At Florida for Boomers, I've written about many of the best places to retire in Florida and I cover 100+ of them in The Florida Retirement Handbook.
But every year I take a look at our website analytics and go through the hundreds of emails I get from readers to figure out the places that people are reading about and asking me about the most.
If you are researching the best places to retire in Florida and feeling a little overwhelmed by all the options, I hope this list can help you.
Without further ado, here are the 25 best places to retire in Florida today.
1. Ocala
Ocala earns the top spot on our list for 2025. The Ocala area represents a unique combination of history, horses, and culture that is surrounded by some of the most beautiful natural environments you will find anywhere. Sprinkle in the collection of interesting shops and restaurants in Ocala’s downtown district and you will find Ocala to be the type of place where no one struggles to find something to do.
Where to Retire in Ocala:
At On Top of the World Communities, active adults will find all they dream about and so much more. Located in beautiful Ocala Florida, On Top of the World residents can enjoy any schedule that suits their tastes – from activity-packed to unhurried.
Amenities include 54 holes of golf on three courses, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, tennis courts, a 14-acre R/C flying field, bocce, racquetball and basketball courts, fitness center, health club and spa, restaurants, cultural venues, and much more. Residents can also participate in over 175 clubs, leagues, hobbies, and lifelong learning opportunities.
There are around 20 different floor plans available with prices ranging to suit every budget starting in the $200k's.
2. The Villages
Located about an hour north of Orlando, The Villages is consistently one of the best-selling communities, retirement or otherwise, in the country.
The Villages is home to more than 150,000 people, has more than 700 holes of golf, 200 pickleball courts, 100 recreation centers, 100 swimming pools, more than 3,000 clubs and organizations residents can participate in, an “enrichment academy” to support lifelong learning, more than 100 restaurants, a wide range of shops, grocery stores, and medical offices, free live entertainment on a nightly basis, and to top it off, nearly everything is golf cart accessible. Monthly fees are less than $200.
Because of its sheer size and scale, The Villages is unlike any other place or community you'll encounter in Florida.
3. Port St. Lucie
Port St. Lucie and other neighboring towns in St. Lucie County promote themselves as offering “the real Florida,” which they describe as a perfect atmosphere for golf lovers or anyone looking for a small, friendly, beach town.
Where to Retire in Port St. Lucie:
Valencia Parc at Riverland is one of the newest 55+ communities on Florida's East Coast. Located in Port St. Lucie, Valencia Parc at Riverland brings together GL Homes' famous 55+ resort-style living within the amazing 4,000-acre master-planned community of Riverland to create a Florida lifestyle that's second to none! In this new community, you'll find a million ways to have fun with everything connected through miles of eco-friendly greenways without ever having to get in your car. Walk or ride your golf cart to all the amenities right within your own neighborhood and to nearby shops and restaurants or enjoy a car ride to spend the perfect day at the beach.
4. Babcock Ranch
Babcock Ranch is a solar-powered town located near Fort Myers in Southwest Florida. It is designed with walkability and bike-ability in mind, and much of it is golf cart accessible.
Babcock Ranch gained a lot of national notoriety in 2022 after news stories from CNN and 60 Minutes covered how well the community fared during Hurricane Ian.
Situated on approximately 18,000 acres, adjacent to an extensive wilderness preserve, an 870-acre solar farm powers some of the community. There are clubhouses, pools, a golf course, hiking and biking paths, greenways, and lakes perfect for outdoor adventures.
Where to Retire in Babcock Ranch
There are several great single-family home and condominium neighborhoods retirees might like in Babcock Ranch, but the first 55+ neighborhood opened there in 2023 called Regency at Babcock Ranch.
5. Wesley Chapel
Wesley Chapel is emerging as a premier destination for retirees seeking a blend of modern amenities and natural beauty.
With its warm climate, proximity to Tampa, and a variety of lifestyle options, this vibrant community offers a compelling mix of activities, amenities, and housing options tailored to those looking to enjoy their golden years to the fullest.
Where to Retire in Wesley Chapel
Valencia Ridge, the all-new community in the greater Tampa area, offers contemporary home designs and world-class amenities for the ultimate 55+ luxury living. Nothing compares to the incredible 55+ lifestyle, as the world-class clubhouse will feature multiple pools, pickleball and tennis courts, fitness center, restaurant and bar, sports lounge, social hall and much more.
6. Watersound
Watersound is located near Panama City Beach on Florida’s Gulf Coast and is a place that you are going to hear A LOT about in the coming years. That’s because it's the location of the 3rd Jimmy Buffett-inspired Latitude Margaritaville retirement community, Latitude Margaritaville Watersound.
Watersound is located in the Florida Panhandle, right off Scenic Highway 30-A in the heart of South Walton county, about 17 miles northwest of Panama City Beach, and 30 miles east of Destin.
With the amount of land the developer has assembled, Latitude Margaritaville Watersound “could” get as big or even bigger than The Villages. That would take decades of course, but the space is there to do it.
Where to Retire in Watersound
Located on Northwest Florida’s Emerald Coast between Pensacola & Panama City, Latitude Margaritaville Watersound is the 2nd Jimmy Buffett-inspired 55+ community in Florida, and the 3rd one overall when you include Latitude Margaritaville Hilton Head.
Amenities in place or coming soon include a Latitude Town Square with Bandshell, Latitude Bar & Chill Restaurant, 2nd Floor Overlook Bar with panoramic views of the Intracoastal Waterway, Paradise Pool with Beach Entry Cabanas, Tiki Huts, Fins Up! Fitness Center, Barkaritaville Dog Park, Tennis & Pickleball Courts, Port of Indecision Kayak Launch, Walking Trails, and more.
Home prices start in the $300k's.
7. Parrish
Parrish is a growing community located in Manatee County. Parrish is located about halfway between Tampa and Sarasota (roughly a 30-minute drive to each) and about 25 minutes (much of it on the Sunshine Skyway Bridge) to St. Petersburg.
Parrish offers a blend of rural charm and easy access to modern conveniences, making it an attractive option for retirees.
Besides being in a great location, Parrish is attracting a lot of retirees right now because the home prices tend to be a little lower than you see in the bigger cities.
Where to Retire in Parrish
Woodland Preserve is Kolter Homes' latest new home community in the Sarasota-Bradenton area. This gated, 55+ neighborhood will feature a contemporary collection of flexible floorplans that range from 2- up to 5-Bedrooms with structural and design options.
Woodland Preserve residents will also have full access to their own community clubhouse and amenities including a fitness center, pickleball courts, pool with lap lanes, indoor and outdoor social spaces and much more. Plus, the community’s natural beauty is a crucial part of the lifestyle. Join the VIP List today to be among the first to receive community details.
