

Living costs are reasonable, and housing prices remain more budget-friendly than in other coastal areas. Quality healthcare is readily available, and the small-town charm mixed with uncrowded coastal beauty makes it easy to settle in and feel at home.

Browse all Vero Beach homes for sale here

the iconic jacksonville pier stretches across the whole image with rolling white waves underneath

Jacksonville – Affordable Urban Living on the East Coast

  • Population: 937,690
  • Share of population 65+: Approximately 13% of the population
  • Cost of living: 4% lower than the national average
  • Median household income: $58,263
  • Average home value: $280,200

Jacksonville, often called the “River City by the Sea,” offers little of everything. There’s always something to enjoy, from art and museums to sunny outdoor adventures, sports, top-notch dining, and great shopping. 

Affectionately known to the locals as “Jax,” it combines laid-back beach life and city energy. It boasts 22 miles of coastline, a scenic riverfront, and plenty of parks for retirees who love the outdoors. Fishing, boating, and golfing are everyday activities here, and the winter weather is mild enough to enjoy them year-round.

Beyond nature, Jax has a thriving arts scene, from public murals to the Museum of Contemporary Art. There’s live music, great restaurants, and an NFL team to cheer on. Plus, with top-rated hospitals like the Mayo Clinic nearby and the cost of living below the national average, retirees can enjoy adventure and peace of mind in one of the best places to retire in Florida on a budget.

Browse all Jacksonville homes for sale here

a wooden pier stretches out over the clear blue waters at key west, fl. It has a wooden overhead structure at the end, and the shore backs onto dense treeline.

Key West – The Ultimate Island Lifestyle

  • Population: 26,776
  • Share of population 65+: Approximately 19% of the population
  • Cost of living: 48.2% higher than the national average
  • Median household income: $75,638
  • Average home value: $1,015,000

Key West, nestled at the southern tip of the Florida Keys, offers retirees a unique blend of history, culture, and upscale lifestyle. 

You can still find a lot of Old Florida charm in the area. The island’s historic Old Town features architecture and landmarks such as Ernest Hemingway’s former residence. The area is so laid-back and easygoing that residents often ride bikes or walk, embracing a car-free lifestyle in this idyllic area. 

The Lower Keys Medical Center meets healthcare needs and ensures 24-hour emergency access. While summers are warm and humid, the tropical climate remains a year-round draw for many.

However, this upscale lifestyle comes with a price tag. The cost of living in the Florida Keys is significantly higher than the national average, with housing being a significant factor. But if you can afford it, then this welcoming community will make you wonder why you never relocated there sooner!

Browse all Key West homes for sale here

How to Choose the Best Florida Retirement Destination for You

Finding the perfect place to retire in Florida depends on several key factors:

  • Your budget will determine where you can comfortably afford to live, considering housing costs, property taxes, and the general cost of living.
  • Your lifestyle preferences will help you narrow down your choices, whether you enjoy the arts, outdoor recreation, small-town charm, or bustling city life. 
  • Access to quality healthcare is essential, especially if you have specific medical needs or prefer to be near top-rated hospitals.

Before making a final decision, visiting your potential retirement spots is crucial. 

Spend time exploring different areas, talking to locals, and experiencing the lifestyle firsthand. Floridians are a welcoming bunch so don’t be shy to ask locals what they love about the area!

Finding The Best Florida Retirement Communities for You

We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again—there really is a community for every preference in Florida! Retirement communities across the Sunshine State serve a wide range of budgets and lifestyles, from vibrant city life to coastal relaxation to quiet, nature-filled retreats. 

It’s no surprise that Florida is a top choice for retirees. Finding the Florida retirement community that fits your lifestyle, budget, and needs is key—and we’re here to help! 

As relocation experts, we can help you understand your options and even arrange tours of potential homes and areas. Get in touch today to explore the perfect place to enjoy your Florida retirement!

 

**Note – All statistics and figures were correct at the time of  publishing in March 2025 according to Bestplaces.net and Realtor.com. Every effot has been made to ensure these figures stay up to date but there may be fluctuations in them due to the nature of the information. 

 

Leighanne Payton

Leighanne is an artist, writer, and travel lover. She is currently based in Scotland, UK where she teaches traditional crafts, storytelling and land based alchemy. She loves to explore off the beaten track, finding people, places, and stories that inspire her work. A good beach, a woolly cardigan, and a cuppa tea can make her feel at home anywhere!

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