As with airplanes and hotels, there are both written and unwritten rules of passenger etiquette when traveling by train. That’s true whether you’re riding aboard Amtrak or the local subway. Some etiquette rules may be considered common sense, but if you don’t ride the rails frequently, you may not be familiar with the ins and outs of being a considerate passenger to your fellow train travelers and staff members. Here are nine helpful train etiquette tips to keep in mind.

Keep Bags Off Seats

Frequent rail riders say taking up too much space is one of the most annoying things other passengers do on trains. Seats are intended for humans, not your personal belongings (or pets). This is especially important on crowded trains — such as those during rush hour — where available seating may be scarce. While you may be tempted to place a bag on the seat so you have extra personal space, doing so is considered rude.

Instead, keep bags or other personal objects on your lap, in your hands, under the seat in front of you, or atop any luggage racks that may be available overhead or at the end of the car. Making each seat available not only provides other passengers with the comfort they’re entitled to but also helps keep the amount of standing passengers in crowded aisles and vestibules to a minimum.

In addition to keeping bags off seats, be sure to keep your body confined to just one single seat and avoid kicking up your feet or lying down across multiple seats. Thankfully, you’ll find footrests located in front of you on most Amtrak trains.

Use Headphones

I’m a frequent train rider myself, and nothing irritates me more than other people watching videos, listening to music, or having loud speakerphone conversations without headphones. Unfortunately, this is becoming a more frequent occurrence. Avoid being part of the problem and always pack a pair of headphones when riding the rails. Remember, nobody else in the car wants to hear what you’re listening to.

Speak in Subdued Tones

Much like in other public places, you should aim to keep the volume of your conversation at a reasonable level so your voice doesn’t echo throughout the car. But with train travel, there are a few additional distinctions.

For instance, it’s more acceptable to talk aloud on the subway than it is on an Amtrak train. On Amtrak, there are also stricter rules if you find yourself seated in one of the quiet cars, which are located on many Amtrak trains and regional rail lines and are clearly labeled as such. These cars are intended for peaceful and quiet rides, which means all phone calls are explicitly prohibited. If you need to chat with the person next to you, speak in a soft voice and keep conversation to a minimum.

Wait for Riders To Exit Before Boarding

When boarding a train, the proper etiquette is to stand off to the side of the open doors and wait for passengers to exit. Only once it’s clear should you attempt to board the train yourself. If you try to push onto the train too early, you’ll end up bumping into those who are trying to leave, causing an unnecessary traffic jam — and potentially forcing the train to sit in the station for longer than necessary.

Don’t Block Aisles or Doors

Extending your legs into the aisle or keeping your luggage in the middle of the walkway prevents your fellow passengers from easily getting on and off the train, especially in the rare event of an emergency. This holds true for the vestibules at the end of the car, too, as you should never stash your luggage in front of the doors.

Share Outlets

Amtrak provides two outlets for every pair of seats, though they’re often located closer to the window. This means that the person sitting in the window seat has easier access than the passenger sitting on the aisle. But if you need to charge your device, don’t be a hog — always share with your seatmate, even if it means their power cord running underneath your legs.

Offer Up Accessible Seating

Typically, there are certain sections or seats of a train car — whether it’s regional rail or a city metro line — designated for people with accessibility needs. These seats are often clearly marked; for example, the New York City subway has signs that read, “Priority Seating for persons with disabilities.”

While it’s fine to sit there in an otherwise empty car where there’s nobody with special seating needs, you should relinquish your seat and move to a different location if someone requests to sit there, keeping in mind hidden disabilities.

Be Prepared To Disembark

Rather than waiting until the last minute, start to gather your belongings as you approach your stop. Otherwise, you may have to scramble to get off or cause a delay at the station. (You could also get caught in a traffic jam if you don’t make it to the exit before people start to board.) A little preparation can go a long way in terms of respecting your fellow passengers.

Be Mindful About Eating (And Your Trash)

When it’s time to leave the train, you should always clean up all of the trash at your seat, such as food wrappers or beverage bottles. Usually, you’ll find dedicated garbage bins at the end of the car on Amtrak trains and aboard many regional rails. If not, take your trash off the train and dispose of it in any garbage cans located on the platform.

