Considering that mortgage rates maintained an upward trajectory in June, hitting 6.92% for a 30-year-fixed-rate loan, and the current average price of a home in the U.S. stands at $360,681, according to Zillow, now is a great time to rent. Not to mention that in most of the nation’s largest cities, renting is now far cheaper than buying. 

Here’s a quick look at the top five cities where you can get the most out of your renting experience in 2024.

1. Charleston, SC

For the second year in a row, Charleston takes the top spot as the best city for renters thanks to a strong local economy and affordability. Charleston also has a lower cost of living than the national average, various career opportunities from leading employers and thriving tourism. The city also offers spacious apartments, green spaces, great schools, museums, fitness centers and cultural events that are attractive to renters.

2. Atlanta, GA

Atlanta claims the second spot in this year's report thanks to a strong local economy and high scores for the overall cost of living and housing. Atlanta also has a career-focused mindset with steady income opportunities for renters with major employers like Delta Air Lines, Cox Enterprises, The Home Depot, and UPS. It has a cost-of-living below the national average, large apartments and plenty of opportunities to get involved in a thriving community. 

3. Sarasota, FL

Sarasota, FL, comes in third on RentCafe’s list of best cities for renters in 2024. Ranking fifth in cost of living and housing and sixth in local economy, Sarasota just may be the perfect spot for renters looking for a city that offers a good work/life balance. The city has spacious, high-end apartments, gorgeous green spaces and quality schools. Thanks to companies such as PGT Innovations, Xfinity and Sun Hydraulics, renters have many career opportunities to choose from, and Sarasota’s thriving arts scene ensures that renters never get bored.

4. McKinney, TX

McKinney, TX, takes the fourth spot, ranking high in cost of living, housing, a higher quality of life, high-end apartments and quality schools. McKinney is an excellent choice for renters who want to escape the hurried pace of a large city without compromising on urban comfort. The city has become a big draw for both young professionals and students.

5. Scottsdale, AZ

Scottsdale, AZ, rounds out the top five best cities for renters in 2024. “The West’s Most Western Town” is a promising option for renters eager to balance work and leisure. It is a picturesque city in the heart of the Sonoran Desert and home to numerous resorts, restaurants and boutiques. The average size for an apartment in Scottsdale, AZ, is 952 square feet, but that can vary greatly from one complex to the next. Studio apartments are the smallest and most affordable options for renters. The list of largest employers is topped by companies in the healthcare and tourism spaces. There are also abundant opportunities for entrepreneurs.

What are the best places in the U.S. for renters to live in 2024?

Based on population, cost-of-living, apartment size, occupancy rate, share of new apartments and high-end apartments, these are the top 25 best places for renters in 2024.

1. Charleston, NC
2. Atlanta, GA
3. Sarasota, FL
4. McKinney, TX
5. Scottsdale, AZ
6. Round Rock, TX
7. Austin, TX
8. Chapel Hill, NC
9. Gilbert, AZ
10. Miami, FL
11. Charlotte, NC
12. Raleigh, NC
13. Fort Lauderdale, FL
14. Rochester, MN
15. Huntsville, AL
16. Greenville, SC
17. Plano, TX
18. Orlando, FL
19. Wilmington, NC
20. Durham, NC
21. Boise, ID
22. Marietta, GA
23. Denver, CO
24. Sioux Falls, SD
25. Jacksonville, FL

Best cities for renters in the South

With nearly half of the cities in RentCafe’s ranking located in the South, it’s no surprise that renters are flocking to warmer temperatures, a lower-than-average cost of living, spacious apartments and a high share of newly built units in these top ten southern cities.

1. Charleston, SC; 
2. Atlanta, GA 
3. Sarasota, FL
4. McKinney, TX
5. Round Rock, TX
6. Austin, TX
7. Miami, FL
8. Chapel Hill, NC
9. Raleigh, NC
10. Charlotte, NC

Best cities for renters in the West

Renters looking for cities where they can work hard and keep fit — the best of both worlds in the West, and home to 32 of the 150 spots on RentCafe’s list.  Here’s the top ten.

1. Seattle, WA
2. Boise, ID
3. Reno, NV
4. Salt Lake City, UT
5. Westminster, CO
6. Colorado Springs, CO
7. Denver, CO
8. Scottsdale, AZ
9. Phoenix, AZ
10. Gilbert, AZ
    

Best cities for renters in the Northeast

Competition is making it harder for renters to snag an ideal apartment in the Northeast. However, the region stands out with desirable locales such as Stamford, CT, and Boston, which rank high in quality of life. The top ten cities for renters to live in 2024 in the Northeast include:

1. New Haven, CT
2. Albany, NY
3. Pittsburgh, PA
4. Harrisburg, PA
5. Philadelphia, PA
6. Allentown, PA
7. Stamford, CT
8. Providence, RI
9. Buffalo, NY
10. Boston, MA

Best cities for renters in the Midwest

Meeting the needs of renters with affordable housing, a robust local economy and quality of life, the Midwest claims 27 cities on RentCafe’s list. These cities rank in the top ten.

