Best small towns for retirees in every state

- National rank: #191
- Good for retirees grade: A+
- Population: 2,637

South of Birmingham, Alabama, Indian Springs Village maintains a rural environment that is particularly calm and peaceful for retirees. From Oak Mountain State Park to the local garden club, it's clear that town officials' efforts to protect Indian Springs Village from commercialization and maintain a "nature-focused atmosphere" are working.

- National rank: #6,405
- Good for retirees grade: B
- Population: 4,448

In Soldotna, Alaska, retirees will hardly feel out of place: 17.3% of residents are over the age of 65. Additionally, the town's position on the Kenai Peninsula means there's a wealth of outdoor activities to keep residents busy.

- National rank: #42
- Good for retirees grade: A+
- Population: 2,910

In Desert Hills, residents don't have to choose mountains over water. The quaint town is nestled in the foothills of three mountain ranges and close to Lake Havasu, a man-made reservoir known for RV recreation and water sports. It's also rated as one of the lowest cost-of-living places in Arizona.

- National rank: #284
- Good for retirees grade: A+
- Population: 1,912

Lake Hamilton is a vibrant place for active retirees who enjoy lakeside living and amenities. It's home to an active fishery and all the seafood restaurants that accompany it, while also being near theme parks for grandchildren's visits. The community also offers independent and assisted living.

- National rank: #66
- Good for retirees grade: A+
- Population: 3,576

Despite its rural feel, Del Monte Forest has many options for entertainment, from the famous Pebble Beach Golf Links to restaurants and parks. Located minutes from the city of Monterey, this coastal area is a habitat for numerous rare and endangered plants and animals and a short drive to a nationally recognized independent and assisted living center. The bulk of the population is highly educated and 55+.

- National rank: #512
- Good for retirees grade: A
- Population: 2,084

Columbine Valley was voted the #1 place to retire in Colorado, perhaps because of its balance of rural and urban amenities. The town is close to Denver but still enjoys a quiet, natural environment complete with views of nearby mountains.

- National rank: #210
- Good for retirees grade: A+
- Population: 4,441

Mystic, located along Connecticut's southern coastline between Boston and New York City, is practically overflowing with history, art, and entertainment to keep residents occupied. It has retained much of its original colonial charm, and much of its culture pays homage to its origins as a seaport, including museums, art festivals, and historic landmarks.

- National rank: #29
- Good for retirees grade: A+
- Population: 1,388

North of Ocean City, Delaware, Rehoboth Beach offers a mile-long stretch of beach for residents to enjoy along the Atlantic coast. Through Reach Out Rehoboth, the city makes an effort to listen to citizens' requests and continually improve, including finding solutions for traffic and upgrading stormwater drains.

- National rank: #1
- Good for retirees grade: A+
- Population: 1,265

Rio's relatively small scale may attract retirees who want to make the popular jump to Florida but also avoid the hustle and bustle of the larger cities. Most businesses in the town north of Palm Beach, Florida, are privately owned, and with a population of only 1,265, residents won't have to struggle for space at one of the nearby beaches or sand dunes.

- National rank: #130
- Good for retirees grade: A+
- Population: 3,525

Avondale Estates was ranked the #1 place to retire in Georgia, and it's not hard to see why. Besides peaceful greenery and its close proximity to Atlanta, the quiet town has its own art district and community of artists.

- National rank: #2,823
- Good for retirees grade: A-
- Population: 6,571

Retirees in the resort community of Wailea can truly relax in luxury, as Hawai'i's premier retirement destination boasts upscale restaurants, world-class hotels, and beaches. The Wailea Beach Path winds along the coast, connecting attractions in the area and showcasing ocean views—the route might even inspire some sailing, snorkelling, or scuba diving. It's also a 30-minute drive to the main airport in Maui for interisland and overseas connections.

- National rank: #1,307
- Good for retirees grade: A
- Population: 3,443

Grangeville is a laid-back, spread-out community that is ideal for retirees wanting a quieter lifestyle. Homes in the area cost less than the state average, crime rates are low, and the community is tight-knit.

- National rank: #150
- Good for retirees grade: A+
- Population: 19,190

Residents of Lake Forest have convenience and high-quality amenities at their fingertips, making it ideal for retirees—especially the affluent, since the town has a higher-end housing market offset by low property taxes. Location-wise, Lake Forest offers waterside views overlooking the Lake Michigan shoreline, and Chicago is within an hour's drive. The Lake Forest Open Lands Association is also working to ensure access and preservation of the area's natural landscapes for generations to come.