Additionally, when bringing food aboard, particularly in more crowded train vehicles like subways, try to be considerate of what you eat. According to The New York Times, for example, “It is an unspoken compact among subway riders in New York City: If you are going to eat on the train, keep it simple.” That means avoiding messy or smelly foods that may be inconsiderate to your fellow passengers and train cleaning crews. 

The world’s top tourist destinations continue to evolve, blending history, architecture, culture, innovation, and entertainment in ways that consistently impress travelers. The “Top 100 City Destinations Index,” by the data analytics company Euromonitor International, analyzed the cities that attract the most international visitors in key categories such as tourism infrastructure and policy, sustainability, health, and safety. From storied capitals to trendsetting global hubs, these are the world’s 10 best cities for travelers to visit based on data from 2025.

10. Seoul, South Korea

The global rise of “K-culture,” driven by K-pop music, film, television, and fashion, has sparked increased interest in Korean tourism in recent years, helping Seoul to land at No. 10 on the list of the world’s best cities to visit. From K-Star Road (Seoul’s answer to the Hollywood Walk of Fame) to Myeongdong, a hub for K-pop merchandise, K-culture hot spots are drawing young fans in droves. 

In addition to its pop culture appeal, Seoul boasts a captivating blend of ancient traditions and modern amenities. The modern skyscrapers that extend across Seoul’s skyline are interspersed with ancient palaces, remnants of the Joseon dynasty that ruled the region for more than 500 years. Tourists can explore neighborhoods of preserved traditional houses (called hanoks) and world-class shopping districts like Gangnam, among many other highlights.

9. Singapore

Singapore Changi Airport was ranked the world’s best airport in 2025, but there are plenty of reasons why Singapore should be more than just your stopover point in Southeast Asia.

Clean, organized, and easy to navigate, this fascinating city-state is known for its bold architectural landmarks, such as the Gardens by the Bay and Marina Bay Sands, one of the world’s most expensive skyscrapers ever built. New to the city in 2025, Rainforest Wild Asia spans more than 30 acres and offers immersive walking trails where visitors can view native wildlife.

8. Barcelona, Spain

Situated on the Mediterranean Sea, Barcelona is a tourism mainstay known for its sunny beaches, acclaimed food scene, and distinct Catalan culture. The city is expected to see continued tourism growth in 2026, especially among international travelers, which has resulted in overtourism concerns.

As the city aims to meet those challenges, Barcelona’s coastal charm, walkability, and outdoor-focused lifestyle continue to attract visitors from around the globe, whether they’re enjoying tapas on a patio, relaxing in a sunny park, or taking a stroll down La Rambla. Top attractions include the world-famous Sagrada Familia basilica and other Antoni Gaudí works such as Casa Batlló and Park Güell. 

7. Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Amsterdam marked its 750th anniversary in 2025, drawing locals and tourists alike with a full calendar of events, including festivals, sports events, and appearances by the royal family. Like Barcelona, Amsterdam is facing record growth in tourist visits, but if you can brave the crowds, you’ll find plenty to enjoy — from historic neighborhoods and world-famous art museums like the Rijksmuseum to vibrant nightlife and social events — all packed neatly into a compact, walkable layout.

One of the best times to visit is during tulip season. From mid-March through early May, the city and countryside come alive with brilliant blooms. Take a boat ride through Amsterdam’s famous canals for some of the best views. 

6. New York, New York

New York City is a perennial tourism magnet — and the only U.S. city to land in the top 10 of the world’s top cities to visit. From winter holiday displays to summer days spent in Central Park and some of the world’s best dining and theater throughout the year, the Big Apple boasts endless appeal across its five boroughs. 

Following a record-breaking holiday travel season in 2025, there’s much to look forward to in New York in 2026. The city will host the official FIFA World Cup Fan Village at Rockefeller Center in Manhattan, and New York will also undoubtedly be a hub for celebrations as the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary on July 4, 2026.

