The best small town for retirees in every state (% of Population Who are Homeowners and Median Household Income Included)

Best small town for retirees in every state

Many Americans who have bid farewell to the workforce or who are thinking about it are turning to places that offer affordability, a strong economy, quality healthcare options, less traffic, and overall, more comfort.

A 2024 analysis of Census Bureau data by HireAHelper found that in 2023, more than 338,000 Americans relocated upon retirement, the highest number in three years. Though some are heading to urban centers like San Antonio and Miami, others are drawn to smaller towns and cities. California’s San Luis Obispo County, for example, is filled with picturesque places like Paso Robles; the region was one of the top retirement relocation destinations of 2023.

With home prices soaring across the country—and many retirees not having enough savings to get through their golden years—small towns can appeal to those who want a slower pace of life and lower cost of living.

In seeking to help prospective retirees, Stacker referenced Niche’s 2024 Best Places to Retire study, released in March 2024, to list 50 small towns that offer the best retirement. The focus was on towns with a population of less than 40,000.

Whether you’re looking to relocate or just curious to see if your city of residence is mentioned, read on to see which American small towns are the best retirement spots.

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Alabama: Indian Springs Village

– Population: 2,341
– Homeowners: 97% of the population
– Renters: 3% of the population
– Median household income: $135,114

Indian Springs Village maintains a rural environment that makes it particularly calm and peaceful for retirees. From Oak Mountain State Park to the local garden club, it’s clear that town officials’ efforts to protect Indian Springs Village, which is south of Birmingham, Alabama, from commercialization and keeping a “nature-focused atmosphere” is working.

Alaska: Soldotna

– Population: 4,394
– Homeowners: 57% of the population
– Renters: 43% of the population
– Median household income: $67,365

In Soldotna, Alaska, retirees will hardly feel out of place: 17.3% of residents are over the age of 65. Additionally, its position on the Kenai Peninsula means there’s a wealth of outdoor activities to keep residents busy.

Arizona: Green Valley

– Population: 20,937
– Homeowners: 86% of the population
– Renters: 14% of the population
– Median household income: $57,785

Green Valley’s downtown area, south of Tucson, is bustling with entertainment, shopping, and food options to keep any retiree comfortable. The Green Valley Village has a variety of options beyond the typical mall, including a farmers’ market, massage therapist, and day spa.

Arkansas: Bella Vista

– Population: 30,297
– Homeowners: 88% of the population
– Renters: 12% of the population
– Median household income: $83,989

Bella Vista’s name means “beautiful view” in Spanish, and there’s no doubt that’s true: the town in northwest Arkansas is surrounded by the Ozark Mountains, with creeks, waterfalls, forests, and lakes plentiful. Bella Vista also has a robust artistic culture, including the Wishing Spring Gallery, stocked with the works of dozens of local artists.

California: Carmel-by-the-Sea

– Population: 3,239
– Homeowners: 57% of the population
– Renters: 43% of the population
– Median household income: $126,406

Carmel-by-the-Sea, on California’s Monterey Peninsula, is famous for its artistic, bohemian culture, as well as its idyllic location along the Pacific coast. There are nearly 100 art galleries to enjoy, as well as historic and whimsical buildings dating back to the early 20th century.

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Colorado: Columbine Valley

– Population: 1,928
– Homeowners: 100% of the population
– Renters: 0% of the population
– Median household income: $250,001

Columbine Valley was voted the #1 place to retire in Colorado, perhaps because of its balance of rural and urban amenities. The town is close to Denver, while still enjoying a quiet, natural environment complete with views of nearby mountains.

Connecticut: Mystic

– Population: 4,417
– Homeowners: 70% of the population
– Renters: 30% of the population
– Median household income: $126,854

Mystic, located along Connecticut’s southern coastline between Boston and New York City, is practically overflowing with history, art, and entertainment to keep residents occupied. It has retained much of its original colonial charm, and much of its culture pays homage to its origins as a seaport, including museums, art festivals, and historic landmarks.

Delaware: Rehoboth Beach

– Population: 1,357
– Homeowners: 85% of the population
– Renters: 15% of the population
– Median household income: $147,273

Rehoboth Beach, a city that’s north of Ocean City, Delaware, offers a mile-long stretch of beach for residents to enjoy along the Atlantic coast. Through Reach Out Rehoboth, the city makes an effort to listen to citizens’ requests and continually improve, including finding solutions for traffic and upgrading stormwater drains.

