One of the things that many dream about is retirement. It’s an opportunity to slow down, enjoy the little pleasures of life and reside in a community that feels like home. And you’d be hard pressed to find a better mix of affordability, safety and charm than small towns. That’s why we put together this exhaustive guide to 44 Small Towns In America for Retirees, considering their cost of living, livability scores and safety ratings.
Why Choose a Small Town for Retirement?
There are unique benefits of small towns such as:
- Cost-effectiveness: Lower housing costs and overall costs.
- Community Feel: A true community feel with nice neighbors.
- Peaceful Living: Get away from the bustle of major cities.
With those considerations in mind, let’s get into the towns!
Here are Best 44 Small Towns In America for Retirees
Maplewood, MO
- Monthly Cost of Living: $2,810 (rent is $2,400)
- Livability: 87
- Crime Rates: 55.80 per 1,000 residents
Maplewood has an urban convenience with a small-town feel. Its thrumming main street includes local shops, quaint cafes and community happenings that roll out a welcome mat for retirees.
Sharpsburg, PA
- Monthly Cost of Living: $2,840 All Inclusive
- Livability: 80
- Crime Rate: 9.48 per 1,000 residents
Sharpsburg, near Pittsburgh, has a close-knit community. The town has quaint parks and access to cultural and recreational amenities in the city.
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Brentwood, PA
- Sustainable monthly expenses: $2937/month
- Livability: 81
- Crime Rate: 7.83 per 1,000 residents
With affordable living and little crime, this postcard-worthy town is also a retreat for retirees looking for peace and accessibility.
Alamo Heights, TX
- How much it costs to live here for a month: $3,036
- Livability: 80
- Crimes per 1,000 residents: 33.86
Alamo Heights offers retirees a combination of culture and comfort with its tree-lined streets and friendly people. Adding to its appeal is its proximity to San Antonio.
Riverdale, UT
- Monthly Expenses: $3,084
- Livability: 82
- Crime Rate: 50.27 per 1K residents
For active retirees who thrive on outdoor activities, Riverdale boasts breathtaking mountain views.
Lindale, TX
- How Much It Costs to Live There: $3,143 a Month
- Livability: 80
- Crime Rate: 15.97 Inhabitants per 1,000
Lindale mixes affordability with a quaint small-town atmosphere, complete with local celebrations and warm weather nearly every month of the year.
Coraopolis, PA
- Monthly Expenses: $3,185
- Livability: 80
- Crime Rate: 12.95 per 1,000 residents
Coraopolis is a picturesque place, set alongside the Ohio River with a neighborhood feel.
Grand Blanc, MI
- Details: Monthly cost of living: $3,255
- Livability: 81
- Crime Rate: 9.91 per 1,000 people
This gem among Michigan retirement towns balances affordability with safety, as well as an abundance of local amenities.
Richmond Heights, MO
- MEMBER MONTHLY LIVING EXPENSES: $3,333
- Livability: 83
- Crime Rate: 72.47 per 1,000 population
Richmond Heights is full of life, shopping, dining and recreation.
Hillsborough, NC
- Cost of living per month: $3,343
- Livability: 81
- Crime rate: 61.24 per 1,000 residents
Older than the nation itself, Hillsborough is a town whose modern creativity touches it all, setting roots down an avenue of art, arties and nature.
Fort Mitchell, KY
- Monthly Cost of Living: $3,347
- Livability: 86
- Crime Rate = 8.68 per 1,000 residents
Fort Mitchell is a hidden gem that provides beautiful parks, community events, and hospitable smiles.
Camp Hill, PA
- Monthly Cost of Living: $3,356M
- Livability: 92
- Crime Rate: 9.39 per 1,000 residents.
The highest ranked town for livability is Camp Hill, which balances optimal safety with affordability.
Waukesha, WI
- Monthly Out-of-Pocket Cost of Living: $3,379
- Livability: 82
- Now, this is a crime rate of 8.93 per 1,000 residents
Waukesha’s walkable downtown area, tranquil parks and easy-going feel will attract retirees.
