Where to Move After Retirement: Affordable Cities and Top Picks for Your Next Chapter This 2026
A practical, friendly guide on where to move after retirement—affordable cities, healthcare, taxes, visas, and a move checklist for 2026.
If you’ve been googling where to move after retirement and your browser history now looks like a travel agent and a spreadsheet had a baby… I get it. Choosing a new home for retirement is exciting, but it’s also weirdly emotional. You’re not just picking a zip code—you’re choosing your Tuesday mornings, your doctor’s office, your neighbors, your cost of groceries, and whether “winter” means snow boots or just a slightly angrier breeze.
I’ve always believed where to move after retirement should feel like putting on a jacket that fits: comfortable, practical, and flattering enough that you don’t immediately want to return it. The best part? There are genuinely great options between 2024 and 2026—both in the U.S. and abroad—that balance affordability, healthcare, lifestyle, and community without requiring you to win the lottery or become a professional coupon influencer.
Let’s walk through the smartest way to pick a place, the top destinations, and a checklist that keeps you from learning important lessons the hard way (like discovering after you move that your new town’s “major medical center” is actually a clinic with one fax machine and a dream).
Why “Where to Move After Retirement” Isn’t Just a Money Question
Yes, money matters. But where to move after retirement is really a four-part puzzle:
- Cost of living (housing, utilities, food, insurance—aka “the sneaky stuff”)
- Healthcare access (hospitals, specialists, wait times, quality)
- Lifestyle fit (weather, hobbies, walkability, culture, airport access)
- Taxes and legal realities (state taxes, property taxes, residency rules, visas)
If one of those is off, retirement can feel like living in a beautiful house where one room always smells like damp socks. Not catastrophic… but also not ideal.
So before we jump into specific cities and countries, let’s anchor on what you want.
Start Here: A Simple “Retirement Fit” Framework (That Actually Helps)
When people ask me where to move after retirement, I tell them to do this quick ranking exercise first. It’s not fancy, but it’s effective.
Step 1: Pick your “Top 3 Non-Negotiables”
Choose three that matter most:
- Low overall cost of living
- High-quality healthcare nearby
- Warm weather year-round
- Four seasons
- Low taxes
- Close to family
- Walkable/community feel
- Outdoor life (hiking, beaches, golf, biking)
- Arts/food/college-town energy
- Quiet and slow-paced
- Big airport access within 60–90 minutes
Step 2: Name your “Dealbreakers”
Examples:
- “I can’t do harsh winters anymore.”
- “I need a top-tier cardiology department within 30 minutes.”
- “I don’t want to drive everywhere.”
- “If housing is insane, I’m out.”
This makes the rest of the process way easier—because you’re no longer chasing a mythical perfect place. You’re looking for the best match.
Best Places to Move After Retirement (2024–2026): U.S. Picks
Let’s talk U.S. options that consistently show up in retirement conversations for affordability, lifestyle, and practical livability.
Asheville, North Carolina (Mountains + Arts + Community Energy)
Asheville is one of those places that makes you want to take up pottery even if you’ve never successfully kept a houseplant alive.
Why it works for retirees
- Strong arts and food scene
- Gorgeous access to the Blue Ridge Mountains
- Plenty of cultural events for “I’m retired but still interesting” energy
Watch-outs
- Housing costs can vary a lot by neighborhood
- Tourist seasons can make traffic… spicy
If where to move after retirement for you includes “mountain air, creative community, and weekend drives with jaw-dropping views,” Asheville belongs on your shortlist.
Tucson, Arizona (Sunshine, Culture, and a Lower-Cost Southwest Lifestyle)
Tucson is warm, friendly, and full of character. It’s not trying to be Phoenix’s louder cousin—it’s doing its own thing, and honestly? Good for Tucson.
Why it works
- Generally more affordable than many large metro areas
- Strong local identity, food culture, and outdoor options
- Great for retirees who want year-round activity
Watch-outs
- Summers are hot (like “why is the sun yelling at me?” hot)
- You’ll want to think about water/climate realities long-term
For a lot of people asking where to move after retirement, Tucson hits the sweet spot: livable, interesting, and not budget-breaking.
Sarasota, Florida (Healthcare-Friendly + Beach Lifestyle)
Sarasota often appeals to retirees because it blends coastal living with a strong medical network.
Why it works
- Access to specialists and healthcare services geared toward older adults
- Beaches, boating, arts, and a very active retiree community
Watch-outs
- Florida housing/insurance markets can be volatile in some areas
- Seasonal crowds
If you’re choosing where to move after retirement based heavily on healthcare access and you want coastal life, Sarasota is worth a serious look.
San Diego, California (Premium Healthcare, Premium Price—But Consider the Math)
San Diego is one of those cities where you immediately think: “I could get used to this.” Then you look at the housing costs and think: “Actually, I could get used to visiting.”