1. Saint Paul, MN
2. Minneapolis, MN
3. Rochester, MN
4. Sioux Falls, SD
5. Madison, WI
6. Omaha, NE
7. Lincoln, NE
8. Ann Arbor, MI
9. Columbus, OH
10. Kansas City, MO

For more in-depth, customized data and charts, see the full report from RentCafe here. 

Related Content

• Best Places to Rent 2024 — How Does Your City Rank?
• Rent or Buy? Which Is Best in Retirement?
• Your Guide to the Housing Market in 2024
• Kiplinger Housing Outlook for the Spring Home-Selling Season

More than 1 million people spend part of the year in Florida, and many of them are retirees. The Carolinas, Georgia and Alabama have also become popular destinations for snowbirds. As millions of baby boomers retire, southbound traffic on I-95 is likely to get even more intense. 

But while the snowbird lifestyle may be appealing during the dark days of December, features that make a destination a great vacation spot may not translate into a desirable long-term stay, says Andy Baxley, a certified financial planner in Chicago. “An ideal snowbird community is going to offer opportunities for community and engagement, not just relaxation,” he says. 

We’ve selected eight cities that offer appealing options for snowbirds, including quality hospitals and physicians, plenty of short-term rentals, retiree-friendly amenities, and low taxes. Because not all snowbirds want to flock to Florida, we’ve provided destinations in seven other warm-weather states across the U.S. 

As you review our picks — or explore some of your own — here are factors to consider before you start stockpiling sunblock. 

Buying versus renting in retirement: Renting will help you determine whether a community is a good fit before you decide to purchase a condo or house. Kevin McLoughlin, a certified financial planner in Sterling, Va., says he encourages clients who are thinking about buying a second home in a warmer climate to spend one winter renting. 

“Sunshine is a plus, but you’ve also got to create a sense of meaning if you’re going to stay for a month or two,” says Heather Gibson, a professor of leisure, tourism and sport at the University of Florida. 

In 2016, Steve Parrish, a professor and scholar in residence at the American College of Financial Services, and his wife, Carla, began spending what Parrish calls “long, working vacations” at rental properties near the beach in St. Augustine. In 2020, they bought a condo in St. Augustine and divided their time between Florida and Des Moines. They decided to move to St. Augustine permanently and sold both of their condos this summer, which enabled them to buy a single-family home in a St. Augustine gated community. 

Owning two homes can be expensive, even if you’ve paid off the mortgage on your primary residence and can afford to pay cash for your second home (more on that below). The cost of homeowners insurance has skyrocketed in many coastal communities, and insurers typically charge higher premiums for second homes; because second homes are usually vacant part of the year, they’re at greater risk for insurance claims. You’ll also have to pay property taxes, which may be higher than taxes in your home state. Maintenance and utilities add to the cost, too. Renting will help you get an estimate of the costs of owning two homes. 

Health care: Even if you’re healthy now, that could change while you’re basking in the sun, so make sure that you have access to good medical care during the winter months. 

This is particularly important if you’re enrolled in Medicare Advantage, a private insurance plan that typically requires beneficiaries to use in-network physicians and hospitals. If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, contact the provider to find out whether you’ll be able to get in-network care at a potential winter destination. Otherwise, you may have to pay extra for an out-of-network provider, or your care might not be covered at all. 

Some Medicare Advantage plans are specifically designed for individuals who will need coverage in more than one location, which is worth considering if you’re planning to be a snowbird. Another option is to enroll in original Medicare, which provides coverage anywhere in the U.S. as long as the provider accepts it. 

You’ll also want to sign up for a medigap plan, a private insurance policy that cover deductibles, co-payments and other expenses. Premiums for a Medicare–medigap combination will likely be higher than those for Medicare Advantage, but you could end up paying less for health care in the long run because you won’t have to worry about out-of-network costs. 

If you have a Medicare Part D plan to cover prescription drugs, you’ll also need to determine whether the coverage extends to your winter destination. These plans are typically based on your primary location, but many have extensive pharmacy networks. Arranging for mail-order prescriptions of medications you take regularly is also an option and could save you money.

Taxes: States in the South and Southwest have long appealed to affluent retirees seeking to escape high state tax rates. But to demonstrate that you’re a full-time resident of a no-tax or low-tax state, you must spend the majority of the year in that jurisdiction — six months and one day at a minimum. 

