The transition into retirement is nothing new in the American retirement environment. Older adults have been doing this for years, and the trend is increasing. According to Hire A Helper’s latest Migration Trends Report, more than 338,000 U.S. retirees will move for retirement in 2023, an increase of 44% from the previous year.
It is not difficult to guess the motivation behind this trend. After all, most retirees aren’t financially well off, so it makes sense to move to a location with a lower cost of living as part of a larger retirement savings plan. It’s clear why retirees move, but where they move is an entirely different story. America’s Sunshine State has long been a popular destination for retirees. The subtropical climate, beaches, The Walt Disney Company (NYSE:DIS), and expansive golf courses are just a few of the reasons that draw thousands of retirees from across the country, and the appeal remains. Is there one?
Meanwhile, prices in Florida are getting higher and higher. Redfin Corporation (NASDAQ:RDFN) reports that prices in the Florida real estate market have increased 3.9% since last year, and the median home price is now $400,000. Zillow Group, Inc. (NASDAQ:Z) reports that the average rent in Florida is $2,500 per month, 22% higher than the national median, making Florida’s rental market unfavorable even for retirees. Given these numbers, some experts are predicting a shift away from the Sunshine State.
Check out the 5 safest and most affordable cities to retire in Florida.
5. Lake Wales
- Score: 95
- Cost of Living Index: 88.3
- Safety Rating: 74
First up in the top five is Lake Wales. Located in Polk County, Lake Wales is the perfect place for frugal retirees in Florida. Lake Wales has a cost of living that is 11.7% lower than the national average, allowing seniors on a budget to live in a great community. Residents can visit Bock Tower Gardens, Eagle Ridge Mall, and Lake Kissimmee State Park.
4. Punta Gorda
- Rating: 96
- Cost of Living Index: 96.2
- Safety Rating: 91
Punta Gorda is a city in southwest Florida, located in Charlotte County. The city is considered one of the world’s best places for sport fishing and is also a great location for water sports activities such as sailing and sailing. Residents can also visit Peace River’s Wildlife Center, where they can encounter owls and turtles, as well as orphaned, injured and displaced wild animals. At the end of the day, retirees can enjoy a delicious meal at Carmelo’s Italian Ristorante.
3. Port Orange
- Score: 96
- Cost of Living Index: 96
- Safety Score: 90
Located in Volusia County, Port Orange is home to a variety of natural wonders. Residents can visit Dunlawton Sugar Mill Gardens, Bushman Park, and Wilbur Beach. For indoor activities, retirees can visit the Regal Pavilion movie theater or grab a bite to eat at local seafood restaurant Ant Catfish on the River.
2. Gulf Breeze
- Rating: 97
- Cost of Living Index: 96.3
- Safety Rating: 94
Gulf Breeze rounds out the top two. Gulf Breeze has the highest safety rating with a score of 94 points. Not only is it an ideal location for security-conscious retirees, but even better is its low cost of living. The cost of living is 3.7% lower than the national average, making it an advantage for seniors looking for a quiet place without going over their budget.
1. Dunnellon
- Score: 98
- Cost of Living Index: 88.5
- Safety Rating: 78
Dunnellon is our best choice for the safest and most affordable city to retire in Florida is. Best known for its natural beauty, Dunnellon is home to Rainbow Springs State Park, where visitors can swim, snorkel, and dive to their heart’s content. Dunnellon, located in Marion County, is one of the least populated places on our list. At the last U.S. Census, the city had fewer than 2,000 residents. City residents can immerse themselves in nature, enjoy a low cost of living, and spend their free time at Juliet Falls Golf Course.
