12 Best Towns In Florida For Retirees
While many associate the Sunshine State with tourism, seniors and forward-thinking middle-agers are often enticed by the idea of calling Florida home. Given its stunning coastline, permanent vacation feel, and lack of state income tax, it is no surprise that so many dream of retiring here. But is it really possible to retire in Florida on a budget?
The answer is a resounding yes, as long as you know where to look. On one hand, life in Miami Beach will cost you a pretty penny. But for seniors seeking a great deal, Florida is teeming with more affordable homes than you might think. From inland lake communities to coastal beach towns, beauty and affordability do not have to be mutually exclusive. With that said, if you dream of settling down in the Sunshine State without the big city price tags, here are 12 of the best Florida towns for retirees in 2025.
Fort Walton Beach
Life on Florida’s Emerald Coast is in demand and famously expensive, making cost-effective towns like Fort Walton Beach a gem amongst stones. While Emerald Coast cities like Destin saw a median listing home price of $675K in June 2025, Fort Walton Beach’s was just $389K. With savings this tremendous, it is hard to believe Okaloosa Island is so close by, offering a gateway to sugar sands and emerald waters at the National Seashore State Park. Crossing the causeway also leads to Okaloosa’s other iconic attractions, like the Boardwalk and Island Pier, ensuring a permanent vacation that feels just a short bridge away.
Punta Gorda
Over in Southwest Florida, Punta Gorda is another coastal town promising a vacation feel without the extravagant costs. Located where the Peace River and Charlotte Harbor merge, this Florida community is a paradise for anglers, boaters, and those seeking beautiful waterfront scenes. Whether strolling the 2.5-mile Harborwalk, setting sail from the Punta Gorda Marina, or shopping and dining at the Fishermen's Village, waterfront views are always within reach. Luckily, life in Punta Gorda remains comparatively affordable. While Florida’s median home list price was nearly $425K in June 2025, Punta Gorda’s was just $385K.
Leesburg
For even greater affordability, inland towns like Leesburg are perfect for retirees on a fixed income. In June 2025, Leesburg saw a median listing home price of $325K, while the median sold price was even lower, at $312.5K. Plus, this Lake County town may lack the coast, but it is still a paradise for retirees seeking waterfront scenes. Nicknamed Florida’s “Lakefront City,” Leesburg grants access to Lake Harris and Lake Griffin. With this, waterfront attractions like the Venetian Gardens, Lake Griffin State Park, and the Venetian Cove Marina can be enjoyed daily. Optionally, at Lake Shore 55+ Manufactured Home Community, seniors can also enjoy waterfront views 24/7.
Bartow
Under 2 hours south of Leesburg, with similar housing costs, Bartow is another budget-friendly retirement town ideal for seniors craving simple pleasures. Dotted with historic homes and lush foliage, this "City of Oaks and Azaleas" promises a small-town atmosphere and Old Florida feel. Main Street Bartow is cozy and compact, lined with attractions like the Polk County History Center and Havana Delights Cafe & Catering. The Bartow Golf Course is also just a short drive from downtown, while nature lovers can drive a bit further north to the Polk's Nature Discovery Center on Lake Hancock.
Inverness
Inverness, a “Small Town Done Right,” offers seniors the ultimate sense of security. Financial peace of mind is one of the town’s greatest perks, with a median listing home price of $275K in June 2025. The HCA Florida Citrus Hospital is also right in town, eliminating the concern of having to travel far for healthcare. As for local fun, Courthouse Square is the heart of downtown Inverness, bordered by charming locales like the Valerie Theatre and SideBar Tavern. Nearby, Cooter Pond Park is great for a serene picnic or boardwalk stroll, while Wallace Brooks Park is just a bit further north, overlooking Henderson Lake.
Sebring
Similar to Inverness, the town of Sebring is anchored by its waterfronts and iconic town square. Also similar is the cost of buying a home here, as Sebring saw a median listing price of $294,900 in June 2025. However, Sebring’s town center is a bit more distinct. Round in place of the typical town square, Circle Drive makes Sebring "The City on the Circle.” Surrounding Sebring Circle Park, Circle Drive is the heart and soul of downtown, featuring quaint locales like Sebring Soda & Ice Cream Works. A short walk from this quirky town center then expands to attractions like the Highlands Lakeside Theatre overlooking Lake Jackson.
