12 Best Places To Retire In Florida
Florida is famous for its beautiful climate, tax-free pension laws, and endless recreational options, making it one of the top retirement destinations. Along with its warm weather, the state offers a mix of safe, welcoming communities with low crime rates, ensuring retirees can enjoy a relaxing lifestyle with easy access to healthcare and wellness services. The best places to retire in Florida provide safe, senior-friendly environments and are conveniently located near major cities.
Whether you’re looking for laid-back coastal living, a town steeped in history, or a lively cultural scene, the 12 best places to retire in Florida shine for their exceptional safety, healthcare, and overall quality of life. From the upscale allure of Naples and Vero Beach to the senior-supportive community of Dunedin, read on to plan your perfect golden retirement in the Sunshine State.
Stuart
Stuart, a picturesque town on Florida’s Treasure Coast, is a top retirement destination known for its safety, quality healthcare, and vibrant senior community. Stuart is one of the safest small towns, with a low crime rate, recording only 53 violent crime incidents in 2019, according to FBI data records. This is significantly lower compared to larger nearby metropolitan areas like West Palm Beach, located 40 mi away, which recorded a total of 859 violent crime incidents.
Retirees enjoy a secure, peaceful lifestyle. Cleveland Clinic Martin Health provides excellent medical care. Stuart’s charming waterfront, cultural attractions like the Lyric Theatre, world-class fishing at hotspots like the St. Lucie River, and events like the First Friday Art Walk create a dynamic and fulfilling environment.
Naples
Naples, a premier luxury retirement destination, is renowned for its stunning beaches, world-class golf courses, and vibrant cultural scene. With 56% of its residents being seniors, it offers abundant opportunities for social engagement. Naples recorded a low crime record of just 11 violent crimes and very low motor vehicle theft, with only 19 incidents, making it an attractive and secure location for retirees. Moreover, the Baker Senior Center enhances retirees' lifestyles with lifelong learning programs, fitness classes, and social events.
For those who enjoy shopping and dining by the water, The Village Shops on Venetian Bay provides a scenic waterfront shopping complex with unique boutiques and restaurants, adding to the town’s charm and leisure options for retirees. Moreover, as the “Golf Capital of The World,” there is no shortage of amazing courses like Windstar on Naples Bay and Bear Paw’s Country Club.
Port St. Lucie
Port St. Lucie is one of the best cities for retirees, offering affordability and quality amenities. In 2019, Port St. Lucie recorded 293 violent crime incidents, which is significantly lower compared to other cities with similar populations, such as St. Petersburg, which recorded 1,594 violent crime incidents, and Hialeah, which recorded 503 violent crime incidents in the same year. As Florida’s sixth-largest city, home to over 200,000 residents, it boasts top-rated healthcare facilities, including HCA Florida St. Lucie Hospital, Port St. Lucie Hospital, and St. Lucie Medical Center.
The cost of living remains reasonable compared to other major Florida cities. The average home price is $392,000, slightly above the state average of $390,000. Beyond affordability, the city offers a thriving recreational scene featuring golf courses, parks, and waterfront activities that make retirement both comfortable and enjoyable. Seniors in Port St. Lucie can stay active with scenic trails, fishing, and wildlife at Savannas Preserve State Park. Golf is also a highlight, with top courses like PGA Golf Club, Astor Creek Golf & Country Club, and the public Saints at Port St. Lucie Golf Course.
Vero Beach
Vero Beach is an ideal retirement spot for seniors looking to enjoy calm beaches, a slower pace of life, and an upscale ambiance. Located 100 mi from Orlando, this small town recorded only 54 violent crime incidents in 2019, according to FBI reports, and offers a reliable healthcare system. Some of its main medical facilities include Treasure Coast Community Health (TCCH) Central Medical and Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital. The town’s Senior Resource Association adds to its appeal as a welcoming retirement destination by offering meals and activities for local seniors.
Additionally, Vero Beach has a range of senior living options for retirees in need of attentive medical care, with notable facilities such as Aqua Home Care and Sonata Vero Beach. If you ever get bored, BigShots Golf Vero Beach is great to tee off while the Vero Beach Museum of Art beckons creative minds, no matter what your age may be.
St. Augustine Beach
St. Augustine Beach is one of the best small towns for seniors seeking a vibrant community of friendly locals. Located on Anastasia Island, it offers a mix of tourist attractions, diverse local businesses, and dedicated senior programs, making it a prime retirement destination. For those who need access to big-city amenities, top-tier healthcare is just a short drive away. Flagler Hospital, located 4.3 miles away in nearby St. Augustine, provides high-quality medical care.
The town is also considered one of the safest places to retire in Florida thanks to its low crime rate, with FBI reports in 2019 recording just four violent crime incidents and only one motor vehicle theft. With seniors making up over 39% of the population, St. Augustine Beach offers plenty of opportunities to connect, socialize, and build a strong sense of community. For those seeking a luxurious retirement experience, Allegro Senior Living stands out as one of the area's premier assisted living facilities, offering high-end amenities and exceptional care.