8. St. Augustine
Famous for being the oldest city in the country, St. Augustine is absolutely the perfect place for anyone who appreciates history. The city is located along the east coast of Florida just about 45 minutes south of Jacksonville, and a little over an hour north of Daytona Beach.
In addition to being a great location for history buffs, St. Augustine is also filled with tons of culture, great shopping, unique places to eat, and two really wonderful retirement communities. If you are passionate about any combination of those things, the Nation’s Oldest City could be a great option for your retirement.
Where to Retire in St. Augustine
Reverie at Trailmark is a 55+ community in St. Augustine. The Lodge is a 4,600 sq. ft. Lakeside Clubhouse that features indoor and outdoor social spaces, six pickleball courts, a resort-style pool and spa, a catering kitchen, and what sounds to me like one of the coolest amenities…an open-air Bier Garten.
There are 11 new single-family home designs, ranging from 1,500 to 3,000 sq. ft. The community features lakeside and preserve homesites. Prices start in the $300k’s.
9. Port Charlotte
Located almost exactly halfway between Sarasota and Fort Myers, Port Charlotte is one of the true hidden gems of Florida's Gulf Coast, which makes it a natural destination for many boomers looking to enjoy their retirement years.
This small town community is located right on the water of Charlotte Harbor and offers access to more than 165 miles of waterways, so all kinds of water activities are extremely popular here.
Where to Retire in Port Charlotte
Located in the popular Port Charlotte/Punta Gorda area of Florida, Kings Gate offers easy access to beaches, marinas, wildlife sanctuaries, airports, and more, many within a 15-minute drive or less. A friendly, gated neighborhood community for residents age 55 and up, Kings Gate homeowners enjoy access to a recreation center, Olympic-sized swimming pool and spa, tennis courts, on-site activities director, and a variety of resident clubs and social events. Membership to the 18-hole golf course and facilities are additionally available. Prices start in the $200k’s.
10. Lakewood Ranch
Lakewood Ranch has an in-demand central west coast location and proximity to popular cities like Sarasota and Bradenton, and offers a variety of 55+ and all-ages neighborhoods, making it suitable for a variety of retirement tastes.
Main Street at Lakewood Ranch offers residents the ideal downtown experience filled with an eclectic collection of boutiques and eateries. Main Street is also the home of Lakewood Ranch Cinemas, as well as regular concerts and festivals throughout the year.
Waterside Place is the newest commercial destination at Lakewood Ranch, and it offers a wide range of restaurants and retail stores that are perfectly integrated with apartment living, all right on the water.
Where to Retire in Lakewood Ranch:
Cresswind Lakewood Ranch is a 55+ new home community in Lakewood Ranch, located east of Sarasota and Bradenton and named the #1 multigenerational neighborhood in the nation.
Cresswind Lakewood Ranch offers a variety of amenities including a fitness center, art studio, tennis and pickleball courts, resort-style swimming pool, resistance pool and more. Residents also have quick access to Lakewood Ranch’s golf courses, polo club, 75-acre sports campus, schools, shops, restaurants and hospital. Plus, the white sand beaches and cultural attractions of Sarasota are within a 30-minute drive.
Homebuyers can choose from nineteen spacious home plans, specifically designed for active adults and offering open floorplans and energy-efficient designs.
11. Palm Coast
Palm Coast is a popular destination for retirement due to its beautiful weather, affordable cost of living, and range of recreational activities.
Palm Coast is located on the northeast coast of Florida, in Flagler County. The city is positioned along the Intracoastal Waterway and is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the east. Palm Coast is approximately 30 miles south of St. Augustine and about 25 miles north of Daytona Beach.
Palm Coast's convenient location provides residents and visitors with easy access to both natural attractions and urban amenities in neighboring cities.
Where to Retire in Palm Coast
Reverie at Palm Coast is a brand new 55+ community located in a naturally beautiful setting at the heart of the abundant activities, great golf and sparkling ocean waters that rank this area as one of the top beach towns in the country.
Reverie will include a staffed amenities center with an outdoor zero-entry swimming pool, separate spa, fitness center with fitness on-demand video system, 6 tournament-style pickleball courts, grand event lawn, multiple gathering areas, party bar, social clubs, separate aerobics area, golf simulator, putting green and much more.
Reverie will feature 15 different home designs in 3 home collections that range from 1,693 sq. ft to over 3,700 sq. ft in living area with 2 and 3-car garages. Pre-construction prices start from the mid $300,000 to mid $500,000 range with many homesite views, design elements and options to choose from.
12. Naples
Like many southwest Florida communities, Naples brings together the best of shopping, recreation, and beautiful beaches. But residents here would definitely argue that Naples offers the best versions of all three.
Historic downtown Naples is filled with high-end shops and boutiques. The surrounding areas are littered with championship-level golf courses. And this location along the southern Gulf Coast of Florida boasts some of the most stunning beaches you will find anywhere.
Where to Retire in Naples
Valencia Sky, GL Homes' newest 55+ community, combines luxury living with coastal convenience just 6 miles from downtown Naples. This Valencia community features a state-of-the-art clubhouse with pools, pickleball and tennis courts, gym, restaurant/bar, sports lounge, and event hall. Located minutes from 5th Avenue South shopping and Naples Pier. Request information today to learn more.
13. Palm Beach
Palm Beach is a sun-soaked paradise that offers a unique blend of luxury, history, and natural beauty. Whether you're a lover of art, a foodie, or someone looking to relax by the beach, Palm Beach has something for everyone.
Palm Beach County is the largest county in Florida by area, has 47 miles of coastline on the Atlantic Ocean, and in my estimation has more 55+ communities than any other county in Florida.
Where to Retire in Palm Beach
Cresswind Palm Beach at Westlake is a 55+ community offering resort-style amenities, including Club Cresswind with pools, fitness facilities, arts studios, and sports courts. Located between Wellington and Palm Beach Gardens, residents enjoy easy access to beaches, shopping, and West Palm Beach attractions. Kolter Homes offers 12 floorplans designed for active adults.
14. Wellen Park
Wellen Park is a master-planned community that is home to several different neighborhoods, shops, restaurants, and lots of amenities for residents (and non-residents) to enjoy.
The Venice area on Florida's west coast has seen a lot of demand and growth in recent years and that's thanks in large part to the development of Wellen Park.
Wellen Park spans approximately 11,000 acres and it is estimated that there will be about 22,000 homes at time of completion which is many years away.
Where to Retire in Wellen Park
Discover a new brighter 55+ lifestyle at Brightmore at Wellen Park in Venice, Florida. This new gated community is nestled within popular Wellen Park, one the nation's premier master-planned communities. Brightmore will feature a rich array of resort-style amenities, including 2 pools, 8 pickleball courts and a competition court, and a 21,000 square foot clubhouse with gathering areas, bar/grill, fitness center, paw park and much more. A full activities and events calendar provides fun and social connections. Choose from 11 thoughtfully designed home plans, including villas and single-family residences.
