Retiring in Minnesota might sound idyllic—quiet towns, big skies, and lake views galore. But the numbers tell a more complicated story. The Overall Retirement Score (ORS) reveals that some towns in the state just aren’t cutting it when it comes to retiree-friendly living. Whether it’s a lack of transit, low walkability, or minimal cultural opportunities, these 21 places have room for improvement. The list below breaks down what’s missing, and why retirees may be looking elsewhere.
21. Holdingford – Lacking Amenities and Transit Options
Holdingford is tucked away in Stearns County, a small town best known for its trail system and deep-rooted German heritage. But for retirees looking for everyday conveniences or cultural experiences, this quiet village might fall short. Its peaceful setting may appeal to some, but the low accessibility and sparse amenities make it better suited to younger folks or those seeking extreme solitude rather than active retirement living.
The town lacks even basic public transit options, and healthcare access is limited without a longer drive. While it’s undeniably calm and car-friendly, it simply doesn’t offer enough for retirees hoping to age in place with nearby services or walkable destinations. Most of the local charm lies in small-town traditions—not in modern retirement infrastructure.
Holdingford – ORS 34.32
- Overall Retirement Score: 34.32
- Quietness: 79.9
- Walkability: 24.44
- Cultural amenities: 51.08
- Vibrancy: 12.05
- Car-Friendliness: 97.97
- Transit-Friendliness: 6.85
Holdingford’s strong suit is quietness, but beyond that, retirees face challenges. The town is heavily car-reliant and offers minimal transit, limiting independence for those who no longer drive. Cultural offerings are modest, and low walkability can be a barrier to staying active.
20. Rogers – Built for Families, Not Retirees
Rogers sits at the northwest edge of the Twin Cities metro area, where suburban growth has surged in recent years. It’s a city built for commuters and families—complete with wide roads and big-box stores—but not designed with retirees in mind. The spread-out layout and limited walkability mean errands and social outings typically require a car.
Despite a strong cultural score, day-to-day convenience for seniors is lacking. Healthcare facilities are available but not concentrated, and the town’s energy leans more toward playgrounds and school events than senior programming or relaxed community spaces. For aging residents, it can feel like an uphill climb to find a niche here.
Rogers – ORS 34.27
- Overall Retirement Score: 34.27
- Quietness: 63.83
- Walkability: 15.8
- Cultural amenities: 81.46
- Vibrancy: 42.06
- Car-Friendliness: 81.88
- Transit-Friendliness: 22.82
Rogers performs well in cultural access but scores low in walkability and transit, making it tough for retirees who prefer or require alternatives to driving. While vibrant and family-friendly, its infrastructure isn’t aligned with aging-friendly living. The lifestyle here favors younger households on the go.
19. St. Paul Park – Suburban But Stretched Thin
St. Paul Park is nestled along the Mississippi River just southeast of the Twin Cities. On paper, it offers a bit of everything—close proximity to major urban centers, local parks, and a scenic location. But dig deeper and the town reveals some retirement drawbacks, including limited healthcare services and a car-dependent layout.
The high vibrancy and moderate walkability might appeal to some, but it’s not quite enough to outweigh the challenges. For retirees wanting nearby shopping, dining, or transit options, St. Paul Park may not meet expectations. It offers liveliness, but not necessarily convenience for aging adults.
St. Paul Park – ORS 33.5
- Overall Retirement Score: 33.5
- Quietness: 37.88
- Walkability: 62.73
- Cultural amenities: 57.53
- Vibrancy: 57.54
- Car-Friendliness: 78.35
- Transit-Friendliness: 27.79
St. Paul Park offers decent vibrancy and walkability, but it suffers from a lack of quiet, which could be a dealbreaker for many retirees. The car-centric nature and scattered amenities mean extra planning and effort for daily needs. It’s lively—but not necessarily livable long-term for seniors.
18. Waverly – Peaceful, But Poorly Connected
Waverly sits in Wright County, roughly 40 miles west of Minneapolis. It’s a small and serene town, the kind where neighbors know each other and days go by quietly. But for retirees used to city access or in need of dependable transit and healthcare, the trade-offs may be too steep.
Its peacefulness comes at the cost of practicality. Waverly lacks robust public services, and getting to basic amenities often requires a drive. With almost no transit and limited walkability, it’s not well-suited to retirees hoping to stay active and engaged without constant car use.
Waverly – ORS 33.25
- Overall Retirement Score: 33.25
- Quietness: 66.27
- Walkability: 29.37
- Cultural amenities: 59.22
- Vibrancy: 25.6
- Car-Friendliness: 97.23
- Transit-Friendliness: 1.8
Waverly’s main benefit is its car-friendliness and modest cultural score. But with virtually no transit and low walkability, the town isolates those without a vehicle. It’s a quiet place, but not one that makes aging in place easy or enjoyable.