Why it works
- Highly rated hospitals and medical systems
- Mild climate and outdoor lifestyle
- Great for active retirees who value access and amenities
Watch-outs
- It’s expensive. No way around it.
- Budget planning needs to be airtight
San Diego can still be the right answer to where to move after retirement if you have the financial runway—or if you’re open to nearby areas that offer a similar vibe with a slightly less dramatic price tag.
Best International Options: Where to Move After Retirement Abroad (Low Cost + Strong Healthcare)
If you’re open to retiring abroad, you’re not alone. A growing number of retirees look outside the U.S. for affordability, adventure, and sometimes—let’s be honest—healthcare costs that don’t feel like a practical joke.
Portugal (Healthcare + Lifestyle + A Classic Retiree Favorite)
Portugal has earned its reputation. It’s scenic, generally affordable compared to many Western European countries, and has a healthcare system that ranks well in Europe.
Why retirees love it
- Mild climate (especially coastal regions)
- Relaxed pace of life
- Strong public and private healthcare options in many areas
Practical note on taxes Portugal’s Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) regime has been widely discussed for retirees, but these programs can change over time, so always verify current rules before planning your move. (This is the part where I gently suggest talking to a tax pro before you pack sandals and optimism.)
If you’re researching where to move after retirement internationally and want a Europe option that feels approachable, Portugal is a top contender.
Mexico (Variety, Value, and Established Retiree Communities)
Mexico is popular because you can choose your lifestyle: beach towns, colonial cities, large metro areas—there’s a version of Mexico that fits a lot of preferences.
Why it works
- Often lower day-to-day costs
- Strong private healthcare in many cities
- Big expat/retiree communities in certain regions
Watch-outs
- Location matters a lot—safety and infrastructure can differ by area
- You’ll want to understand private insurance options and residency steps
Mexico is frequently on the list for where to move after retirement because it offers flexibility: you can live simply or comfortably, depending on your budget and taste.
Costa Rica (Nature, Community, and a “Slow Down” Culture)
Costa Rica is beloved for its natural beauty and the general sense that people remember life is supposed to be lived, not rushed.
Why it works
- Outdoor lifestyle (beaches, rainforests, hiking)
- Welcoming vibe and established expat areas
- Healthcare access that many retirees find reliable—especially with private options
Watch-outs
- Some areas are more expensive than people expect
- Humidity and rainy seasons aren’t for everyone
If your ideal answer to where to move after retirement includes “nature on tap” and a calmer pace, Costa Rica often delivers.
Climate and Lifestyle: The “Daily Life” Test (That People Forget)
Here’s a quick reality check I use: Don’t choose where to move after retirement based on vacation logic.
Vacations are fun because:
- You’re not doing laundry.
- You’re not scheduling doctor visits.
- You’re not grocery shopping.
- You’re not trying to find a reliable plumber.
So ask yourself:
- Do you want to be outdoors daily, or do you prefer cozy culture and community?
- Are you okay driving everywhere, or do you need walkability?
- Do you want quiet, or do you want things happening?
Warm-weather states like parts of Florida and Arizona are popular for a reason—easy outdoor access most of the year. But plenty of retirees prefer a four-season location with a strong community rhythm and cultural life.
The “best” choice is the one you’ll enjoy on a random Wednesday.
Cost of Living: The Numbers That Actually Matter (Not Just Rent)
When you’re comparing where to move after retirement, the temptation is to focus on housing alone. Housing is huge—but it’s not the whole story.
Build a real monthly retirement budget using these buckets:
- Housing: mortgage/rent + property taxes + HOA
- Utilities: electric, water, trash, internet, phone
- Healthcare: premiums + out-of-pocket + prescriptions + dental/vision
- Transportation: car payment (if any), fuel, maintenance, insurance
- Food: groceries + dining out
- Fun: hobbies, travel, entertainment (yes, it counts)
- “Life happens” fund: home repairs, emergencies, family needs
A research-backed reason to take planning seriously
Financial planning isn’t just a “nice to have.” In her 2017 work on financial literacy and retirement planning in Canada, economist Annamaria Lusardi highlights a consistent pattern: people who can correctly answer basic financial literacy questions are more likely to report having retirement savings—by about 10 percentage points in some comparisons. That’s not just trivia; it’s proof that clarity around money changes outcomes.
In other words: getting the budget right helps your retirement feel less like a tightrope act.
Healthcare: What to Check Before You Decide
Healthcare is often the silent dealbreaker in where to move after retirement.
What I’d check (in this order)
- Hospital quality and proximity
- Is there a highly rated hospital within 30–45 minutes?
- Specialists
- Do they have the specialties you need: cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, endocrinology?
- Wait times and appointment access
- You don’t want to wait six months to be told, “Yep, your knee still exists.”