15. Daytona Beach
Because of its popularity among race fans, motorcycle enthusiasts, spring breakers, and summer vacationers, Daytona Beach is often overlooked by many boomers as they search for a Florida retirement destination that will fit their ideal lifestyle. However, those popular reasons for visiting Daytona Beach are really just scratching the surface of what residents enjoy here throughout the year.
Where to Retire Near Daytona Beach
Latitude Margaritaville has been our go-to recommendation in this area, but it is unfortunately on the verge of being sold out.
But just 20 minutes away in DeLand you'll find Cresswind DeLand.
Explore DeLand’s newest 55+ community, offering Cresswind’s national award-winning active adult lifestyle and new, Move-In Ready homes from the $300s. Cresswind DeLand offers a lakefront location just minutes from charming downtown DeLand in Central Florida.
In addition to Lake Winnemissett access for catch-and-release fishing, Cresswind offers an award-winning, 55+ lifestyle. A future resident-only clubhouse will serve as the central hub, featuring a fitness center, resort-style pool, pickleball courts, art studio, event spaces and indoor/outdoor gathering spots to unwind and connect with neighbors.
Cresswind features a new collection of floorplans designed specifically for active adults.
16. Englewood
Englewood is a popular retirement destination located in Southwest Florida. Retirees like it because they can enjoy a coastal retirement location but the home prices and cost of living tend to be a little lower than they are in places like Sarasota, Fort Myers, and Naples.
Like most places in Southwest Florida, Englewood has hot and humid summers and mild winters.
Englewood is a popular destination for fishing and boating enthusiasts. Charter a fishing trip or rent a boat to explore the local waterways and enjoy the abundant marine life.
Where to Retire in Englewood
Located just south of Venice in Sarasota County, Boca Royale Golf & Country Club offers a rare lifestyle that feels more like a vacation than the everyday. Residents of the gated 1,000-acre community enjoy a full line of fun and fitness amenities, including an 18-hole par 72 golf course. A beautiful amenity center and clubhouse round out the community. The community offers both single-family homes and attached villas.
17. Boynton Beach
Located just about halfway between West Palm Beach and Boca Raton, Boynton Beach offers residents a lifestyle that is far removed from all of the popular Florida tourist destinations without actually being all that far away from those places.
Where to Retire in Boynton Beach
Valencia Del Mar elevates the renowned Valencia 55+ living experience in Boynton Beach, Florida. This luxurious new community offers innovative floorplans, cutting-edge features, and enhanced lifestyle options.
At its center is an 8-acre recreational site featuring a grand social hall, luxury restaurant with indoor and patio seating, stylish sports lounge, and world-class spa with steam rooms, saunas, and private treatment suites. Every aspect is designed for the discerning active adult.
Join the VIP List for exclusive access to all new developments at Valencia Del Mar.
18. Fort Myers
Known for offering the perfect combination of recreation and relaxation, Fort Myers contains an endless amount of options including great beaches, first-class golf courses, exciting deep-sea fishing, and outstanding shopping. It's no wonder why you'll find so many 55+ communities there.
There is an amazing selection of great local restaurants in just about every neighborhood, and baseball fans will be excited to know that both the Boston Red Sox and the Minnesota Twins host their spring training activities here.
Where to Retire in Fort Myers
Verandah is a beautiful, private, guard-gated golf course community in Fort Myers. Enjoy life among mature oak trees, meandering bike paths and walking trails, and breathtaking views of the Orange River. Verandah offers residents full-service dining options, social events and activities, fitness and recreation options, and 2 spectacular 18-hole championship golf courses: Old Orange, designed by Bob Cupp and Whispering Oak, designed by Jack Nicklaus.
19. Tavares
Located on the eastern shore of Lake Dora, Tavares is a waterfront town known as the “Seaplane City.” It offers a relaxed lifestyle with opportunities for boating, fishing, and lakeside activities. Tavares also has a historic downtown district and hosts various events and festivals.
Where to Retire in Tavares
Cresswind at Lake Harris offers a lakefront location just minutes from downtown Tavares and Mount Dora in Central Florida.
In addition to the community dock for boating on Lake Harris, a future lakefront, resident-only clubhouse will serve as the central hub, featuring a fitness center, resort-style pool, pickleball courts, art studio, event spaces, and indoor/outdoor gathering spots to unwind and connect with neighbors.
Cresswind at Lake Harris will feature a new collection of floorplans designed specifically for active adults.
20. Venice
Located just south of Sarasota, but not quite as far south as Fort Myers or Sanibel Island, Venice sits in a sweet spot along Florida’s southern Gulf Coast that makes it the perfect destination for anyone looking to make the most of 14 miles of stunning beaches.
In addition to those beautiful beaches, Venice is also known for all kinds of exciting ways to enjoy the great outdoors. It is a fabulous destination for boomers interested in exploring arts and culture, boutique shopping, or a wide range of outstanding restaurant choices.
Where to Retire in Venice
Grand Palm is truly a one-of-a-kind community! This beautiful, amenity-rich, nature-focused community in Venice, Florida is exactly what resort living should be like. Residents enjoy easy access to downtown Venice and beaches (20 minutes away) and a multitude of activities right in their own backyard with an on-site activities coordinator, state-of-the-art fitness facility, pickleball and tennis courts, and a large resort-style pool. Single-family homes and villas are available.
21. The Nature Coast
Located along the inside curve of Florida’s coastline, the Nature Coast region connects the Sun Coast counties with the areas located further west along the Florida Panhandle.
It is comprised of nine counties that include Wakulla, Jefferson, Taylor, Dixie, Levy, Citrus, Hernando, Pasco, and the city of Dunnellon, which is a part of Marion County.
This area of Florida is known for being a nature lover’s paradise with some of the best collections of state parks and wildlife populations that you will find anywhere in the country.
Where to Retire on The Nature Coast
Located less than an hour from The Villages, the Villages of Citrus Hills is a Florida Retirement Community with single-family homes and maintenance-free villas that have been built with today’s demanding retiree in mind. But what makes the promise of Florida Retirement in the Villages of Citrus Hills truly come together for today’s new breed of active adult retiree is its extraordinary collection of world-class community country club amenities and extensive social activities. Villages of Citrus Hills offers a variety of home styles and neighborhoods to choose from.
22. Sun City Center
Del Webb began Sun City Center in the early 1960's, about a decade before Orange Blossom Gardens which would later become The Villages started. Sun City Center is located about 30 minutes south of Tampa, 30 minutes north of Sarasota, and 30 minutes to the Gulf Beaches. There are three airports less than an hour away. Professional football, baseball, and hockey are also less than an hour away.