5. Milan, Italy

Milan seamlessly blends contemporary fashion and design with old-world architecture (see: the Duomo di Milano) and historic art (The Last Supper), creating a unique atmosphere for tourists searching for the best of both worlds.

Twice a year, the city takes center stage during Milan Fashion Week, and in 2025, the events welcomed more than 260,000 visitors to the city. Milan is home to some of the most prominent designers in the world — including Prada, Versace, and Armani — and draws visitors year-round, even if only to window-shop after enjoying an aperitivo.

4. Rome, Italy

With the chance to walk where gladiators once fought in the Colosseum and where Roman politicians met in the Roman Forum thousands of years ago, it’s easy to see why so many tourists flock to Rome. Among the ancient ruins are surprises around every turn, from hidden piazzas and hole-in-the-wall cafes to family-run restaurants and stunning modern architecture. 

Visitors also have easy access to Vatican City, an independent city-state entirely surrounded by Rome. It is home to iconic attractions such as St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel. The summer of 2025 saw record-breaking numbers of tourists — more than 38 million — for the Catholic Church’s Jubilee year. 

3. Tokyo, Japan

Euromonitor’s report ranks Japan’s capital city as the best destination to visit in Asia. As the world’s most populous metropolitan area, Tokyo is a global economic hub that welcomes millions of international travelers for both business and leisure. Its robust metro system and high-speed railway connection to other cities make traveling a breeze, something visitors and locals alike appreciate in this sprawling city. 

Tokyo has several new and exciting openings to look forward to in 2026. Among them is the Tokyo Dream Park entertainment complex, the renovated Edo-Tokyo Museum, and the highly anticipated PokéPark Kanto, the world’s first Pokémon theme park.

2. Madrid, Spain

Madrid’s bustling plazas, tree-lined promenades, and outdoor tapas restaurants bring a lively charm to the city that tourists can’t get enough of — reflected in its ranking as the second-best city in the world to visit in 2025.

Visitors can explore some of the most famous museums in the world, such as the Prado, the Reina Sofia, and the Thyssen-Bornemisza, together known as the “Golden Triangle of Art.” Meanwhile, sports fans arrive in droves to cheer for Real Madrid, the city’s beloved football team.

1. Paris, France

For the fifth consecutive year, Paris ranks as the best city in the world to visit, according to the Euromonitor survey. The French capital enchants travelers year-round with highlights such as the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower, while others come for exciting events around the ever-evolving city. Paris experienced a post-Olympics tourism boom following the 2024 Summer Games, with an estimated 18.3 million international visitors exploring the city in 2025.

Many visitors came to see the newly reopened Notre Dame Cathedral after five years of renovations following a 2019 fire. Also in 2025, the Seine River officially opened for summertime swimming following the Olympic cleanup of the famed river. But even if you’re not up for a dip in the Seine, there are plenty of world-class museums, shops, historic neighborhoods, and renowned culinary experiences that promise an unforgettable experience.

When passing through airport security, it’s every passenger’s goal to do so as quickly and efficiently as possible. But some flyers end up making the screening process more of a time-consuming headache for everyone involved. Take a look at eight of the rudest passenger behaviors in the TSA line.

Being Unprepared To Unpack

The TSA asks travelers to remove laptops, tablets, game consoles, and other similar electronic devices from their carry-on prior to screening. Travelers are also advised to place all liquids into a small clear plastic bag and remove the bag from their carry-on. But one common mistake people make is tucking their electronics and liquids at the bottom of their luggage, meaning they have to unpack the entire bag in order to remove these objects. 

This holds up the line, but it can easily be avoided if you pack your bag strategically to begin with. Put any electronics and liquids toward the top of the bag, or in an easily accessible pocket, which allows for quicker removal at the security checkpoint.

Another issue is flyers forgetting to remove metal objects from their pockets, such as a phone or keys. This triggers the metal detector, requiring the person to step back, remove those metals, and step through again. Even if being unprepared is unintentional, this lack of awareness holds up the entire line.