- National rank: #425
- Good for retirees grade: A+
- Population: 1,201

The quaint town of Long Beach features a lengthy stretch of Lake Michigan shoreline in a mostly landlocked state. The town was originally established as a summer vacation destination, but has since become a year-round residence with easy access to the Indiana Dunes National Seashore, Chicago, and Michigan City. Like many other retiree havens, Long Beach offers great options for golfers and nature lovers, such as the Friendship Botanic Gardens; it also features numerous noteworthy homes designed by the son of Frank Lloyd Wright.

- National rank: #402
- Good for retirees grade: A+
- Population: 4,761

Humboldt takes pride in making sure community members feel welcome, no matter what age. The town, located in central Iowa, has a robust community center, aquatic center, and community garden, offering fitness classes, communal meetups, and special events.

- National rank: #164
- Good for retirees grade: A+
- Population: 33,844

Nine in ten residents in Leawood own their homes, creating a stable environment for retirees. The town is also known for being family-friendly, offering opportunities for health and fitness, and having excellent safety ratings. It's also the state's top suburb to live in, especially for seniors, with a high ratio of practicing doctors in the area.

- National rank: #14
- Good for retirees grade: A+
- Population: 2,188

Located a short distance from Louisville, Windy Hills is a city with a wealth of historic homes and public places offering easy access to nature. Moreover, six continuing care retirement homes in the Windy Hills area support members of the suburb's older population.

- National rank: #227
- Good for retirees grade: A+
- Population: 8,380

Oak Hills Place has plenty of green space for residents to enjoy while still remaining close to Baton Rouge's urban hub. Roughly 25% of the town's residents are 65 and older, and locals can benefit from having several parks within 10 minutes or less.

- National rank: #245
- Good for retirees grade: A+
- Population: 5,243

Camden has a large retiree population (38% of the town's residents are 65 and older), and the resources they need to live comfortably. Residents of this popular vacation spot can enjoy Camden's perks year-round, including nearby mountains, the Atlantic coastline, and an abundance of shops, restaurants, galleries, and museums.

- National rank: #52
- Good for retirees grade: A+
- Population: 9,484

For retirees wanting to stay active, the highly walkable Chevy Chase suburb offers many opportunities within the area. Its expansive natural areas are ideal for pedestrians and horseback riders. Chevy Chase has similar benefits to nearby Washington D.C., including cherry blossom trees, a nature sanctuary, high-end stores, and assisted living facilities.

- National rank: #85
- Good for retirees grade: A+
- Population: 1,337

West Chatham is a popular vacation spot, meaning that retirees can enjoy it year-round. Located along the Cape Cod peninsula, it is home to multiple beaches, sand dunes, ponds, and forests, creating a secluded, rural feel.

- National rank: #128
- Good for retirees grade: A+
- Population: 2,589

Grosse Pointe Shores, just north of Detroit, is perhaps best known for its prime location along scenic Lake St. Clair. The town offers support to older citizens at The Helm, a center that provides fitness classes, games, and community events.

- National rank: #1,031
- Good for retirees grade: A
- Population: 11,644

Mendota Heights is close to Minneapolis and St. Paul while maintaining a small-town, peaceful atmosphere. For older citizens, the town's Parks and Recreation department offers year-round activities and social events, ensuring life stays engaging.

- National rank: #595
- Good for retirees grade: A
- Population: 18,561

In addition to earning the Niche ranking for the best place to retire in Mississippi, Ocean Springs has also been named the top coastal small town by USA Today. Maybe the town's appeal lies in the tranquility of the surrounding water and marshland views, or in its thriving, historic downtown. Or perhaps retirees are drawn to the tax-free incentives for retirement income, offered throughout Mississippi.

- National rank: #41
- Good for retirees grade: A+
- Population: 1,619

Oakland provides plenty of opportunities for residents to relax and play, including three parks within city limits and a bike trail. With a median rent of $2,063, this area near St. Louis is relatively affordable and has a rural, "small-town" feel.

- National rank: #2,276
- Good for retirees grade: A-
- Population: 8,422

Retirees with an adventurous spirit will be right at home in Whitefish, a resort town that lies on the edge of Glacier National Park in the Rocky Mountains. The town is well-suited for those who enjoy outdoor activities like mountain biking, hiking, fishing, and skiing, though homes can be on the pricey side. According to Realtor.com, houses sell for a median cost of $800,000.

