A city may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about a place to retire—but maybe it should be.
There are many benefits to living in a city, from having easy access to daily needs like grocery stores and pharmacies to having an assortment of cultural amenities and entertainment options nearby. It’s easy to stay busy and enjoy an active lifestyle in an urban setting. Cities also tend to be more walkable than rural areas and have more options when it comes to physicians, specialists, and health care facilities.
Still not convinced? Here are some cities with urban 55 communities that just might pique your interest:
Arizona
Phoenix
Nicknamed “Valley of the Sun” for its endless supply of sunshine, Phoenix is a good place to consider for a warmer climate and dry heat instead of the beaches of Florida. If the favorable weather isn’t enough to convince you, maybe the natural beauty of the area will. Surrounded by picturesque mountains, Phoenix is close to many natural attractions waiting to be explored, including local favorites like South Mountain Park and Papago Park.
Along with its natural beauty, residents will find prime golfing opportunities at several world-class golf courses, including the popular We-Ko-Pa Golf Club. The city also has a number of cultural amenities, including the Phoenix Art Museum, the Pueblo Grande Museum and Archaeological Park, and the Heard Museum.
Retirees who want to live close to top-notch health care facilities will be happy to know the Mayo Clinic Arizona has a Phoenix campus, which has been ranked No. 1 hospital in Arizona and one of the top 20 hospitals in the country by U.S. News & World Report for the last six years. Adding to its appeal, Arizona doesn’t tax social security income, helping retirees on a fixed income stretch their money.
55+ Communities in the City
Tucson
Tucson is a popular retirement destination for a variety of reasons, but it’s an especially great place for retirees who love being active outdoors and prefer warm weather. Outdoorsy retirees will appreciate the wealth of recreation options in Tucson. Surrounded by mountains, there’s always a reason to get outside, whether you’d prefer to hike one of the many local trails, explore a national park, or spend the day on the links at one of the dozens of golf courses in the area.
For those who prefer more of the city life as opposed to the rugged outdoor life, Downtown Tucson is overflowing with shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Cultural amenities are also in abundance with the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum being a favorite among locals.
In addition to the city’s long list of things to do, one of the most appealing aspects of retiring in Tucson is its affordability with a 4.3% lower cost of living than the national average, according to Sperling’s Best Places. With so many advantages, it’s no wonder the city has become a favorable destination among active adults.
55+ Communities in the City
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SaddleBrooke
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Altura
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La Cholla Hills
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The Preserve at SaddleBrooke
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Mona Lisa Village
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Casas Del Oro Norte
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Casitas de Castilian
Sierra Vista
Sierra Vista is a small city with several advantages for retirees. Most notably, the city’s cost of living is 11.1% lower than the national average based on research by Sperling’s Best Places. Even more appealing are Sierra Vista’s housing prices, which are a staggering 21.1% lower than the U.S. average and almost 41% lower than Arizona’s average housing prices, making it one of the most affordable cities to retire in the state.
Combine its affordability, great year-round weather, small-town feel, and beautiful desert scenery, and it’s easy to see why retirees would consider calling Sierra Vista home.
55+ Communities in the City
California
Los Angeles
Sunny Los Angeles is a great place to retire. The city boasts a unique combination of a bustling, urban setting with lots of diversity, set against the backdrop of the Pacific Coast’s serene natural beauty, giving residents the best of both worlds.
The city’s warm climate makes it a great destination for active adults who want to escape cold temperatures and spend lots of time outdoors. And, with the Pacific Ocean on its doorstep and an abundance of hiking trails in the area, there’s no shortage of fun recreation options.
Los Angeles is also home to some of the top shopping and dining destinations in the country. With Hollywood and several professional sports teams calling LA home, there’s also an abundance of cultural and entertainment options for residents to enjoy.
Additionally, the city is home to several top-notch medical facilities, including the UCLA Medical Center and the Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, making it a smart choice for retirees who have health concerns.
55+ Communities in the City
Palm Springs
The scenery alone is enough to make you want to retire in Palm Springs, but if you need more convincing, the city is ideal for active adults who envision spending their golden years in a place with a warm, sunny climate all year long. In addition to the favorable weather and gorgeous sights, choices are plentiful when it comes to ways to spend your free time in Palm Springs.
Whether you like to golf, play tennis, or hike you’ll never run out of ways to stay active and busy with so many recreation options and athletic clubs in the area. Downtown Palm Springs provides plenty of appeal too, with an abundance of retail stores, museums, and art galleries to meander through.
55+ Communities in the City
Pennsylvania
Philadelphia
Rich in history and full of cultural amenities like the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Liberty Bell Center, Philadelphia has no shortage of historic sites and museums where retirees can take in the city’s storied past first-hand. Along with its historical and cultural amenities, the city also has a lot of parks and green spaces where active adults can spend time outdoors exercising.