Standing in the Way of Other Passengers

Once you’re past the X-ray scanner, try to be respectful of your fellow passengers when repacking your carry-on. Gather up all your belongings and move further into the terminal. This way, you can take your time without standing in other people’s way. If you’re repacking your luggage right next to the X-ray machine, you may be impeding other people from reaching their luggage and making their way into the terminal.

Additionally, if you had to remove any clothing such as a jacket or belt, don’t get redressed in the way of your fellow passengers. Take your clothing and step further into the terminal before putting it back on.

Displaying Poor Line Etiquette

These days, cutting in line is a far too common occurrence, and yes, it even happens at the airport. Jumping the queue at the security checkpoint causes confusion and anger and may lead to unnecessary arguments. If you’re in a rush to catch a flight, consider asking politely if you can jump ahead of your fellow passengers, who are likely to understand your situation. (If not, accept “no” as an answer.)

Other ways that travelers may display poor etiquette include bumping into the person in front of or behind them, which shows a disregard for personal space, or talking loudly on the phone during the security screening process, which can drown out important information being relayed by the security staff.

Ignoring Instructions

Even worse than not hearing instructions? Blatantly disregarding them. TSA officers have the final say at the security checkpoint, whether you agree with their policies or not. If a TSA officer tells you to stand in a certain line, for instance, go to that line. You’re not going to change their mind by ignoring them, and if anything, you’ll just end up causing delays for yourself and your fellow passengers.

Acting Aggressively

Having an aggressive attitude at airport security isn’t going to win anyone over, and it may even result in supervisors or additional security staff being called to deal with the situation. Remember, TSA officers are just doing their jobs. Always maintain a calm and collected attitude while going through airport security, as doing so is the surest way to prevent unnecessary conflict or delays.

Making Ill-Timed Jokes

Joking about bombs, knives, guns, or other weapons is extremely taboo anywhere in the airport, but especially at the security checkpoint where officers are looking for those hazardous objects. It’s not witty or funny — it’s rude, as ill-timed jokes will only lead to increased security measures and longer wait times.

Being Immersed in Your Phone

Sure, waiting in the security line may not be the most exciting process, but it’s also no time to keep your eyes glued to your phone. If you’re looking at your phone, you may not realize the line is moving in front of you and you’re holding it up for other passengers. The security line is also no place to play videos or music at full volume (yes, listening without headphones in public spaces is a growing issue). It’s bound to annoy everyone within earshot. Once you’ve made it into the terminal, there’ll be plenty of time to use your phone while waiting at the gate.

Not Knowing What’s Permitted

The TSA provides a helpful “What Can I Bring?” feature on their website and in the MyTSA app, which clearly explains all of the items permitted in both carry-on and checked baggage. By doing a bit of research beforehand, you can easily determine if objects are allowed in your luggage before arriving at the airport. This ensures a smooth security screening process for everyone.

When your luggage is scanned at the airport checkpoint, there are certain items that tend to catch the attention of TSA officers. It’s not that these items are necessarily hazardous or prohibited; in fact, it’s quite often the opposite. But given the limitations of X-ray scanners, some innocuous objects are frequently mistaken for something more dangerous, so they require additional visual inspection to ensure everyone’s safety. Here’s a look at five common items that the TSA typically flags and why.

Books

The TSA’s website states that books often require additional screening. Part of the reason for this concerns the fact that books contain paper, an organic material that appears as an orange block on X-rays. When viewing an X-ray image, an officer may see limited detail and have no way to discern harmless organic material from something possibly hazardous (such as a block of explosives or drugs hidden inside the book).

Larger books or several books stacked together may also be flagged. This is because the more pages there are, the denser the X-ray image will appear. Those dense images may obstruct the officer from being able to clearly see everything inside your luggage, so further visual inspection may be needed.

Spices

When you’re traveling abroad, it’s tempting to pick up local spices that may be hard to acquire at home. And while the TSA permits powdered spices and dried herbs, these items also may raise eyebrows at the security checkpoint. Their granular and powdery consistency may be difficult to discern from illicit drugs or explosives, so an officer may pull you aside to visually inspect them.

