9 Best Places To Retire In The Ozarks
From lush forests to glistening lakes, captivating bridges, and striking volcanoes, the Ozarks are full of natural wonders. Discover the geographical diversity of this region spanning across Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Kansas as you choose from the 9 best places to retire in the Ozarks. Whether you prefer the eye-catching landscapes of Mountain Home or the scenic trails of Bella Vista, these towns are wonderful destinations to spend your golden years.
Mountain Home, Arkansas
If you are a fan of nature activities and recreational opportunities, Mountain Home has plenty to offer. From the centrally located Cooper Park with its lovely trail, nature pond, tennis courts, and Senior Center, to the scenic grounds of Twin Lakes Golf Course, you will have plenty to do. Norfolk Lake is easily accessible, and is an extraordinary spot for fishing and water sports. Sun Valley Cinema is a splendid place to watch films, and Renewal Massage and Wellness will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Baxter Health offers comprehensive medical services in town, ranging from Emergency to Senior Health Care, Orthopedics, Pain Management, Heart Care, and more.
Eureka Springs, Arkansas
Situated near the incredible Ozark National Forest, Eureka Springs is undoubtedly one of the best places to retire in the Ozarks. Whether you would like to venture through the forest, with its pretty pine trees and vibrant mountain streams, or see the fascinating formations of Onyx Cave, you will quickly fall in love with the city’s natural beauty. The walkable downtown area, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is also filled with elegant Victorian-era houses. Stop by the charming cafes and explore the independent boutiques. Eureka Springs Community Center organizes engaging events for residents, ranging from Pickleball to Yoga, Zumba, Basketball, Meditation, and more. If you are concerned about health, Eureka Springs Hospital is right in town with its 24/7 Emergency services.
Kimberling City, Missouri
Considering its proximity to Table Rock Lake, where over 800 miles of stunning shoreline, world-class fishing, biking, hiking, boating, museums, and live shows await, this lovely Missouri city offers the perfect mix of a laidback lifestyle and fun-filled activities. Plus, with renowned sites like the Kimberling City Bridge and the Port Of Kimberling Marina, where several types of boat rentals are available to help you explore the waters, the city itself is quite beautiful. Fordland Clinic offers family practice, dental, and mental health services right in town, with fulfilling volunteer opportunities available for residents. About 65% of the population here is 65 and older, according to Census Reporter in 2023, which means you can make close connections with like-minded residents.
Heber Springs, Arkansas
Surround yourself with beauty left, right, and center in the quaint mountain town of Heber Springs; one of the best places to retire in the Ozarks. Between the exquisite scenery of Collins Creek Falls and the incredible vistas from Sugarloaf Mountain, nature fanatics will fall in love with Heber Springs. Creatives can find vibrant paintings and one-of-a-kind displays in Ellen Hobgood Gallery, where work from 48 local and regional artists is available. Baptist Health Medical Center-Heber Springs has an emergency center open 24 hours, on top of comprehensive medical services such as Orthopedics, Sleep Disorders, Cardiology, and Neurosurgery.
Galena, Kansas
While not many major Kansas cities are in the Ozarks, Galena is. This historic town set on Route 66, one of the most famous roads in the world, is a cultural hotspot. Find unique memorabilia related to this legendary road in Cars on the Route, a major city landmark. See what mouthwatering specialties are available in Mi Torito Mexican Restaurant, and find intriguing wildlife including several types of Salamanders and Mussels in Schermerhorn Park. With Galena’s close proximity to Kansas City, you can easily enjoy big-city day or weekend getaways while living a laid-back lifestyle. Galena Nursing Center offers several living options and services for seniors, ranging from the Adult Day Club to Home Health Care and Rehabilitation.
Branson, Missouri
Located near Lake Taneycomo, one of the best trout fishing spots in the USA, Branson is undoubtedly one of the best places to retire in the Ozarks. Plus, between the waterfalls, wildlife, and handcrafted bridges of Dogwood Canyon Nature Park, a 10,000-acre outdoor local paradise, and the captivating creatures of The Butterfly Palace & Rainforest Adventure, Branson is teeming with beauty. Combined with the award-winning medical care at Cox Medical Center Branson, and the wide range of events ranging from art classes to exercise, holiday parties, and bingo at Branson Hollister Senior Center, this is a great city to spend your golden years.
Versailles, Missouri
Named after the extraordinary French city, this historic Missouri gem became an incorporated village in 1866. Study its past through memorabilia in the 1854-established Morgan County Museum & Historical Society, listed on the National Register of Historical Sites. The Royal Theatre hosts all kinds of performances, from interactives to musicals and art shows. You will want to make Pioneer Restaurant, an old-fashioned diner serving tasty comfort food in a cozy setting. Good Shepherd Care Center is a community-owned and operated organization offering Skilled Nursing, Residential Care, and Sub-acute Care for those who need it.
Tahlequah, Oklahoma
Known as the capital of the Cherokee Nation, Tahlequah is full of history and has a strong cultural heritage. Unravel the past in the Cherokee National History Museum, where one-of-a-kind exhibits, crafty workshops, and cultural activities await. Floyd H Norris Park is a lovely place to get your steps in, in the heart of downtown, and Cherokee Springs Golf Club has an evergreen 18-hole par 72 championship course that will challenge and excite you. With a median sold home price of $187,000 USD as per realtor.com in February 2025, Tahlequah is also an affordable city to call home. Regarding medical care, you will feel comfortable knowing Northeastern Health System and Cherokee Nation W. W. Hastings Hospital both have facilities in the city.
Bella Vista, Arkansas
Among the best places to retire in the Ozarks is Bella Vista, a picturesque city with events for all ages. See the breathtaking waterfall as you meander along the Tanyard Creek Nature Trail, or enjoy a peaceful picnic in a stunning setting at Blowing Springs Park. Campsites and tiny cabins are also available here for those who would like to fully immerse themselves in nature. Work on your aim in the Bella Vista Country Club Golf Course and Clubhouse, where seven lakes, seven golf courses, a beach, a swimming pool, parks, and more can be found. Bella Vista has a high retirement community, with 31.9% of residents being 65 and older (according to the US Census Bureau in 2024).
Takeaways
Retirement should be a time to slow down, pursue your passions, and truly invest in yourself. Why not spend your golden years somewhere beautiful? Whether you prefer the lush forests of Eureka Springs, the cultural hotspots of Galena, or the cultural wonders of Tahlequah, there are many incredible destinations to choose from that are teeming with activities. Take your pick from the 9 best places to retire in the Ozarks!