- National rank: #776
- Good for retirees grade: A
- Population: 3,468

The town of Auburn has multiple options for assisted and independent living. But for retirees who want to venture out more, the bustling Kansas City, Omaha, and Lincoln metro areas aren't far. Auburn itself has a disc golf course, a variety of boutique shops, and outdoor recreation along Duck Creek.

- National rank: #133
- Good for retirees grade: A+
- Population: 2,165

Perched above Lake Tahoe in the heart of the Sierra Nevada mountains, Kingsbury is within reach of all of the area's best tourism sites, without the high prices and crowds. Nearby is North America's largest concentration of ski resorts, including Heavenly Ski Resort, as well as lake activities, beaches, and casinos.

- National rank: #481
- Good for retirees grade: A
- Population: 2,523

Bethlehem's motto is "Just Be," and retirees who value outdoor adventure and strong community values might want to "just be" there. Though the village is nestled in the White Mountains—just off the Appalachian Trail—the closest regional hospital is only 10 miles away. Bethlehem is ideal for those who want a quiet life, but year-round local events make community connection easy.

- National rank: #83
- Good for retirees grade: A+
- Population: 6,967

Retirees in Mountainside can enjoy a suburban lifestyle surrounded by nature. Seniors are well-supported, with a designated coordinator who links residents to special services such as transportation, meal delivery, or participation in the Mountainside Active Retirees group. The area offers 20 senior living communities, which include assisted and senior living as well as memory care.

- National rank: #419
- Good for retirees grade: A+
- Population: 3,083

With a warm, dry climate and an average high temperature of 88 degrees Fahrenheit, Sandia Heights is the perfect locale to bask in the sun. The nearby Sandia Peak Tramway is the longest in the Americas and offers spectacular views of the Sandia Mountains, where residents can also enjoy biking, hiking, and other outdoor recreation.

- National rank: #6
- Good for retirees grade: A+
- Population: 2,817

This Long Island spot enjoys a reasonable cost of living, especially considering it is only a stone's throw from downtown New York City. Lakes cover 43 acres of Lake Success, providing a peaceful, rural haven where residents can spot fish and fowl. No fishing or boating is allowed, further maintaining the quiet atmosphere.

- National rank: #27
- Good for retirees grade: A+
- Population: 6,901

St. James lies along the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway, where residents can enjoy kayaking, a marina, walking and biking trails, and pickleball. The city has a resort-like feel and boasts a large pavilion and amphitheater, the setting for several community events.

- National rank: #2,758
- Good for retirees grade: A-
- Population: 6,554

Valley City hugs the Sheyenne River and is home to the walkable Highline Bridge, one of the country's highest and longest single-track railroad bridges. The Valley City area has activities for the grandkids, like a waterpark and planetarium, and a brewery and wineries for the older folks. North Dakota is also ranked as the second-best state to age in place by Seniorly.

- National rank: #251
- Good for retirees grade: A+
- Population: 6,048

Indian Hill's residents have created a "strong sense of history and community" within the town's 20 square miles while still remaining close enough to participate in Cincinnati's urban life. The village includes 75 miles of bridle trails for horseback riding and the Grand Valley Preserve, where residents can catch a glimpse of local wildlife.

- National rank: #499
- Good for retirees grade: A
- Population: 1,167

Retirees looking to save money might want to consider Oklahoma, which a June 2025 study from Visual Capitalist ranked as the second-best state for affordability, with an annual living cost of just $60,000. The area also offers a nursing facility with a good reputation for skilled nursing care, memory care, and rehabilitation. North Enid is also known by residents to have a family-oriented, tight-knit community.

- National rank: #788
- Good for retirees grade: A
- Population: 1,959

The small town of Gearhart sits among the dunes near the Pacific Ocean. Seniors who want to stay active have several options: golfing, hiking, and an estuary for birdwatching, not to mention several seafood restaurants. The state of Oregon offers a variety of services for aging populations, including a program for older people who seek independent living but aren't qualified for long-term care benefits through Medicaid.

- National rank: #189
- Good for retirees grade: A+
- Population: 3,004

Orwigsburg offers a quiet, welcoming, and safe place to live. The area is well-connected by interstate highways, and within city limits, Orwigsburg has a variety of community-organized events and senior services. The town is also home to Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital, an acute-care facility that holds a primary stroke center accreditation.