Where to Retire in Sun City Center
In the heart of Sun City Center, Florida, you will find a gated enclave, The Preserve at La Paloma. This new 55+ community offers stylish, low-maintenance attached villas, single-family homes and fun-filled amenities.
Resort-style amenities include a clubhouse, pool with sundeck and spa, pickleball court, firepit gathering area, and more. Activities and events take place monthly so residents can connect and socialize.
The Preserve at La Paloma is perfectly situated in golf cart-friendly Sun City Center with a peaceful, yet vibrant location just off Sun City Center Boulevard and less than 1 mile from I-75. Abundant shopping and dining are a short walk, bike ride or drive away, and golf and recreation opportunities surround the community.
Homes start in the low/mid $300s.
23. St Johns
St. Johns is located in northeast Florida, about halfway between Jacksonville and St. Augustine so you get to enjoy the best those two bigger cities have to offer. Several new 55+ communities are being developed here, including a new Del Webb opening in 2024.
Where to Retire in St. Johns
Stillwater is a 55+ community by Lennar Homes located in St. Johns. Homeowners have access to exciting amenities, such as the Bobby Weed-designed 18-hole golf course and a resort-style lap pool. Plus, there are plenty of restaurants and shops nearby.
A total of 549 homes are planned here, and attached villages and single-family homes are available. Prices start in the $300k’s.
24. Lady Lake
Lady Lake is a small town in North Central Florida known for its role as the birthplace of the world's biggest retirement community, The Villages. But The Villages is not the only retirement community with roots here, and new ones continue to pop up even today.
Where to Retire in Lady Lake
Located in Lady Lake, Cresswind at Hammock Oaks will be Kolter Homes’ second 55+ community in Lake County, and one of four in Central Florida.
Cresswind at Hammock Oaks will feature a new collection of floorplans designed specifically for active adults. An on-site Design Studio offers hundreds of structural and design options to personalize your home to fit your needs and lifestyle.
A future, resident-only clubhouse will serve as the central hub, featuring a fitness center, resort-style pool, pickleball courts, art studio, event spaces and indoor/outdoor gathering spots to unwind and connect with neighbors.
25. St. Cloud
Located along the southern banks of East Lake Tohopekaliga near Kissimmee and just south of Orlando, St. Cloud is a quiet city that was originally known as a retirement destination for Civil War veterans.
In addition to having a rich history, the area also offers a type of small-town living that is getting harder and harder to find here in Florida. Combining that small-town atmosphere with access to all of the fantastic amenities located just to the north in Orlando makes St. Cloud a perfect mixture of old and new Florida living.
Where to Retire in St. Cloud
The Lakes at Harmony is a 55 and Better community from Jones Homes USA. Experience active living at its best, with Harmony’s signature golf course, Town Center, community events, walking trails, and more.
Harmony is more than a community, it’s a way of life; where the peace and tranquility of small-town living is surrounded by pristine lakes, abundant natural areas, popular Town Square and exclusive amenities, all close to the excitement and activities of nearby Orlando.
All homes are built for the way you live today, with oversized kitchens, open living spaces and incredible included luxury features. With its perfect blend of small-town living, outstanding amenities, convenient location, everyone wants to live in Harmony.
What Did I Miss?
There you have it, the top 25 best places to retire in Florida today.
Be sure to bookmark this page and check back often because I am constantly updating this page.
Better yet, sign up for our Florida retirement newsletter and I'll let you know whenever we update this list.
Know a great place in Florida that I should consider adding to the list in the future?
Let me know in the comments section below!
Vero Beach should be on this list. Absolutely wonderful all around.
My head is spinning – too many choices
Florida is a beautiful place to retire. My husband and I grew up in Florida and moved away for several years. We have been back for almost 20 years now, and lived on the west coast for 19 years. We moved to the east coast a little over a year ago to be closer to our children. A few things you might want to consider when moving to Florida:
1. The traffic in the area you are looking to purchase a home. The traffic around the Orlando area and west coast (Tampa and south to Naples can be a nightmare) I have found the east coast has a little less traffic, but this may not last for long.
2. Home and auto insurance. Both are expensive and many insurance companies are leaving Florida. Before you buy, make sure you do research on the cost of insurance on the home you are buying and how much your auto insurance will be.
3. Community development fees and community improvement fees. These can be expensive and last for many years. Also, research what the community HOA fees cover and how solvent they are. The last two hurricanes depleted HOA reserves and residents are paying extra new reserve fees to replenish the reserves.
4. Research the builders in the communities you are considering to purchase in. Make sure they are quality builders and get everything in writing.
My advice would be to visit the communities you are considering and narrow them down to two or three. Then I would do a short term rental for a few months to see what it is like to live in the community. Moving to Florida is a BIG financial commitment, so renting for a few months or a year will give you the time to research the area and communities you want to live in.
We did extensive looking all over FL and it seems by the comments everyone likes different places. Let’s face it…FL is the overall best state to retire. We decided on 55+ and a gated community. The one that checked the most boxes for our lifestyle was Esplanade in Wiregrass Ranch (Wesley Chapel). Why? It’s within 1/2 hour of Tampa, one hour to my fav beach (Clearwater Beach), and yet (because of the suburban location), tons of shopping (e.g. within a few miles of all three big box stores). Don’t wanna be near a city? Wiregrass is fairly new and there are many farms and a semi-rural feeling outside the gates. It was the best of both worlds for us. The development is like any of the beautiful gated 55+……huge clubhouse, pool, tennis, bocce, dog park, trails etc.
Estero Florida is probably the nicest, small city in Florida.
Close to beaches
Close to airport
Close restaurants and shopping.
Easy to drive.
Safe.
Between Naples and Fort Myers
Population 37,000
I am shocked Marco Island isn’t on this list. It is absolute paradise there!
Little bit of heaven in the middle of the Indian River in Grant-Valkaria! Our island has no cars and stores and keeps the rest of the world at a distance! Live Island Life!
How about beautiful Winter Park
With beautiful tourist boats going from lake to lake
Amazing dining & shopping
Rollins College is also here
What about the Space Coast!
Like North of Titusville to Cocoa? We lived there 12 years until we had to move back to Montana.
Have been gone 7 years and miss Florida so much!!
Good grief people, stop criticizing the article. Generally speaking, almost anywhere in Florida is a nice place to retire. It’s comes down to personal preference and affordability. Great article and thank you for all your input. I’m not going to say where I’m at in Florida because I prefer everyone to move elsewhere……LOL 🙂
Well said! I moved to Naples 4 years ago and now moving along to Venice for a new experience. In laws live near St Augustine so don’t want to get too close! But everything in Florida is awesome! Coming from a born and raised swamper in Washington DC!
