Dreaming of your golden years in the Sunshine State? It’s no surprise that so many retirees consider moving to Florida when deciding where to settle down. The state offers year-round warmth, easy access to the Atlantic Ocean, and beautiful coastal cities that make every day feel like a vacation.
Beyond the lifestyle perks, you can explore the best places to retire in Florida thanks to its financial advantages: there’s no state income tax, so your retirement income (including Social Security benefits) goes further. Plus, lower property taxes compared to many states help stretch your budget.
Whether you’re drawn to small towns or busy metro areas, the best places to retire in Florida have something for everyone. And if you’re planning a move, full-service senior movers can make the transition seamless, especially when paired with a simple Florida address change. Ready to discover the best place to retire in Florida? Let’s dive into the top destinations.
Table of Contents
Is Florida a Good Place to Retire?
Many of the best places to retire in Florida are also the best places to retire in the country, thanks to its mix of financial perks, lifestyle benefits, and year-round warm weather. Retirees appreciate that the state has no state income tax, so retirement income, such as pensions and Social Security benefits, isn’t taxed. Florida also has no inheritance or estate tax, and while federal taxes still apply, your money stretches further here.
Tax & Cost Advantages
- No state income tax on pensions or Social Security benefits
- No inheritance or estate tax
- Moderate sales tax compared to the national average
- Seniors may qualify for reduced property taxes, but must factor in property insurance and possible flood insurance in coastal areas
- Lower living costs in many areas make it easier for those on a fixed income
Lifestyle & Community
Florida is home to countless retirement communities, many located near coastal cities, making it easy to find the best place to retire in Florida based on your lifestyle. The state also offers golf, cultural attractions, walkable areas, and recreational opportunities.
Health & Quality of Life
Florida ranks well in health care access, with top-rated institutions like The Mayo Clinic, Sarasota Memorial Hospital, and Tampa General Hospital.
Practical Considerations
When moving to the area, new residents need to update their Florida driver’s license and complete paperwork with the Florida Department of Highway Safety. Seniors should also consider retirement age requirements (typically 62), the impact of federal taxes, and protections like property insurance when evaluating the best places to retire in Florida.
Best Places to Retire in Florida
These are the best places to retire in Florida.
Fort Myers | One of the Best Places to Retire in Florida Near the Beach
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Fort Myers is often named one of the best places to retire in Florida, thanks to its perfect mix of lifestyle, affordability, and natural beauty. Located on Florida’s west coast, this laid-back city offers retirees sunny weather, white sand beaches, and easy access to the Gulf of Mexico.
It’s not just about relaxation, though. Fort Myers is also full of culture and recreation. You can explore the historic Edison and Ford Winter Estates, enjoy waterfront dining along the Caloosahatchee River, or spend afternoons golfing at one of the many local courses. You’ll also find plenty of 55+ communities, making it the best place to retire in Florida for those looking for a retirement destination catering to older individuals.
- Population: 99,918
- Share of population 65+: 16%
- Crime rate: 1,394 crimes per 100,000 people (39% lower than national average)
- Average home price: $325,000
Latitude Margaritaville Watersound | A Coastal 55+ Retirement Destination
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Latitude Margaritaville Watersound is one of the best places to retire in Florida, offering a fun 55+ lifestyle near Panama City Beach. Located along the Scenic Highway 30A, this community provides access to 20 miles of pristine coastline and some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
New homes start in the $300s, making it an attractive and affordable retirement destination and one of the best places to retire in Florida. Residents enjoy a resort-style amenity center with a pool, tiki huts, and a poolside bar and grill, plus indoor and outdoor athletic facilities featuring tennis and pickleball courts. Beyond the gates, residents can explore local dining, nature trails, and nearby golf course communities.
- Population (of Watersound): 15,214
Fort Lauderdale | One of the Best Places to Retire in Florida With Coastal Charm
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Fort Lauderdale is often ranked among the best places to retire in Florida, offering oceanfront living, culture, and convenience. Known for its boating canals and stunning beaches, the city provides endless opportunities for recreation, from strolling the Riverwalk arts district to shopping on Las Olas Boulevard. Retirees can also enjoy nearby golf courses, museums, and a lively dining scene.
Although the cost of living in Fort Lauderdale is about 18% higher than the national average, your retirement savings can stretch far with proper budgeting. Healthcare is a strong advantage too, with top facilities like Broward Health Medical Center and Holy Cross Health. Conveniently located near Miami and Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale also connects retirees to major cities while maintaining a relaxed lifestyle.
- Population: 190,641
- Share of population 65+: 15%
- Crime rate: 975 crimes per 100,000 people (57% lower than national average)
- Average home price: $510,000
Boca Raton | One of the Best Places to Retire in Florida
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Offering luxury, recreation, and comfort, Boca Raton is one of the best places to retire in Florida. The city boasts world-class golf courses like Osprey Point Golf Course and cultural attractions like the Boca Raton Museum of Art and Mizner Park.