17. St. Paul – City Energy, Retirement Hassles
St. Paul is the capital city of Minnesota and one half of the famous Twin Cities. It buzzes with activity—art, food, culture, and transit. But when it comes to retiree-friendliness, that energy comes with challenges. Noise, congestion, and safety concerns can all impact older residents.
There’s a lot to enjoy here if you’re mobile and independent, but seniors with limited mobility may find the environment overwhelming. Quietness is notably lacking, and navigating dense neighborhoods isn’t ideal for those with mobility issues. The lifestyle here suits younger urbanites more than aging retirees looking for calm and comfort.
St. Paul – ORS 32.73
- Overall Retirement Score: 32.73
- Quietness: 21.02
- Walkability: 86.66
- Cultural amenities: 64.15
- Vibrancy: 80.09
- Car-Friendliness: 60.54
- Transit-Friendliness: 75.17
St. Paul shines in walkability and transit, but retirees may find the noise and pace of the city tough to manage. Despite strong cultural offerings, the low quietness score undercuts its appeal for older residents. It’s ideal for energetic city lovers—not for those seeking restful retirement years.
16. Rush City – Isolated With Limited Amenities
Rush City sits in Chisago County, about an hour north of the Twin Cities. It’s a quiet rural community with a slower pace of life, but that also means fewer services and amenities nearby. For retirees, the remoteness can make it difficult to access healthcare, entertainment, and everyday needs without a long drive.
The town may appeal to those who want a secluded lifestyle, but it doesn’t offer much in terms of senior-friendly infrastructure. Lack of cultural outlets and low vibrancy can also lead to feelings of isolation. Rush City is peaceful, but not particularly practical for aging residents.
Rush City – ORS 32.73
- Overall Retirement Score: 32.73
- Quietness: 80.66
- Walkability: 35.38
- Cultural amenities: 11.37
- Vibrancy: 24.4
- Car-Friendliness: 88.76
- Transit-Friendliness: 21.13
Rush City scores well on quietness and car-friendliness, but cultural and social options are thin. Transit access is limited, which can restrict independence. While it may suit self-sufficient seniors, many retirees will find it lacking in critical areas.
15. Becker – Quiet and Car-Dependent
Becker, located in Sherburne County, offers a low-key lifestyle surrounded by open space. While this can be appealing to some, the town lacks the walkability and transit support that many retirees rely on. It’s a place where owning and driving a car is a necessity, not an option.
There are cultural offerings, but they aren’t within easy reach for those who don’t drive. Becker is built for younger families or active adults with a vehicle, not for retirees hoping to downsize their daily responsibilities. It’s calm—but maybe too calm for those seeking engagement in later life.
Becker – ORS 30.62
- Overall Retirement Score: 30.62
- Quietness: 70.09
- Walkability: 16.92
- Cultural amenities: 69.03
- Vibrancy: 16.62
- Car-Friendliness: 97.59
- Transit-Friendliness: 12.47
Becker’s strong car-friendliness and cultural score are overshadowed by its low walkability and limited public transportation. This makes it difficult for retirees who no longer drive. The town may suit those seeking solitude, but not those craving convenience or connection.
14. Pierz – Peaceful, But Too Remote
Pierz is a small, tight-knit community in Morrison County. Known for its quiet atmosphere and traditional values, it’s a charming spot for a weekend visit. But for retirees planning to settle long-term, the town’s lack of infrastructure and services can pose real problems.
There are few healthcare options nearby, and cultural or recreational activities are limited. Without public transit or walkable paths, even simple outings can become a chore. Pierz may offer peace and quiet—but at the cost of accessibility and engagement for older adults.
Pierz – ORS 30.3
- Overall Retirement Score: 30.3
- Quietness: 84.31
- Walkability: 19.75
- Cultural amenities: 43.2
- Vibrancy: 14.41
- Car-Friendliness: 98.34
- Transit-Friendliness: 3.5
Pierz shines in quietness and car-friendliness, but its low walkability and transit scores show why it struggles as a retirement destination. The lifestyle here requires a high degree of self-sufficiency. Retirees needing support or variety may not find what they’re looking for.
13. Blaine – Busy, But Not Built for Seniors
Blaine, located in Anoka County just north of Minneapolis, is one of Minnesota’s fastest-growing suburbs. It offers shopping centers, event venues, and a youthful energy. But all that bustle can be overwhelming for older residents, especially those looking for peace or easier access to amenities.
