News Summary
Orlando, Florida has been named the best city for retirement by 2025 according to a WalletHub analysis of over 180 cities. The study evaluated factors such as affordability, activities, quality of life, and health care. Orlando’s lack of income, estate, and inheritance taxes, coupled with its low living costs and health care facilities, make it an attractive destination for retirees. Scottsdale, Arizona and Minneapolis, Minnesota follow closely behind in the rankings, with other Florida cities also making the list.
Orlando Shines as Top Spot for Retirement in 2025
When it comes to picking the perfect place to kick back and enjoy retirement, Orlando, Florida has taken the crown in a recent analysis! According to a new study, done by WalletHub, Orlando tops the list as the best city to hang up your work boots by 2025. Exciting, right?
How They Figured It Out
Recently published on September 2, the WalletHub report dived into over 180 cities, crunching the numbers on 45 different metrics. These metrics were classified into four categories: affordability, activities, quality of life, and health care. This analysis means that retirees have a ton of options to consider when looking for their ideal retirement haven.
Why Orlando Stole the Show
Orlando’s flair for being a great retirement spot can be attributed to its favorable tax policies. Guess what? The city doesn’t collect any income tax, estate tax, or inheritance tax, making it particularly appealing for those looking to stretch their dollars. When looking at living costs, the city shines brightly, ranking as the 9th cheapest area for homemaker services and the 20th cheapest for adult day health care.
For seniors, health matters a lot, and Orlando did well in this department too, ranking 19th for gerontologists per capita and 6th for home health-care facilities. With all these benefits, it’s no wonder retirees are flocking to this sunny destination!
Scottsdale Isn’t Far Behind
Right on Orlando’s heels is Scottsdale, Arizona, which snatched the second spot on this list. Known for its stunning art galleries and world-class golf courses, Scottsdale is another hot spot for retirees. The tax benefits here are pretty alluring too, contributing to its fame as a retirement haven. Plus, you can’t overlook its delightful weather, ranking 4th for climate, making it a great spot for those who love the outdoors. Moreover, it earned the 2nd position for being a caring community, truly a cherry on top!
Minneapolis Holds Its Ground
Let’s not forget about Minneapolis, Minnesota, which gracefully claims the third position in this competition. With over 22% of the population aged 65 and over, Minneapolis shows it’s a friendly place for seniors looking to remain active and engaged. The city boasts an impressive hospital system that ranks 8th best, and a strong community support system focused on aiding the elderly.
What to Look for in a Retirement Spot
When considering where to retire, it’s essential to weigh all aspects, not just the financial side. Potential retirees need to think about activities, health care options, and overall quality of life. These factors play a large role in how you’ll enjoy your golden years!
Other Cities on the Radar
Florida doesn’t stop with Orlando; cities like Miami and Tampa also made the cut for a friendly retirement environment. Miami even managed to break into the top five! However, Fort Lauderdale didn’t fare as well this year, dropping places due to decreases in affordability and health care services. It showcases how rankings can shift so quickly!
Low-Ranking Cities to Avoid
Not every city managed to charm retirees. Unfortunately, places like Newark (New Jersey), Fresno (California), and Bridgeport (Connecticut) ranked low on WalletHub’s list, making them less appealing for retirement.
Final Thoughts
With so many options out there, it’s definitely wise to plan ahead, considering not just financial elements but also your desired lifestyle and healthcare needs. Whether you seek sunny skies in Orlando or vibrant activities in Scottsdale, the world of retirement offers exciting possibilities for everyone.
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Additional Resources
- USA Today
- Wikipedia: Retirement
- SI Live
- Google Search: Best Places to Retire in the US
- KARE 11
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Retirement
- Condé Nast Traveler
- Google News: Places to Retire
- Get Golden Visa

Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.