With the Boca Raton cost of living only slightly above the national average, retirees find it a manageable option while still enjoying a high quality of life. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore nature preserves, waterfront parks, and boat along the Intracoastal Waterway.
- Population: 102,238
- Share of population 65+: 20%
- Crime rate: 2,075 crimes per 100,000 people (8% lower than national average)
- Average home price: $725,000
Orlando | One of the Best Places to Retire in Central Florida
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When it comes to the best places to retire in Florida, Orlando stands out as one of the top Florida cities for seniors seeking both excitement and relaxation. Known as the heart of Central Florida, Orlando offers retirees access to world-famous theme parks, but it’s also home to a thriving arts scene, museums, and other cultural attractions.
Nature lovers can explore nearby lakes, gardens, and the area’s natural beauty at places like Lake Eola Park and Discovery Cove, while sports fans can cheer on the Orlando Magic basketball team. Compared to coastal areas like Port St Lucie, Orlando offers competitive housing costs, making it an appealing option for those stretching retirement budgets.
- Population: 334,854
- Share of population 65+: 7%
- Crime rate: 4,864 crimes per 100,000 people (109.3% higher than national average)
- Average home price: $433,000
The Villages | One of the Best Places to Retire in Florida Without Hurricanes
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Known as one of the largest retirement communities in the country, The Villages has become a symbol of active senior living and is consistently ranked among the best places to retire in Florida. Originally developed in the 1980s, it has grown into a thriving town where nearly 70% of the population is 65 or older.
As one of the best places to retire in Florida, The Villages offers endless recreation, from over 50 golf courses to town squares with nightly live music, shopping, and dining. Residents also enjoy arts centers, fitness classes, and clubs for every interest. With excellent access to health care, proximity to beautiful beaches, and the advantages of Florida’s climate while avoiding hurricanes, The Villages is a great spot to settle down.
- Population: 82,108
- Share of population 65+: 70%
- Crime rate: 831 crimes per 100,000 people (64% lower than national average)
- Average home price: $350,000
Ocala | Affordable Living in the Horse Capital of Florida
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For retirees seeking value, Ocala is one of the best places to retire in Florida on a budget. With a median home price of just $283,000 (far below the national average of $443,000), Ocala offers affordability without sacrificing quality of life. Known as the Horse Capital of the World, the area features rolling hills and a big equestrian culture, making it a unique choice among popular retirement destinations.
It’s often considered the best place to retire in Florida due to its golf courses, farmers market, and bustling downtown area. Retirees can explore Silver Springs State Park, enjoy kayaking in crystal-clear waters, or visit the Appleton Museum of Art.
- Population: 70,251
- Share of population 65+: 16%
- Crime rate: 2,330 crimes per 100,000 people (54% higher than national average)
- Average home price: $283,000
Sarasota | One of the Best Places to Retire in Florida for Warm Weather and Health Care
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Sarasota is located along the Gulf of Mexico and is one of the best places to retire in Florida. It’s one of the most desirable coastal areas in the state, with stunning beaches like Siesta Key, known for its powder-white sand. The city also boasts world-class health care facilities like Sarasota Memorial Hospital, ensuring retirees have easy access to top medical services.
Sarasota is also home to a thriving arts scene, with the Ringling Museum, opera, ballet, and theater. Outdoor lovers can go kayaking in the mangroves, play a few rounds of golf, or explore Myakka River State Park. With housing options at a range of price points, Sarasota is even considered one of the best places to retire in Florida on a Social Security income.
- Population: 57,764
- Share of population 65+: 20%
- Crime rate: 3,803 crimes per 100,000 people (63.6% higher than national average)
- Average home price: $475,000
Tampa | One of the Best Places to Retire in Florida On the Water
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Set on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Tampa is one of the best places to retire in Florida. With an average home price of $437,000, retirees can find plenty of single family homes in welcoming neighborhoods. Tampa is also a hub for lifelong learning, with colleges and universities offering continuing education programs for seniors.
As one of the most popular retirement destinations, the city offers endless activities, from strolling along the Tampa Riverwalk to cheering for the Buccaneers or Lightning to exploring museums and theaters. You can enjoy fishing and boating on the Tampa Bay, or take day trips to nearby Florida cities. Top-rated Tampa General Hospital provides excellent medical care, making it one of the best places to retire in Florida for those who need access to great health care. It’s also a great place to live for low property taxes, Social Security benefits, and other financial benefits.
- Population: 414,547
- Share of population 65+: 9%
- Crime rate: 2,170 crimes per 100,000 people (6.6% lower than national average)
- Average home price: $437,000
Map of the Best Places to Retire in Florida
Check out this map of the best places to retire in Florida.
Let Meehan’s Family Moving Help You Get Settled
Now that you know all of the best places to retire in Florida, it’s time to settle down. Once you’ve found the best place to retire in Florida for you, get in touch with the Florida movers at Meehan’s Family Moving. Our senior movers are ready to help you get settled into your new home with ease. Give us a call today at (561) 904-6000 to get started with a free quote.
