Florida Shines as the Top Destination for Retirees in 2025

When it comes to finding the perfect place to retire, Florida has once again proven itself as the ultimate haven for those seeking a happy and fulfilling retirement. U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 Best Places to Retire in the U.S. has recognized Florida’s appeal, with three cities ranking in the top 10 and an impressive seven additional cities making the top 20.

Why Florida?
The rankings highlight key factors that matter most to retirees, including happiness, affordability, health care, desirability, retiree taxes, and job market opportunities. For 2025, happiness became the most heavily weighted factor, underscoring the importance of overall resident satisfaction.

Naples took the No. 1 spot, praised for its desirability, favorable tax environment for retirees, and vibrant job market. Sarasota claimed the No. 4 position, while Jacksonville secured No. 7, each city reflecting Florida’s unique blend of quality living and financial ease.

Florida’s Dominance in the Top 20
Florida’s appeal doesn’t stop there. Seven additional Sunshine State cities made it to the top 20, including:

Pensacola (No. 17)
Tampa (No. 18)
Port St. Lucie (No. 19)
Melbourne (No. 20)

Further down the list, cities like Fort Myers (No. 24), Lakeland (No. 34), and Orlando (No. 55) also showcase the diverse opportunities for retirees across the state.

Why Retirees Choose Florida
Retirees are looking for more than just affordability—they want to live somewhere that brings joy, convenience, and a sense of community. Florida offers all of that and more:

Warm Weather: Year-round sunshine creates the perfect environment for outdoor activities.
Tax-Friendly: Florida’s lack of state income tax and retiree-friendly policies make it a financial favorite.
Health Care Access: The state is home to top-tier hospitals and medical facilities tailored to aging populations.
Recreation and Lifestyle: From pristine beaches to cultural hubs and outdoor adventures, Florida provides endless opportunities to stay active and engaged.

A New Look at Retirement Rankings
This year, U.S. News shifted from using Metro Statistical Area data to city-based data, offering a more localized and accurate representation of livability. This change further solidifies Florida’s standing as a leading retirement destination, with cities across the state meeting and exceeding the expectations of retirees.

Plan Your Florida Retirement
With its unparalleled blend of happiness, affordability, and lifestyle, it’s no surprise that Florida continues to lead as the top choice for retirees. Whether you're drawn to the serene beaches of Naples, the cultural charm of Sarasota, or the vibrant city life of Jacksonville, Florida offers a perfect fit for every retiree's dream.

Explore the possibilities today—your perfect retirement destination might be closer than you think!