- National rank: #578
- Good for retirees grade: A
- Population: 5,545

Located almost entirely on Conanicut Island, the upscale community of Jamestown boasts scenic surroundings with views over Narragansett Bay. Boaters and scuba divers would be at home in Jamestown, and easy access to Providence and Boston connects this small community to city activities and more robust health care. Jamestown's senior services include a senior center and support for housing, transportation, and independent living.

- National rank: #90
- Good for retirees grade: A+
- Population: 37,805

Hilton Head Island is a truly luxurious place to retire. It features 12 miles of beach, iconic golf courses, tennis courts, and an arts center complete with a local symphony. Hilton Head is also home to endangered sea turtles that nest by the ocean, and the weather ranges from 42 to 89 degrees year-round. The housing market is expensive, but the state of South Carolina does not tax Social Security benefits and only partially taxes retirement income.

- National rank: #733
- Good for retirees grade: A
- Population: 3,513

Milbank, located in eastern South Dakota, is perfect for those seeking a quiet, simple life post-retirement. With such a small population, the community tends to be tight-knit. There are a variety of parks and green spaces where residents can take part in community clubs and activities, including pickleball, basketball, walking, baseball, and much more.

- National rank: #144
- Good for retirees grade: A+
- Population: 2,112

Lookout Mountain's namesake provides a wealth of natural beauty and activities for local residents, including Ruby Falls, the tallest underground waterfall in the country. Just a few miles away from the big-city amenities of Chattanooga, Tennessee, there are also a variety of hiking routes and biking trails.

- National rank: #44
- Good for retirees grade: A+
- Population: 3,678

Near Houston and Galveston Bay, Taylor Lake Village residents pride themselves on their volunteerism and citizenry, perhaps because 96% of the population are homeowners. The town has a staggering 32 senior living communities, and residents can also connect with one another in Taylor Lake Village's many parks and restaurants. Retirees can also keep expenses low, since Texas doesn't charge a state income tax.

- National rank: #1,197
- Good for retirees grade: A
- Population: 9,524

It's hard to beat Ivins's natural beauty. The town is surrounded by the picturesque Red Mountain wilderness and is close to Zion National Park. The town maintains a strong sense of community pride, with two annual Heritage Days celebrating Ivins' history and close-knit relationships between residents.

- National rank: #1,679
- Good for retirees grade: A
- Population: 7,807

On the shores of Lake Champlain sits the tranquil town of Shelburne, known for its welcoming community and plentiful outdoor recreation. Shelburne offers all the necessary amenities, including pharmacies and a well-stocked grocery store, along with restaurants and cafes. The town is also home to one of the oldest yacht clubs in the country and the 1,400-acre Shelburne Farms estate and open-air museum.

- National rank: #109
- Good for retirees grade: A+
- Population: 8,834

With warm summers, mild winters, and generally low snowfall, Rockwood is a temperate place to live. Activities can continue year-round without getting weathered out. The town is surrounded by the Appalachian Mountains, providing endless opportunities for hiking, fishing, camping, biking, and other outdoor activities.

- National rank: #370
- Good for retirees grade: A+
- Population: 3,104

Clyde Hill boasts an enviable position: Its location provides views of Lake Washington, Mount Rainier, the Olympic Mountains, the Cascade Mountains, and the Seattle skyline, all at once. The town is close to both Seattle and Bellevue, providing urban amenities without sacrificing some truly breathtaking rural sights.

- National rank: #199
- Good for retirees grade: A+
- Population: 3,397

Summersville contains West Virginia's largest lake, with 60 miles of shoreline available for swimming, paddleboarding, boating, fishing, and much more. The town is only 22 miles from the famed New River Gorge National Park, providing even more opportunity for residents to whet their outdoor appetites along one of the oldest rivers in North America.

- National rank: #209
- Good for retirees grade: A+
- Population: 6,428

Elm Grove, located just west of Milwaukee, has a variety of active community projects to continually ensure the town is comfortable, clean, and entertaining for its residents, 22% of whom are 65 and older. These projects include reopening Underwood Creek and building new, modern apartments at Caroline Heights.

- National rank: #365
- Good for retirees grade: A+
- Population: 2,716

Thermopolis almost sounds like more of a vacation destination than a hometown. This Wyoming town has a natural hot springs state park, Wind River Canyon, and a historic, bustling downtown, all at residents' fingertips.

Story editing by Cu Fleshman.