Northville, MI
- Monthly Cost of Living: $ 3,383
- Livability: 86
- Crime rate: 6.46 per 1,000 residents Crime: 6.46 per 1,000 residents
Northville is a beautiful and enchanting place to mix both history and modern-day living.
Brentwood, MO
- Monthly Cost of Living: $3,417 per month
- Livability: 83
- Crime Rate: 52.33 per 1,000 people
An easygoing suburb of St. Louis, Brentwood offers retirees a nice combination of suburban calm and urban convenience. Nicknamed the “City of Warmth,” Brentwood is a welcoming community with well-kept parks, local boutiques and dining choices. It’s also close to St. Louis, which provides residents with easy access to cultural attractions such as the Gateway Arch and any number of world-class museums.
Roanoke, TX
- Monthly Cost of Living: $3,500
- Livability: 82
- CRIME RATE: 13.86 per 1,000 residents
Dubbed the “Unique Dining Capital of Texas,” Roanoke is a haven for food enthusiasts. This small town has a quaint downtown with eclectic restaurants, shops, and community events. The temperate weather and friendly locals make it a wonderful place for retirees in search of a relaxed pace of life.
Wolfforth, TX
- Monthly Cost of Living: $3,542/month
- Livability: 82
- Crime rate: 5.86 per 1,000 residents
Wolfforth is between Lubbock, Wolfforth, Texas has low crime and a tight-knit community. Retirees will love the town’s low cost of living and the chance to take in stunning West Texas sunsets.
King City, OR
- Monthly Cost of Living, After Taxes: $3,570
- Livability: 84
- Crime Rate: Crime Count (per 1,000 residents)
King City, a tranquil retirement community nestled in Oregon’s rolling hills and vineyards. There is a big community feel to the area, with lots of active retiree pursuits — with golf courses and walking tracks.
Plymouth, MI
- Monthly Cost of Living: $3,630
- Livability: 84
- Total Crime Rate: 11.11 per 1,000 residents
Plymouth is a historic town that is charming in every way. Its lively downtown includes regular festivals, farmers’ markets and outdoor concerts. Affordable and liveable, it is a place many retirees will choose.
Roeland Park, KS
- Monthly Cost of Living: $3,661 per month
- Livability: 84
- Crime Rate: 42.88 per 1,000 residents
Roeland Park is a quiet suburb of Kansas City with a slower pace of life and the frantic hustle of the city at its doorstep. It is known for being a friendly place and for emphasizing arts and culture.
Stone Mountain, GA
- Cost of Living per Month: $3,672
- Livability: 80
- CRIME RATE: 25.37 PER 1,000 RESIDENTS
This town, at the base of Stone Mountain, embraces outdoor adventurers. Those entering the retirement stage can go for a hike on its many trails, picnic in the park or take part in community activities all year round.
Newmarket, NH
- Monthly Cost of Living: $3,715
- Livability: 84
- Crime Rate: 5.84 per 1,000 residents
Newmarket — A New England town with historic mill buildings and views along the river. Its low crime and friendly atmosphere make it ideal for retirees looking for a peaceful and picture-book setting.
New Milford, CT
- Monthly Cost of Living: $3,866
- Livability: 85
- Crime Rate Each Year: 6.80 per 1,000 residents
New Milford offers both New England charm and modern convenience. The town has a combination of cultural and recreational activities, from art galleries to walking trails beside the Housatonic River.
Hatboro, PA
- Cost of living monthly: $3,917
- Livability: 87
- Crime Rate: 7.17 per 1,000 people
With an impressive livability score, Hatboro is a gem for retirees, and its lively downtown rounds things out perfectly. The town is a friendly, engaging place to live, with a community-oriented local approach and many groups being active in town.
Philomath, OR
- Monthly Cost of Living: $4,066
- Livability: 81
- Crime Rate: 11.73 per 1,000 residents
Philomath is an attractive small Oregon town bordered by woodlands and vineyards. With its slower pace of life and natural beauty, it’s a magnet for woodsy types who have pulled the retiree trigger.
Freeport, ME
- Monthly Cost of Living: $4,289 per month
- Livability: 88
- Crime Rate: 12.15 per 1k residents Crime Rate: 12.15 per 1k residents
Freeport is mostly recognized for its outlet shopping and coastal character. Away from the stores, retirees can relax by the town’s calm beaches and eat fresh seafood.
