These 5 U.S. Cities Have Secretly Become Retirement Hot Spots

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.