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Realtors Predict These 14 Non-Florida Cities Will Soon Be Retirement Hot Spots

Florida isn't the only retirement hub in the U.S.

By Josh Koebert , Edited by Calista Headrick

Updated May 14, 2026

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For years, Florida has been the go-to destination for retirees, but it's not the only place where you can live your best post-working life. More people are exploring other parts of the country with advantages on par with the Sunshine State.

If you're trying to stay on track for retirement, these spots are worthy of research. In fact, Realtors are seeing these changes up close and have started calling out a few rising stars.

Here's a look at the non-Florida cities they say are bound to become retirement hot spots.

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Bend, Oregon

Bend is an active city that doesn't feel like a retirement community, which arguably can make it attractive to many retirees, according to real estate broker Erik Leland, Realty First in Oregon.

"I occasionally see clients selling in the Portland metro area and moving to Bend for the four real seasons, easy access to the outdoors, and a practical downtown," he says. "You get a good amount of house for your money."

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Scottsdale, Arizona

Scottsdale is only getting more and more popular, explains Realtor John Gluch, Founder of Gluch Group, eXp Realty in Arizona.

"300-plus days of sunshine, world-class medical facilities, and a walkable lifestyle make it one of the most desirable retirement destinations in the country," he says. "Median home prices have risen significantly, but entry points in surrounding East Valley communities keep the market accessible."

Colorado Springs, Colorado

Colorado Realtor Andrew Fortune, Brokerage Owner at Great Colorado Homes, notes that this city gives you the splendor of the mountains without Denver prices.

"Fort Carson and the Air Force Academy funnel military retirees who already know the town well," he says. "Median home prices hover near $475,000, and UCHealth Memorial runs the region's Level I trauma center."

He adds that Colorado's Senior Homestead Exemption shaves half off your first $200,000 for tax considerations.

Traverse City, Michigan

This city's proximity to Lake Michigan and reputable healthcare appeal to retirees, as noted by Sander Scott, Strategic Real Estate Advisor at Real Estate Bees.

"Traverse City stands out because of the combination of a robust year-round economy and access to surrounding smaller communities," he says. "Market data shows persistent in-migration from higher-cost states, where retirees view the Traverse City market as relatively inexpensive by comparison."

Las Vegas, Nevada

In addition to no state income tax, Las Vegas has a warm climate and endless amenities and entertainment options, according to real estate advisor Natalia Harris with Las Vegas Sotheby's International Realty.

"Communities like Henderson and Summerlin appeal to high-net-worth retirees with luxury guard-gated neighborhoods, country clubs, mountain views, and easy access to outdoor recreation," she says. "Las Vegas has the perfect balance of luxury, convenience, and financial efficiency for the next chapter of life."

Prescott, Arizona

Prescott may be in Arizona, but it has its own unique feel, explains real estate agent Neil Brooks, NewDay USA Spokesperson.

"At over 5,000 feet in elevation, you get pine forests, lakes, and mild four-season weather instead of scorching desert heat," he says. "Homes typically run between $450,000 and $650,000, and the small-town pace appeals to people looking for outdoor recreation and a quieter lifestyle with solid healthcare nearby."

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Sacramento, California

Compared to its extremely expensive neighbors like San Jose and San Francisco, Sacramento is moderately affordable, per Johana Williams, Regional Manager for Utopia Management.

"It has an urban lifestyle, with all its benefits, like strong access to healthcare, growing senior communities, and proximity to tourist spots like Napa, Tahoe, and the picturesque Bay Area waterfront towns," she says. "It's like being within an arm's reach from all these places without enduring their high living costs."

Coeur d'Arlene, Idaho

If you're looking for a place to retire without high taxes close to the Pacific Northwest, Leland suggests this waterfront gem.

"Idaho doesn't tax Social Security, and for buyers coming out of places like Seattle or Portland, it is noticeably more affordable," he says. "Best of all, you've got a lake that's on par with anything in the country."

He adds that it's not a hidden gem, per se, but it's also not overly crowded and maintains room for growth.

Henderson, Nevada

Beyond the financial advantages of living in Nevada, Henderson checks a lot of boxes for retirees, as noted by Gluch.

"Nevada's zero state income tax is the headline, but the real draw is the combination of affordable housing relative to coastal markets, proximity to Las Vegas amenities, and a population over 65 that's grown consistently," he says. "Healthcare infrastructure has expanded alongside population growth."

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Chattanooga, Tennessee

Chattanooga has been on the radar of retirees for a decade, thanks to its scenic beauty and practicality in equal measure, explains Fortune.

"Tennessee doesn't charge income tax on retirement income, which changes the math for people on fixed budgets," he says. "Homes still trade around $325,000, and Erlanger runs a Level I trauma center with a teaching hospital attached."

Boise, Idaho

If being surrounded by natural beauty with a lower population density appeals to you, Boise has both, as noted by Harris.

"It has outdoor recreation, a strong sense of community, and relative affordability compared to many other markets," he says. "Boise is an appealing option for retirees looking to downsize, stay active, and stretch retirement dollars while maintaining quality of life."

Sequim, Washington

Not far from Seattle is this under-the-radar city, known for its blooming lavender fields and outdoor recreation, shares Leland.

"It sits in the rain shadow of the Olympic Mountains, so you get a lot more sun than people expect from the Pacific Northwest," he says. "It has a strong retiree base, so the services and day-to-day infrastructure are there, and you're close to Port Angeles for anything you need."

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Tucson, Arizona

If you want to live in Arizona's famous desert climate and enjoy its laid-back lifestyle without Scottsdale's price tag, head to Tucson, explains Gluch.

"The University of Arizona anchors an active arts and culture scene, Banner University Medical Center provides healthcare infrastructure, and home prices remain well below Phoenix metro averages," he says. "Retirees who do their homework consistently land on Tucson as the best value in the Southwest."

Greenville, South Carolina

South Carolina is already a retirement hot spot, and Greenville is the face of its continued successful migration story, as noted by Fortune.

"Median prices near $360,000 are combined with a Homestead Exemption that exempts $50,000 of value for owners over 65," he says. "An inland location keeps insurance costs lower than in coastal South Carolina, and Prisma Health operates a hospital downtown."

Bottom line

Florida isn't the only retirement option on the table, even if it's one of the most popular ones. These cities have the mix of affordability, amenities, and community that more retirees are starting to prioritize.

Of course, taking the time to research and compare options can help you find a place that fits your needs. In the end, choosing the right one plays a key role in building a retirement plan that leads to long-term happiness.

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