If I read where the Pittsburgh Steelers were the greatest team of all time and then you come out with your top twenty teams and they are not on it, I would be skeptical of your opinion and knowledge. Conversely, Dunedin comes out this month as the number one retirement town according to Zillow yet doesn’t make your top 25, I can’t help but think you have an agenda of some sort be it political, financial or whatever. Do you have a reasonable explanation?
Gotta love it when a company based in SEATTLE pontificates on the best places to retire in Florida 😉
That said, Dunedin is a great little place that we’ve written about before:
https://www.floridaforboomers.com/retirement-spotlight-dunedin/ and https://www.floridaforboomers.com/48-hours-in-dunedin/
It just didn’t make the cut for our list this year.
You may want to consider Ave Maria. They have two Golf Courses and the Del Webb Naples subdivision it a 55 + community. they also have subdivisions w/o age restrictions by the water park.
Palm Coast is closed for business thank you very much!
Great list but if you want ,shells ,sharks teeth,no crowds ,NO high rises chech out Palm Island near ENGLEWOOD Florida.
Anna Marie Island, and Boca Grande….. Most BEAUTIFUL places ever….
Let’s not forget charming Punta Gorda
Deland, best kept secret . 20 minutes from Daytona volusia Co. Seat. Very quaint college town. On st. John river.
We just bought a place near Daytona in Edgewater Landing….we love it! Definitely a bigger bang for your buck on the East coast.
Why wasn’t Marco Island listed. It’s Paradise
Just bought in Cape Coral really nice in that area too, I know it’s near Fort Meyers
What about Ft. Lauderdale?
Ft. Lauderdale to much traffic property taxes , expensive to live , moved to Ocala much more bang for your buck
Thank GOD you didn’t mention Crystal River,,,,keep it a SECRET !!!
Thanks for an amazing article.
Suggest researching, analyzing, and publishing an article about retirement living in Tallahassee, FL.
Glad came across this. Subscribed to the newsletter. Planning on retiring in 2-3 years and move to FL from Virginia. However, do not want to live in a retirement community. Wonder if there’s some place to find a listing/review of communities/developments in the Sarasota and Bradenton surrounding areas.
Ryan, Im considering a Place called Palm Bay. Slightly worried because there is only one bridge out to the beach and the traffic might be horrible. Any feedback on Palm Bay would be great
My husband & I are seniors & live in Palm Bay. We previously lived in Viera (north Melbourne) for about 25+ years. Although it’s very beautiful we found it too expensive for us to live.Palm Bay is just as beautiful but much more practical financially for us!
Crystal River
Cape Coral is canal city, Cheapest on the water.
Davenport. My husband and I just bought our retirement/vacation home. Quiet community and close to the attractions but not too close. Lots to see and do.
Lake Nona. Medical capital of the world. Plus excellent golf courses. Dr Philipps is a close second
Lake Placid Florida, “Town of Mural” and “The Caladium Capital of the World”
Beautiful place, around of many lakes and natural parks for these who love nature, fishing, race, and others activities.
You really must check out Mount Dora Florida and it’s adorable community downtown with many shops and restaurants 35 minutes to Disney property for those that want to take family and friends to visit and the gorgeous Dora Lake and Lake Beauclaire in Lake County it’s a must see and where we have chosen to retire.
Punta Gorda is the place to retire! Pretty clean lots to do not a honky tonk beach town many paths to walk ride a bike
i just bought my retirement land in Lithia!
Estero/Bonita Springs, great access to both Naples and Ft Myers. Easy access to airport and beaches.
Ponce Inlet
Let’s face it, the best place to BE, retired or not, in FL is Florida! Beautiful, Awesome, Diverse, Florida. I love FL from the Panhandle to the Keys, Gulf sid, Ocean side and everywhere in between!
Personally partial to So Fl, Fort Lauderdale, specifically Lauderdale by the Sea, has it all and easy to fly there but the entire state is paradise to me!
Is Punta Gorda on the Ocean? What is the beach closest? Do you need to travel highways to get everywhere?
I have been on both coasts of Florida and Punta Gorda the best. It is in between Sarasota and Naples. The closest beaches are Englewood and Ft Myers both about 40 minute drive if not less.
I’m so sad that you did not mention Amelia Island! It’s gorgeous – not to mention beautiful beaches & amazing food. 🥰🤬
FORT PIERCE AND HUTCHINSON ISLAND ALONG THE TREASURE COAST!
Crystal River and Homosassa areas are awesome……Manatee capital
Agree, how did Punta Gorda not make the list? Way more affordable than Sarasota or Naples, great downtown area, lots of biking and walking paths, great restaurants, right on the water and lots of canals for boating options, small town with so many activities and low crime rate. We love Punta Gorda. You missed on this one for sure
Punta Gorda is the hidden gem spot on the West Coast. Not too big and not too small
Pensacola is a great city with beautiful beaches and waterways and wonderful dining. There are also lots of retirees, especially military.
Very infomative
There are certainly a lot of great places mentioned here to retire.
Has to be affordable for most folks.
Sebastion
Moved to Boca Raton, Florida seven years ago from New York and so love it here. The people are warm, there are so many types of restaurants to choose from. We have a beautiful beach. There are a lot of wonderful cultural programs to attend between Florida Atlantic University and Lynn University. Our Town Mall is bright and contemporary. One of our gems is Mizner Park where there are a variety of stores, eateries with outdoor music and an amphitheater with concerts. It is a pure joy living in this fabulous town of Boca Raton.💞👏💁🏻♀️
Agreed. Puta Gorda is the best small town in Florida, and very little crime. The tiki bar is the best hang out spot in the world.
I’ve been to all of these place and think Singer Island to Jupiter area is my favorite.
The West Palm Beach area is a nice place especially Palm Beach Garden, weather is great people are friendly and plenty of Golf courses.
What about Vero Beach?
We love Vero Beach. Although it is gaining population like all of Florida, it still has that small beach town feel.
Lakeland, FL is definitely worth consideration! Cannot believe you left this beautiful community out!!
If you want affordable I think Punta Gorda is a great option. It’s location is perfect as well. If you want Other options Sarasota is only :40 to the north – Ft Myers :30 to the south.
How about Delray Beach ???
Delray is very hot . Great 55+ communities with a second to none downtown with young people . A perfect combo with Boca Raton just south .& Biynton just North . Great beaches & great retirement places to live .
What about Naples…..close to Ft Myers airport too!
What about Marco Island? The beaches are beautiful and very clean. The wildlife is amazing, burrowing owls, turtles, sea gulls and other water birds. The weather is great most the time during winter months. I have lived here for 6 years during the winter and still haven’t eaten at all the great restaurants here. I feel safer here than I have ever felt.
If you live for golf ….Black Diamond Ranch , Citrus County 45 holes Tom Fazio golf!
Pompano Beach!!
