Research from United Van Lines shows that 14% of people who moved last year did so specifically for retirement, but deciding where to spend your golden years isn’t always easy. While some people want to be near family, others are looking forward to warm weather and a beach lifestyle. A new study from “U.S. News & World Report” on the Best Places to Retire in the U.S. is here to help those weighing their options.
- The research compares hundreds of cities across the country on factors that are important to retirees, including cost of living and affordability, quality of life metrics like air quality and quality and availability of healthcare, taxes for retirees, crime rates, weather, and if other retirees are moving there.
- The Michigan town of Midland lands at number one, thanks in part to 21% of the residents being over age 65, making it a great place for retirees to meet others their age in the community. The cost of living is also low there.
- Weirton, West Virginia, comes in second. It also has a low cost of living and high percentage of retirees, plus a rural location that’s ideal for those who want a slower pace of life.
- Florida used to be known as the retirement mecca, and three of the top 10 cities on the list are in the Sunshine State. More than 45-thousand retirees moved to Florida last year, a sign it’s still popular for relocating retirees.
The Best Places to Retire in the U.S. in 2026
- Midland, Michigan
- Weirton, West Virginia
- Homosassa Springs, Florida
- The Woodlands, Texas
- Spring, Texas
- Rio Rancho, New Mexico
- Spring Hill, Florida
- Altoona, Pennsylvania
- Palm Coast, Florida
- Lynchburg, Virginia
Source: Mental Floss