25 Hidden Gems to Consider for Retirement
When planning for retirement, many people picture Florida or Arizona, but there are underrated destinations across America that offer even more.
From charming mountain towns to quaint seaside ports, these lesser-known locations provide unique advantages, making them ideal for retirees seeking something different. Whether you crave the tranquility of nature or the buzz of a lively community, these havens might just be the perfect fit.
Here’s a look at retirement destinations you might not have considered but definitely should.
Boise, Idaho
Boise offers a low cost of living, scenic beauty, and a welcoming community. The city is surrounded by nature, with easy access to hiking, fishing, and skiing, making it perfect for active retirees. Boise’s downtown also features cultural events, great dining, and healthcare facilities that rank among the best in the state.
Greenville, South Carolina
Greenville combines Southern charm with a thriving arts scene, making it an appealing choice for retirees looking for a blend of culture and tranquility. The city’s mild climate and beautiful parks, like Falls Park on the Reedy, offer ample opportunities for outdoor activities.
Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Lancaster offers a peaceful retirement lifestyle, with a mix of rural beauty and urban convenience. Boasting easy access to healthcare, shopping, and cultural events, Lancaster’s low cost of living and a strong sense of community make it an attractive option for those seeking a slower pace of life.
Eugene, Oregon
Eugene is a haven for nature lovers and retirees who value sustainability and outdoor activities. The city is home to numerous parks, rivers, and trails, perfect for hiking, biking, and bird-watching. With a focus on green living, Eugene also offers organic farmers’ markets and progressive healthcare options.
Traverse City, Michigan
Situated on the shores of Lake Michigan, Traverse City is known for its stunning natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere. The area’s wineries, cherry orchards, and beautiful beaches provide plenty of leisure activities for retirees. With a low crime rate and a strong sense of community, Traverse City is an ideal spot for those seeking a peaceful retirement.
Asheville, North Carolina
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is famous for its arts scene, historic architecture, and outdoor adventures. Retirees can enjoy the city’s many galleries, live music venues, and farm-to-table dining experiences. Asheville’s moderate climate and access to quality healthcare make it a top choice for those looking to retire in the Southeast.
Bend, Oregon
Bend boasts a stunning high-desert landscape and a river running through the city. Known for its craft beer scene and outdoor activities like skiing, fishing, and hiking, Bend appeals to active retirees. The city’s strong community focus and excellent healthcare services further enhance its appeal as a retirement destination.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe is known for its art galleries, historic sites, and annual cultural festivals, offering endless entertainment for retirees. Santa Fe’s mild climate and diverse community, along with its focus on holistic healthcare, make it a tranquil place to spend your golden years.
Fayetteville, Arkansas
Fayetteville, home to the University of Arkansas, offers a college-town atmosphere with a variety of activities for retirees. The city is surrounded by the Ozark Mountains, providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. With a low cost of living and access to top-notch medical facilities, Fayetteville is a hidden gem in the South.
Boulder, Colorado
Boulder is a picturesque city at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, known for its active lifestyle and commitment to sustainability. Retirees in Boulder can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities, from hiking and biking to yoga and meditation retreats. The city’s progressive culture and excellent healthcare make it a standout choice for retirement.
Charlottesville, Virginia
Charlottesville offers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it an ideal retirement spot. The city is home to historic sites like Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello, as well as numerous wineries and outdoor trails. With its mild climate, access to healthcare, and a strong sense of community, Charlottesville is a charming place to enjoy retirement.
Savannah, Georgia
Savannah’s historic charm, cobblestone streets, and coastal beauty make it a picturesque retirement destination. The city is known for its Southern hospitality. Retirees can enjoy mild winters, beautiful parks, and a relaxed pace of life in this charming Southern city.
Missoula, Montana
Missoula is a small city with a big heart, offering retirees a combination of natural beauty and cultural richness. Surrounded by mountains and rivers, Missoula is perfect for those who love the outdoors, with activities like fishing, hiking, and skiing at your doorstep.