Winooski, VT
- Cost Of Living Monthly: $4,349
- Livability: 80
- Crime Rate: 45.10 per 1,000 inhabitants
This Vermont town boasts a vibrant arts scene and welcoming community. The downtown area of Winooski is a gathering of funky restaurants and shops that appeal to a wide range of palates.
Whitefish, MT
- Monthly Cost of Living: $4,419/month
- Livability: 82
- Crime: 21.43 offenses per 1,000 residents
Whitefish is a gateway to Glacier National Park, with breathtaking mountain views and a plethora in outdoor activities. It’s a good fit for retirees with an adventurous spirit who love nature.
Andover, MA
- Monthly Cost of Living: $4,408
- Livability: 81
- Crime Rate: 6.17 per 1,000 residents;
Historic homes and a rich cultural heritage make Andover a town steeped in history. For retirees, the town boasts first-rate amenities and a quiet atmosphere.
Plantation, FL
- How Much It Costs to Live per Month: $4,454
- Livability: 81
- Crime Rate: 27.69 per 1,000 people
Plantation features lush green spaces and a subtropical climate. And an attractive alternative for retirees seeking warmth and activity, it boasts parks, golf courses and relative proximity to Miami.
Bay Harbor Islands, FL
- The Monthly Cost of Living: $4,966
- Livability: 87
- Nature of Crime: 7.80 per 1,000 residents
Bay Harbor Islands is a friendly place to live and work located in Miami-Dade County, known for its safety and luxurious lifestyle.
Hopkinton, MA
- Monthly Budget: $5,118Cost of Living
- Livability: 80
- Crime Rates: 4.01 per 1,000 inhabitants
Hopkinton, known as the home of the start of the Boston Marathon, also offers abundance of natural beauty and a strong sense of community. Its low crime rate and livability score have made it a favorite for retirees.
Capitola, CA
- How much it costs to live monthly: $5,258
- Livability: 80
- Crime Rate: 34.05 per 1,000 people
Capitola, a picturesque seaside village in Northern California, can give retirees an appealing way of life in the kind of oceanfront village or small town many dream of. Famous for its colorful beachfront houses and the colorful Capitola Village, this town combines laid-back coastal living and spirited community activity. With temperate weather year-round, retirees can embrace life strolling along the Esplanade, shopping in boutique shops, and dining in waterfront restaurants. Capitola is also home to cultural events like the Art & Wine Festival, encouraging an active social environment for residents.
El Cerrito, CA
- The Monthly Price of Living: $5,365
- Livability: 80
- Violent Crime Rate: 44.71 per 1,000 population
El Cerrito is a suburban enclave in the San Francisco Bay Area that offers urban amenities and suburban charm. It’s conveniently near the cultural centers of Berkeley and San Francisco while retaining a much quieter character. It lets retirees hike at regional parks, stroll along the bay or see plays at the local community theater. With its diverse population and rich history, El Cerrito is an inclusive destination for retirees who want both comfort and culture.
Duvall, WA
- Monthly Salary Needed to Cover Living Expenses: $5,378
- Livability: 81
- Crime rate: 6.15 per 1,000 residents
A tranquil small town, located amid the lush greenery of the Pacific Northwest, Duvall is a great pick for retirees who enjoy the outdoors. The town is located next to beautiful hiking trails, rivers and mountains, which are perfect for hiking and exploring. Duvall also holds seasonal festivals and farmers’ markets that attract residents who want to socialize and interact. With a low crime rate combined with its scenic charm, its an appealing choice for someone looking for peace and safety in their golden years.
Hingham, MA
- Monthly Housing Market: $5,385
- Livability: 81
- Crime Rate: 6.37 per 1,000 residents
Hingham, a three hundred fifty year old town south of Boston, is ideal for retirees seeking a combination of small-town charm and coastal beauty. With a scenic harbor and charming colonial buildings, Hingham embodies New England. Residents can experience waterfront dining, beautiful boat rides or strolls within Wompatuck State Park. Its proximity to Boston also means retirees can have access to the cultural and recreational offerings of a major city without living among the hustle and bustle.