Retirees who are sports fans will especially appreciate the city’s impressive list of professional sports teams, which includes the Philadelphia Eagles, the Philadelphia ‘76ers, the Philadelphia Phillies, and the Philadelphia Flyers.
In case there are health concerns to be considered, the city is also home to a few major hospital systems, including the renowned University of Pennsylvania-Penn Presbyterian.
55+ Communities in the City
New York
New York City
While New York is one of the most popular cities in the world, it may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about retirement. However, the city that never sleeps shouldn’t be overlooked, especially if you want to live somewhere that’s modern but drenched in history and full of culture.
Unlike a lot of cities in the U.S., New York has an elaborate public transportation system, providing residents with a convenient way to get around on a daily basis. Most neighborhoods are also extremely walkable, putting daily conveniences and services within reach.
NYC is known for its seemingly endless list of restaurants, entertainment options, and cultural amenities. Whether you love art and want to peruse a new exhibit at the Museum of Modern Art, take in the latest Broadway performance, or cheer on one of the many professional sports teams that call NYC home, there’s always something to experience or an exciting place to explore.
The city is also home to a number of nationally-ranked hospitals, including New York Presbyterian Hospital and Mount Sinai Hospital.
Florida
West Palm Beach
Warm weather is a given in the Sunshine State, and West Palm Beach provides perpetual sunshine. With almost 50 miles of coastline, West Palm Beach residents have easy access to some of Florida’s most scenic beaches like Delray Beach.
The area is also home to a wide variety of outdoor attractions. Known as Florida’s Golf Capital, West Palm Beach is home to more than 160 golf courses, perfect for active adults who want to spend their retirement playing 18 holes.
After spending the day on the beach or the links, residents can spend time exploring the city’s vibrant downtown area that boasts a combination of local eateries, retail shopping options, performing arts centers, museums, and eclectic art galleries. In regards to finances, residents will appreciate the fact that Florida doesn’t tax state income.
55+ Communities in the City
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Baywinds
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Century Village at West Palm Beach
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Golden Lakes Village
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Cypress Lakes West Palm Beach
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Crosley Villas
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RiverWalk
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Barkley Villas
Fort Pierce
While Fort Pierce’s balmy weather may initially draw attention to the area, it’s the city’s affordability that makes it stand out as a retirement destination. The city’s overall cost of living is 11.6% lower than the national average, according to Sperling’s Best Places. Housing prices are 30.1% lower than the national average with a median home price of $203,800. And, don’t forget, Florida has no income tax.
Along with its low cost of living, the small city offers its residents the amenities that come with a city, but without the traffic and high tax rates. Residents are also able to avoid the large influx of tourists that a lot of neighboring cities get, allowing retirees to enjoy slower living while still having the conveniences that come with living in an urban city.
55+ Communities in the City
Miami
Miami is more than just a popular vacation destination. As one of Florida’s largest cities, Miami is the ideal location for those looking to retire in a stimulating city, packed full of entertainment options and cultural amenities, ranging from buzzy nightclubs and cabaret-style theaters to the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science.
Residents have plenty of attractions to explore, whether they want to relax somewhere along the city’s 20 miles of beaches, shop at the Lincoln Road Mall, or meander through one of the city’s many eclectic districts like the Miami Design and Art Deco district. The city’s culinary scene is perfect for retirees who are foodies—or want to be foodies! Since the city is a cultural melting pot, you’ll find everything from authentic Cuban cuisine in Little Havana to fresh, upscale seafood restaurants.
Staying active is a breeze with places like South Pointe Park and the Deering Estate, a nature preserve that spans almost 450 acres and boasts several nature trails perfect for hiking. While there’s something going on almost every day in Miami, every year, the city also plays host to a number of prominent events like Art Basel and the Miami International Boat Show.
55+ Communities in the City
Fort Myers
Fort Myers is another desirable option for active adults. Situated along the Gulf Coast, the city has plenty of sun and sand to entice retirees who want to spend their days relaxing in the sunshine or fishing.
The city’s River District was recently redeveloped, turning the walkable waterfront area into a place for residents of all ages to enjoy. There, you’ll find everything from coffee shops and eateries to retail stores and cultural amenities ranging from fine art galleries to theaters. The district also plays host to a variety of events throughout the year, including music walks, bike nights, and art festivals.
Residents also have an abundance of outdoor recreation options that they can enjoy all year, thanks to the area’s subtropical climate. There are over 40 golf courses nearby and several parks where residents can explore and hike. Fort Myers’ cost of living is 3% lower than the national average, according to Sperling’s Best Places, and it’s more affordable than several other Florida cities.
