The Pacific Northwest's 11 Best Retirement Towns Ranked
Between magnificent mountainous landscapes, captivating coastal beaches, and lush forests filled with wildlife, the Pacific Northwest is renowned for its natural beauty. Combined with vibrant art scenes, various lifestyle options, and a warm temperate climate, you will quickly fall in love with living here. From the seaside splendors of La Conner to the extraordinary mountain peaks of Ketchikan and the historic boulevards of Garden City, discover the Pacific Northwest’s 11 best retirement towns ranked.
La Conner, Washington
Conveniently located between Seattle and Vancouver, two of the region's major metropolitan cities, La Conner is a wonderful place to spend your golden years. Spend some time by the Salish Sea in La Conner Waterfront Park; expect to see the iconic Rainbow Bridge and incredible views of the town. Spots like Nasty Jack's Antiques are perfect for collecting one-of-a-kind treasures.
The city's unique museums, including the Quilt & Fiber Arts and Northwest Art, will leave you with plenty to explore. Skagit Valley Hospital, recognized by Healthgrades for the Pulmonary Care Excellence Award™ in 2023, is easily accessible from here. Plus, with La Conner Marina in town, breathtaking spots like the San Juan Islands are easily accessible with a scenic cruise.
Astoria, Oregon
Escape to one of the most charming small port cities in the US in Astoria. Known for its exquisite Victorian homes, remarkable museums, stunning forests, and picturesque location on the Columbia River, Astoria offers an astounding mix of recreational opportunities. Dive into its fishing past in the Columbia River Maritime Museum, where fascinating artifacts, exhibits, demonstrations, and engaging activities await.
Soak in the striking views of the Astoria-Megler Bridge, North America’s longest continuous truss bridge, as you stroll along The Riverwalk Trail. Stretching 4.1 miles from Astoria to Point Ellice, this famous bridge connects Oregon with Washington State. Not to mention, Cannon Beach, named one of the 100 Most Beautiful Places in the World by National Geographic in 2013, can be reached within 30 to 40 minutes. Regarding healthcare, Columbia Memorial Hospital offers emergency, cardiac, pulmonary, and surgery services, among other services in town.
Squamish, British Columbia
Make your way to the Great White North to explore this captivating outdoor paradise. An hour north of Vancouver, accessible by the Sea to Sky Highway, lies Squamish. This picturesque city is recognized for its extraordinary Indigenous culture, world-class hiking trails, and rugged natural landscapes. See striking views of the coastal forest, Howe Sound, and surrounding mountains from the Sea to Sky Gondola, or capture British Columbia’s third-highest waterfall in Shannon Falls Provincial Park.
Whistler Blackcomb, one of the most famous ski resorts in the world, can also be reached within 60 kilometers. Squamish General Hospital offers Emergency, Ambulatory, Physiotherapy, Palliative, General Medicine, and other services in town. If you are looking to make new friends or find fulfilling volunteer opportunities, Squamish Welcome Centre is a lovely spot to help out the community and connect with others.
Gig Harbor, Washington
Bask in the beauty of Puget Sound and Mount Rainier as you surround yourself with stunning landscapes in Gig Harbor. Between the scenic trails of McCormick Forest Park, known for its abundant wildlife and old-growth trees, and the spectacular beach sunsets from Kopachuck State Park, this truly is the city for outdoor lovers.
Dive into Gig Harbor's maritime past at the Harbor History Museum, where Special, Permanent, and Lobby Exhibits are displayed. St. Anthony Hospital, with its wide range of services including Orthopedics, Women's Health, Emergency, Physical Rehabilitation, and others, is in town. Both independent and assisted living facilities filled with events and activities are available in Village Concepts of Gig Harbor, Sound Vista Village.
Ketchikan, Alaska
When you picture paradise, turquoise waters, and sandy beaches often come to mind. However, you might want to consider retiring in Alaska. Between being one of the best places to see the Northern Lights in the world, having 17 of the 20 highest mountain peaks in the US, and featuring gorgeous glaciers and fascinating fjords like you have never seen before, Alaska is full of natural wonders. Plus, with no state income taxes, this is an incredible state to spend those special years. Ketchikan is the perfect place to pick!
From the city’s close proximity to Tongass National Forest, the largest national forest in America, and the intriguing Baranof Fishing Excursions guiding you through The Salmon Capital of the World, Ketchikan is a nature lover’s haven. In the historic downtown area, you will find Creek Street, a lovely antique boardwalk filled with shops, restaurants, and unique museums. With PeaceHealth Ketchikan Medical Center (the second-best hospital in Alaska according to the U.S. News & World Report in 2025) in town, you will feel safe calling Ketchikan home. Services, including meals, door-to-door transportation, errand assistance, and social and health activities, are available for those 60 and over via the Saxman-Ketchikan Senior Center.
