Florida's sunny beaches and pleasant winters have long drawn retirees who spent their working years in colder climes.

“Florida is a retirement paradise because of the leisurely laid-back lifestyle, the sunshine and the financial benefits,” says Desiree Avila, a real estate agent in south Florida with a senior real estate specialist designation. “In addition, as Florida’s retirement population has boomed, it has created an infrastructure to support the retirement community. There are many different 55 and over communities existent and being built that offer year-round resort living.”

There are also medical facilities tailored to senior care, Avila adds, including assisted living facilities, retirement communities and memory care facilities.

Low housing prices in many Florida cities make the Sunshine State an affordable place to relocate. There's also no state income tax in Florida, which can benefit retirees with taxable income. The reasonable cost of living and proximity to the beach make Florida a desirable place to retire, according to a U.S. News analysis of the 150 largest metropolitan areas in the U.S. The study includes data about housing affordability, happiness, desirability, retiree taxes, the job market and access to quality health care. Consider these Florida cities for retirement.

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Population: 6,105,897
Share of population age 65 : 18.2%
Median monthly mortgage cost: $1,292
Median monthly rent: $1,492

Miami is one of the most densely populated cities in Florida filled with diverse communities. The city ranked No. 82 in U.S. News & World Report’s Best Places to Retire in the U.S. for 2024 and ranked modestly in housing affordability and health care. Seniors retiring in Miami will need to budget for the city’s higher cost of living. However, The Magic City offers retirees plenty of activities.

“It's more expensive, but the rich cultural experience, nightlife, dining, shopping, and health care facilities are top-tier,” says Larry Mastropieri, real estate broker and owner of The Mastropieri Group and Discover South Florida in Boca Raton.

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Population: 382,747
Share of population age 65 : 14.6%
Median monthly mortgage cost: $986
Median monthly rent: $1,042

Tallahassee isn’t your typical Florida city. Located along the border of Georgia, Tallahassee has four distinct seasons, and its short winters are typically colder than the state’s coastal regions. Housing is more affordable here than in other Florida cities, and the property tax rate is below the national average. Retirees can take classes at the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Florida State, or enjoy one of Tallahassee’s many museums, historic sites, parks and trail systems.

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Population: 752,251
Share of population age 65 : 28.4%
Median monthly mortgage cost: $963
Median monthly rent: $1,307

Fort Myers scored well on the desirability and happiness metrics. Many retirees are able to comfortably afford a home, which frees up retirement income for other........

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