Southeast Dominates List Of Top U.S. Retirement Metros

The Southeast dominates the list of the nation’s best retirement destinations, capturing half of the top metropolitan areas — including four in Florida — according to a recent report from StorageCafe.

The Northeast also performs strongly, driven by longer life expectancy, low crime rates, and access to high-quality healthcare.

StorageCafe notes that retiree priorities have evolved in recent years. Many Americans over 55 are aging without children, reshaping expectations around housing, healthcare, and community support. Rising living costs have pushed some to delay retirement, while a growing emphasis on independence has encouraged more people to age in place.

1. Cape Coral–Fort Myers, Florida, ranks first. Nearly one-third of its residents are over 65, with a life expectancy of 80.6 years and an average retirement income of $42,000 — well above the national average. Retirees are drawn to the area’s mild climate and more than 400 miles of waterways that support boating, fishing, and outdoor recreation.

2. The New York–Newark–Jersey City metro area takes second place. While the cost of living is high — with average retirement income at $37,000 and a cost-of-living index of 116 — the region appeals to seniors seeking cultural attractions, age-friendly housing, and world-class healthcare.

3. thru 5. Florida claims the next three spots on the list. Naples–Immokalee–Marco Island ranks third, with seniors accounting for more than 32% of the population, life expectancy reaching 84 years, and the highest retirement income nationwide at $59,000. Fourth is North Port–Sarasota–Bradenton, where nearly one-third of residents are over 65 and benefit from clean air, coastal living, and walkable downtowns. Port St. Lucie ranks fifth, with 26% of residents over 65, a life expectancy of 78.9 years, and a more affordable coastal lifestyle featuring sunshine and golf.

6. Sixth on the list is Kiryas Joel–Poughkeepsie–Newburgh, New York. About 15% of residents are over 65, average retirement income is $37,000, and one of the lowest crime rates in the country adds to the area’s appeal. Access to healthcare is exceptional, with more than 6,600 providers per 10,000 residents.

7. Durham–Chapel Hill, North Carolina, ranks seventh. Seniors make up 15% of the population, life expectancy averages 79 years, and the region benefits from a strong healthcare network anchored by Duke University, UNC, and major medical centers.

8. Eighth is Virginia Beach–Norfolk–Newport News, spanning Virginia and North Carolina. With 14.7% of residents over 65, the area offers mild coastal weather, good air quality, untaxed Social Security benefits, and a large veteran community.

9. Madison, Wisconsin, places ninth. Seniors represent 14% of residents, life expectancy is 80 years, and retirees enjoy four seasons, ample outdoor recreation, and favorable tax treatment for Social Security and property taxes.

10. Boise, Idaho, rounds out the top 10. The metro boasts the nation’s lowest crime rate, a life expectancy of 78.8 years, and abundant outdoor recreation set against mountain scenery. While costs run slightly above the national average, the area appeals to retirees seeking a Western lifestyle.

Source: GlobeSt