The results are out! These are the best cities in the US to retire in this coming 2026. Is yours on the list?

Retirement may be behind you, but the journey of shaping a meaningful, connected lifestyle is ongoing.

More Americans are rethinking what their golden years could look like, and spoiler alert: it’s not just about sunshine and shuffleboard anymore. From vibrant arts scenes to affordable healthcare and walkable neighborhoods, the best places to retire in 2026 offer more than just good weather—they promise a lifestyle upgrade.

And while some cities on the list might be expected favorites, the #1 pick could catch you off guard in the best way. So if you’re ready to trade stress for serenity (or at least swap traffic for tree-lined trails), this roundup might just inspire your next big move.

How are the rankings decided?​

Every year, US News & World Report undertakes a massive data-driven effort to identify the best places to retire across the United States. This year, that effort expanded dramatically—from 150 cities to a sweeping analysis of 859 communities nationwide. This broader scope shines a long-overdue spotlight on smaller, more affordable towns, especially those nestled in the South and Midwest, giving retirees a richer and more varied set of options to consider.

The rankings are built on a comprehensive review of what truly matters to older adults planning their next chapter. It’s not just about scenic views or sunny weather. The evaluation dives into practical essentials like housing costs, healthcare access, local tax policies, and opportunities for part-time work or community involvement. It also tracks migration trends and population shifts among those aged 55 and up, offering insight into where retirees are actually choosing to live.

What makes these rankings especially meaningful is their foundation: survey responses from adults 45 and older. This ensures the results reflect lived priorities, not assumptions. And this year, those priorities have shifted.

For the first time since the pandemic began, quality of life has overtaken affordability as the top concern. After years of uncertainty and isolation, retirees are placing greater value on connection, well-being, and a sense of belonging—clear signs that emotional comfort now rivals financial security in shaping retirement decisions.

Midland, Michigan: The surprise winner​

Leading the pack for 2026’s top retirement destinations is Midland, Michigan—a charming surprise for many.

Nestled roughly 80 miles north of Lansing, this city blends small-town serenity with big-hearted amenities, making it a standout for retirees and beyond.

Here’s what makes Midland shine:

• Lifestyle appeal: Ranked 8th nationwide for quality of life, Midland offers a close-knit, peaceful atmosphere that’s ideal for those seeking community and calm.
• Budget-friendly living: With a median home price around $206,000—far below the national average—retirees can stretch their savings without sacrificing comfort.
• Tax perks: Coming in 18th for retiree tax friendliness, Midland helps residents hold onto more of their income.
• Nature access: From scenic parks to winding rivers and walking trails, outdoor lovers will find plenty to explore.

And it’s not just retirees taking notice—Midland also earned the 32nd spot on the overall Best Places to Live list for 2025–2026, proving it’s a smart pick for anyone seeking balance, beauty, and affordability.

Hospital access plays a bigger role in 2026 rankings, reflecting retirees’ growing focus on practical care. Image Source: Unsplash/ Wedding Dreamz

The top 10 best places to retire in the US for 2026​

Wondering where your next chapter could begin? Based on extensive analysis of over 850 cities, here are the top 10 retirement destinations for 2026—ranked by what matters most to retirees.

1. Midland, Michigan
2. Weirton, West Virginia
3. Homosassa Springs, Florida
4. The Woodlands, Texas
5. Spring, Texas
6. Rio Rancho, New Mexico
7. Spring Hill, Florida
8. Altoona, Pennsylvania
9. Palm Coast, Florida
10. Lynchburg, Virginia

Also read: Planning to retire well? See where the US and other countries stand.

Florida’s reputation as a retirement hotspot remains firmly intact—and it’s not just about the sunshine. With its tax-friendly policies, extensive healthcare access, and laid-back lifestyle, the state continues to draw older adults looking for comfort and community. Migration data backs this up, consistently placing Florida at the top of the list for retiree relocation.

Across the southern US, the Sun Belt states are seeing a steady influx of retirees, thanks to their warm climates and cost-of-living advantages.

Florida leads the way with 53 cities featured in the top 250 retirement rankings, followed by Texas with 41. Michigan, a northern standout, ranks third with 21 cities, 10 of which landed in the top 100, thanks to its affordability and expanding senior-friendly infrastructure.

This year’s rankings also reflect a deeper concern for healthcare access.

With hospital closures on the rise across the country, cities with strong medical networks, especially those offering nearby general hospitals, scored higher. It’s a clear sign that retirees are prioritizing not just lifestyle and cost, but also peace of mind and proximity to essential care.

The complete list of the top 250 retirement destinations for 2026 is available online, offering a wide range of options for every lifestyle and budget.

What’s changed in 2026?​

A few standout patterns emerged in this year’s retirement rankings:

• Well-being over wallet: Older adults are placing greater emphasis on lifestyle perks—like walkability, community engagement, and access to nature—rather than just chasing the lowest cost of living.
• Healthcare matters more than ever: As hospital closures continue across the country, cities with reliable medical services and nearby general hospitals earned higher marks.
• Underrated towns step into the spotlight: Thanks to a broader analysis, smaller and more budget-friendly communities—especially in the South and Midwest—are finally getting noticed for their retiree-friendly appeal.

Your next steps​

Whether you're drawn to a quiet regional town or a vibrant coastal city, the research suggests the same approach: prioritize the factors that matter most to your daily life and long-term well-being.

Consider healthcare access as carefully as housing costs. Factor in community connections alongside climate preferences. And remember that the “perfect” retirement location might not be where you first imagined it would be.

Key Takeaways

• US News has released its 2026 Best Places to Retire rankings, analysing over 850 cities based on affordability, quality of life, taxes, job market, senior population trends, and access to health care.
• Midland, Michigan, was named the number one place to retire in the US, thanks to its strong showing in quality of life, affordability, and tax friendliness, as well as its below-average home values.
• The rankings now include hundreds of additional cities, particularly in the South and Midwest, allowing smaller and more affordable locations to feature more prominently.
• Florida remains a top destination for retirees, with 53 cities in the top 250 and three in the top 10, reflecting the ongoing trend of retirees favoring locations with favorable taxes, access to health care, and strong senior communities.

The beauty of retirement planning is that it's deeply personal—but having robust research to guide your decisions makes the journey much more confident.

What factors matter most to you when considering your retirement location? Are you leaning towards established favorites or exploring regional alternatives? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below—your insights might just help a fellow reader discover their perfect retirement destination.