I find it very hard to believe Punta Gorda didn’t make the top 10 much less the top 25!
We recently inherited my mom’s house in Solivita. It is in Poinciana . Solivita is an amazing gated community for 55 and older. We love it! It’s like being at a resort. You must check it out! I guarantee you will not be disappointed!
What about Palm Coast? A lot of the places you mentioned have a lot of Crime and there are better places that you do not mention!
For me Punta Gorda is BEST. Has small town feel and big city downtown area. All in short driving distance,
The Villages in Central Florida, north of Orlando has over 70,000 residences for 55 and over. It is a complete “town” including 28 golf courses, shopping, dining, dancing to free music in each of the 4 “city” centers. There are hundreds of clubs and activities
Lehigh acres, is a quiet place to be ….s w f lorida.
Lakeland a rapidly growing city in Western Polk County on I-4 corridor has awesome amenities, institutions of higher learning along with a major civic center.
Plant City Lakeland’s smaller neighbor just due west on the I-4,corridor is becoming a central Florida boom town where more winter strawberries are grow than any place in America. Plant City is evolving into a suburban bedroom community from what used to be a small agricultural town with its proximity to Lakeland and Tampa. New state of the art assisted living facilities are being built in Plant City that has great appeal for senior citizens.
Looking to retire where there are no hurricanes or flooding, or alligators. Small town feel.
We love Ormond-by-the-Sea! Quiet and affordable, beautiful and convenient to everything, a perfect retirement community. But don’t tell anyone! We want to keep it just as it is.
How about Tarpon Springs? Love it there!
What about Lady lakes
Mount Dora!
Lots of comments about missed towns / cities so I think what can be gained here is that FLORIDA is a great place to live and retire. Enjoy Florida.
Thank you everyone. We live in Washington State. Have no idea where to start looking. We want small and quite but also close to medical facilities, groceries, etc. 50,000 people or less….. Will gladly drive for more people!
Look into Sarasota. It has all that!!
Try Mexico Beach area. Very small and beautiful.
New Smyrna Beach is perfect. To me there is no other beach or town in the world that tops this beautiful area!
don’t say that too loud we don’t need the crowds and traffic that plague south Flodida
Just the info I have been looking for
We are in Solivita (Kissimmee area). Very beautiful. Lots of amenities. Reasonably priced.
Palm Coast and Flagler Beach We are south of St Augustine And north of Daytona Affordable housing close to the beach quiet neighborhoods.
Totally agree, Palm Coast is a well kept secret!
Love it here. Bike paths everywhere.
What about Marco Island
Marco Island is paradise…love it there.
Again, pretty expensive! Although so is Naples. But I have seen nice houses in the low $200,000.
This article is speaking a lot about 55+ communities!
Love Marco Island! Been going there for 10 years. I plan on buying a home there. Beautiful!!!
Amelia Island!! Fernandina Beach!!!
Agree 100%!! How could they put Jacksonville on here and not AI??
I believe because of the prices on Amelia Island. A lot of retirees are looking for moderately priced housing because they usually live on a fixed income! AI is pretty expensive!
Northwestern panhandle. Many wonderful beach cities.Pensacola/Pensacola Beach Navarre, Panama City Beach, Destin.
Very cold in winter. Moved to Sarasota area. Best move we’ve ever made.
We just did as well! Love it! 💕
I have lived in South Walton for 25 years, between Destin and Panama City Beach about a block from the Gulf, and feel so blessed to be here. The beaches are like sugar and the water is an
Emerald Green. Absolutely beautiful.
Ive lived different places in Florida and you can’t beat Pensacola.
JUPITER
Jupiter is nice!
Looking to move to the Lighthouse Point area.
Enjoyed reading about the different places to live .Iam looking to move sometime
In the near future. I live in Ohio.and the weather is terrible I need to be where it is Warm year round. Just very co fused where to go
My parents live in St. Pete Beach, and it is a great area…..close to Tampa and St. Petersburg, but still has a small town feel.
But very expensive!
My favorite place!
I am in the same boat as many future retirees. I have been doing research where to retire. I’ve been reading on line; pricing homes, rentals., etc. First I was interested to retire in AZ. Now I’m interested to retire in FL.
It’s so confusing when you don’t get the change to visit and spend at lest a week time in every place in state.
Hi Melinda I understand how you feel I’m from Maryland and I’m tired of the cold snowy weather looking to move south and warmer climate I have a lot in Port Charlotte Florida trying to decide to build a house on it or somewhere else south Florida I hope you find your special place in Florida. Mike
You missed treasure island it has everything you would ever need
What about Miromar Lakes in Estero Florida? I’ve heard wonderful things about that community. I’d like to hear thoughts on that area.
What about Stuart?
Stuart is fun but very expensive and very crowded. My wife enjoyed our stay there in an AirBNB, but the real estate was we felt over priced.
We loved Zephyrhills FL as there were no palmetto bugs there like there are along the coastal areas. If we wanted to go to the beach for the day, it took less than an hour. We were 1/2 hour from Tampa and 45 minutes from Kissimmee. Perfect!
I have a house on a canal in Hudson Florida, goes right out into the Gulf, best place to go out to the islands and people that love to fish! Prices are good there too! I already live in Florida inland, can wait to sell everything here and move there permanently!
We’ll take the Englewood Rotonda area. Not super busy, yet close to route 41 and close to i-75. Also we have a beautiful beach, Englewood Beach We are right next to Stump Pass, easy access to the gulf. And then Venice in Port Charlotte are just a few miles away.
Ken,
I have to agree, Like a lot of others from my home up in the PA. NY area, I have had a lot of friends “Move to Florida” it wasn’t until I became serious about looking that I found a large amount of them had moved to the Tampa to Fort Myers areas of Florida.
After spending sometime looking I had decided on the Punta Gorda area but found that having a newer open floor space house built would be a 18 to 24 month wait. Approximately 2 months later I received a phone call from one of the builders indicating that a house close to completion would be available due to the buyers unexpected financial situation, I signed an agreement of sale that day just by looking at the plans.
I’m now staying with friends in the area and expecting settlement in about a week, But LOVE the area all along 41 and I-75.
We are from New Jersey and just purchased a home in Vero Beach a month ago. Wrm
We looked in other areas Florida from the east coast to the west coast and something drew us to deciding on Vero Beach. It is quiet and clean everywhere we go here. Everything we need is within a few minutes drive. We have met many nice, friendly people here in this past month. The beaches are beautiful and relaxing, there are so many restaurants and activities. We couldn’t be happier with our choice in making Vero Beach our vacation home for now and our future retirement home. So glad Vero Beach made your list!
We have been going to Flagler Beach and love it there. Looking to retire somewhere near the ocean!
I can’t believe they left out Bonita Springs, best kept secret in Florida!!!