This guidance also applies to protein powder, ground coffee, powdered makeup, or any organic objects that X-ray scanners detect. For this reason, it’s a good idea to keep dried or powdered items inside separate clear bags that you can remove prior to sending your luggage through the scanner.

Certain Medications

The TSA permits unlimited amounts of medications in pill or solid form, both in carry-on and checked luggage. The agency does not require you to show a prescription or to keep your medicine in pill bottles (though some states may have individual laws concerning this). All medication will be X-rayed, but passengers can request a visual inspection if they prefer. 

As for liquid medications, the TSA normally imposes a strict 3.4-ounce liquid limit, but some liquid medications are actually permitted in your carry-on, even if they exceed the limit. However, you must declare any medically necessary liquids, gels, or aerosols to the agent prior to screening — or else your bag will be flagged.

Wrapped Gifts

When traveling with gifts, you may be tempted to get all your wrapping done at home before you head to the airport; however, this isn’t always a good idea. Many common gifts may trigger concerns at airport security, such as battery-powered toys, candles, perfumes, or electronics. While all of these objects are allowed past the checkpoint, they occasionally require further inspection. And if you’re pulled aside, you’ll have no choice but to unwrap any suspicious gifts to prove what’s inside, thus ruining your hard work.

To avoid these hassles, a TSA press release encourages passengers to use gift bags, which can be easily opened, or gift boxes with removable lids. The agency also singles out snow globes as a popular gift that people mistakenly pack in their carry-ons — many snow globes exceed the TSA’s 3.4-ounce liquid limit, so they should always be packed in checked luggage.

Unsealed Food

Many travelers bring homemade meals in their carry-on luggage, so that they don’t have to worry about expensive airport food or mediocre airplane meals. While solid foods are permitted by the TSA — especially if sealed — unsealed food can raise concerns because it could conceal prohibited items. For example, if a person is trying to smuggle drugs past security, they could potentially place them inside a sandwich, which would appear as a single mass of organic material on the X-ray scanner.

To make things easier when traveling with unsealed food, keep each item inside a clear plastic bag. This allows for easy access, making it simpler and quicker for TSA agents to inspect the food in question and clear it. Avoid wrapping food inside aluminum foil if possible. While foil is permitted by TSA, the metal may obscure the X-ray scanner and require an additional inspection.

Featured image credit: Wavebreak Media/ Adobe Stock 

Crowded concourses and crying kids — not to mention last-minute gate changes or delayed departures — can make taking to the skies seem anything but friendly these days. Enter the airport lounge, where flyers can relax away from the chaos of the terminal with plush seating, abundant chargers, and complimentary food and cocktails.

Like many businesses, today’s airlines are competing for the wealthiest travelers, particularly those buying first-class tickets and holding top-tier credit cards. For these deep-pocketed passengers, a conveniently placed electrical outlet, a cup of coffee, and a comfortable chair don’t cut it. As a result, airlines (and their credit card partners) are one-upping one another with amenities that would feel right at home in a five-star hotel, like museum-quality artwork, chauffeurs, celebrity chef-curated cuisine, pool tables, private butlers, and rejuvenating spa services. With perks like these, it’s a wonder passengers ever want to leave. Here are just a few of the most over-the-top airport lounges in the world.

Air France La Première Lounge – Paris, France

Trust the French to offer lounge luxuries that are worthy of King Louis XIV himself. Royalty — or those fortunate enough to be flying La Première (first class) on Air France, anyway — will feel right at home here, from the moment they step through the private entrance at Paris’ Charles de Gaulle Airport to the time they’re chauffeured in a Porsche Cayenne straight from the lounge to their plane. 

Passengers at the La Première Lounge can enjoy menus created by Michelin-starred chef Alain Ducasse, take a shower or head to the Sisley spa for a complimentary massage or facial, or simply sip on some 15-year-old Veuve Clicquot while relaxing on a private patio. 

