Best Places to Live in Florida for Retirees

Connor Cedro
Jun 11
6 min read

Updated: Jun 12

Florida has long been considered the ultimate destination for retirees. With its year-round sunshine, no state income tax, and endless recreational opportunities, the Sunshine State continues to attract those looking to make the most of their retirement years. But Florida is a big state, and not every city offers the same perks. Whether you're seeking affordability, beachfront living, or top-notch health care, here are the best places to live in Florida for retirees in 2025.

Best Places to Live in Florida for Retirees

1. Sarasota – Culture and Coastal Comfort

Sarasota consistently ranks among the best places to live for retirees. Located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, it offers a rich cultural scene with the Sarasota Opera, Ringling Museum, and a variety of galleries and theaters. Retirees love Sarasota for its high walkability, access to quality medical care, and pristine beaches like Siesta Key.

Neighborhoods like Palmer Ranch and Lakewood Ranch offer resort-style communities with pools, clubs, and golf courses. Combined with relatively low property taxes and a range of housing options, Sarasota delivers both elegance and practicality for retirees.

2. Naples – Luxury Retirement Living

Naples is one of Florida’s most upscale retirement destinations. With miles of white-sand beaches, high-end shopping, and gourmet restaurants, it’s a perfect choice for retirees who want to enjoy their golden years in luxury. Though the cost of living is higher here, retirees appreciate the safety, well-maintained infrastructure, and top-rated medical centers like NCH Healthcare System.

Naples also offers a variety of active adult communities, from golf estates to waterfront condos. For those who value refinement, security, and access to cultural amenities, Naples is hard to beat.

3. The Villages – Florida’s Retirement Capital

If you’re looking for a fully immersive retirement lifestyle, The Villages is unmatched. Spanning parts of three counties in Central Florida, this massive 55+ community offers more than 50 golf courses, over 2,000 social clubs, and countless recreation centers. Everything is designed for retirees—from nightly live music at town squares to extensive healthcare services nearby.

The Villages appeals to those who want to stay active, meet people easily, and have a predictable, community-focused lifestyle. Homes range from affordable villas to luxury estates, all connected by a network of golf cart paths.

4. St. Petersburg – Affordable City Living by the Water

St. Petersburg is perfect for retirees who want city conveniences mixed with coastal vibes. Located on Tampa Bay, it offers waterfront views, a vibrant downtown, and artsy flair. The Salvador Dalí Museum and lively Central Avenue give the city a cultural heartbeat, while nearby beaches like St. Pete Beach offer weekend escapes.

St. Pete also boasts several walkable neighborhoods with condos and bungalows that suit fixed incomes. Access to Bayfront Health and St. Anthony’s Hospital ensures health care is never far away. Plus, Florida’s tax advantages help stretch retirement savings even further.

5. Fort Myers – Small-Town Charm Meets Gulf Coast Living

Fort Myers delivers a slower pace of life ideal for retirees seeking relaxation. The city offers beautiful waterways, great fishing, and mild winters. It’s also home to Edison and Ford Winter Estates, adding a touch of historical charm.

The cost of living in Fort Myers is more affordable than many other coastal cities, and 55+ communities like Pelican Preserve provide resort-style living at a manageable price. Fort Myers also has solid health care facilities, including Lee Memorial and Gulf Coast Medical Center.

6. Gainesville – Affordable and Culturally Rich

Though it’s best known as the home of the University of Florida, Gainesville is increasingly gaining popularity with retirees. The presence of a major university brings cultural events, medical research, and continuing education opportunities. Retirees can enjoy concerts, lectures, and Gators football in a lively environment.

Gainesville also offers one of the lowest costs of living among Florida cities, along with top-tier health care through UF Health Shands Hospital. The city is surrounded by nature trails and springs, appealing to active retirees who want to hike, paddle, or explore outdoors.

7. Ocala – Equine Country with a Slower Pace

Known as the “Horse Capital of the World,” Ocala is ideal for retirees who want peace, space, and affordability. Its rolling hills, oak trees, and sprawling horse farms make it a scenic place to settle down.

Communities like On Top of the World and Del Webb Stone Creek offer planned living with pools, golf courses, and lifelong learning programs. With housing costs well below the Florida average, Ocala is a prime destination for retirees who value space and savings.

8. Palm Coast – Underrated and Budget-Friendly

Tucked between Daytona Beach and St. Augustine, Palm Coast is a hidden gem that offers Atlantic coastline living without the premium price. The area boasts an extensive system of parks, walking trails, and Intracoastal waterways perfect for boating or fishing.

Housing is more affordable than in many beach towns, and property insurance costs are generally lower due to its geography. For retirees who want quiet, ocean access, and good value, Palm Coast is an excellent alternative to better-known cities.

9. Port St. Lucie – Growing Community with Big Potential

Port St. Lucie has rapidly grown into a major retirement hub thanks to its affordability and amenities. Located on Florida’s Treasure Coast, it offers access to beaches, golf courses, and nature preserves.

Communities like Tradition and Valencia Grove cater specifically to 55+ residents with social clubs, fitness centers, and walking trails. The city also has strong health care access through Cleveland Clinic Tradition Hospital. For retirees seeking new development and investment potential, Port St. Lucie checks all the boxes.

10. Clearwater – Sunshine and Social Life

Clearwater offers a blend of beach lifestyle and city access, sitting just west of Tampa. Its award-winning beaches, walkable downtown, and access to performing arts make it a fun, vibrant place to retire.

Whether you want to live in a beachfront condo or a suburban community, Clearwater offers options at different price points. Health care is readily available at Morton Plant Hospital, and the area’s infrastructure is well-developed for aging residents. Clearwater is a prime choice for retirees who love sunshine, events, and easy travel.

11. Delray Beach – A Social Scene with Style

Delray Beach on Florida’s southeast coast delivers an upbeat lifestyle for retirees. Its charming downtown is packed with restaurants, art galleries, and boutique shops. The city is walkable, welcoming, and full of energy.

Delray Beach offers a mix of retirement communities and independent homes, with close proximity to Boca Raton and West Palm Beach. Access to top medical facilities, combined with cultural events and beach access, makes Delray ideal for retirees who want to stay socially active and engaged.

What to Consider When Choosing a Retirement City in Florida

With so many great places to live, it’s important to evaluate what matters most for your lifestyle. Here are some key factors retirees often prioritize:

Healthcare Access – Look for proximity to hospitals and specialty care.
Cost of Living – Consider property taxes, insurance rates, and HOA fees.
Walkability and Transportation – Especially important for retirees who may not drive.
Weather and Storm Risk – Hurricane zones vary across the state.
Community and Social Life – Retiring doesn’t mean isolating. Look for places with clubs, events, and recreation.
Proximity to Family – For many, being within driving distance of loved ones is a major factor.

Why Florida Is Still the Top Retirement Destination

Even with rising insurance premiums and growing population density, Florida’s advantages continue to outweigh its downsides for many retirees. With no state income tax, generous homestead exemptions, and a climate that supports an active lifestyle, it’s no surprise Florida remains a magnet for retirees from across the country.

Florida is also home to some of the nation’s best hospitals, including the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Tampa General, and UF Health in Gainesville. Plus, the range of housing options—from budget-friendly condos to luxury oceanfront estates—means retirees can find the right fit for their lifestyle and finances.