Ormond Beach has all the advantages. Same great beach and much less crowded than Daytona just next door. Vibrant restaurant scene, growing arts district, strong local history, nice local shopping. This is a place where people come to live and participate, not just visit. If you want to get away and enjoy something different we are only 25 minutes from New Smyrna Beach, 35 from St. Augustine and an hour from Orlando
Any good places for young retirees in their 30s or 40s?
What about the quaint little town of Okeechobee?
You are right about New Smyrna Beach! Fantastic beaches, action packed Flagler Ave. for the night scene and Sugar Mill CC is the best value private club in all of Central Florida not to mention 27 holes of world class golf!
I was wondering about Mexico Beach and Port St Joe area…. are the beaches beautiful? What about amenities, hospitals, shopping, culture?
Largo is a great city. Great restaurants and shopping. Located just south of Clearwater, it’s ten minutes from Clearwater Beach and ten minutes from Gulf Blvd that has all the beautiful beach towns. It’s a very Snowbird friendly place to live. I am one and I live there six months of the year.
We moved to Leesburg from Orlando/Winter Garden. We love it. It’s a smaller town with lots of shopping/ eating close by. Only a few miles from The Villages. We shop and dine there often. Taxes are lower, the town has a country feel but lots of amenities nearby. Several 55+ communities in all price ranges. Check us out!!
Bought a condo in Stuart in 1987. Wonderful community no high rise buildings only hospital is four stories wonderful restaurants and shopping. Forty minutes to PBI.
Looking to move around Clearwater area.
We have a place in Daytona Beach Shores and love it !!!
Consider Sandestin, Florida. NW Florida Coast
I live there, Keep it off the list, to many people are finding our sleepy fishing village!
Just Glad Okeechobee did not make the list,
st pete !! THE BEST BY FAR!!!!! it has everything ,,,,the east coast of FL. is traffic jams and strip malls…St. Pete : Parks, dog friendly, LGBT friendly, kind, green, NOT filled with retirement communities, young hip vibe, but plenty for retirees…museums, culture, restaurants, diversity…..every friend (from up north) who has visited has wound up looking at real estate,,,,and buying in St Pete!
Forgotten Coast is perfect… no high rises, no water parks, beautiful ocean,
Hope it stays forgotten.
Treasure island it is a true treasure on the west coast
Charlotte county and Port Charlotte area wonderful place to retire and still very reasonable for Real Estate!!
You should look at Palm Beach Gardens. The town has beautiful communities, big city amenities while not as congested and beautiful beaches.
we’ve been in barefoot bay for 8 yrs. the most affordable community in Fla with all the amenities.
Great article-thank you.
Have been to many ot the places listed.
Some more congested, busy and touristy then others.
My favorite’s are and will continue to be–ST. AUGUSTINE, ANA MARIA AND VENICE.
Check out The Villages!
Englewood Beach on Manasota Key should definitely be on the list. Manasota Key is a barrier Island that runs south from Venice almost to Port Charlotte. This gem is barely off Highway 41, theTamiami Trail and I 75. The beaches are fantastic and the local art scene is thriving.
dont advertise Englewood…we want to keep it as it is….a quaint gorgeous beach community! I moved to Englewood from Sarasota 15 years ago and have never looked back ….
Englewood is where I’m going to retire next year…. I’ll be house hunting in the spring….I LOVE LOVE LOVE the beach there!
We moved from Ft. Myers six years ago to Englewood. It is beautiful there and not busy! It is a best kept secret right now!!
I love Manasota Key beach. We live in Palmetto, not too far away. We spent a few hours on Manasota beach while checking out a few new beaches. Love it.. I felt like I was on a tropical island all by myself. 🙂 The Gulf beaches are amazing and we love living here! Moved here two years ago from Arizona!
I lived in W. Palm Beach for ten years and loved living in the excitement of the Palm Beaches! I enjoyed the restaurants, beaches, and night life. And, there’s no finer shopping than the Gardens Mall and Palm Beach. You’re right by their major airport and the South Florida Fairgrounds. You can also catch a Polo Game out in Wellington and attend the famous Annual Sun Fest in W. Palm Beach. I would go to Jupiter, Stuart, Delray Beach, Boca Raton, and Miami often. It’s all near by!
I went to college in Daytona Beach 1978-1979. Loved Daytona Beach.
When I moved to Jacksonville, thought I’d only be there for about 5 years or so. 30 years later, wonderful place. Beautiful beaches. Historic places. World Golf Village not far away. Two hours from Orlando and Savannah. Ninety minutes to Daytona and the Space Coast. Beautiful St. Johns River. Great fishing. Was listed in Ripley’s as the U.S. city with the greatest number of golf courses within the city limits. Wonderful for retirement or regular living. Cost of living is lower than other major cities.
As I age, I’m more interested in those areas with outstanding medical facilities/care and year round warm temperatures. Most listings highlight activities instead.
Look into Palm Coast area Debora. It is fantastic “old” Florida 🙂
Melbourne is a great place to live!
There seems to be just great places in Florida. I’ve visited there many times and have always had exciting and marvelous times. My 2020 goal is to relocate to Lake Wales, Florida. I love fishing and golfing there. The atmosphere is super.
I always enjoy your Florida for Boomers email. Your post is full of information for people who want to retire to Florida or become snow birds. Please, keep up the good work, it’s always appreciated. Thank you.
I moved from NY to Boca Raton. Love it! This town should be on your floridaforboomers list as well.
Brickell is a great place to live! All of the condos are built on top of the city and retail making everything walkable. The metromover is also great for getting around the heart of the city. I love the close proximity to coral gables, south beach, and other boroughs.
I wish there were 55+ communities in the Tallahassee area. Do you know of any?
Take a look at Gulfport. A remarkable small town with a true neighborhood of generational Gulfportians. Sandwiched within a couple of miles between vibrant downtown Saint Pete to the east and a string of the finest Gulf beaches to the west. Truly a Florida anomaly. Primarily an artists community. Get around by foot, bicycle or golf cart. A 100 y.o. Historical dance casino on a pier extending into Boca Ciega Bay is filled every night with a variety of dance venue from tango to suck up! Lessons available on the premises. A lovely modest beach, seven privately owned 5 star eateries, galleries, shopping and beautiful parks. Just down 34th St. is Fort Desoto Park. There are many Vacationers who book here repeatedly so as not to lose the opportunity.
It must be an oversight that Punta Gorda(Punta Gorgeous to those who know & love her)wasn’t included on your list.
Please check out Viera FL. West Viera is a Golf Cart community
I’m glad he didn’t include our little slice of paradise in the list. Let’s keep it our secret.
Excellent article!
Great list of Florida retirement towns! Some more equally good choices include Mount Dora, the Palm Harbor-Dunedin-Tarpon Springs area, and Ormond Beach.