While walkability and vibrancy are better here than in rural towns, it still lacks the quiet and senior-focused services retirees often prioritize. Navigating traffic and spread-out developments isn’t ideal for those wanting a more relaxed daily routine. Blaine is exciting, but not exactly retiree-ready.
Blaine – ORS 29.21
- Overall Retirement Score: 29.21
- Quietness: 50.92
- Walkability: 51.62
- Cultural amenities: 69.74
- Vibrancy: 56.73
- Car-Friendliness: 72.64
- Transit-Friendliness: 29.64
Blaine offers solid cultural and walkability scores, but its middling quietness and car-heavy design make it less attractive to older adults. It’s a town built for activity—not for restful, accessible retirement living. Seniors may find themselves struggling to keep pace.
12. Dilworth – Strong Culture, Weak Transit
Just outside Moorhead in Clay County, Dilworth is a small city with big cultural scores—but a few big gaps too. While it boasts access to art and community events, the town’s lack of public transportation and transit options is a major limitation for retirees.
It’s walkable enough for some, but navigating snowy winters and spread-out residential areas can make that difficult. Dilworth has potential, especially for mobile retirees, but those needing reliable services and infrastructure may need to look elsewhere. It’s lively but not always livable for older adults.
Dilworth – ORS 29.05
- Overall Retirement Score: 29.05
- Quietness: 75.33
- Walkability: 51.31
- Cultural amenities: 78.43
- Vibrancy: 52.97
- Car-Friendliness: 92.68
- Transit-Friendliness: 0
With no transit options and only moderate walkability, Dilworth is tough for retirees who rely on public transport. The strong cultural scene and quiet atmosphere are pluses, but not enough to make up for the access gap. It’s a great place—if you’ve still got a car.
11. St. Cloud – Energetic But Overwhelming
St. Cloud, located along the Mississippi River in central Minnesota, is a regional hub for shopping, education, and healthcare. It’s the largest town in the area, which brings energy and services—but also congestion, noise, and a fast pace that doesn’t suit all retirees. Seniors looking for a quieter, easier lifestyle may find the environment here too hectic.
The city has decent transit and walkability, but navigating busy streets and large medical facilities can be a challenge for older adults. With a relatively low quietness score, St. Cloud may feel more like a college town than a retirement haven. It’s a place of movement—not rest.
St. Cloud – ORS 28.49
- Overall Retirement Score: 28.49
- Quietness: 30.29
- Walkability: 63.51
- Cultural amenities: 40.83
- Vibrancy: 64.87
- Car-Friendliness: 73.09
- Transit-Friendliness: 48.48
St. Cloud’s strength lies in its access to amenities, but the low quietness score and high activity level may deter those seeking tranquility. It’s a functional city—but not an easy one for aging in place. Retirees might find the pace a bit too intense.
10. Fridley – Accessible But Noisy
Just north of Minneapolis, Fridley sits along major highways and transit routes, making it one of the more accessible towns on this list. However, that accessibility comes at the cost of quiet. With bustling roads and a high level of activity, this suburb can be stressful for retirees seeking calm.
The town has strong transit, walkability, and vibrancy—but the noise and congestion may outweigh the benefits. While younger, mobile adults might enjoy the connections, seniors often prefer slower streets and less stimulation. Fridley is a good pass-through—not necessarily a stay-for-good option.
Fridley – ORS 27.89
- Overall Retirement Score: 27.89
- Quietness: 34.38
- Walkability: 54.26
- Cultural amenities: 48.42
- Vibrancy: 71.15
- Car-Friendliness: 72.33
- Transit-Friendliness: 73.39
Fridley’s public transport and cultural vibrancy make it appealing in theory, but the poor quietness score is hard to ignore. Retirees who value peace may find the environment jarring. It’s accessible—but not necessarily comfortable for the long term.
9. Minneapolis – Bustling, With Retiree Trade-Offs
Minneapolis, one of Minnesota’s major cities, is packed with parks, museums, restaurants, and top-tier healthcare. But for retirees, living here means navigating a dense urban core, frequent noise, and traffic. While the city is walkable and transit-rich, that only goes so far when peace and simplicity are top priorities.
There’s no shortage of things to do—but many seniors may prefer to visit rather than live in the thick of it. Between busy streets and fast-changing neighborhoods, Minneapolis may feel exciting but exhausting. It’s best suited to retirees who still want an urban lifestyle with all its ups and downs.
