Best Places to Retire in the U.S. in 2020

It is a top question pre-retirees ask- "Where should I live in retirement?". Whether you are considering moving permanently or plan to be a snowbird, most retirees still want to spend their golden years where the weather is warmer and the taxes are lower. So not surprisingly, Florida remains the top pick to retire in 2020. Choosing where to live in retirement is of course a personal decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly. Below, we’re sharing the top five places to retire in the U.S. in 2020 according to U.S. News & World Report.¹ 

Retirement Destination #1: Fort Myers, Florida

That’s right, you probably guessed it. Fort Myers is the most popular place for retirement. In fact, over 1/3 of the population there is 60 and older.¹ With beaches galore, you can spend your retirement years laying on the sand and tanning under the sun. If boating or fishing is more your thing, Fort Myers has you covered too. Fort Myers not only offers the desired leisure activities, but it also offers affordability. With median home prices hovering around $200,200 you can live comfortably and happily.¹

Retirement Destination #2: Sarasota, Florida 

Next on the list, we have Sarasota, Florida. Sarasota offers everything from white sandy beaches to rich cultural experiences. If you are looking for a place that has a city vibe, but a small-town way of life, Sarasota is for you. This city has a great quality of life, and also offers an affordable cost of living, with the median home price being $237,260.¹

Retirement Destination #3: Lancaster, Pennsylvania

Whether you like the countryside or the city, Lancaster has the best of both worlds. You can live in the environment you want, with a median home price of $189,600.¹ Lancaster also offers phenomenal healthcare resources, and other major health hubs such as Philadelphia are only a train ride away. And let’s not forget about Lancaster’s culturally rich downtown, which offers an array of theatre, art, shopping, and food. Furthermore, The Happiness Index rates Lancaster as one of the healthiest and happiest places to live. 

Retirement Destination #4: Asheville, North Carolina 

If you are up for an outdoor adventure, Asheville is the place to be. With ample opportunities for biking, hiking, fishing, horseback riding, and other outdoor pursuits,, Asheville will help you maintain a healthy lifestyle. Whether you’re driving along the Blue Ridge Parkway or walking through the streets of Asheville downtown, the scenery will never let you down. Asheville is also a prime spot for music and art lovers, so if that describes you, Asheville will be a good pick. 

Retirement Destination #5: Port St. Lucie, Florida

Last but not least on our list, we have Port St. Lucie in Florida. If you want to get away from the large coastal cities, Port St. Lucie is a great place to be. It still offers beaches, but has a small town feel. What Port St. Lucie is especially known for is its pristine golf courses. Whether you want to look at golf archives or actually play, Port St. Lucie is the perfect spot. Also rated high on the happiness index, Port St. Lucie is a complete package.¹