Lets not forget SOUTH BEACH!!!
Where the action is …. on Ocean Drive
I agree I grew up in Venice , moved to Siesta Key after many travels , love all of Fla ! And it’s easy to travel to anywhere here . It’s all great !❤️
Just under half of our 2019 picks were also on last year’s list. Others have been on earlier lists, or on Forbes’ specialty retirement lists—for example, the best places to retire without a car or the best places to pursue a passion (be it outdoor water activities, dining out or golf) in retirement. Newcomers or those returning after a significant gap include Charlotte, N.C., Clearwater, Fla., Delray Beach, Fla., San Antonio, Tex., and Winchester.
Gulfport! Once Florida’s best kept secret the secret may be out but this very special town will never lose it’s sense of true neighborhood. It’s 100 year old dance casino. Not for gambling. Every day and night there is dancing from tango to sock hops. Generational Gulfportians are seamlessly mingled with visitors sharing in the magic. The lovely beach on Boca Ciega Bay for families of all ages. Sailing school for adults or children who may become SeaScouts! An artist’s village which shows in the unique yards and old to new bungalow homes. One may visit but it’s much richer to live there and take part.
Seems like bias toward the West Coast. I find the East side younger and not as old.
Have enjoyed both coasts but when it came time to buy, we decided that the East Coast was more to our liking.
We try to change it up a bit every year Norm. Still some great East Coast options here though!
I am an in the ocean person and I like the gulf side better, too many jellyfish on the Atlantic coast.
I moved from New Jersey to Coral Springs, Florida in 1992, little north of Miami, never regretted the move, right now I live in Pompano Beach 🏖 Florida, west of I95 in a golf course community, I love it ❤️ and I’m close to the nice beaches of Pompano Beach and Ft, Lauderdale, two of the best beaches in Florida.
I know that everything here it’s a little more expensive, but to me it’s worth it. I have family living in Fort Myers, Cape Coral and Naples … to me it’s too slow motion 🥴 sorry … I love the East Coast ❤️❤️
Is there a way to sort through the communities throughout Florida, to find those where people get around in golf carts? Or another mode of transportation within the community for people like myself, who do not drive? I have tried Google – but only get golf club communities. I bought your book about a month ago. Very, very helpful! A book like these kinds of specifics, would be so very helpful for those of us who don’t drive. THANK YOU!!
I have been looking for that feature in a resort community also. I really liked Del Webb in Ave Maria. Not only do they have golf carts within the community but you can also take you golf cart into the town of Ave Maria to the shops and restaurants. Seems perfect to me.
Hi, I don’t drive either & we just purchased at On Top of The World…..It has everything for someone who doesn’t drive….we looked at almost all of the places that are mentioned…..but none matched up to On Top of The World.
If you want I can give you the women’s name I am dealing with, she is wonderful. Good luck
Thank you for disclosing those beautiful city in Florida. However, didn’t you forgot about another best place to live? Palm Beach? Palm Beach County is the fastest growing and developing metro area in the state of Florida.
FYI….As a PGA Professional living just North. Palm Beach County has a confirmed 160 golf courses! Really an astounding figure!
We lived in Port St Lucie for over 5 years. We loved our community and the people were always very friendly to us. Would love to visit Key West and Cape Coral on our next visit!
Key West and Cape Coral are both terrific Jannet.
We visited Cape Coral in December and really liked the area. Would seriously think about retiring there in a few years.
Would love to learn more about quaint towns for retirement
Hi Gail,
This article might be of interest: https://www.floridaforboomers.com/finding-vintage-old-florida/
Many thanks,
Ryan
You missed DeLand, FL
Dunedin or Tarpon Springs.
Connie, what do you like about Dunedin? Will be going there next week.
We just moved to Dunedin – there is always something to do, it’s quaint, many restaurants, shops and the water!!!!! I feel like I am on a permanent vacation!
Try Brooksville. Very quaint and old town. Lived there for awhile.
Appalachacola Fl. Excellent place!
I would like information on Vero Beach area
I have lived in Vero for 21 years. It has grown a lot over that time and will continue to do so. I am now in an over 55 gated community of condos and villas. The HOA fee is relatively low so it is an appealing place for many. However, I will be retiring next year and hoping to move to the Nature Coast described in the article. I look forward to visiting many of the natural springs in the area.
Vero used to be called Florida’s best secret but I don’t think that applies anymore.
Vero Beach/Indian River County has long been a hidden gem. During seasonal months, population is 150k. I am yet to deal with traffic. Public beach access feels like private compared to any other city in FL. Incredible theater, places to eat, golf Mecca, fishing, kayaking, pickle ball, MLB’s Dogertown, airport, Cleveland Clinic, Community College, and the amenities of a high end city with the beach and ability to build or buy a home in a country life setting with a 2mile drive to the city and 12 miles to the beach. There are very distinct building codes on the beach along A1A which truly separates this place from any other. While there are less than a handful of high rises along the beach and on the island, building codes do not allow more than two stories, no franchise restaurants, no tall signs, no late night party clubs, & it preserves the area for years to come. You will find homes in gated communities from 330k and up, River homes 600k & up, ocean 1.5. This is a wonderful place that’s only one hour north of West Palm Beach, 30 Mins South of Melbourne FL, 1 hr 20 mins from Orlando, which makes access to big city life and major airports a short drive.
Fully agreeing with above comments. Had a vacation place in Vero Beach for 12 years before moving here full time 8 years ago. Couldn’t be happier. The least tourist y beach in Florida. Great place to retire. Somehow it gets spared from hurricanes more than other Florida beaches. It is the start of the tropics without being actually tropical. Not much to do for the younger generation, but as it is growing there will be more and more amenities for the young too. It definitely should be on the top of the list of the places to retire in Florida. Some deservedly call it the Hamptons of Florida!
We searched around Florida when we retired 8 years ago and hit the main cities like Destin, Pensacola, Tampa, Daytona etc, but when we landed in the Vero Beach/Sebastian area 4 years ago we found our happy place. We go there January-April like many and we love it. Quieter, less traffic. Yet the beaches are easily accessible with many beautiful preserves close by. We kayak, visit botanical gardens, have easy access to the airport if needed, many fine restaurants, and have met a lot of nice people. Love the area!
Mt. Dora & Eustis area are both small towns. Great in entertainment & small town shopping. Located in central FLorida so less expensive then the coast lines & about an hour or two drive to the ocean. Retired & became Floridians 8 years ago. Summers can be brutally HOT but spend the day on the water & you’ll be fine. Your body will adjust to the heat in time. 🌴
Mont Dora in Lake County
Within 6 months we are looking for a home on the west coast or upper Keys.
Those are two great areas to look. Good luck with your search!
My favorite is still Daytona Beach
My hometown James!
You missed Pensacola