Safety Harbor
Safety Harbor is a popular retirement destination with a scenic waterfront setting and a reputation for spas, retreats, and small-town charm. Top neighborhoods like Bay Woods, Georgetown East, and Cypress Hollow offer convenient access to the town’s central district. With a modest population of 17,000 as of 2023, seniors still benefit from reliable local medical care through Mease Countryside Hospital. Its convenient location, just 20 miles from Tampa, also provides access to major healthcare centers such as Tampa General Hospital and AdventHealth Tampa.
The walkable downtown is lined with inviting local businesses that are perfect for a relaxing afternoon stroll, including favorites like Gigglewaters Restaurant, Bassano Cheesecake, and Southern Fresh. According to 2019 FBI reports, Safety Harbor recorded only 17 violent crimes, offering retirees a reassuring sense of security true to its name.
Venice
Venice is a top retirement destination, offering a tranquil waterfront lifestyle with easy access to major cities, just 75 miles from Tampa. With a resort-like atmosphere, stunning coastal scenery, and abundant outdoor activities, it blends relaxation with engagement. Home to around 28,000 residents, Venice maintains a reputation for safety, recording only 20 violent crime incidents in 2019, according to FBI crime reports. Venice prioritizes healthcare through access to top facilities like Sarasota Memorial Hospital and the SMH Care Center at Venice. Retirees can unwind on pristine beaches like Caspersen Beach, explore scenic parks like Maxine Barritt Park, or enjoy a round at Lake Venice Golf Club, making it an ideal place to stay active and enjoy retirement.
Cooper City
Cooper City stands out as a safe and peaceful choice for retirees who want to stay close to the energy of larger cities. Just over 25 miles from Miami, it offers a quiet suburban retreat with convenient access to urban amenities. Despite a population of 34,000, Cooper City maintains a tight-knit residential feel. Its low crime rate appeals to those seeking a secure and community-focused lifestyle. According to 2019 FBI reports, Cooper City recorded a total of 26 violent crimes and 23 motor vehicle thefts, a significant drop compared to nearby major metropolitan cities like Fort Lauderdale.
Retirees benefit from access to the town’s well-kept recreational spaces, such as Christie Schafale Park, which has a workout area, and Tree Tops Park, which is located just outside the city. This contrast can largely be attributed to Fort Lauderdale’s larger population. While regular activity should keep you fit, the nearby Memorial Hospital Pembroke is open 24 hours a day with an ER for medical requirements.
Marco Island
Retirement on Marco Island is enhanced by luxury senior communities like The Watermark at Marco Island, offering a refined and comfortable lifestyle. According to FBI reports in 2019, the town recorded only seven violent crimes, making it one of the lowest crime rates in Florida and a safe community to call home in your golden years. It is home to some of Florida’s clearest beaches, including Tigertail Beach and Residents' Beach, the latter being exclusively accessible to local residents. Despite its small population of just 15,500, Marco Island's convenient location, only 20 mi from Naples, grants easy access to shopping destinations like Coastland Center and modern medical facilities such as NCH North Naples Campus.
Dunedin
Dunedin is a popular retirement destination along the coastline, providing a scenic abode for all residents. Seniors make up 34.7% of the population, and the town's ranking as one of the safest places to retire can be attributed to its low violent crime rate, with just 39 recorded violent incidents. Home prices in Dunedin are around $420,000, not too much more than the state average of $390,000, making it an affordable choice for retirees seeking an active, independent lifestyle.
The town offers a range of retirement lifestyles, from supportive communities like Mease Life, where one can avail a range of daily activities, health assistance, and a strong senior environment. Enhancing its appeal, Dunedin provides a strong social environment with engaging clubs and activities. Notable options for outdoor socializing include the Dunedin Public Library's book club, the Hale Senior Activity Center, and various walking and golf groups designed for seniors.
Fernandina Beach
Fernandina Beach is a popular retirement town with a large senior population that makes up over 37% of the community. Factors like a slower pace of life and beautiful natural surroundings all contribute to its appeal as a prime retirement destination. Local facilities like the Janice Ancrum Senior Life Center offer seniors opportunities to connect and engage through Tai Chi lessons, music sessions, game nights, and more programs. Located on Amelia Island, the town offers endless opportunities for outdoor recreation, whether strolling along beach paths, exploring natural attractions like Fort Clinch State Park, or enjoying casual golf at one of the town's many clubs, such as The Amelia River Club.
Orange City
Orange City is one of the safest towns to retire for seniors seeking a warm, small-town atmosphere surrounded by lush greenery and a peaceful countryside vibe. Seniors can enjoy the natural beauty of Blue Spring State Park, which has 2,600 acres of wilderness for hiking, fishing, camping, and wildlife watching. Manatees are a prominent species of wildlife here, and spotting one is sure to be a highlight. Meanwhile, golf enthusiasts can unwind with a round at Victoria Hills Golf Club.
Adding to the town's appeal as a prime retirement spot is its reliable healthcare and property affordability. Average home prices are well below the state average of $390,000 at just $290,000, and the town’s main hospital is AdventHealth Fish Memorial.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, retirement in Florida is all about finding the perfect fit for your lifestyle. Whether you're seeking the luxury of Naples or the tranquility of Marco Island, the safest places to retire in Florida offer peaceful environments for retirees of all preferences. Cities like Stuart and Dunedin combine safety, access to healthcare, and a relaxed atmosphere, making them ideal for pensioners looking to enjoy a secure and fulfilling retirement.
