11 Towns Perfect for Retirement in Florida
Florida is one of the largest retirement communities in the United States. The tropical climate, attractions, and coastal atmosphere are some of the primary reasons for this. Another reason is that many retirees started their Florida journey as "snowbirds."
Snowbirds spend the cold weather months in the Sunshine State, so transitioning here for retirement is not much of an economic stretch. Though parts of Florida get cold(ish) in the winter, most of the state does not, drawing retirees from all over the US. Find eleven perfect towns in Florida for retirement.
Naples
Naples is a popular retirement community in Southwest Florida with gorgeous beaches and famous high-end shopping. The tropical climate, accessible amenities, and senior-friendly activities make Naples one of the best Florida towns to retire. NCH Baker and NCH North are the two local hospitals accessible in town.
The crime rate is low, and violent crimes annually make up a small percentage of the overall crime rate. The housing market is a little high because of the area. According to the US Census, the median home values are around $1.2 M, and the average monthly rent is $1,601 as of 2022.
There are several retirement communities to consider, like Bentley Village, where you can enjoy your retirement without the stress of home maintenance. A big draw for retirees is the abundance of golf courses, many of which have a view of the white sand beaches.
Lake Wales
Lake Wales is great for retirees looking for an inexpensive town easily accessible to essential amenities. Its nickname is "the friendliest little town," and the quaint downtown and friendly community live up to it. The Historic Corridor makes for a pleasant walk and has attractions like the Depot Museum and the Scenic Theater.
Many homes are in the 1920s Mediterranean style, and the median home value is $208,500. Lake Wales is a small town that is easy to navigate and has public transportation. It is economical and includes the best Central Florida living.
Mount Dora
Mount Dora, on the shores of Lake Dora, is a quaint town in central Florida that is attractive to retirees because of its slower pace of life. Several 55+ communities offer amenities like social clubs and recreational activities.
Waterman Village is a popular retirement center that provides medical and palliative care. According to the US Census, the median housing value is $306,700, and the median monthly rent is $1,398 as of 2022. There are many historic homes, and the town is walkable, which adds to the charm.
Fernandina Beach
On Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach is considered the "Keys of Northern Florida" and hosts several annual events such as the Amelia Island Concours. The median home value is $426,100, and the average monthly rent is $1,299. Other costs like utilities and groceries are slightly above average.
Assisted Living facilities like The Lakeside at Amelia Island start at $4,500 per month. The median age of residents is 53 because Amelia Island has grown increasingly popular among retirees. Several centers and activities are geared toward seniors, like the Quality Life Center and the Arbor Company. The Arbor Company has senior living facilities and online resources, including healthcare options.
Vero Beach
Vero Beach is a barrier island on the Atlantic Coast, across from Indian River Lagoon. Its natural beauty and parks like McKee Botanical Gardens are popular attractions for new residents. The median home value is $276,900, making it an affordable option for those looking to buy.
Two hospitals and one medical center are conveniently located. Public transportation is also available for those unable to drive. Senior centers and recreational centers offer classes for seniors in the Community Center. The Senior Resource Association is a non-profit organization that offers senior resources like meal deliveries and transportation services.
Babcock Ranch
Babcock Ranch is one of the most exciting communities in Southwest Florida. It is a planned community in Fort Myers and the country's first solar-powered community. This all-inclusive community has a post office, schools, and public transportation.
The median age is 53, and according to realtor.com, the median home listing price is $465,000. Several hospitals are nearby in Fort Myers, and Tampa General is building an urgent care facility inside Babcock Ranch. With the inclusion of the medical facility, Babcock Ranch has everything retirees need without having to leave the community, which is one of the best reasons to consider it for retirement.
Punta Gorda
Punta Gorda, on the Gulf Coast, is an economical retirement solution. The median home value is $446,100 (according to Census.gov). Several assisted living facilities, like Hampton Manor and Brookdale, offer stress-free living options.
Several healthcare centers and hospitals like Shore Point and an expansive public transportation system are available. One of the best things about living in Southwest Florida is the many golf courses, and Punta Gorda is no exception. There are several quality links, including Saint Andrews and Blue Heron Pines. Like many South Florida towns, Punta Gorda is building more facilities for seniors because of the influx of retirees but also has a sustainable cost of living.
Sebring
Sebring, in central Florida, is home to Sebring International Raceway and is a sleepy town to consider for retirement. Median home values are around $152,000, and the median gross rent is $875.
Medical facilities and hospitals are available, including heart specialists and a surgical center. Several independent living facilities are available, like Balmoral (in nearby Lake Placid). NU-Hope Senior Dining and Activity Centers offers meals and classes on exercise and other activities specifically for seniors and is a great way to interact with the community.
Lakewood Ranch
Lakewood Ranch is a planned community in the Bradenton area that includes office space and a residential area. The median home value is around $568,600, and the median gross rent is $1,994 monthly.
The Manatee County public transportation recently passed a bill to free bus rides, providing great town access. The community also has a medical facility, Lakewood Ranch Medical Center, which has won several prestigious awards. This charming, quiet community has easily accessible amenities and a low crime rate.
Gulf Breeze
Gulf Breeze is a small coastal town in Florida's Panhandle. The median gross rent is $1,530 monthly, and the median home values are around $463,700.
Several assisted and independent living facilities, including Bay Breeze, a rehabilitation center, are available. It is a small town with only one hospital, Gulf Breeze Hospital, but it has a high reviewer rating. The Gulf Breeze Senior Center has daily activities for seniors, including brunch and rehabilitation services. The Panhandle area is becoming popular among retirees because of the tropical environment and convenient amenities, and Gulf Breeze is no exception.
Cocoa Beach
Cocoa Beach, on the Atlantic Coast, is an affordable and scenic coastal town that attracts retirees because of its seaside views and affordable housing. This area is known as the Space Coast due to its proximity to Kennedy Space Center and Patrick Space Force Base. According to the US Census Bureau, the median gross monthly rent is $1,474, and the median home value is $417,500.
This small town has several golf courses and senior citizen centers. Freedom 7 offers recreational activities and classes inside the Cocoa Beach Country Club, offering the best of both worlds. Several hospitals and medical centers offer senior care like Health First, and public transportation is reliable. Overall, Cocoa Beach is one of the least-known retirement towns in Florida, which adds to its charm.
Florida has been a popular retirement community for years. In recent years, small towns and communities around the Sunshine State have become hotspots for retirees. Communities like Lakewood Ranch and Babcock Ranch have become attractive for retirees because of the cost of living and ease of commute.
Towns like Vero Beach are still slightly off the radar for new retirees but are great options because of the small-town atmosphere, golf, and senior centers. Medical care is always important to consider before moving. These eleven towns all have at least one hospital, and many have surgical centers and palliative care, along with other specialists. If you are considering retiring, these eleven towns are the perfect option for economic purposes and quality of life.
