17 Safest U.S. Cities to Retire In

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By Darryl Henderson

Being able to relax and enjoy your retirement is what it’s all about, and you can only get this when you have peace of mind. Whether you’re looking to relocate or wondering whether your current location is the right place to settle, here are the 17 safest cities in the U.S. that are great to retire to.

Virginia Beach, VA

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Virginia Beach is the ideal choice if you want a blend of coastal tranquillity and vibrant city living. You can depend on a stable economy thanks to tourism and commerce, and you’ll be able to fill your free time with the Marine Science Center or daily walks in its extensive park system.

Santa Clarita, CA

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Santa Clarita is the perfect suburban choice and a healthy one, thanks to its low pollution levels. It’s also described as being the “gateway to L.A.”, according to Visit Santa Clarita, which means you’ll have easy access to the big city while being able to retain that small-town charm at home.

Boise, ID

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Boise is known for its high quality of life, and its friendly locals mean a welcoming community for your retirement needs. It’s often ranked as one of the top places to live in the U.S., and you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to shops and outdoor attractions, including Boise River.

Port St. Lucie, FL

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Port St. Lucie is a safe and popular choice for retirees thanks to its nature preserves, riverfront location, and variety of golf courses. It’s a fantastic choice for healthcare due to the positive growth the city has undergone in recent years.

Fargo, ND

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Fargo is known for its rich culture, which includes its own symphony, ballet, and theaters for retirees looking for entertainment. It also has a friendly community, which means many opportunities for retirees to take part in local events and volunteer jobs.

Salem, OR

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Oregon’s capital is a prime retirement spot for wine lovers, thanks to its surrounding vineyards. If you’re a fan of history, it showcases historical sites like the Deepwood Museum & Gardens. The cost of living is lower in this city compared to others on the West Coast, making for affordable retirement.

Thousand Oaks, CA

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Thousand Oaks is known for its commitment to the safety of its residents, as well as environmentally clean living. It “blends the classic beauty of Southern California with contemporary sophistication”, reveals Visit California, making it a fantastic combination of city life and nature.

Scottsdale, AZ

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Scottsdale’s community places a big focus on health, which means retired seniors can be supported by a wealth of wellness programs. It’s also known for its spa resorts, so it’s ideal if you’re looking for a little luxury in retirement!

Nashua, NH

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A social and active lifestyle is what retiring in Nashua would see you have, thanks to its fitness communities and swimming pools. It also offers small-town relaxation paired with big-city escape, thanks to its proximity to Boston. Outdoor enthusiasts will also love its beautiful lakes.

Cary, NC

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Cary, in North Carolina, is known for its safe and peaceful environment. It’s also part of the Research Triangle, which means access to some of the best healthcare services in retirement. You’ll also be able to enjoy its cultural arts programs.

Provo, UT

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Residents of Provo in Utah rank at number 1 in the U.S. for overall well-being, according to USA Today. In retirement, you can expect a thriving economy and dependable health services, as well as the natural beauty of the surrounding Wasatch Front.

Ann Arbor, MI

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Ann Arbor has a reputation for being a very progressive city, so you won’t be short of vibrant social scenes and community options. Its park system also means there are many outdoor pastimes on offer, and you can often find free entry for seniors to its music performances and art exhibits.

Madison, WI

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If you’re looking for an active lifestyle in retirement, Madison provides plenty of biking trails and lakeside pursuits. Its strong sense of community means that you won’t struggle to find the perfect social group for retirees. You can depend on this city’s known dedication to health services, too.

Round Rock, TX

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Round Rock is known for its very safe neighborhoods and excellent schools, making it the perfect place for families and retirees alike. Its strong economic base means you can depend on its healthcare options and plenty of outdoor spaces.

Sioux Falls, SD

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Sioux Falls offers a low cost of living and a high quality of life—perfect for a happy retirement. It also has several hospitals specializing in senior healthcare. Its regional airport offers daily flights to bigger cities, reports Travel South Dakota, so traveling during retirement will be easy.

Henderson, NV

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Henderson has a pleasant climate all year round, so weather won’t be a concern during your retirement! The city is known for its focus on community health and being more residential. So, if you want to retire to a city but avoid the bigger bustle, Henderson is ideal.

Warwick, RI

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Last but not least, Warwick offers a scenic maritime location for your retirement, where you can enjoy a spot of fishing or boating. It’s known for its modern amenities coupled with New England charm. It also offers easy access to Rhode Island eateries and beaches.