Turkish Airlines Business Class Lounge – Istanbul, Türkiye

Considering Turkey’s affinity for coffee, it’s no surprise that the coffee service at the Turkish Airlines Business Class Lounge in Istanbul is amazing. But visitors to this enormous — more than 100,000 square feet, in fact — lounge will also find cooking stations where they can watch chefs create local delicacies such as pide (flatbreads) and manti (dumplings), along with dozens of varieties of dishes prepared fresh throughout the day. In addition to the complimentary culinary delights, there are marble-clad baths with private showers; golf, racing, and flight simulators; and roaming therapists offering shoulder massages.

Lufthansa First Class Terminal – Frankfurt, Germany

Who needs a lounge when you can have an entire terminal? That’s the situation at Lufthansa’s First Class Terminal at its Frankfurt mega-hub, where first-class passengers enjoy 20,000 square feet of elevated experiences. These include a private entrance and security, a cigar lounge, shower suites with full bathtubs (snag the souvenir first-class rubber duckie), and a personal chauffeur to ferry flyers across the tarmac directly to the steps of their plane. At the bar, there are more than 130 varieties of whiskey and rare bourbons, while the sit-down restaurant offers multicourse meals highlighting delicacies from many of the cities Lufthansa flies to.

The Windsor by Heathrow – London, U.K.

When you’ve booked Heathrow’s VIP Windsor Lounge, another private terminal, a private chauffeur will whisk you from your doorstep to the airport, where you’ll pass through private security and be escorted (by your butler) to your personal suite. (Prince William and Princess Kate might be in an adjoining apartment; do give them our best.) 

As you wait, your personal shopper can arrange for last-minute purchases from the airport’s luxury boutiques, or you can just buy one of the pieces of high-end (Andy Warhol, David Hockney, Tracey Emin) artwork displayed on your walls. Michelin-worthy meals are curated by celebrity chef Jason Atherton and include quintessentially British treats along with — naturally — unlimited Champagne. Unlike the other airline-operated lounges on this list, the Windsor Lounge is available to those flying any airline, as long as you’re booked in first or business class — and willing to pay the considerable fee for access, starting at 3,177 pounds (about $4,266 USD) for up to three guests. 

Qatar Airways Al Safwa First Class Lounge – Doha, Qatar

Travelers could be forgiven for mistaking Doha Airport’s Al Safwa First Class Lounge for a museum, as the design was inspired by Qatar’s Museum of Islamic Art. Soaring ceilings, a floor-to-ceiling waterfall wall, and stunning art and architecture make the space grand, but the sleeping rooms (featuring double beds and en suite baths) are intimate and as relaxing as a boutique hotel. Reserve a private (complimentary) soak at the spa’s Jacuzzi (other treatments at the spa are available for an additional fee), enjoy top-notch dining, or score a few bargains at the lounge’s private duty-free store.

Florida has long been considered the ultimate retirement destination in the U.S., thanks to its warm weather, abundant sunshine, favorable tax policies, and senior-friendly communities. In fact, more than one-fifth of the Sunshine State’s population is over the age of 65. While Florida continues to attract thousands of retirees each year, it’s certainly not the only place older Americans are choosing to settle down. Recent data suggests that retirees are increasingly branching out, drawn to more unexpected cities that offer affordability, access to health care, cultural activities, and active lifestyles. Here are five U.S. cities that have quietly emerged as retirement hot spots.

Lacey, Washington

According to a five-year study conducted by Go Banking Rates from 2018 to 2023, Lacey — a suburb of Olympia, Washington’s state capital — had the highest growth rate of retirement-age residents on the West Coast. During that time, Lacey’s population of residents 65 and up increased by 40%. 

What makes Lacey so desirable? It boasts many big-city amenities, including access to health care, while also offering a slower pace and ample opportunities to enjoy nature, including parks, lakes, trails, golf courses, and a large wildlife refuge. Plus, the nearby Capitol State Forest and Olympic National Park showcase the unparalleled natural landscapes of the Pacific Northwest wilderness.

Lacey is also more affordable than other major Washington metro areas, making it an excellent choice for retirees looking to stay on budget while enjoying their golden years. And in light of the evidence that forming social community bonds improves longevity, Lacey offers plenty of opportunities for socializing, including an annual county fair, summer concerts, a jazz festival, and holiday markets.

