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Realtor Says Retirees Are Leaving Florida in Droves (And Going to These 7 Places Instead)

Is the Sunshine State the right spot for your retirement?

By Sarah Sharkey , Edited by Laura Hohenstein

Updated Aug. 31, 2026

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Retirees have been moving to the Sunshine State for decades. Although it's true that the sunny days make for a great retirement, other parts of living in Florida have made many retirees think twice about staying.

In fact, around 45,000 of Florida's seniors left in 2025. Even though a separate 45,000 retirees moved to Florida, there was only a net gain of less than 1,000 retirees moving to the state in 2025, according to a study from Hire a Helper.

With rising expenses and retirement savings being stretched thin, it's not too surprising that many retirees feel the pinch in Florida. When it gets to be too much, many retirees decide to pull up stakes and build a retirement dream somewhere else. Explore the top places Florida retirees are moving to below.

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Macon, Georgia

Average home price: $174,257

Tucked into central Georgia, Macon offers plenty of sunshine at a much more affordable price point.

"Many retirees still want warm weather, but they're finding they can stretch their retirement savings much further in Georgia," says Daniel Amodeo, president at Amo Realty.

Amodeo continues, "Central Georgia also offers a slower pace of life, relatively affordable housing, lower property taxes, and convenient access to larger cities like Atlanta, while still providing the warm climate many retirees are seeking."

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Plano, Texas

Average home price: $499,723

Plano "gives retirees the best bang for their buck," says Keith Lucas, founder of Retirement Life USA and licensed real estate broker.

With easy access to top-tier health care and major airports in Dallas, retirees can find a lot to like about Plano.

Wilmington, North Carolina

Average home price: $421,733

Retirees who want to dive into a coastal lifestyle during their golden years might find what they are looking for in Wilmington.

"Wilmington gives retirees coastal living without the extreme beach town price tag or the year-long summers like Florida, seasonality is one of the biggest draws," says Lucas.

Without a state income tax on Social Security income, many retirees can stretch their nest egg further here.

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Maryville, Tennessee

Average home price: $398,575

Like all residents of the Volunteer State, Tennessee retirees can enjoy the lack of a state income tax. For many, this can help build some extra breathing room into their budget. In Maryville, newcomers can soak in the mountain views and affordable prices.

"Maryville gives retirees a mix of mountain views and financial relief without the overcrowded Florida buzz," says Lucas.

Greenville, South Carolina

Average home price: $331,868

Greenville's affordable price point has started to attract many Florida retirees.

"The Reedy River runs right through the center of town and the Falls Park is a major attraction for locals and visitors," says Lucas.

For retirees seeking easy access to nature and mountains at their back door, Greenville is a great option. That's especially true if you prefer mild seasons.

Blue Ridge, Georgia

Average home price: $515,803

For retirees tired of the heavy heat prevalent in the Sunshine State, Blue Ridge offers a breath of fresh air. Cooler summer temperatures have attracted many retirees to the area.

"The downtown is packed with local shops, breweries, and farm-to-table spots," says Lucas.

With mountain views and small-town charm, it's hard not to fall in love with Blue Ridge.

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Huntsville, Alabama

Average home price: $290,453

Huntsville offers retirees a more affordable place to call home with plenty of warm and sunny days.

The city "has attracted many retirees because of its access to more affordable housing," says Jessica Robinson, co-owner of Family Nest North Central Florida.

Beyond relatively low housing prices, Huntsville offers "access to local community programs and outdoor activities," says Robinson.

Bottom line

Living in Florida is often a rather expensive option. For many retirees, the relatively high costs simply aren't in their budget. If you're looking for ways to maximize your retirement savings, one of the best options is to move to a more affordable place to call home.

The reality is that Florida might be too expensive for many retirees. Before committing to a move to Florida or anywhere else, run the numbers to confirm you can afford the retirement plan you have in mind.

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