Comparing the Top Retirement Cities for 2026
To help you weigh your options, the following table breaks down the essential criteria for these six surprising retirement destinations. Note that housing markets fluctuate; these reflect current 2026 regional baselines.
| City & State | Primary Lifestyle Draw | State Tax on Social Security | Healthcare Infrastructure |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roanoke, VA | Mountain recreation & affordability | None | Carilion Clinic Hub |
| Lancaster, PA | Walkability & East Coast access | None | Penn Medicine LGH |
| Fort Collins, CO | Active outdoor living & biking | None (Deductible) | UCHealth System |
| Ann Arbor, MI | Elite education & arts | None | Michigan Medicine |
| Greenville, SC | Mild climate & urban parks | None | Prisma Health |
| Boise, ID | Safety & expansive nature | None | St. Luke’s Health |
