The U.S. News and World Report has pulled together the best places to retire in the USA for 2022-23.
To fully comprehend what makes a good place to retire to, U.S. News analysed data for the 150 largest metropolitan areas in the USA to see how well they met habitant requirements expectations and needs.
It’s worth mentioning that retiring to the US isn’t as simple as just buying property out there. If you wish to stay in the US for more than 90 days, you will need to apply for a visa. For a guide to American visas, click here.
The data assessed includes happiness of local residents, tax rates, quality of healthcare and housing affordability. So, where do you think made the top 5? View the report in all its glory, click here.
Farmland in Lancaster, PA
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1. Lancaster, Pennsylvania
One of the oldest cities in the US, Lancaster is most well known for its prominent Amish community as well as rolling farmlands, and rich history. Lancaster offers a balance between country and small-town living.
Lancaster City is a small city in the Lancaster countryside that’s often bustling with activity. It’s seven square miles wide and has a certain historic charm that’s accentuated with a modern twist.
As well as topping this list, Lancaster has consistently been named as one of the best places to visit in the US for its historic architecture, nationally renowned restaurants, vibrant arts scene and diverse community.
Weather in Lancaster is pleasant. Locals like to visit farms and green spaces in their free time. There’s also a nice selection of hiking trails in the area which makes for an excellent summer day out.
According to Real Estate US, the median home price in Lancaster is $226,550.
Skyline at sunset in Harrisburg, PA
2. Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
Harrisburg is the state capital of Pennsylvania and lies on the Susquehanna River. The city is renowned beauty and rich history which played a huge role in the Civil War and the US Industrial Revolution. Home to 50,000 people, Harrisburg attracts over 204 million tourists from all over every year.
Harrisburg scores highly as it has an eclectic mix of city life and wilderness. There are some great green spaces in Harrisburg which are enjoyed by all with a love for the outdoors. The city hosts lots of annual events too, which bring tourism to the area.
Harrisburg is best suited to those looking for an active retirement as the town is rather limited in terms of places to eat out and nightlife, however its rural setting along the river is enjoyed by outdoor enthusiasts. Locals enjoy heading to the famous Appalachian trails which are suitable for hikers and biking. There’s also plenty of opportunity for camping, mountain biking and more in nearby state forests.
The average home price in Harrisburg is $298,830*.
*for more information, please read the US News study on Harrisburg
Pensacola on the Gulf Coast of Florida
3. Pensacola, Florida
Pensacola is Florida’s most western city and is relatively small. To put its 106km2 into context, that’s about the same size as the borough of Trafford in Greater Manchester.
Pensacola is divided into uptown and downtown, which offers two paces of life. Uptown is a bustling culture hub, often busy with tourists and adventure seekers, while downtown offers a slightly more relaxed lifestyle. There are miles of shoreline to discover along the coast, which is home to various white sand beaches and local restaurants.
Pensacola Bay is a key area in the city, where locals come to enjoy water sports, paddling, fishing and walking along the coast.
Pensacola offers a balanced lifestyle: close to a bustling town centre and also the calm coast. The area also has a rich history, of which natives are extremely proud of. There’s a Pensacola Museum of History which is a must-visit for anyone considering a move to the small city.
It’s also home to America’s first Settlement Trail – a three-mile-long path through downtown and the historic district which has various stops pointing out the historic value of the town and how its developed over time.
The average house price in Pensacola is $200,800.
Tampa skyline, Florida
4. Tampa, Florida
Tampa is one of the areas in the top five that probably is the most recognisable to foreigners. This is due to its proximity to Disneyland Florida. Popular amusement park Busch Gardens is in Tampa and offers exciting thrill rides and animal encounters.
Besides the obvious attractions, Tampa is a wonderful place to live. It’s been described by locals as ‘like being on vacation all year.’ The Tampa Bay area, made up of Tampa, St. Petersburg and Clearwater, is on Florida’s Gulf Coast and there are four gorgeous beaches along the bay’s shores.
There’s a large Hispanic community in Tampa and has a cultural social scene with expats from all over the world. Tampa is home to Ybor City – once known as the ‘cigar capital of the world’.
Tampa would best suit those looking to have a social retirement and make the most of the cultural city, sandy shores and supporting local sports teams. There are weekly markets throughout the city where locals pay homage to their roots by selling authentic cuisines, cigars and artisanal products.
The average property price in Tampa is $369,299.
Aerial view of York, PA
5. York, Pennsylvania
York, Pennsylvania takes the fifth spot on the list. It’s a small metropolitan area with a rich history (birthplace of the Articles of Confederation) and urban landscape. Those new to York find it is an area with a proud heritage that is still very recognizable today.
It’s the 10th largest city in the state with a large agricultural and industrial background. York is considered a nice place to settle down as its safe, affordable and a pleasant place to live.
There’s a diverse selection of bars and restaurants in York, which Yorkers (habitants) enjoy. This diversity is due to the influx of expats who live in the area.
York has 11 country parks which total over 4,000 acres. If you’re after a change of pace and a new scene, York is a great place to settle down. There’s plenty opportunity tog et out and enjoy the outdoors and the cost of living is lower than the national average.
The average house price in York is $176,650.