Florida: Rio

– Population: 1,373
– Homeowners: 98% of the population
– Renters: 2% of the population
– Median household income: $93,720

Rio’s relatively small scale may attract retirees who want to make the popular jump to Florida, but also want to avoid the hustle and bustle of the larger cities. Most businesses in the town north of Palm Beach, Florida, are privately owned, and with a population of only 1,373, that means residents won’t have to struggle for space at one of the nearby beaches or sand dunes.

Georgia: Avondale Estates

– Population: 3,507
– Homeowners: 88% of the population
– Renters: 12% of the population
– Median household income: $136,250

Avondale Estates was ranked the #1 place to retire in Georgia, and it’s not hard to see why. Besides peaceful greenery and its close proximity to Atlanta, the quiet town has its own art district and community of artists.

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Hawai’i: Wailea

– Population: 6,517
– Homeowners: 64% of the population
– Renters: 36% of the population
– Median household income: $89,088

It’s not hard to see why Wailea, Hawai’i, is a hotspot for retirees: the area in South Maui is filled with pristine beaches, sunshine, and peaceful quiet. It won’t be hard to find a community when 31% of the population in Wailea is 65 or older.

Idaho: Sun Valley

– Population: 1,383
– Homeowners: 93% of the population
– Renters: 7% of the population
– Median household income: $67,386

Sun Valley, Idaho, puts a lot of focus into ensuring it’s an appealing and comfortable place for retirees to live. The Senior Connection nonprofit offers services, resources, and community-building for local retirees, including fitness classes, home care, and group lunches.

Illinois: Leland Grove

– Population: 1,478
– Homeowners: 94% of the population
– Renters: 6% of the population
– Median household income: $127,500

Leland Grove is home to a large population of retirees, and for good reason: cost of living is very affordable with a median property value of $308,628. Home to the Illini Golf and Country Club, the town’s proximity to downtown Springfield, Illinois, makes shopping and dining only minutes away by car.

Indiana: Meridian Hills

– Population: 1,745
– Homeowners: 100% of the population
– Renters: % of the population
– Median household income: $198,889

Meridian Hills offers the best of both worlds, as it’s only a short distance from Indianapolis, while still retaining a small, quiet feel. Residents also don’t need to worry about construction or expansion disturbing their peace since being surrounded by Indianapolis, there is no room for the town to grow in size.

Iowa: Humboldt

– Population: 4,774
– Homeowners: 67% of the population
– Renters: 33% of the population
– Median household income: $68,085

Humboldt takes pride in making sure community members feel welcome, no matter what age. The town, located in central Iowa, has a robust community center, aquatic center, and community garden, offering fitness classes, communal meetups, and special events.

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Kansas: Lake Quivira

– Population: 994
– Homeowners: 97% of the population
– Renters: 3% of the population
– Median household income: $166,875

The 224-acre lake that gives Lake Quivira its name is just one of many idyllic features the town has. The area, southwest of Kansas City, started as a popular vacation spot, and today still retains those amenities, including a golf course and beach.

Kentucky: Northfield

– Population: 1,106
– Homeowners: 72% of the population
– Renters: 28% of the population
– Median household income: $121,429

Residents of Northfield, Kentucky, can enjoy the town’s location along the Appalachian Mountains, providing both natural beauty and endless opportunities to get outside. According to a 2022 census report, 23% of the population is 65 and older.

Louisiana: Oak Hills Place

– Population: 8,813
– Homeowners: 70% of the population
– Renters: 30% of the population
– Median household income: $91,523

Oak Hills Place has plenty of green space for residents to enjoy while still remaining close to the urban hub of Baton Rouge. With 25% of the town’s residents being 65 and older, having parks to walk to in 10-minutes or less, is an added benefit.

Maine: Camden

– Population: 5,221
– Homeowners: 71% of the population
– Renters: 29% of the population
– Median household income: $90,739

Camden has a large retiree population (29% of the town’s residents are 65 and older), and the resources they need to live comfortably. Residents of this popular vacation spot can enjoy its perks year-round, including nearby mountains, the Atlantic coastline, and an abundance of shops, restaurants, galleries, and museums.

