Louis Feldman
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Sandy beaches, sunny skies. Blue water that stretches as far as the eye can see. A community of like-minded individuals around you. Welcome to Florida, the Sunshine State.
Wealth Enhancement points out that while it's a haven for retirees seeking a vibrant lifestyle, Florida offers more than just great weather. Appealing tax benefits, an abundance of recreational activities, and diverse cultural offerings grace this peninsula, which boasts a little bit of something for everyone.
2024 top retirement destinations comparison
Florida remains one of the most popular retirement destinations in the nation, and is often cited at or near the top of any list you'll see. According to the 2023 National Movers Survey, nearly a third of all people who moved to Florida in 2023 did so due to retirement, a higher rate than any other state surveyed.
Near the top of the list was South Carolina, with 27% of inbound movers going for retirement, and Delaware, with 28% of inbound movers moving for retirement. Of course, Florida's population is over four times larger than South Carolina's, and over 20 times larger than Delaware's, so the popularity of Florida for retirement cannot be overstated.
And remember, it's popular for good reason.
Why is it so popular to retire in Florida?
Many people say that they move to Florida because of the weather. They'd be smart for doing so, but there are other good reasons to go:
- No state income tax. You read that right. Out of all 50 states, only seven don't currently levy any income tax, and Florida is one of them. With a total tax burden of 6.33%, Floridians enjoy one of the lowest tax burdens in the country. And although Florida does levy a 5.5% corporate income tax, LLCs, sole proprietorships, and S corps are exempt.
- Senior health care. With a significant retiree population, there are a wide array of top-rated medical facilities in Florida, many of which offer services specifically for seniors.
- Cost of living. While some areas are certainly more expensive (as we'll get into next), Florida offers a variety of living options that suit different budgets and lifestyles.
- Community options. Many cities in Florida have bustling communities of retirees, offering a ready-made social network. Different communities offer different amenities, and some can be more active than others, so be sure to get a tour before making any big decisions.
- Retirement-friendly activities. With warm weather year-round, many retirees lean into activities like golf and tennis. Florida has the highest number of golf courses in the country, with 1,250 across the state.
Next, let's get into what we're here for: Which Floridian cities will make the top 6?
Naples for arts, culture and more
Located on the Gulf Coast about 45 minutes south of Fort Myers, Naples offers retirees an upscale lifestyle and stunning natural beauty.
- Live in the lap of luxury. Known for its high-end shopping, fine dining, and pristine golf courses, Naples caters to those seeking a luxurious retirement.
- Art scene. The city boasts a hopping art scene, complete with museums, the Naples Philharmonic, and regular art fairs where artists near and far present their fares.
- Naples Beach. Seven miles of white sand along the turquoise Gulf … you can almost smell the seafood already.
As we mentioned above, Naples is also home to dozens of immaculate golf courses, which has earned it the title "Golf Capital of the World." If you enjoy golfing and the finer sides of life, consider visiting Naples to see if it fits.
Orlando for grandkid-friendly fun
Near the center of the peninsula sits Orlando, known globally as the Theme Park Capital of the World. With entertainment options galore, Orlando is perfect for those who enjoy an active lifestyle and want regular visits from family (especially grandchildren).
Although it's known for its theme parks, Orlando has more to offer than rides and funnel cakes:
- Culture and recreation. Enjoy culture at the Orlando Museum of Art and the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. Additionally, Orlando offers many parks throughout the city, perfect for a daytime stroll.
- Launching pad. The city's central location in Florida makes it a great destination for trips around the state, whether you're headed to the shore, the lake, or the Everglades.
- Access to health care. Orlando Health and AdventHealth are two major health care providers in Orlando. Both offer general services and specialized care for seniors.
Exciting and entertaining, Orlando and its surrounding suburbs are a significant contender for all sorts of retirees.