Minneapolis – ORS 26.89
- Overall Retirement Score: 26.89
- Quietness: 25.78
- Walkability: 89.92
- Cultural amenities: 72.33
- Vibrancy: 81.48
- Car-Friendliness: 54.96
- Transit-Friendliness: 76.58
Minneapolis excels in walkability, culture, and transit, but its very low quietness and car-friendliness scores signal challenges. Retirees may find the city energizing at first—but difficult to grow old in. It’s great for activity, not always for aging gracefully.
8. Foreston – Very Quiet, Very Limited
Foreston is a tiny community in Mille Lacs County, where life moves at a slow, almost glacial pace. It’s incredibly quiet and car-friendly—but there’s little else going on. For retirees who crave stimulation, healthcare access, or community engagement, Foreston may feel isolating.
Without transit or even modest walkability, seniors need to rely entirely on driving or others for basic needs. The town’s low vibrancy score reflects a lack of services and events. It’s quiet, yes—but maybe too quiet for most retirees looking for more than just a peaceful place to sit.
Foreston – ORS 24.86
- Overall Retirement Score: 24.86
- Quietness: 85.01
- Walkability: 27.76
- Cultural amenities: 58.87
- Vibrancy: 9.75
- Car-Friendliness: 98.94
- Transit-Friendliness: 0
Foreston offers quiet and cultural points—but scores very low in vibrancy and transit. For retirees needing access and engagement, the limitations can be stifling. It’s a fit for independent seniors who prioritize solitude above all else.
7. Brooklyn Park – Crowded and Fast-Paced
Brooklyn Park, a northern suburb of Minneapolis, is one of the state’s most populous cities. It’s diverse, energetic, and full of shopping and dining options. But with that comes congestion, limited quiet, and a fast-paced environment that might not appeal to retirees looking to slow down.
While services and amenities are abundant, the overall atmosphere is more suited to busy families and professionals. Seniors may struggle to find peaceful spots or retirement-centered resources. It’s a place for people in motion—not winding down.
Brooklyn Park – ORS 23.55
- Overall Retirement Score: 23.55
- Quietness: 29.26
- Walkability: 63.09
- Cultural amenities: 57.97
- Vibrancy: 62.49
- Car-Friendliness: 70.79
- Transit-Friendliness: 47.21
Brooklyn Park offers solid transit and walkability, but it’s busy and lacks peace. The vibrant, diverse environment is great for families—but not as ideal for aging in place. Retirees may find the constant motion and energy too much to manage comfortably.
6. Lonsdale – Limited Services, Long Drives
Lonsdale is a quiet and growing town in Rice County, surrounded by farmland and open sky. While it offers a peaceful atmosphere, its sparse services and remote location pose problems for retirees. Most amenities—including healthcare—require a drive to a nearby city, which can be a barrier for seniors without reliable transportation.
The lack of public transit and limited walkability make daily errands and social activities more difficult. Although the town has a tight-knit community feel, it doesn’t offer the infrastructure many retirees depend on for aging comfortably. Lonsdale is tranquil, but not well-connected.
Lonsdale – ORS 22.83
- Overall Retirement Score: 22.83
- Quietness: 43.45
- Walkability: 48.93
- Cultural amenities: 58.3
- Vibrancy: 40.11
- Car-Friendliness: 88.64
- Transit-Friendliness: 0
Despite moderate scores in walkability and vibrancy, Lonsdale’s total lack of transit and its reliance on cars make it a tough choice for retirees. Accessing key services is inconvenient without a vehicle. It’s quiet—but disconnected.
5. St. Francis – Lacking Transit and Engagement
St. Francis, located in Anoka County, offers a quiet, small-town feel with a rural backdrop. It’s the sort of place where families settle in for a peaceful lifestyle—but for retirees, that same stillness can start to feel like isolation. There’s a noticeable lack of infrastructure aimed at older adults, with minimal senior services, limited healthcare access, and virtually no community programming designed for retirees.
Public transportation is sparse, which makes staying active and independent difficult without a car. The town layout isn’t walkable either, meaning even short trips to the store or library can become a challenge. While the calm environment might suit some, St. Francis ultimately lacks the resources and conveniences needed for a smooth retirement experience.
St. Francis – ORS 21.77
- Overall Retirement Score: 21.77
- Quietness: 64.7
- Walkability: 28.73
- Cultural amenities: 49.49
- Vibrancy: 31.98
- Car-Friendliness: 92.45
- Transit-Friendliness: 15.34
St. Francis scores well on car-friendliness but falls short in areas that matter most for retirees—namely transit and walkability. Cultural opportunities exist but are not robust, and limited transportation cuts off access to the few available options. The town feels more suited to independent drivers than older adults planning to age in place.