Maryland: Parole

– Population: 18,527
– Homeowners: 63% of the population
– Renters: 37% of the population
– Median household income: $117,646

Parole was ranked the #1 place to retire in Maryland. Quiet Waters Park, Broad Creek Park, and Carrs Beach all offer space to relax in nature, while the town center is currently being developed by the county to expand economic growth and public amenities.

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Massachusetts: West Chatham

– Population: 1,633
– Homeowners: 87% of the population
– Renters: 13% of the population
– Median household income: $130,213

West Chatham is a popular vacation spot, meaning that retirees have the opportunity to enjoy it year-round. Located along the Cape Cod peninsula, it is home to multiple beaches, sand dunes, ponds, and forests, creating a secluded, rural feel.

Michigan: Village of Grosse Pointe Shores

– Population: 2,610
– Homeowners: 97% of the population
– Renters: 3% of the population
– Median household income: $170,850

Grosse Pointe Shores, just north of Detroit, is perhaps best known for its prime location along scenic Lake St. Clair. It offers support to older citizens at The Helm, a center that provides fitness classes, games, and community events.

Minnesota: Mendota Heights

– Population: 11,642
– Homeowners: 82% of the population
– Renters: 18% of the population
– Median household income: $129,800

Mendota Heights enjoys close proximity to both Minneapolis and St. Paul, while still maintaining a small, peaceful atmosphere. For older citizens, the town’s Parks and Recreation department offers year-round activities and social events, making sure to keep life engaging.

Mississippi: Hide-A-Way Lake

– Population: 2,194
– Homeowners: 100% of the population
– Renters: % of the population
– Median household income: $78,529

Perhaps unsurprisingly, the biggest attraction for Hide-A-Way Lake, Mississippi, is its namesake, which provides opportunities for fishing, swimming, and community gatherings.

Missouri: Oakland

– Population: 1,633
– Homeowners: 73% of the population
– Renters: 27% of the population
– Median household income: $107,813

Oakland provides plenty of opportunities for residents to relax and play, including three parks within city limits and a bike trail close to an e-bike rental service. With a median rent of $1,435, the area near St. Louis is affordable, with a generally rural, “small-town” feel.

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Montana: Conrad

– Population: 2,640
– Homeowners: 66% of the population
– Renters: 34% of the population
– Median household income: $49,135

Conrad, southeast of Glacier National Park, is squarely in the middle of Montana’s “golden triangle,” where an abundance of high-quality wheat is grown and harvested; the region is increasingly gaining appreciation for its natural serenity, including the historical Missouri River, and strong sense of community.

Nebraska: Gothenburg

– Population: 3,463
– Homeowners: 76% of the population
– Renters: 24% of the population
– Median household income: $84,615

Central Nebraska’s Gothenburg places high importance in listening to citizen feedback and improving communal areas and services for all residents. The Gothenburg Improvement Company is invested in continually developing the city’s economic, residential, and community life, including a $29,500,000 expansion to the area hospital, and maintaining a “strong Midwest ethic.”

Nevada: Kingsbury

– Population: 1,920
– Homeowners: 76% of the population
– Renters: 24% of the population
– Median household income: $74,424

Located only 7,500 feet above Lake Tahoe in the heart of the Sierra Nevada mountains, Kingsbury is within reach of all of the area’s best tourism sites, without the high prices and crowds. Nearby is the world’s highest concentration of ski resorts, including Heavenly Ski Resort, as well as lakes, beaches, and casinos.

New Hampshire: Rye

– Population: 5,552
– Homeowners: 84% of the population
– Renters: 16% of the population
– Median household income: $137,969

Rye offers residents the best of both worlds. It is located along the Atlantic coastline, with beaches, marshes, and islands within reach, while still only an hour away from Boston’s urban amenities. The town revels in New England charm, with plenty of spots to eat fresh seafood or roam through colonial architecture.

New Jersey: Sea Girt

– Population: 2,031
– Homeowners: 89% of the population
– Renters: 11% of the population
– Median household income: $218,438

Sea Girt’s biggest draw has to be its titular beach, which is open year-round and includes a boardwalk and historic lighthouse. It also has a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops, some dating back to the 19th century.