Lakeland for affordability and access
If you drive from Orlando to Tampa, odds are you'll go through Lakeland. Although the cost of housing has risen recently as the area has become more popular, Lakeland still offers a relatively affordable location for retirees:
- Low cost of living. With a cost of living 10% lower than the national average, it's likely that you'll find your dollar goes a bit further when you're in Lakeland.
- Suburban paradise. Lakeland offers a blend of small-town charm and suburban convenience. While it's much smaller than Orlando, it still boasts numerous social and recreation activities.
- Convenient location. Being closer to the coast makes day-trips to the Gulf pretty quick. If you don't feel like driving that far, Lakeland's numerous lakes (hence the name) provide plenty of opportunities for fishing, boating, and picnics.
Lakeland is a perfect option for retirees who want the Florida experience, but who don't want to give up the comforts of suburban small-town living.
Palm Coast for a low-key lifestyle
Located on the "sunrise" side of the state, Palm Coast is just a quick 30-minute drive to St. Augustine, which claims to be the oldest city in the United States. Offering a quieter, low-key lifestyle, Palm Coast could be a good option for your next retirement considerations.
- Affordability. Housing costs in Palm Coast are nearly 30% below the national average, and other categories are also far below average, from transportation to groceries.
- Laid-back lifestyle. Given its proximity to the tourist magnet of St. Augustine, many may think that Palm Coast also gets inundated with visitors. However, the city is more laid back, perfect for enjoying the natural beauty of the Pacific Coast beaches.
- Bike haven. Known for its extensive biking paths, Palm Coast offers a variety of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts, both on and off the shore.
Although Palm Coast may be more "out of the way" than other options on this list, retirees would be remiss to pass over considering it as an affordable option.
Sarasota for scenery and sand
An absolute gem on Florida's west coast, Sarasota attracts retirees with its sophisticated charm and high quality of life. Sarasota stands out as a top destination for retirees who value a cultured, peaceful, and beautiful lifestyle, all while being near a major city.
- Close, but not too close. About an hour from the bustling downtown of Tampa, and even closer to hip St. Petersburg, Sarasota offers a great central location on the Gulf Coast.
- Artistic at heart. Sarasota has a rich cultural scene, from the Ringling Museum to the Sarasota Opera. The city also offers plenty of interesting nooks and crannies to explore.
- Jaw-dropping scenery. Sarasota is flanked on the coast by Siesta Key, a barrier island known for sandy beaches and astounding sunsets.
With its blend of natural beauty, exciting culture, and serene beaches, Sarasota is certainly a consideration for the best retirement city in Florida.
Miami for sun, sand, and entertainment
Seemingly infinite cultural activities, tropical weather, and the allure of an international city … living in Miami can be very exciting. With so many options, you'll never be left wondering what to do:
- Enticing location. Near the southern tip of Florida, Miami offers convenient access to beaches, sporting events, cruises, and the Florida Keys.
- Culture and nature. Explore the art scene in Miami's Wynwood galleries, sample delicious Hispanic cuisine, or trek to the nearby Everglades National Park.
- Recreation. Miami's year-round tropical climate allows retirees to indulge in outdoor activities no matter the season. Consider walking pristine beaches, participating in a game of pickleball, or playing a round of golf on one of its world-class courses.
- Luxury options. Fine dining, upscale malls, and prestigious spas make Miami a great place to experience.
With its fast-paced lifestyle, Miami can offer your retirement years plenty of excitement on a daily basis.
Florida is a top retirement destination
Florida continues to stand out as a prime destination for retirees from all walks of life. From the luxurious Naples to the exciting Miami, each city in Florida has something unique. Other options like Daytona Beach, Fort Myers, and The Villages should stay up for consideration if you're thinking of moving to Florida.
As you weigh which city suits you and your lifestyle the best, also keep the financial side of things in mind. Florida's warm welcome extends beyond its weather—tax advantages and other benefits can be had by those who put in the time to plan.
This story was produced by Wealth Enhancement and reviewed and distributed by Stacker Media.