4. Lexington – Active But Overstimulating
Lexington is a compact, high-density suburb in Anoka County that punches above its weight in activity and energy. For retirees who prefer a slower pace, this high-vibrancy environment can feel more chaotic than welcoming. The mix of busy roads, residential density, and limited senior-focused services makes it hard to unwind or feel supported here in later life.
Healthcare options and community gathering spots are limited, and while the town is walkable in some areas, it’s not designed with accessibility in mind. Add in the frequent noise and constant movement, and Lexington begins to feel like it’s geared more toward young families or commuters than retirees. It’s a community on the go—not one to settle down in comfortably after retirement.
Lexington – ORS 19.45
- Overall Retirement Score: 19.45
- Quietness: 35.44
- Walkability: 56.35
- Cultural amenities: 34.84
- Vibrancy: 76.89
- Car-Friendliness: 74.34
- Transit-Friendliness: 54.61
Despite moderate walkability and transit, Lexington’s low quietness and modest cultural scores make it a mismatch for most retirees. It may serve commuters well, but older adults looking for ease and calm will struggle. There’s simply not enough infrastructure or respite here for aging gracefully.
3. Red Lake – Redby – Severely Underserved and Isolated
Red Lake – Redby is a remote community in northern Minnesota located within the Red Lake Nation. While it holds deep cultural significance and history, the area suffers from a lack of basic infrastructure, including healthcare, senior services, and retail options. For retirees, this means a serious lack of access to the essentials needed for comfortable day-to-day life.
The town is extremely car-dependent, but many roads are rural and isolated, and public transit is nearly nonexistent. There are few, if any, amenities specifically designed for seniors, and walkability is among the lowest in the state. For those hoping to stay connected, active, or supported, Red Lake – Redby is one of the least viable options in Minnesota.
Red Lake – Redby – ORS 18.85
- Overall Retirement Score: 18.85
- Quietness: 72.52
- Walkability: 4.42
- Cultural amenities: 4.77
- Vibrancy: 7.77
- Car-Friendliness: 87.22
- Transit-Friendliness: 33.41
While quiet and car-friendly, Red Lake – Redby scores disastrously in almost every other category relevant to retirees. It lacks cultural amenities, vibrancy, and accessibility, making it a poor fit for anyone looking to retire with independence or stimulation. Simply put, it’s not built for aging in place.
2. St. Bonifacius – Scenic But Stranded
St. Bonifacius sits west of the Twin Cities in Hennepin County, and while its setting is scenic, its infrastructure is lacking. Despite a strong cultural score, the town offers almost no reliable public transportation, which is a major drawback for retirees who don’t drive. The built environment doesn’t support aging adults who require easy access to essentials or community resources.
Healthcare facilities are not nearby, and even basic errands can require coordination or long drives. Though the walkability score suggests a pedestrian-friendly environment, the lack of transit and local support services undermines that. It’s charming from the outside—but hard to live in comfortably without full independence and mobility.
St. Bonifacius – ORS 18.29
- Overall Retirement Score: 18.29
- Quietness: 50.97
- Walkability: 60.35
- Cultural amenities: 81.46
- Vibrancy: 55.96
- Car-Friendliness: 79.81
- Transit-Friendliness: 4.5
St. Bonifacius might seem like a good option on paper due to its cultural amenities, but in practice, it lacks essential retirement support. Transit is barely functional, and access to healthcare and daily needs is patchy. Retirees without a car or strong mobility will face daily obstacles here.
1. Brooklyn Center – Minnesota’s Least Retiree-Friendly Town
Brooklyn Center ranks at the very bottom of Minnesota’s ORS list for good reason. Located just northwest of Minneapolis, it suffers from loud traffic, minimal green space, and a pace of life that doesn’t align with the needs of older adults. Though well-connected in terms of transit and moderately walkable, the area lacks the calm and support that retirees typically prioritize.
The community isn’t designed for aging in place. Services for seniors are underdeveloped, and cultural amenities are modest compared to neighboring suburbs. The fast pace, noise, and lack of tailored infrastructure all contribute to a living environment that makes retirement here more difficult than it needs to be.
Brooklyn Center – ORS 15.15
- Overall Retirement Score: 15.15
- Quietness: 20.74
- Walkability: 67.12
- Cultural amenities: 44.82
- Vibrancy: 67.7
- Car-Friendliness: 71.54
- Transit-Friendliness: 50.1
Brooklyn Center has decent transit and vibrancy, but its very low quietness score and lack of targeted services make it a tough place to grow old. Retirees may find themselves overwhelmed and unsupported here. It’s a town that works for commuters—not for aging adults trying to slow down and settle in.