- Insurance compatibility
- If you’re on Medicare, how do local plans work there?
- If abroad, what are your private insurance options?
How to research healthcare without getting overwhelmed
- Look up hospital ratings and patient satisfaction (for the U.S., sources like U.S. News and Healthgrades are commonly used)
- Join local community groups and ask residents: “How hard is it to see a specialist?”
- If you have existing conditions, ask your current doctor what continuity-of-care would require
Good healthcare doesn’t just extend life. It reduces stress—and stress is not the retirement hobby anyone wants.
Taxes and Legal Stuff: Make Sure the Rules Don’t Surprise You
Taxes can change the math on where to move after retirement faster than you can say “unexpected property tax reassessment.”
U.S. tax basics retirees often prioritize
- States like Florida and Texas are known for having no state income tax, which can help retirees keep more of their income.
- But don’t stop there—property taxes, insurance costs, and sales taxes can shift the overall value.
International considerations
If you’re moving abroad:
- You’ll need to understand tax treatment of pensions, Social Security, investment income, and property.
- Residency rules and visa requirements often include:
- Proof of steady income
- Health insurance coverage
- Background checks
- Documentation timelines
This is one area where “winging it” is not charming. It’s expensive.
Retirement Communities and Amenities: Match the Setup to Your Life
Not everyone wants a retirement community—but many people do, and for good reasons: built-in social life, amenities, and less home maintenance.
Common retirement community amenities
- Fitness centers and pools
- Clubs and scheduled activities
- Transportation services
- On-site dining options
- Wellness programs
Choose by lifestyle (not by brochure)
- Active adult / independent living: great if you want social and recreation
- Assisted living: better if you need help with daily tasks
- CCRC (continuing care retirement community): higher upfront cost sometimes, but long-term support planning
The best community feels like a supportive neighborhood, not a cruise ship you can’t get off.
The Practical Checklist: How to Plan a Smooth Retirement Move
If you only take one section from this article, make it this one. A plan turns “where to move after retirement” from a daydream into a doable project.
Phase 1: Research (8–12 months out)
- Define your non-negotiables and dealbreakers
- Shortlist 5–8 locations (U.S. and/or international)
- Compare:
- Housing costs
- Healthcare access
- Taxes
- Climate risks and insurance realities
- Transportation and airport access
Phase 2: Test-drive your top 2–3 (6–9 months out)
- Visit each place for at least 7–14 days
- Do normal-life stuff:
- Grocery shop
- Drive the routes you’d drive
- Visit a doctor’s office or hospital area
- Walk neighborhoods morning and evening
- If possible, visit in different seasons—because February can be charming, and August can be a personality test.
Phase 3: Money and paperwork (3–6 months out)
- Build a detailed retirement budget for each finalist location
- Confirm healthcare coverage and insurance
- Organize:
- Birth certificates, passports, marriage certificates (if relevant)
- Medical records and prescriptions
- Financial documents
- If abroad: begin visa/residency steps early
Phase 4: The move (0–3 months out)
- Downsize intentionally (future-you will thank you)
- Set up mail forwarding and address changes
- Transfer utilities and services
- Establish local healthcare providers ASAP
- Join at least one club/group within the first month (seriously—community doesn’t magically appear)
FAQ: Quick Answers to Common Retirement Relocation Questions
What factors matter most when choosing where to move after retirement?
Cost of living, healthcare access, taxes, climate, safety, and lifestyle fit—plus proximity to family if that’s important to you.
How do I verify healthcare quality in a retirement destination?
Check hospital ratings and patient satisfaction, ask locals about wait times, and confirm specialist availability for your needs.
What challenges do retirees face when relocating?
Logistics, rebuilding a social network, adjusting emotionally, and making sure finances match real costs—not just “internet estimates.”
How do I make retirement savings last?
Use a realistic budget, plan healthcare spending, set a sustainable withdrawal strategy, and revisit your plan annually.
What’s the best way to choose between retirement community types?
Match your current independence level and your future care preferences, then visit in person to check culture and day-to-day vibe.
Conclusion: Choosing Where to Move After Retirement (Without Losing Your Mind)
The best answer to where to move after retirement isn’t a single city or country—it’s the place that fits your health needs, your budget, your personality, and your daily rhythms. When you balance affordability, healthcare, taxes, and community life—and you test-drive your options like a normal human who enjoys not being surprised—you set yourself up for a retirement that actually feels like freedom.
If you’re still deciding, here’s my gentle nudge: don’t wait for “perfect.” Pick “right for you,” make a smart plan, and give yourself room to enjoy the adventure. Retirement is a new chapter, not a final exam.
If you want, tell me a bit about your priorities (budget range, climate, healthcare needs, and whether you’re open to moving abroad), and I’ll help you narrow down where to move after retirement to a shortlist that fits.