Mesa, Arizona

Like Florida, Arizona has long been a retirement haven for its reliable weather, number of 55-plus communities, and relative affordability. But one Phoenix suburb is gaining ground with retirees: Mesa. According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s latest data on retirees, this desert city had the highest inflow of out-of-state retirees, welcoming more than 2,000 new residents 60 or older.

Mesa boasts all the perks of a major city, including a robust health care network and an international airport in Phoenix. Yet, it has a more laid-back feel, with plenty of walking trails, museums, golf courses, and desert scenery. Plus, it offers more affordable housing than nearby retirement hot spots like Flagstaff and Scottsdale. 

There’s no shortage of recreational activities in Mesa, either, such as the Mesa Arts Center, where visitors can see Broadway musicals, take art classes, and explore exhibitions and festivals. On the eastern edge of Mesa is Usery Mountain Regional Park, boasting miles of trails, desert scenery, and camping sites.

Annapolis, Maryland

Maryland’s capital city has plenty to offer retirees, which is perhaps why it has seen a 33% increase in residents age 65 and up in recent years. This makes Annapolis one of the most popular retirement destinations on the Mid-Atlantic coast. Situated on the Chesapeake Bay, within an hour’s drive of Baltimore and D.C., this city blends coastal and city living, offering the best of both worlds for retirees who don’t mind chilly winters. Home of the United States Naval Academy, Annapolis also welcomes many veteran retirees.

The financial publication The Motley Fool ranked Maryland as the third-best state to retire to in 2025 (following Florida and Nebraska), citing a combination of quality health care, low crime, housing availability, and quality of life. In Annapolis, the colonial architecture gives the city a historic feel, while its coastal recreational opportunities — this is “America’s Sailing Capital,” after all — ensure there’s always something to do, from sailing regattas to festivals and live entertainment.

Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

Idaho ranks among the fastest-growing states in the country, and Coeur d’Alene, a scenic city known for its namesake lake, has welcomed more retirees in recent years than any other city in the state. Nearly one-fifth (19.9%) of the population in Coeur d’Alene is 65 or older. The city is popular among retirees looking for a peaceful yet affordable escape into nature that allows for an active lifestyle.

Located on Lake Coeur d’Alene in the Rocky Mountains, near the Washington border, Coeur d’Alene is ideal for those who enjoy pursuits such as boating, hiking, fishing, skiing, walking trails, or scenic drives. Downtown “CDA” boasts art galleries, antique shops, and unique boutiques. Nearby, the famous Floating Green at the Coeur d’Alene Resort Golf Course draws in golfers from around the world.

Another plus: Coeur d’Alene’s housing market is relatively affordable compared to other metro areas in neighboring states. Moreover, Idaho does not tax Social Security benefits at the state level, giving seniors a little more room in their budgets. And while Coeur d’Alene may feel remote, Spokane, Washington — home to an international airport, a robust health care network, and other big-city services — is a 40-minute drive away.

Rio Rancho, New Mexico

Rio Rancho, a suburb of Albuquerque, is known for its scenic high-desert views. One of the fastest-growing cities in New Mexico, it’s home to a burgeoning tech economy and was ranked the sixth-best city to retire to in 2026 by U.S. News and World Report. Boasting a lower cost of living than both the state and national averages, Rio Rancho is the most popular city in New Mexico for recent retirees, with a 32.9% increase in the 65-plus population from 2018 to 2023.

For those seeking culture and entertainment, Rio Rancho offers plenty of options, from a growing local craft beer scene to wineries, diverse culinary options, and seasonal community events and festivals. Residents enjoy ample time outdoors, with year-round low humidity and an average of 330 days of sunshine annually. The community maintains a focus on accessibility for all, including in its parks, through the Rio Rancho Prescription Trails Program.

Less than a 30-minute drive away, Rio Rancho retirees have access to the largest city in the state, Albuquerque. It’s home to the International Balloon Fiesta, a major airport, and cultural highlights including the historic Old Town.