Florida has been a popular retirement destination for ages, and it is showing no signs of slowing down. Retirees continue to flock to the state for sunny and mild winters, sandy shores, and plenty of attractions to lure the grandkids. When combined with the relatively low housing prices in certain corners of the state, and the absence of a state income tax, there are lots of reasons to retire to the Sunshine State
Whether you’re looking to join a retirement community or find a house or condo in a new city, there’s a Florida spot on this list that will speak to you. Read on for info about some of our favorite Florida retirement spots, but keep in mind that the population numbers listed are based on the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2023 data, so they should be treated as approximations and may be slightly different today.
Sarasota
Population: 57,602
Coast: Gulf
Location: Central Florida
You’ll find Sarasota south of Tampa and north of Fort Myers on the Gulf Coast. Art museums, aquariums, and botanical gardens are favorite features here, as is the town’s lively dining and social scene. Just across Sarasota Bay on the causeway is Lido Key, which has stunning white-sand beaches and popular sunset cruises.
Boynton Beach
Population: 81,267
Coast: Atlantic
Location: South Florida
Located in Palm Beach County, this coastal town is known for its public beaches and golf clubs. There are also lots of retirement living styles to choose from, including active communities and multi-generational programming alongside the area’s available condominiums and single-family homes.
St. Augustine
Population: 6,779
Coast: Atlantic
Location: North Florida
This town is known as the oldest in the country, but its attractions are far from old news. There’s lots to do here, including marveling at the town’s architecture, lounging on Atlantic beaches, exploring Anastasia State Park on Anastasia Island, and trying out all the seafood spots in town. Historic sites and wildlife sanctuaries round out the area offerings in St. Augustine.
Clermont
Population: 48,621
Coast: N/A
Location: Central Florida
Clermont might not have the name recognition of other hot retirement spots, but it’s no less worthy of your attention. This small town lies about 20 miles west of Orlando and is a suburban oasis in the center of the state. Locals love the small-town feel, restaurants, and historic downtown as well as the fact that it’s surrounded by lakes, preserves, and golf clubs. Also check out Winter Garden, Florida, another great retirement spot located next door.
Delray Beach
Population: 67,536
Coast: Atlantic
Location: South Florida
Delray Beach, a coastal town that has only grown in popularity in recent years, has lots to going for it. Locals love its proximity to the Atlantic as well as the in-town offerings, such as the Pineapple Grove Arts District, Cornell Art Museum, public art, plus gardens and parks for wildlife watching.
Dunedin
Population: 35,930
Coast: Gulf
Location: Central Florida
This small town on Florida’s Gulf Coast is located west of Tampa and north of Clearwater. It’s packed with personality and has a walkable downtown as well as a long trail system for strolls and bike rides. Caladesi Island State Park and Honeymoon Island State Park are located just across the sound.
Naples
Population: 19,704
Coast: Gulf
Location: South Florida
Just west of Big Cypress National Preserve and the verdant reach of the Everglades is Naples, a relaxed South Florida town that’s equally loved by locals and visitors. You’ll find plenty of golf courses, parks, docks, shops, restaurants, and beach- and bayfront stretches for retirees to enjoy. (Plus, Marco Island and Sanibel are nearby.)
Pensacola
Population: 53,724
Coast: Gulf
Location: Panhandle
If you love the Panhandle and don’t mind summer crowds, this could be the retirement destination for you. While the high season brings lots of visitors, Pensacola can be a fun and livable spot, and it’s also close to nature. It’s home to a huge stretch of federally protected coastline, and its downtown has great parks, restaurants, and a historic district.
Port St. Lucie
Population: 245,021
Coast: Atlantic
Location: South Florida
Locals tout the relative affordability of Port St. Lucie, a city with access to the Atlantic Ocean and lots of natural wonders, including the Port St. Lucie Botanical Gardens, Riverwalk Boardwalk, and North Fork St. Lucie Aquatic Preserve. Located between Miami and Orlando, it’s a hub that was named U.S. News & World Report’s third-best place to retire in the country in 2020.
Venice
Population: 28,150
Coast: Gulf
Location: Central Florida
Locals love Venice, a small town that puts you close to adventure. Caspersen Beach (a hotbed for sharks’ teeth), Venetian Water Way Park, Oscar Scherer State Park, and walking and biking trails along the Intracoastal Waterway mean there’s always fun to be had in the outdoors.
