The Prairies' 7 Best Retirement Towns Ranked
The Prairies of America harbor a variety of towns that combine natural beauty, affordability, and strong community values, making them ideal locations for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle. From the picturesque landscapes of Great Bend, Kansas, to the scenic canyons of Canyon, Texas, these towns provide ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, along with accessible healthcare and safe, welcoming environments. Whether it's a charming town nestled by a river, a birdwatcher's paradise, or a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature, these communities offer a range of features that appeal to families, retirees, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Population data was sourced from CensusReporter.org, crime statistics from the FBI’s Crime Data Explorer, and housing information from Realtor.com.
Great Bend, Kansas
Great Bend, Kansas, is a picturesque town located along the Kansas Wetlands and Wildlife Scenic Byway. This is a 77-mile route that connects two of the world’s most significant wetlands: Cheyenne Bottoms and Quivira National Wildlife Refuge. These wetlands span over 60,000 acres and harbor a vital stopover for millions of migrating birds each year, making the area a paradise for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers. The town also includes access to top-tier healthcare, with a hospital operated by the highly accredited University of Kansas Health System. Great Bend boasts an affordable cost of living, with a median home price of $180,000, almost half the national average, making it an attractive place for families and retirees. Furthermore, the town has a reputation for safety, as the FBI reported zero incidents of robbery in 2023, contributing to its peaceful, community-focused atmosphere.
Kearney, Nebraska
Kearney, Nebraska, is a friendly town known for its natural beauty and strong community values. One of its highlights is Audubon’s Rowe Sanctuary, a 3,000-acre nature preserve along the Platte River dedicated to conserving the local ecosystem, with a special focus on crane habitats. The sanctuary’s trails are open daily from dawn to dusk, offering visitors a chance to enjoy the unique scenery. Kearney also boasts top-notch healthcare, with CHI Health Good Samaritan Hospital being ranked among America's 250 Best Hospitals in 2023. The town harbors reasonable living, with a median home price of $264,000, making it an appealing choice for retirees. Additionally, Kearney is considered a safe place to live, with CrimeGrade.Org giving it above-average violent crime ratings and only one reported homicide in the last decade, according to FBI statistics. This combination of beautiful environments, excellent healthcare, and safety makes Kearney a desirable place to call home.
Glendive, Montana
Glendive, Montana, provides a unique blend of outdoor adventure and small-town charm. Nature lovers can enjoy activities like fishing on the Yellowstone River, hiking through Makoshika State Park, or exploring the Short Pines OHV Recreation Area. The town is also home to the Glendive Medical Center, a full-service, 25-bed hospital providing 24-hour emergency care, medical, and surgical services, as well as a 36-bed skilled Extended Care facility. With a median home price of just $220,000, Glendive is a reasonable option, particularly for retirees. The town’s population includes 23% seniors, fostering a welcoming community for older residents. In terms of safety, Glendive stands out with zero homicides and only one reported robbery in the last decade, according to FBI crime statistics. This combination of affordability, safety, and outdoor opportunities makes Glendive an ideal place for both retirees and those seeking an active, peaceful lifestyle.
Vermillion, South Dakota
Vermillion, South Dakota, is a charming town situated atop a bluff along the pristine Missouri River, offering breathtaking views and natural beauty. The town boasts a range of recreational activities, including bike paths, four city parks, and The Bluffs 18-hole golf course, making it an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts. With a median home price of $300,000, Vermillion gives a good balance of safety, serenity, and incredible surroundings. According to FBI Crime Data Explorer, the town has experienced no robberies between 2019 and 2022, ensuring a secure environment for residents. The Sanford Vermillion Medical Center is highly regarded by locals for its exceptional healthcare services.
Canyon, Texas
Canyon, Texas, is a stunning town known as the gateway to Palo Duro State Park, home to the stunning Palo Duro Canyon, the most impressive environmental feature in the Texas Panhandle. Formed by millions of years of erosion, the canyon includes breathtaking views, historic sites, and over 16 miles of paved roads to explore. The town benefits from nearby BSA Hospital, which was awarded the Outstanding Patient Experience Award in 2024. With a median home price of $320,000, Canyon provides a reasonable living option in an area of unparalleled scenery. The town also enjoys a strong sense of safety, with FBI crime data showing no reported homicides in the last decade. Overall, Canyon’s combination of picturesque views, quality healthcare, and low crime rates makes it an attractive place for those seeking a peaceful retirement.
Belle Plaine, Minnesota
Belle Plaine, Minnesota, is a vibrant community offering over twenty city-owned parks, trails, and recreational areas, covering approximately 80 acres, or 2.4% of the city's total area. The town boasts excellent walkability, with 13.5 miles of trails and 21.5 miles of city sidewalks. Residents enjoy the Belle Plaine Aquatic Center, which opened in late summer 2019, providing a great spot for relaxation and fun. For healthcare, St. Francis Regional Medical Center in nearby Shakopee was awarded the Critical Care Excellence Award in 2023. With a median home price of $370,000, Belle Plaine is a relatively affordable option, particularly for retirees, and the median age of 38 ensures a healthy mix of younger and older residents. The town has a strong reputation for safety, receiving an A- grade for violent crime from CrimeGrade.org, with no homicides reported in the last decade, according to FBI data.
Beatrice, Nebraska
Beatrice, Nebraska, is a vibrant town known for its natural beauty and tight-knit community. The Chief Standing Bear Trail, which spans about 37 miles, follows the old Union Pacific Railroad line and runs along the Big Blue River, passing through several small towns before connecting to the Kansas Blue River Rail Trail at the Nebraska/Kansas border. Beatrice is home to the highly regarded Beatrice Community Hospital, which is recognized for delivering top-quality healthcare. Beatrice has a median home price of $180,000, making it an extremely affordable option, particularly for retirees. With 22% of the population over 65, the town provides a welcoming environment for those entering their golden years. The town ranks in the 68th percentile for safety, according to CrimeGrade.org. This combination of low housing prices, healthcare, and safety makes Beatrice an attractive place for seniors.
These towns across America’s Prairies offer a unique combination of affordability, natural beauty, and strong community values, making them ideal for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle. From the wetlands of Great Bend, Kansas, to the stunning canyons of Canyon, Texas, and the scenic trails in Beatrice, Nebraska, each town gives ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and a high quality of life. With access to reliable healthcare and a reputation for safety, these communities cater to retirees and nature lovers looking for a welcoming place to call home.
