If you’re considering retirement and dreaming of a serene lakeside lifestyle, this Midwestern gem is calling your name. It turns out there’s a place that strikes the perfect balance between relaxation and affordability.
Retirement can really add up for a lot of folks in the U.S. That’s why GOBankingRates sifted through various cities to pinpoint the 50 best spots for middle-class retirees to set up camp.
They only looked at cities where at least 25% of the locals are 65 and older. Coming up with the rankings wasn’t just random guesswork. They considered factors like cost of living, average Social Security payments, and primary incomes for retirees. To focus on the middle class, they filter out towns with average home prices under $500,000 while excluding smaller towns with populations below 15,000 according to the U.S. Census data. So if you’re envisioning a quaint little escape, you might need to think outside the box!
To get their numbers, researchers referenced sources like Federal Reserve Economic Data, Zillow’s home value metrics, and livability stats from AreaVibes.
In the end, the title for best place to retire goes to Albert Lea, Minnesota! With an annual living cost of just $29,333, it’s a deal that many will appreciate. A major plus for seniors here is that a solid 27% of households receive some form of retirement income.
Located about 90 miles from the Twin Cities — Minneapolis and Saint Paul — retirees can enjoy the best of both worlds: a peaceful lakeside setting paired with access to urban amenities.
Life in Albert Lea is beautifully intertwined with nature, sitting right by Fountain Lake, Albert Lea Lake, and Pickerel Lake. This city is often affectionately d as “the Land Between the Lakes.” With plenty of fishing, birdwatching, and boating options across these lakes, there’s never a dull moment.
Albert Lea Lake is close to Myre‑Big Island State Park, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the great outdoors with camping and nature trails. Meanwhile, Fountain Lake has a lively scene with downtown green spaces and places to gather. Though smaller, Pickerel Lake offers fantastic fishing thanks to a variety of species linked to the nearby Mississippi River. If you’re a birdwatching enthusiast, watch for bald eagles and other locals that enjoy the lush floodplains around.
While only one Minnesota city cracked the rankings, the state is full of activities, festivals, and attractions that cater to diverse interests. Whether you’re into snow sports or exploring historical landmarks, you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained, including the charming 19th-century village at the History Century of Freeborn County. For stunning fall road trips, head north to witness the breathtaking foliage. And don’t forget to check out the Northern Voyageurs National Park for some stargazing bliss.
While Minnesota shines with this win, it’s worth noting that Florida totally ruled the list of best retirement spots—landing a whopping 26 cities, outpacing Arizona’s six. With a slew of retirement-friendly communities, great healthcare options, and notably mild winters, it’s easy to see why retirees love the Sunshine State. Sun City Center in west-central Florida took a high spot at No. 4, boasting a population with over 62% of its residents aged 65 and up, all while maintaining a $41,682 living cost.
Curious about other hot picks? Check out more insights at gobankingrates.com.
For the full scoop, read the original article featured on Travel & Leisure.