Sebastian
On Florida’s east coast, Sebastian is a cozy retirement town ideal for seniors chasing beach life without massive crowds. Situated where the St. Sebastian River and Indian River Lagoon merge, the town is often overshadowed by Vero Beach nearby. As a result, the Sebastian Riverfront is laid-back and quaint, meaning waterfront attractions like Riverview Park and Portside Pub & Grille can be enjoyed without the congestion of large crowds. Additionally, Sebastian locals can enjoy affordable housing and access to the unspoiled beaches at Sebastian Inlet State Park. In June 2025, the median list price for a home in Sebastian was below the state median, at $380K.
Titusville
A little over an hour north of Sebastian, Titusville is perfect for extroverted retirees and seniors wanting a full itinerary. Located on Florida’s iconic Space Coast, the town is a hotspot for rocket-launch-watching at spots like Space View Park. Titusville’s setting along the Indian River Lagoon also makes it a gateway to pristine outdoor attractions like the Merritt Island Wildlife Refuge and Canaveral National Seashore, home to 24 miles of serene beachfront. Offering all this and more, many are surprised to learn that life in Titusville is so affordable. In June 2025, homes listed at a median price of $299K, trending down over -7% year-over-year.
Fort Pierce
Returning south, around 45 minutes past Sebastian, Fort Pierce is a spirited beach town known for its soft sands and stunning sunsets. While houses here can cost more than Titusville, they remain below the state median listing at $339.9K in June 2025. For beach-loving retirees, life here is worth every penny, especially for the breathtaking shores at Fort Pierce Inlet State Park. Coupled with other coastal attractions, like Jetty Park, the Fort Pierce City Marina, and the St. Lucie County Aquarium, Fort Pierce shines as one of Florida’s best retirement towns.
Lake Wales
For seniors seeking waterfront charms with increased affordability, inland towns like Lake Wales are a great alternative to the coast. In June 2025, the Central Florida town saw a median listing home price of $300K. The town also features cute and cozy retirement communities like Water's Edge of Lake Wales. As for lake fun, Lake Wales is a manageable drive from Lake Kissimmee State Park, which grants access to lakes Rosalie, Tiger, and beautiful Lake Kissimmee. More locally, Lake Wales also features gorgeous spaces like Bok Tower Gardens, a botanical oasis.
Lake City
Lake life is also a hallmark of Lake City, a North Central Florida town Leonard Dicks Realty calls a “Retiree’s Paradise.” Praised for its peaceful atmosphere, close-knit community, and serene natural surroundings, life in Lake City is relaxing but never dull. With homes listing at a median price of $325K in June 2025, life here also costs below the state median, leaving more time to enjoy leisure. Locals can enjoy strolls around downtown Lake DeSoto or venture further to scenic sites like Falling Creek Falls and Ichetucknee Springs State Park. On Food Truck Wednesdays, downtown Olustee Park also comes to life with tons of different vendors to sample.
Milton
Equally scenic, Milton is a lovely choice for adventurous retirees, nature lovers, and seniors looking to stay active. Skirting the majestic Blackwater River, Milton offers plenty of ways to enjoy Florida’s great outdoors. Whether strolling the Milton Riverwalk, visiting the Panhandle Butterfly House, or exploring nearby Blackwater River State Park, postcard beauty is Milton’s specialty. With this, Milton locals can enjoy peace of mind, both in housing costs and healthcare. The Santa Rosa Medical Center is conveniently right in town, and homes here were listed at a median price of $330K in June 2025.
Discover Affordable Living In Florida
Choosing where to retire is no small decision, but if you have your heart set on Florida, half the work is done. The second half requires more thought about what you want from your golden years. Do you see yourself lounging on Sebastian’s beaches? Savoring lake life in Lake Wales? Or prioritizing health and affordability in Inverness? Choosing what matters most is up to you, and each of these Florida towns shines in its own way. Nonetheless, each offers varying degrees of affordability, making your dream of retiring in Florida closer to reality than you ever thought possible.