55+ Communities in the City
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Verandah
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Cross Creek Country Club
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Legends Golf and Country Club
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Gulf Harbour Yacht & Country Club
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Seven Lakes
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Pelican Preserve
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Arborwood Preserve
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Heritage Palms
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Cinnamon Cove
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The Hideaway Country Club
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Colonial Country Club
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Paseo
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Brandywine
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Heritage Cove
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The Reserve at Estero
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Pine Ridge at Fort Myers
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The Plantation
Naples
Located along the pristine, white shores of the Gulf of Mexico, Naples has been luring in retirees for decades. Beyond its desirable location, the city also boasts balmy temperatures year-round, is extremely walkable, and it’s been named the Safest Place to Live in the U.S. by U.S. News & World Report.
Throughout the city, high-end shopping and upscale dining options are plentiful, and boating and fishing are favorite pastimes of residents. Naples is a golfer’s paradise with close to 90 golf courses, including the top-rated Tiburón Golf Club.
55+ Communities in the City
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VeronaWalk
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Lely Resort
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Treviso Bay
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Vineyards
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Heritage Bay
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Riviera Golf Estates
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Pelican Bay
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Moorings
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Fiddler’s Creek
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Island Walk
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The Isles of Collier Preserve
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Esplanade at Hacienda Lakes
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Valencia Trails
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Esplanade by the Islands
Tampa
Ranked as one of the Best Places to Retire by U.S. News & World Report, Tampa definitely stands out when it comes to places to settle down. As one of the largest cities in the Sunshine State, Tampa has a lot to offer active adults when it comes to attractions and things to do. Plus, the city’s pleasurable weather affords residents the opportunity to take advantage of the myriad of water and outdoor recreation options available in the area.
Sports fans can cheer on the home team year-round with the city’s impressive roster of professional sports teams that include the Tampa Bay Rays, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and the Tampa Bay Lightning hockey team. The state’s tax advantages also add to Tampa’s retirement appeal.
55+ Communities in the City
St. Petersburg
Just a short drive from Tampa, is another urban 55 city to consider. St. Petersburg is an affluent area with warm weather, beautiful beaches, and a vast selection of desirable amenities ranging from the Fine Arts Museum and the Salvador Dali Museum to scenic nature preserves, and golf courses. Located along the waters of the Golf, the city is also a popular area for boating and fishing. St. Petersburg offers retirees the perfect blend of beautiful, natural scenery with a vibrant city setting that’s full of culture and activities.
55+ Communities in the City
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Terrace Park of Five Towns
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Palma Del Mar
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Paradise Shores
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Casa Del Mar Condominiums
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Sea Towers
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Boca Ciega Point
Orlando
Orlando is a well-known vacation destination. Thanks to the city’s subtropical climate, residents can enjoy long summers and short, mild winters with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing. Retirees can spend most of the year outdoors hiking at a popular state park like Wekiwa Springs State Park, golfing at one of the area’s numerous golf courses, or kayaking at one of the many local lakes.
With attractions like Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld nearby, options are endless when it comes to entertainment choices, giving locals plenty of opportunities to spend time with grandchildren when they come to visit. Retirees on a fixed income can also breathe a little easier in Orlando since retirement income is tax-exempt.
55+ Communities in the City
Daytona Beach
Famous for motorsports and the Daytona International Speedway, Daytona Beach strikes a balance between a laid-back beach town with endless water recreation options and a well-rounded city rife with theaters, museums, and galleries.
On a daily basis, residents can take their pick between watching a performance at The Peabody Auditorium, listening to live music at the Daytona Beach Bandshell amphitheater, or heading out on the water for some prime fishing along the Atlantic coast. Things don’t cool off when the sun goes down—Daytona’s Main Street is a hub for a lively nightlife scene where locals can socialize.
In addition to its prime location along the Atlantic coast and favorable weather, Daytona’s cost of living is also significantly lower than the national average. According to Sperling’s Best Places, the city’s cost of living is 13.3% lower than the U.S. average. Add that to the fact that there is no state income tax, and Daytona Beach turns out to be a great option for retirees.
55+ Communities in the City
Melbourne
Melbourne is a fantastic option for active adults who want to live in a city full of amenities but maintain a more relaxed lifestyle in a place with a small-town feel. Melbourne is also more affordable than other cities around the state. According to Sperling’s Best Places, the city’s cost of living is 5.6% lower than the national average, and the median home price is lower than the U.S. average.
Beyond its affordability, sunny weather, and laid-back atmosphere, Melbourne is also home to several beautiful beaches, wildlife preserves, and a vibrant art community where residents can enjoy live performances at the Maxwell C. King Center for the Performing Arts and a myriad of art galleries in the Eau Gallie Arts District. Let’s not forget that there are also several golf courses in the area that golfers are sure to appreciate.
55+ Communities in the City
55places Can Help With Your Home Search
With so many advantages to retiring in an urban city, it’s no wonder more and more active adults are choosing to forego small towns and settle in metropolitan areas. If retiring in a city sounds appealing to you, contact 55places to help you find your perfect 55+ community in a thriving urban setting.
