Cheapest Places to Retire in the US (2025 Update)

Diverse Group Of Senior People In Nursing Home

Why Location Matters in Retirement

Retiring on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing your quality of life. The best retirement locations balance affordability with healthcare access, low crime, and lifestyle amenities that make daily life enjoyable.

Many retirees search for:

• Tax-friendly states for retirees

• Healthcare rankings by state

• Independent and assisted living options

At City Shift Finance, we help you compare these factors so your retirement location fits both your financial and personal goals.

Top Affordable Retirement Cities in 2025

Pittsburgh, PA

• Housing & Groceries: Below the national average

• Healthcare: Highly ranked hospitals and specialist access

• Crime: Moderate — choose safer neighborhoods

• Lifestyle: Thriving arts scene, senior centers, good public transit, four-season climate

• Best for: Retirees seeking culture without high costs

Tulsa, OK (Popular Search: “Retiring in Tulsa”)

• Housing & Groceries: Among the most affordable in the US

• Crime: Higher in some districts — research neighborhoods

• Lifestyle: Warm weather, parks, senior programs, community events

• Best for: Budget-conscious retirees wanting mild winters

Augusta, GA

• Housing & Groceries: Low cost of living

• Crime: Safer in suburban areas

• Lifestyle: Historic charm, mild climate, golf courses, riverwalks

• Retirement Tip: Explore local retirement community listings before committing

Knoxville, TN (Search Phrase: “Cost of Living Comparison by City”)

• Taxes: No state income tax on Social Security or pensions

• Housing & Groceries: Affordable and safe

• Lifestyle: Arts, access to the Smoky Mountains, public transportation options

• Best for: Retirees seeking outdoor access and tax savings

Des Moines, IA (Keyword: “Best States to Retire”)

• Housing & Groceries: Very affordable

• Crime: Low overall

• Lifestyle: Excellent healthcare, farmer’s markets, festivals, cold winters

• Best for: Retirees who value community events and medical access

What Retirees Really Value

While cost matters, many retirees rank lifestyle and security just as highly:

• Quality healthcare and specialist access

• Senior-friendly housing — condos, assisted living, CCRCs

• Public transit or senior ride programs

• Recreation & community centers

• Climate — mild winters vs four-season living

• Proximity to family for support and caregiving

• Tax policies on Social Security, pensions, and property

Smart Retirement Relocation Tips

1. Use cost-of-living comparison tools — like the one at City Shift Finance — to see how a city fits your retirement budget.

2. Visit in person and tour neighborhoods before committing.

3. Check safety, transit access, and senior services in each area.

4. Calculate all costs — housing, healthcare, groceries, taxes, utilities, and recreation.

5. Research living arrangements using searches like “retirement community near me” or “CCRC options.”

Final Thoughts: Retirement Without Financial Guesswork

Choosing where to retire isn’t just a financial decision — it’s a lifestyle choice. The right city can mean more comfort, lower stress, and better health outcomes.

City Shift Finance helps you compare housing, healthcare, crime rates, taxes, transit, amenities, and climate so you can confidently choose a city that matches your vision for retirement.

Ready to find your perfect retirement city?

Use our free informational reviews to compare costs and lifestyle factors side-by-side — and start planning a retirement you’ll love.