Sandy beaches, sunny skies. Blue water that stretches as far as the eye can see. A community of like-minded individuals around you.
Welcome to Florida, the Sunshine State. Wealth Enhancement points out that while it's a haven for retirees seeking a vibrant lifestyle, Florida offers more than just great weather. Appealing tax benefits, an abundance of recreational activities, and diverse cultural offerings grace this peninsula, which boasts a little bit of something for everyone.
Florida remains one of the most popular retirement destinations in the nation, and is often cited at or near the top of any list you'll see. According to the 2023 National Movers Survey , nearly a third of all people who moved to Florida in 2023 did so due to retirement, a higher rate than any other state surveyed. Near the top of the list was South Carolina, with 27% of inbound movers going for retirement, and Delaware, with 28% of inbound movers moving for retirement.
Of course, Florida's population is over four times larger than South Carolina's, and over 20 times larger than Delaware's, so the popularity of Florida for retirement cannot be overstated. And remember, it's popular for good reason. Many people say that they move to Florida because of the weather.
They'd be smart for doing so, but there are other good reasons to go: Next, let's get into what we're here for: Which Floridian cities will make the top 6? Located on the Gulf Coast about 45 minutes south of Fort Myers, Naples offers retirees an upscale lifestyle and stunning natural beauty. As we mentioned above, Naples is also home to dozens of immaculate golf courses, which has earned it the title "Golf Capital of the World." If you enjoy golfing and the finer sides of life, consider visiting Naples to see if it fits.
Near the center of the peninsula sits Orlando, known globally as the Theme Park Capital of the World. With entertainment options galore, Orlando is perfect for those who enjoy an active lifestyle and want regular visits from family (especially grandchildren). Although it's known for its theme parks, Orlando has more to offer than rides and funnel cakes: Exciting and entertaining, Orlando and its surrounding suburbs are a significant contender for all sorts of retirees.
If you drive from Orlando to Tampa, odds are you'll go through Lakeland. Although the cost of housing has risen recently as the area has become more popular, Lakeland still offers a relatively affordable location for retirees: Lakeland is a perfect option for retirees who want the Florida experience, but who don't want to give up the comforts of suburban small-town living. Located on the "sunrise" side of the state, Palm Coast is just a quick 30-minute drive to St.
Augustine, which claims to be the oldest city in the United States. Offering a quieter, low-key lifestyle, Palm Coast could be a good option for your next retirement considerations. Although Palm Coast may be more "out of the way" than other options on this list, retirees would be remiss to pass over considering it as an affordable option.
An absolute gem on Florida's west coast, Sarasota attracts retirees with its sophisticated charm and high quality of life. Sarasota stands out as a top destination for retirees who value a cultured, peaceful, and beautiful lifestyle, all while being near a major city. With its blend of natural beauty, exciting culture, and serene beaches, Sarasota is certainly a consideration for the best retirement city in Florida.
Seemingly infinite cultural activities, tropical weather, and the allure of an international city ...
living in Miami can be very exciting. With so many options, you'll never be left wondering what to do: With its fast-paced lifestyle, Miami can offer your retirement years plenty of excitement on a daily basis. Florida continues to stand out as a prime destination for retirees from all walks of life.
From the luxurious Naples to the exciting Miami, each city in Florida has something unique. Other options like Daytona Beach, Fort Myers, and The Villages should stay up for consideration if you're thinking of moving to Florida. As you weigh which city suits you and your lifestyle the best, also keep the financial side of things in mind.
Florida's warm welcome extends beyond its weather— tax advantages and other benefits can be had by those who put in the time to plan. This story was produced by Wealth Enhancement and reviewed and distributed by Stacker Media..
