Best Places to Retire in Florida

Florida remains one of the most popular retirement destinations in the United States—and for good reason. With no state income tax, year-round warm weather, and an abundance of golf courses and beach towns, the Sunshine State offers a lifestyle that appeals to retirees from all walks of life. Whether you're looking for luxury living, affordability, or access to great health care, this guide highlights the best places to retire in Florida today.

Best Places to Retire in Florida

1. Sarasota – Coastal Beauty and Cultural Riches

Located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Sarasota offers a perfect balance between beach town tranquility and vibrant city life. It's home to world-class healthcare facilities, including Sarasota Memorial Hospital, and boasts a thriving arts scene with theaters, museums, and live music. The area is especially popular for its white-sand beaches, top-tier golf courses, and active adult communities. The cost of living is reasonable for such a high-quality lifestyle, making Sarasota a smart pick for retirees.

2. Naples – Luxury Living in the Sunshine State

Naples has long been a favorite among retirees seeking upscale living. With some of the state’s most beautiful beaches, premier golf courses, and a thriving dining scene, Naples offers a refined yet relaxed lifestyle. There’s no state income tax, and retirees enjoy low property taxes thanks to Florida’s homestead exemptions. The city also scores high for safety, walkability, and access to health care. Although home prices here are above average, the quality of life more than compensates.

3. The Villages – A Retirement Community Unlike Any Other

The Villages in Central Florida is a master-planned retirement community that feels like its own city. It offers hundreds of social clubs, golf courses, recreation centers, and even nightly entertainment. Everything is golf-cart accessible. This community is ideal for retirees who want an active, social lifestyle with every amenity close by. It's also tax-friendly and has affordable housing compared to coastal cities.

4. St. Augustine – History, Charm, and Coastal Living

Known as the oldest city in the U.S., St. Augustine blends historic charm with coastal serenity. The area features cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and beautiful beaches. For retirees, it offers a slower pace of life, moderate property insurance rates, and access to solid medical care. Communities like Reverie at Trailmark provide modern homes with resort-style amenities. If you're seeking culture, mild weather, and manageable living costs, St. Augustine is an excellent choice.

5. Fort Myers – Relaxed Living on the Gulf Coast

Fort Myers is perfect for retirees who want easy access to fishing, boating, and white-sand beaches without the high price tags of cities like Naples. The area features numerous 55+ communities, top-rated hospitals, and a variety of recreational options. It's also home to spring training camps for the Boston Red Sox and Minnesota Twins. Fort Myers offers good value in terms of property prices and cost of living, making it attractive for budget-conscious retirees.

6. Port St. Lucie – Affordable and Friendly

Port St. Lucie consistently ranks as one of the most affordable coastal cities in Florida. It's located on the Atlantic Coast and offers easy access to golf courses, waterways, and nature preserves. Communities like Valencia Parc at Riverland provide 55+ residents with walking trails, clubhouses, and eco-friendly designs. It’s a great place for retirees seeking value, safety, and low insurance costs while staying close to the beach.

The Ultimate Guide to Retiring

7. Palm Coast – Ocean Views Without the Premium Price

Palm Coast is a hidden gem located between St. Augustine and Daytona Beach. With its Intracoastal Waterway and proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, Palm Coast delivers coastal living at a fraction of the price. The city offers excellent property tax exemptions for full-time residents and ranks well for health care and green space. It's an ideal destination for retirees who want waterfront views, golf, and peace of mind without high property insurance costs.

8. Ocala – Central Florida’s Best-Kept Secret

Ocala is known for its horse farms, rolling hills, and forested trails. It offers some of the lowest home prices in the state and is ideal for retirees seeking a slower pace of life in a tax-friendly state. The city’s cost of living is far below the national average, and active communities like On Top of the World offer extensive amenities including golf, fitness, and educational programs. Ocala combines rural charm with practical convenience.

9. Clearwater – Sun, Sand, and Social Opportunities

Located near Tampa, Clearwater is famous for its award-winning beaches and vibrant social scene. Retirees benefit from a robust healthcare system, nearby international airport, and lower-than-average property taxes. With a mix of affordable condos and high-end homes, Clearwater offers flexibility for different budgets. It’s also ideal for retirees who enjoy cultural events, beach walks, and sunset views.

10. Gainesville – College Town Energy with Senior Perks

Home to the University of Florida, Gainesville is more than just a college town. It’s increasingly becoming a hub for retirees due to its high-quality healthcare, green spaces, and relatively low cost of living. The presence of a major university means access to continuing education, sports events, and cultural activities. Gainesville offers a unique combination of intellectual stimulation and natural beauty—ideal for retirees looking for more than just relaxation.

Why Florida Remains a Top Choice for Retirees

Florida continues to attract retirees not just for its beaches but for its financial advantages. With no state income tax, no tax on retirement income, and senior-friendly property exemptions, the state is one of the most tax-friendly in the U.S. Retirees also benefit from:

• World-class health care in major metro areas

• A wide range of home prices from luxury to budget-friendly

• Year-round warm weather and access to the outdoors

• Active adult communities with social and recreational amenities

• Central Florida options for those who want to avoid hurricane-prone coasts

  
  

However, potential downsides include rising property insurance rates and the need for hurricane preparedness. Still, with so many towns offering their own flavor of retirement living—from the luxury of Naples to the affordability of Ocala—there’s truly a Florida fit for every retiree.

Choosing the Best Place to Retire in Florida

When exploring the best places to retire in Florida, start by identifying what truly matters to your lifestyle. Are you drawn to golf courses and upscale beach clubs? Prefer the community feel of a 55+ neighborhood? Or are you seeking affordable homes near parks and nature?

Whatever your preferences, Florida offers a diverse range of retirement destinations to match your goals. From vibrant cities to quiet coastal retreats, the Sunshine State continues to stand out as one of the top retirement choices in the U.S.—and for good reason.

Looking for guidance on how to align your financial plan with your ideal retirement location? Connect with a trusted advisor today and take the first step toward building a secure, personalized retirement strategy.