These U.S. Cities Were Just Named the Best Places to Retire on a Budget

There is no one-size-fits-all strategy to prepare for retirement, but affordability matters. And some cities are more equipped for seniors on a fixed income than others.

In Illinois, the twin cities of Bloomington and Normal were lauded for their “great social scene, quality health care and more,” according to a study by AARP that looked at communities with a balance of affordability and livability. With an average of 131 perfect weather days per year and 90 percent of the combined city’s older residents saying it’s a “great place to live,” it’s no surprise the area made the cut.

The same could be said for places like Easton, Pennsylvania, Harahan, Louisiana, and Longwood, Florida, which all made the company’s list of great places for older adults.

“It’s no secret that the cost of housing has increased significantly in America… So when Americans think about where they might want to live in their later years, affordability is a prime consideration,” the company wrote in its report. “But that doesn’t mean they want to skimp on the characteristics that make for a wonderful hometown.”

To determine its list, AARP said it picked cities with a high livability score combined with an average monthly housing cost of under $1,500. The company then polled its state offices before heading out to each community to talk with locals and get a real feel for each.

Whether retiring adults are eyeing sunny Florida, quaint Midwest towns, or charming East Coast escapes, there are plenty of destinations across the United States that offer a mix of affordable living and top-notch quality of life.

The quaint city of Savannah, Georgia, for example, made the list. Known for its arts and music festivals, incredible food, gorgeous squares, and impressive museums, the city also boasts easy beach access with Tybee Island just a quick hop, skip, and a jump away.

On the East Coast, the city of Montpelier, Vermont, also made the list. As the only state capital without a McDonald’s or Starbucks, it boasts a historic downtown, small-town shopping, and miles of hiking, biking, and ski trails, according to the Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing.

Or head out West to Tucson, Arizona, which is known as a great destination for winter nature getaways and is a must for dark sky enthusiasts.

This is the full list of the best cities and towns for older adults to live in 2026, according to AARP.

• Bloomington-Normal, Illinois
• Easton, Pennsylvania
• Harahan, Louisiana
• Longwood, Florida
• Montpelier, Vermont
• Richfield, Minnesota
• Savannah, Georgia
• Sheridan, Wyoming
• Tucson, Arizona
• Winterset, Iowa