It has long been a cliche that when people retire, they come to Florida. According to the latest
"Best Places to Retire" list from U.S. News & World Report , it's also a pretty good idea. Out of the Top 20 cities in the nation for retirees, no fewer than seven of them are here in the Sunshine State in the list released Monday, Nov. 18 — three were in the Top 10. In fact, out of the 150 cities listed, Florida has 14 of them. So if you're in the market for a sunny place to relax after a lifetime of work, here's where you should look.
No. 1: Naples, Florida
This southwest Florida city scored No. 1 on the list, a major jump from
last year's ranking of No. 28 . "Long known as a preferred retirement spot for the rich, powerful and cold-averse, the greater Naples area supplies pristine beaches, sprawling golf courses, and fine dining and shopping,"
U.S. News said . "Closer to the area’s rural interior, meanwhile, cattle graze and seasonal workers pick tomatoes in the fields around Immokalee, a farming community an hour’s drive outside of Naples." The report also noted the beachside communities, the craft breweries, the museums, the abundance of water, wildlife and preserves, the annual seafood and Winter Wine festivals, the downtown offerings, and the lack of state income tax. However, it also pointed to problems such as a lack of affordable homes and the high prices for what's available, the occasional red tide, and some traffic issues. Naples was also listed as the No. 1 best place to live
in Florida and in the country .
No. 4: Sarasota, Florida
Sarasota has been a "Best Places to Retire" list regular for years, making No. 1 in 2020 and 2021 before
dropping down a bit the last few years . This year this seaside city
returned to the top five .
U.S. News praised Sarasota's "vibrant arts scene, beachy atmosphere and burgeoning food culture" and made note of its opera house, rooftop bars and the mix of seaside ambiance and eclectic feel. Sarasota was also listed as the No. 2 best place to live
in Florida and 11th
in the country .
No. 7: Jacksonville, Florida
U.S. News liked the outdoor activities, the golf courses, the best beaches, the restaurant scene and the "ignition" of Jacksonville's art and music scene. "Restaurants, shops and entertainment options fill all of Greater Jacksonville's neighborhoods,"
the report said . "There are nature trails to hike and marshes to kayak. There is history to see, and there is business to develop." Jacksonville was also listed as the 7th best place to live
in Florida and 56th
in the country .
No. 17: Pensacola, Florida
"White sand beaches, breathtaking sunsets and emerald green waters are often cited as reasons newcomers fall in love with the Pensacola area,"
U.S. News said . The report also recommended the area's multiculturalism, rich cultural heritage, fine arts scene, music festivals and vibrant nightlife when you're not at the white sand beaches on the blue-green waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Pensacola was also listed as the 3rd best place to live
in Florida and 31th
in the country .
No. 18: Tampa, Florida
Tampa made the top 20 for its "laid-back beach lifestyle and the amenities of a large metropolitan area," along with its professional sports teams, museums, restaurants, "hip social scene" and thriving Hispanic community. Tampa was also listed as the 4th best place to live
in Florida and 35th
in the country .
No. 19: Port St. Lucie, Florida
"Port St. Lucie has a more relaxed atmosphere than its larger neighbors,"
U.S. News said . "Its clean streets and quiet neighborhoods are woven around scenic waterways and lush green golf courses." The report liked the area's affordability, although housing costs are rising as more people are attracted to the region. Great for boaters and fishers, multiple festivals every year and the New York Mets training season. Port St. Lucie was also listed as the 12th best place to live
in Florida and 83rd
in the country .
No. 20: Melbourne, Florida
Want to retire next to a great zoo and a spaceport? Aside from the beaches and the Indian River Lagoon,
Melbourne offers a variety of museums and galleries while maintaining a small-town appeal. "The Space Coast is committed to blending the arts, science and economic development into its energetic community,"
U.S. News said . Melbourne was also listed as the 6th best place to live
in Florida and 49th
in the country .
Which cities were in the top 10 for Best Places to Retire?
What other Florida cities made the 'Best Places to Retire' list?