Retiring in a high-cost city is becoming harder day by day. Pew Research says nearly half of near-retirees have less than $200,000 in savings. So, where can you afford to retire and be around others your age? We’ve rounded up ten U.S. towns and cities where you can do so!
Steubenville, Ohio
With a cost of living 13% lower than the national average and 19.3% of residents over 65, Steubenville offers a quiet, historical setting along the Ohio River. Rent averages $625 per month, according to AreaVibes, and retirees appreciate the walkable streets and proximity to nature. Plus, there’s no estate or inheritance tax.
Valley City, North Dakota
This place has fewer than 7,000 residents, but more than 20% are seniors. That’s a big community in a small town. Rent hovers around $776, and you’ll save on groceries and services, too. It’s a peaceful, social environment with friendly neighbors and no big-city noise.
Freeport, Illinois
Freeport has one of the highest percentages of seniors on this list—22.9% of the population. The average mortgage is only $505, making homeownership incredibly achievable. You’ll also find art museums and quiet nature spots. While the winters can get chilly, seniors say it’s worth it for the calm and affordability.
Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Big enough to have options and small enough to stay calm—Cedar Rapids gives retirees room to breathe. Seniors comprise over 16% of the population, and rent averages just $886. The city splits around the Cedar River, and there are reputable healthcare facilities and safe neighborhoods that older adults appreciate.
Uniontown, Pennsylvania
It may be small, but Uniontown is big with seniors—21.1% of the population. Rent averages $743, and mortgage payments are even lower. It’s walkable, lined with historical landmarks like Fort Necessity. Though utilities are a bit high, overall costs stay comfortably below the national average.
El Paso, Texas
El Paso proves the city doesn’t always mean high prices. With no state income tax and rent of around $976, it’s a steal compared to Dallas or Houston. About 13.5% of locals are seniors, and the Tex-Mex food, walkable areas, and dry climate draw folks looking for savings and sunshine.
Nitro, West Virginia
About 22% of Nitro’s population is over 65, and the cost of living is 18% below average. Rent is around $834, and the town sits on the Kanawha River. It’s quiet yet conveniently close to Charleston. This means you get to live peacefully while still having access to good medical and essential services nearby.
Lincoln, Nebraska
Lincoln may be a capital city, but the vibe is more chill than hectic. Seniors make up 14% of the nearly 300,000 residents. Rent hits $998, and groceries and healthcare are relatively affordable. Since there’s no estate tax and a fair income tax rate, retirees aren’t squeezed too hard post-career.
Ada, Oklahoma
Nightlife in Ada is nada, but for those wanting a low-crime town with solid medical facilities, this is the winner. The senior population isn’t the highest at 13.5%, but the cost of living is 17% below the U.S. average. Rent is under $860, and mortgage payments stay reasonable, too.
Hutchinson, Kansas
With nearly 18% of its population over 65, Hutchinson is a comfortable middle ground between rural and city life. Rent is about $852, and you’ll get the bonus of hosting the Kansas State Fair each year. There’s enough to do, plenty of senior housing options, and solid healthcare.