Mountain View, CA
- Monthly Cost of Living: $5,785 #Monthly_Cost_of_Living_5_785
- Livability: 85
- Crime rate: 32.37 per 1,000 residents
Retiring in Mountain View, located in the heart of Silicon Valley, offers residents an exceptional quality of life, characterized by a high-livability score. There is the dynamic downtown with numerous restaurants and shops as well parks and other green spaces. Techneer — Mountain View is home to the Computer History Museum among other tech centric attractions. The town’s moderato climate, cultural mix and proximity to top-flight health care make it an impeccable option for retirees.
Kensington, CA
- Monthly Cost to Live: $7,980
- Livability: 84
- This was last updated on October 2023 and crime rate was found to be 20.87 per residents.
Kensington is a gated community in California’s East Bay, famous for its breathtaking sights of the San Francisco Bay and quiet residential roads. Cost of living is high, but retirees will enjoy the town’s safety, quiet nature and access to high-end offerings. Instead, Kensington Park is a quiet sanctuary for walking or picnicking, and the nearby Berkeley Hills have hiking trails. This wealthy enclave is ideal for retirees who want a life of luxury and serenity.
Sharon, MA
- Cost of Living: $4,610 per month
- Livability: 82
- Crime Rate: 3. 13 per, 1,000 residents
Sharon is a picturesque New England town, known for being one of the safest places to live in Massachusetts. The town is bordered by natural beauty, including Lake Massapoag, which provides opportunities for swimming, boating and fishing. Sharon’s robust community activities, good public library and cultural events provide an active environment for retirees. This sense of community and the proximity to Boston only adds to the charm.
Dumfries, VA
- Cost of Living: $4,618 (Monthly)
- Livability: 81
- Crime rate: 19.08 per 1,000 residents
Steeped in history, Dumfries, Virginia, is the oldest continuously chartered town in the state. Its location near Washington, D.C., allows retirees to enjoy access to top-notch museums and cultural happenings — all while reaping the rewards of small-town life. Dumfries is also surrounded by parks and nature reserves, Prince William Forest Park, which offer plenty of opportunities for the outdoor pursuits of choice.
Neptune Beach, FL
- Monthly Cost of Living: $4,823
- Livability: 82
- Crime Rate : 13.19 per 1,000 residents
The relaxed coastal community of Neptune Beach, in Florida, is an ideal spot for retirees who want to live right on the ocean. With peaceful beaches, local shops and seafood restaurants, the town has an easygoing, neighborly feel. The nearby city of Jacksonville offers additional amenities and access to healthcare facilities, making Neptune Beach an idyllic and convenient location for retirement.
West Miami, FL
- Monthly Cost of Living: $4,921
- Livability: 81
- Crime Rate: 12.58 Per 1,000 Residents Crime Rate: 12.58 per 1,000 residents
West Miami is a small family town in the heart of Miami-Dade County. The diversity of its community, local parks and cultural events make this city attractive to retirees. West Miami’s beaches and nightlife are just a short drive away; it blends suburban calm and metropolitan excitement.
Freeport, ME
- Monthly Cost of Living: $4,289
- Livability: 88
- Crime Rate: 12.15 incidents per 1,000 population
Known for outlet shopping and its coastal allure, Freeport provides retirees a casual but upscale lifestyle. Boasting pastoral trails, plus easy access to the Maine coast, the town is a natural playground.
Bay Harbor Islands, FL
- Monthly Cost of Living: $4,966
- Livability: 87
- Crime Rate: 7.80 per 1,000 people
Bay Harbor Islands (a quiet affluent near-Miami community) Renowned for its pedestrian-friendly roads and lavish living, it offers retirees a safe and tranquil atmosphere. Its location neighboring South Beach, Bal Harbour and cultural districts in Miami guarantees access to lively entertainment, while preserving its residential serenity.
Towns are great places to retire because they offer an ideal combination of low cost of living, active community involvement and beautiful views. Armed with this list of 44 best-rated towns, retirees can locate some place that meets their lifestyle preferences, assuring a gratifying and quiet retirement.