The 30 Best Places to Retire in the US

We've updated our top spots to retire in the US with new additions from real estate platform Zumper, who ranked the top 10 based on a new study using criteria that analyzed housing affordability, healthcare, weather, taxes, transportation and overall satisfaction. Here are their top 10 picks, followed by our recommendations for more great retirement options.

Our choices, in no particular order, cover similar data points, with the addition of climate change considerations and accessibility.

While Florida is known as a top retirement spot, Tallahassee often flies under the radar compared to more popular coastal picks. Coming in at Zumper's 10th spot, this capital city of 200,000 is home to Florida State University and Florida A&M University, and the college atmosphere lends to the town's vibrancy: There’s no shortage of college sports, live music, concerts and festivals. The Tallahassee Senior Center offers lifelong learning classes for a nominal fee, while the city is actively recruiting more retirees through its Choose Tallahassee campaign. The newly launched Third Act program is part of it, creating an opportunity for those 50 and older to lend their expertise to entrepreneurs’ startup businesses.

This affordable pick isn’t on the ocean, but the nearest beaches are less than an hour away. There’s also easy access to lakes and rivers, a 700-mile trail system and golf galore. Add in arts and culture, diverse restaurant offerings and a sunny climate, and it’s really not a hard sell.

Colorado Springs enjoys a prime Rocky Mountain location near famed Pikes Peak with its hiking trails and Garden of the Gods park, well known for its distinctive red rock formations. The outdoor offerings, including more than 9,000 park acres and hundreds of trails, are what makes this a No. 9 Zumper pick. The cold yet sunny climate also offers a small-town feel while providing many of the benefits of a larger city but without the high cost of living.

This easy lifestyle encompasses quality healthcare; the historic, walkable Old Colorado City, filled with mom-and-pop stores and art galleries; a thriving arts scene including the Colorado Springs Philharmonic; a farmer’s market and fairs; wineries, craft breweries and a robust food scene.

The lack of taxes, from state to social security, already make Texas an affordable option, and Zumper also chose El Paso for its low cost of living. Actually, this desert city, just across the border from Juarez, Mexico, regularly ranks for offering one of the lowest cost of living expenses in the US. With close to 700,000 residents, Sun City boasts more than 300 sunny days a year, making it an ideal environment to take advantage of the high desert mountains of Franklin Mountains State Park or Hueco Tanks State Park and Historic Site. Meanwhile, the city itself is home to performing arts, museums, live music, a farmers market, great Mexican food, a strong tequila and mezcal scene and year-round festivals.