How Happiness Transformed Retirement Destination Selection
The U.S. News and World Report has released its 2025 rankings of the Best Places to Retire, and it is much different than last year’s list.
We featured last year’s rankings on the Fastest 4 and much to my disagreement, most of the Top 10 cities were in Pennsylvania. I’ve got nothing against Pennsylvania. In fact, I would love to visit a lot of places there, but I would never pick a cold-weather destination as my permanent retirement spot.
The New Ranking Criteria: Beyond Dollars and Cents
This year’s rankings look a whole lot different, and a whole lot warmer. The main reason is U.S. News and World Report changed its methodology in compiling the list.
This year the methodology emphasized happiness over affordability. This year’s rankings evaluated 150 top U.S. cities based on how well they meet American retiree’s expectations, measuring happiness, affordability, health care, desirability, taxes, and job market. The six factors were weighted, based on a public survey of individuals who are at or approaching retirement to find out what matters most when they’re considering where to retire. Happiness was number one. The list of cities shifted considerably to the South.
The Ultimate Top 10: Retirement Destinations Revealed
So, here’s the top 10. Number one is Naples, Florida. You’ll find pristine beaches, sprawling golf courses, fine dining, and shopping here, according to the report. The average high temperature in November is 81. I’m sure that doesn’t hurt.
Number 2 is Virginia Beach, Virginia. The report states this city is a resort town, but its friendly residents and relaxed atmosphere have swayed many to take up a permanent residence here. It’s the biggest city in Virginia.
Number 3 is New York City. As you might imagine, the Big Apple scored low on affordability, but moved up from number 6 in last year’s ranking for its other obvious attributes like world-class theaters, restaurants, museums, and parks.
Number 4 is Sarasota, Florida. The report notes its distinct vibe that’s different from other coastal cities in Florida. It has a vibrant arts scene, beachy atmosphere, and burgeoning food culture. Average high temp in November is 79 degrees.
Number 5 is Boise, Idaho. This city shot up all the way from number 80 in last year’s ranking. This pick is all about the outdoor life, with rivers, mountains, canyons, deserts, and lakes all within reach.
Rounding out the Top 10: Raleigh, North Carolina is number 6, Jacksonville, Florida is ranked 7th. Huntsville, Alabama comes in 8th. Charlotte, North Carolina is number 9, and Fort Wayne, Indiana makes it at number 10.
A Final Note: Putting Retirement Dreams into Perspective
The highest ranked Arkansas city is Fayetteville at number 93.
If you would like to check out the full list of Best Places to Retire, you can find that here. And remember, having a plan for financial independence, and working that plan, means you wouldn’t have to dream about living in a city on this list, but you could actually do it.
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