Portland, Maine
Portland offers the charm of a coastal New England town with the amenities of a larger city. Known for its historic Old Port district, lighthouses, and fresh seafood, Portland is a dream for retirees who love the ocean.
Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
Coeur d’Alene in the Pacific Northwest is known for its stunning lake and mountain views. The city offers a peaceful, nature-filled retirement with activities like boating, fishing, and golfing. Coeur d’Alene’s low cost of living, coupled with a strong sense of community, makes it an ideal choice for those seeking tranquility in their golden years.
Knoxville, Tennessee
Knoxville, nestled near the Great Smoky Mountains, offers retirees a blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. The city is known for its historic sites and access to outdoor activities like hiking and fishing. Knoxville’s affordable cost of living and friendly community make it a top choice for retirement in the Southeast.
Madison, Wisconsin
Madison is a lively college town that offers arts, culture, and outdoor activities. The city’s many parks, lakes, and bike paths make it easy to stay active, while its farmers’ markets and cultural events keep the community engaged. With excellent healthcare and a strong sense of community, Madison is a great place to retire in the Midwest.
Durango, Colorado
Durango is a small town with a big personality, offering retirees a mix of outdoor adventure and cultural charm. The city is known for its historic downtown, scenic train rides, and access to the San Juan Mountains. With a mild climate, low crime rate, and a welcoming community, Durango is a hidden treasure for retirement.
Hood River, Oregon
Hood River is a paradise for those who love the outdoors, offering world-class windsurfing, hiking, and skiing in the beautiful Columbia River Gorge. With a strong community focus and breathtaking scenery, Hood River is an ideal retirement spot for active, nature-loving retirees.
St. George, Utah
St. George is a rapidly growing retirement destination known for its stunning red rock landscapes and mild climate. The city offers easy access to national parks like Zion and Bryce Canyon, making it perfect for retirees who love to explore the outdoors. St. George’s low cost of living and top-notch healthcare further enhance its appeal as a retirement haven.
Brevard, North Carolina
Brevard is a small mountain town known for its waterfalls, music festivals, and artistic community. The town offers a peaceful, nature-filled retirement with activities like hiking, biking, and exploring the nearby Blue Ridge Parkway. Brevard’s low cost of living, coupled with its welcoming community make it a perfect place to enjoy retirement.
Flagstaff, Arizona
Flagstaff, with its cool mountain air and proximity to the Grand Canyon, is a great alternative to Arizona’s hotter retirement spots. The city offers a laid-back lifestyle with access to outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and stargazing at its renowned observatory.
Gainesville, Florida
Gainesville, home to the University of Florida, offers a lively college-town atmosphere with plenty of amenities for retirees. The city’s warm climate and access to quality healthcare make it an attractive retirement destination.
Josh Dudick
Josh is a financial expert with over 15 years of experience on Wall Street as a senior market strategist and trader. His career has spanned from working on the New York Stock Exchange floor to investment management and portfolio trading at Citibank, Chicago Trading Company, and Flow Traders.
Josh graduated from Cornell University with a degree from the Dyson School of Applied Economics & Management at the SC Johnson College of Business. He has held multiple professional licenses during his career, including FINRA Series 3, 7, 24, 55, Nasdaq OMX, Xetra & Eurex (German), and SIX (Swiss) trading licenses. Josh served as a senior trader and strategist, business partner, and head of futures in his former roles on Wall Street.
Josh's work and authoritative advice have appeared in major publications like Nasdaq, Forbes, The Sun, Yahoo! Finance, CBS News, Fortune, The Street, MSN Money, and Go Banking Rates. Josh currently holds areas of expertise in investing, wealth management, capital markets, taxes, real estate, cryptocurrencies, and personal finance.
Josh currently runs a wealth management business and investment firm. Additionally, he is the founder and CEO of Top Dollar, where he teaches others how to build 6-figure passive income with smart money strategies that he uses professionally.