Bainbridge Island, Washington
How does spending your golden years in a scenic island community surrounded by beauty, easily accessible from Washington’s biggest city sound? A 35-minute ferry ride from Seattle will take you to Bainbridge Island. From 140 acres of gorgeous gardens in the Bloedel Reserve to the magnificent views of the Olympic Mountains and marine-life habitats from Fort Ward State Park, you will be in for a real treat. Not to mention, there are stunning views of the Cascade Mountains and Puget Sound from Fay Bainbridge Park.
Regarding healthcare, Virginia Mason Franciscan Health Medical Pavilion has a facility in the city. Primary care and specialty services such as Orthopedics, Cardiology, Arthroscopy, and others are available here. Bainbridge Island Senior Community Center strives to empower and engage adults to connect with others. Engaging activities, including Tai Chi, Community Choir, Crafts, and Thrift Shops, are available.
Sandpoint, Idaho
Set on the scenic Lake Pend Oreille, Sandpoint is a picturesque city in Northern Idaho. Between the powdery slopes and rejuvenating spa of Schweitzer Mountain Resort, the largest ski resort in the state, and the one-of-a-kind shops of the Cedar Street Bridge Public Market, you will have plenty to do. Enjoy a wide range of performances in Panida Theatre Inc., ranging from dance performances to global film festivals, music concerts, educational speakers, comedy, and informative presentations.
Bonner General Health offers full-service medical treatments, including hospice, ophthalmology, cardiopulmonary, cancer, women’s health, and many other services. There are also fulfilling volunteer opportunities here to help support others and connect with those in your community. Plus, with a crime rate that makes Sandpoint safer than nearly 70% of cities (as reported by CrimeGrade in 2025), you can feel safe calling this city home.
Florence, Oregon
Commonly referred to as “Oregon’s Coastal Playground,” this scenic city is among the Pacific Northwest’s 11 best retirement towns. Enjoy serene strolls by the sparkling freshwater lakes of Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial State Park. You will want to visit the striking Sea Lion Caves and see the mesmerizing Heceta Head Lighthouse in Florence. Constructed in the early 1890s, this fascinating landmark was later listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1978.
PeaceHealth Peace Harbor Medical Center offers Cardiology, Emergency, Dermatology, Respiratory, and Orthopedic services in town, amongst others. Connect with residents through the Florence Events Center, from Choirs to Flower Shows to Arts Festivals.
Sun Valley, Idaho
Spend your golden years somewhere that feels like being on vacation all year long. This breathtaking mountain town is teeming with activities for those who feel like taking on new adventures. Explore the slopes of Bald or Dollar Mountain, where ski terrains for various difficulties are available. Practice your aim on the 18-hole Trail Creek championship course, or soak in the incredible panoramic views of the Wood River Valley on the White Clouds course.
See a captivating performance in the heart of town at the Opera House with its quality Sony Digital Cinema 4K projection technology. St. Luke's Wood River Medical Center can be easily reached from here. Emergency, Physical and Occupational Therapy, Intensive Care, and other services are available.
White Rock, British Columbia
Another gem in Canada’s Pacific Province, White Rock is a refreshing coastal city that stands out for its remarkable location. About an hour from Vancouver and two hours from Seattle, you can access major city attractions and amenities by hopping between both sides of the border while living in a serene, scenic city. Spend some time by Semiahmoo Bay, strolling down the stunning White Rock Pier. Zapoteca Mexican Grill & Seafood is a wonderful spot to get together with others and enjoy fresh dishes by the sea.
Several services are available at Peace Arch Hospital, including a 24/7 Emergency department in town. If you would like to make long-lasting friendships and connect with your neighbors, try a class or join an event through the White Rock Community Centre. You will quickly see why White Rock is one of the Pacific Northwest’s best retirement towns.
Garden City, Idaho
Next to Idaho’s capital, you will find Garden City. Named after the extraordinary Chinese gardens and Chinden Boulevard (the main street whose name is a combination of “China” and “garden”), Garden City has no shortage of beauty and history. Local spots like Barbarian Brewing are perfect for sitting back and tasting artisan ales and lagers in a cozy setting. The Revolution Concert House also features legendary performances by famous artists in its event venue.
Primary Health Medical Group Garden City has Family Physicians in town. You will find St. Luke's Boise Medical Center only eight minutes away. Named the Best Hospital in Idaho by U.S. News & World Report, ranked High-Performing in 16 Procedures/Conditions, rest assured you will have access to quality healthcare services.
Why These 11 Towns Stand Out for Retirement
The Pacific Northwest has it all, whether you are searching for endless outdoor adventures, vibrant cultural scenes, or destinations filled with history and charm. From La Conner to Garden City, escape to a destination where the crowds are few, the climate is temperate, and the beauty is boundless. Choose to spend your golden years in the best possible way; pick from the Pacific Northwest’s 11 best retirement towns ranked today.