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New Mexico: Sandia Heights

– Population: 3,205
– Homeowners: 96% of the population
– Renters: 4% of the population
– Median household income: $151,991

With a warm, dry climate that’s average high temperature is 88 F, Sandia Heights is the perfect locale to bask in the sun. The nearby Sandia Peak Tramway is the longest in the world, offering spectacular views of the Sandia Mountains, where residents can also enjoy biking, hiking, and other outdoor recreation.

New York: Lake Success

– Population: 2,825
– Homeowners: 94% of the population
– Renters: 6% of the population
– Median household income: $239,000

This Long Island spot enjoys a reasonable cost of living, especially considering it is only a stone’s throw from downtown New York City. 43 acres of Lake Success is covered by lakes, providing a peaceful, rural haven where residents can spot fish and fowl. No fishing or boating is allowed, further maintaining the quiet atmosphere.

North Carolina: Pinehurst

– Population: 17,653
– Homeowners: 88% of the population
– Renters: 13% of the population
– Median household income: $102,917

The village of Pinehurst, North Carolina, hosts a variety of artistic and community events, including Shakespeare in the Pines and biweekly farmers market.The town is a particularly good spot for golf enthusiasts. Scottish golf course designer Donald Ross designed multiple courses at the Pinehurst Resort, resulting in the town becoming known as the “Home of American Golf.”

North Dakota: Rugby

– Population: 2,654
– Homeowners: 76% of the population
– Renters: 24% of the population
– Median household income: $54,852

What Rugby, North Dakota, may lack in size, it makes up for in community spirit. The small town, which has claimed the title of geographical center of the United States, has an annual fair, beauty pageant, and a monument celebrating its unique status. With a median property value of $174,973 and 25.7% of the population older than 65, Rugby is both affordable and welcoming to retirees.

Ohio: The Village of Indian Hill

– Population: 6,051
– Homeowners: 97% of the population
– Renters: 3% of the population
– Median household income: $218,073

Indian Hill’s residents have created a “strong sense of history and community” within its 20 square miles, while still remaining close enough to take part in Cincinnati’s urban life. The village includes 75 miles of bridle trails for horseback riding, as well as the Grand Valley Preserve, where residents can enjoy local wildlife sightings.

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Oklahoma: The Village

– Population: 9,479
– Homeowners: 59% of the population
– Renters: 41% of the population
– Median household income: $67,524

Located in central Oklahoma, The Village provides a solidly rural experience for residents, including biking trails, views of Lake Hefner, and proximity to the Wichita Mountains. Cost of living is significantly lower than the national average, but the town still enjoys a growing roster of restaurants, shops, and an up-and-coming downtown.

Oregon: Harbor

– Population: 2,003
– Homeowners: 75% of the population
– Renters: 25% of the population
– Median household income: $46,528

Although Oregon might be known for its chilly, overcast atmosphere, Harbor is around 20 degrees warmer than nearby towns thanks to the meteorological phenomenon of the Chetco Effect. The town, which is in the very southeast corner of the state, is surrounded by wild landscapes and beauty for residents to enjoy, including Redwood groves, rhododendrons, and the Chetco River.

Pennsylvania: Thompsonville

– Population: 3,859
– Homeowners: 97% of the population
– Renters: 3% of the population
– Median household income: $117,813

The median age in Thompsonville is 51, with 28% of the population 65 years and older, meaning that retirees won’t struggle to find a community here. A suburb of Pittsburgh, the town is located in a forested area, and offers opportunities for hiking, fishing, canoeing, and many other activities to enjoy in the fresh air.

Rhode Island: Westerly

– Population: 23,337
– Homeowners: 73% of the population
– Renters: 27% of the population
– Median household income: $88,289

Westerly is located in southwest Rhode Island and lies along the Atlantic coast, with three beaches available for swimming, bird watching, and even surfing. Its historic downtown area is bustling with rustic bookstores, cafes, and boutiques.

South Carolina: Murrells Inlet

– Population: 10,297
– Homeowners: 85% of the population
– Renters: 15% of the population
– Median household income: $71,019

Due north of this town is one of the country’s most popular beaches, Myrtle Beach. Outdoor and water activities abound in Murrells Inlet, it has a thriving culinary scene, and is known as the “Seafood Capital of South Carolina.”

