8 Top-Ranked Towns in Minnesota for Retirees

Retirement is the beginning of a new and splendid journey. So, rather than looking back on where you were, consider where you are going. When it comes to choosing a place to retire to, healthcare and housing are essential factors, but so are peace, quiet, and enjoyment.

Within the United States, Minnesota, with its 10,000+ lakes, mountains, tranquillity, and beauty, is a popular retirement destination. There are a lot of stunning towns in Minnesota that would make for the perfect place to retire.

Taking into consideration the crime rate, cost of rent and housing, population density, and more, discover the top eight best places to retire to in Minnesota.

Albert Lea

Situated along the shores of Albert Lea Lake sits this idyllic community. With 23.58% of the population over the age of 65 and a median home value of $150,000, Albert Lea is one of Minnesota's dream retirement spots.

In terms of crime, it has a 24% total crime index, i.e., it is safer than 24% of neighborhoods in the United States. Healthcare is easily accessible and readily available to all those who need it. Albert Lea is home to the Mayo Clinic, Albert Lea VA Clinic, and Marathon Health. For everyday ailments, there are several family practices.

Myre-Big Island State Park in Albert Lea is a haven for retirees looking to fish, boat, walk, or go camping. Art, history, and music lovers can enjoy the Marion Ross Performing Arts Centre and Freeborn County Historical Museum, Library & Village. Retirees can also head down to Fountain Lake Park for a stroll through the Farmers Market. Other activities in Albert Lea include shopping at the mall or a movie at the cinema. 

Austin

Austin, Minnesota, is a peaceful rural community that offers fun activities and affordable living. The average rent for a one-bed is $807, but other expenses are low. Retirees could live comfortably on $2,000 a month.

With a total crime index of 18%, Austin is relatively safe. The food, music, and art scene in this rural town is booming, and there are plenty of parks worth visiting. The world-renowned SPAM Museum is a popular spot, as is the Jay C. Hormel Nature Centre and East Side Lake.

Other exciting things to do in Austin include exploring the Austin Art Works Centre and Paramount Theatre Mini Museum, biking along 45 miles of trails, or enjoying a leisurely kayak/canoe ride down Cedar River. 

Brainerd

Situated in Central Minnesota is Brainerd, another lakefront town. Brainerd is the ideal spot for retirees who enjoy being active. With an array of activities such as fishing, golfing, boating, and biking, it's hard to get bored in Brainerd.

There are 450 lakes around Brainerd in addition to public parks and beaches, mini golf courses, three waterparks, a wildlife park, and a zipline tour. For those who like to take it easy, there is also a county museum, pioneer village, military museum, and railroad museum worth exploring.

Brainerd is a fairly safe town, with 13.3% of the population being between the ages of 65 to 85. At $339.9K, buying a house in Brainerd is slightly more pricey than other towns, but rent ranges from $450 to $2.5K.

Fergus Falls

Ranked as the number one place to retire in Minnesota in 2021, Fergus Falls has a 16.1% tax burden and a population that is made up of 24.1% senior citizens. There are ample doctor's offices, so retirees have access to the best healthcare.

With a plethora of predominantly suburban housing options, rent in Fergus is lower than the national average at $755. The median home value is also lower at $165,200, and most residents own their home. There are several assisted and senior living accommodations at a variety of price points for retirees to choose from.

Crime in Fergus Falls is relatively low so newcomers can look forward to a safe environment consisting of other retirees, families, and professionals. Retirees who move to Fergus Falls can learn about the diverse wildlife at the Prairie Wetlands, enjoy the beautiful scenery at Pebble Lake, and choose to dine at one of the town's many delicious eateries. 

Hibbing

Kick back and enjoy retirement in Hibbing, a serene town located in Minnesota's Iron Range.  With only five violent crimes annually, Hibbing has a total crime index of 57%, making it one of the safest places to live in the United States.

Once known as the Iron Capital of the World, Hibbing is steeped in history and was once home to many a famous person like Bob Dylan. Locals in Hibbing enjoy the Centennial Fountain, Greyhound Bus Museum, and Bob Dylan Collection and Exhibit, along with the breathtaking scenery of the Midwest.

Hibbing has a cost of living score of 84.7 which means it is less expensive to live here. The cost of healthcare, food, living, and housing in Hibbing is 15.3% lower than the U.S. average, which makes it a haven for retirees.

Jackson

Jackson, MN, with its close-knit community and small size, provides the perfect atmosphere for retirees looking for friendliness and warmth. The town hosts multiple annual festivals and has a vibrant art scene while also offering fun outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and camping.

For retirees looking to purchase homes in Jackson, the median home price is $175,100. For renters, a two-bedroom will cost roughly $700 per month. The crime rate in this small town is also significantly lower than in other parts of the country.

19% of the population in Jackson are retired individuals. Despite being a small town, the healthcare facilities in Jackson are top-notch. Two hospitals provide comprehensive services, and many clinics for specialized work such as dermatology and orthopedics.

Bemidji

Moving to Bemidji after retirement is an excellent choice for those looking to escape city life. With only 15,000 residents, there is no better place for peace. The town sits on Lake Bemidji, making for stunning views all year round.

While Bemidji is small, it still provides its residents with quality healthcare. Several walk-in clinics and medical centers offer specialized care. Crime within the area and the cost of living are low, so many people choose to retire here.

Rent in the town will cost approximately $891 per month, but most residents own their homes. For retirees looking to purchase property, the median home value is around $261,300.

Barnum

Located in Carlton County, Minnesota, Barnum is exceptionally beautiful and offers retirees many outdoor activities. Residents often hike or bike along the trails and explore the town's natural beauty.

Making friends will be easy for newcomers as the residents are friendly, inviting, and community-oriented. 24.98% of the residents in Barnum are over the age of 65, and as of 2021, there are only 620 residents in the town.

Crime in Barnum is low, and healthcare is readily available. Apart from pharmacies and local clinics, Olmsted Medical Center is close by and provides extensive care. Barnum has a more rural feel to it, with most residents owning homes. The median cost of a house in Barnum is $230,400.

Discover Your Ideal Retirement Haven in Minnesota

While some might be sad to leave their old lives behind and go into retirement, others look forward to it. Regardless of which category you fall into, the towns listed above are guaranteed to make retirement that much more enjoyable. Each promises something special; all are beautiful and peaceful and offer a variety of activities for people with different interests. So, don't forget to consider these eight top-ranked towns in Minnesota.