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South Dakota: Milbank

– Population: 3,506
– Homeowners: 74% of the population
– Renters: 26% of the population
– Median household income: $63,269

Milbank, located in eastern South Dakota, is perfect for those seeking a quiet, simple life post-retirement. With such a small population, the community is “tight-knit” and one where “everybody knows each other.” There are a variety of parks and green spaces where residents can take part in community clubs and activities, including pickleball, basketball, walking, jogging, baseball, and much more.

Tennessee: Lookout Mountain

– Population: 2,128
– Homeowners: 93% of the population
– Renters: 7% of the population
– Median household income: $181,458

Lookout Mountain’s namesake provides a wealth of natural beauty and activities for local residents, including Ruby Falls, the tallest underground waterfall in the country. There are also a variety of hiking routes and biking trails, just a few miles away from Chattanooga, Tennessee’s amenities.

Texas: West Lake Hills

– Population: 3,360
– Homeowners: 88% of the population
– Renters: 12% of the population
– Median household income: $210,000

West Lake Hills provides a luxury living experience just outside of Austin, Texas, with many of its properties set among forested hillsides overlooking—naturally—a scenic lake. Unique, area-specific regulations have kept the neighborhood from becoming too overdeveloped, even allowing the West Lake Hills residents to enjoy lower property taxes than their neighbors.

Utah: Ivins

– Population: 9,174
– Homeowners: 80% of the population
– Renters: 20% of the population
– Median household income: $67,354

It’s hard to beat the natural beauty of Ivins, Utah, which is surrounded by the picturesque Red Mountain wilderness, close to Zion National Park. The town maintains a strong sense of community pride, with two annual Heritage Days serving as a celebration of Ivins’ history and close-knit relationship between residents.

Vermont: Cornwall

– Population: 1,067
– Homeowners: 93% of the population
– Renters: 7% of the population
– Median household income: $114,554

Cornwall, Vermont, has an active and thriving town calendar full of events to keep residents busy, including weekly exercise classes and a Conservation Commission that encourages townsfolk to get involved with preserving the area’s natural beauty. The town is surrounded by the scenic Green Mountains, where residents can hike, bike, and take part in winter sports.

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Virginia: Rockwood

– Population: 8,076
– Homeowners: 90% of the population
– Renters: 10% of the population
– Median household income: $89,455

With warm summers, mild winters, and generally low snowfall, Rockwood, Virginia, is a temperate place to live, where activities can continue year-round without getting weathered out. The town is surrounded by the Appalachian Mountains, providing endless opportunities for hiking, fishing, camping, biking, and other outdoor activities.

Washington: Clyde Hill

– Population: 3,108
– Homeowners: 93% of the population
– Renters: 7% of the population
– Median household income: $250,001

Clyde Hill boasts an enviable position: Its location provides views of Lake Washington, Mount Rainier, the Olympic Mountains, the Cascade Mountains, and the Seattle skyline, all at once. The town is close to both Seattle and Bellevue, providing urban amenities without sacrificing some truly breathtaking rural sights.

West Virginia: Summersville

– Population: 3,415
– Homeowners: 59% of the population
– Renters: 41% of the population
– Median household income: $53,529

Summersville contains West Virginia’s largest lake, with 60 miles of shoreline available for swimming, paddleboarding, boating, fishing, and much more. The town is only 22 miles from the famed New River Gorge National Park, providing even more opportunity for residents to whet their outdoor appetite along one of the oldest rivers in North America.

Wisconsin: Elm Grove

– Population: 6,445
– Homeowners: 89% of the population
– Renters: 11% of the population
– Median household income: $126,996

Elm Grove, located just west of Milwaukee, has a variety of active community projects in an effort to continually ensure the town is comfortable, clean, and stimulating for residents, 21% of which are 65 and older. These projects include reopening Underwood Creek, and building new, modern apartments at Caroline Heights.

Wyoming: Thermopolis

– Population: 2,722
– Homeowners: 74% of the population
– Renters: 26% of the population
– Median household income: $66,591

Thermopolis, Wyoming, almost sounds like more of a vacation destination than a hometown, with a natural hot springs state park, Wind River Canyon, and historic, bustling downtown all at residents’ fingertips.

Additional writing by Cu Fleshman and Leesa Davis. Story editing by Cynthia Rebolledo. Copy editing by Lois Hince. Photo selection by Clarese Moller.

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