Even then, you should take additional steps to establish residency because tax agencies in high-tax states are increasingly challenging wealthier snowbirds who claim to be residents of no-tax states. Register to vote, obtain a driver’s license and register a vehicle in your new location. 

Other documents that could demonstrate that you qualify to be a full-time resident include statements from an account with a local bank and bills from utilities and local health care providers. Keep records of any transactions that could show you have ties to the warm-weather state. In one court case, a judge ruled that an individual demonstrated residency in Texas because his dog was registered there. 

Estate planning: Each state has its own laws and regulations governing estate planning, which complicates matters for snowbirds. For example, a health care directive or power of attorney that’s legally binding in one state may not be recognized in another. 

When the Parrishes were dividing their time between Iowa and Florida, they had powers of attorney for health care executed in both states and kept the documents in both places so they would be available if one spouse ended up in the hospital. 

Owning homes in more than one state can also create headaches for your heirs, since they may be forced to go through probate in both states. Placing the properties in a revocable living trust will allow them to be transferred to your heirs, under the terms of the trust, outside of probate.

Financing a snowbird nest

While renting a condo or second home in a warm-weather state may make sense for a year or two, at some point you may decide you’d rather have a place of your own. That way, you’ll always have somewhere to stay during the winter months. It could also provide a way to downsize if you decide to sell your home up north. 

After soaring during the pandemic, sales of second homes dropped sharply in 2023, according to an analysis by online real estate mortgage broker Redfin. Early figures for 2024 indicate that demand for mortgages on second homes remains tepid, Redfin says, primarily due to high mortgage rates. The drop in demand has forced some sellers of vacation homes to lower their prices and offer more concessions to prospective buyers, says Daryl Fairweather, chief economist for Redfin. 

However, the same factors that have depressed the market for second homes can make buying one more challenging. Although mortgage rates have edged lower recently, the average rate for a 30-year, fixed-rate home loan remains at about 7%, and rates for second homes are typically 0.5 to 0.75 percentage point higher than those for primary homes. 

That’s not a concern if you can afford to pay cash for your second home. But some retirees may be reluctant to withdraw that much from their savings, and taking a large distribution from a traditional IRA or other tax-deferred account could trigger a large tax bill. Other options: 

A traditional first mortgage: Being out of the workforce isn’t necessarily a barrier to buying a second home, says Bill Banfield, chief business officer for Rocket Companies, parent company of Rocket Mortgage. 

Income from Social Security, a traditional pension, or continuous withdrawals from a retirement savings account can demonstrate to a lender that you can repay a mortgage, says Banfield. Retirees who don’t have a regular income stream but have a large amount of assets may also qualify. 

A home equity loan: A home equity loan is a lump-sum loan based on the amount of equity you have in your home and its fair market value. In general, lenders will allow you to borrow up to 85% of your home equity. You’ll repay the loan in monthly installments at a fixed interest rate over a period of anywhere from five to 30 years.

As is the case with mortgage rates, interest rates for home equity loans have risen since the Federal Reserve started hiking short-term rates in March 2022. Recently, the average rate was 8.61%, according to Bankrate.com. Your own rate will vary, depending on your credit score and payoff terms. 

Some retirees use a combination of cash and loans to buy their second homes, Banfield says. For example, you could withdraw money from your savings to cover a portion of the cost and finance the rest with a first or second mortgage. 

A reverse mortgage: Many retirees use income from a reverse mortgage to age in place, but you may also be able to use it to purchase a second home, says Steve Resch, vice president of retirement strategies at Finance of America Reverse, a reverse mortgage lender. 

To be eligible for a government-insured home equity conversion mortgage (HECM), you must be at least 62 years old and have significant equity in your home, and the home must be your primary residence. You can convert your home equity into a lump sum, monthly payments or a line of credit. The maximum payout for which you’ll qualify depends on your age (the older you are, the more you’ll be eligible to borrow), interest rates and the appraised value of your home. 

You can use the proceeds from the reverse mortgage to make a down payment or make an all-cash purchase, Resch says. However, the reverse mortgage must be on your primary residence, so you must continue to live in your northern home for at least half of the year. (If you’re away from your primary residence for longer than six consecutive months for nonmedical reasons, the loan usually becomes payable in full.) 

HECM regulations prohibit borrowers from taking out more than 60% of the available proceeds in the first year, which could limit the amount available for an all-cash purchase. One way to get around this problem is to take out the reverse mortgage a few years before you plan to buy a second home. 

A reverse mortgage doesn’t have to be repaid as long as you spend at least half of the year in your primary residence. However, up-front closing costs are higher than those for a home equity loan, so a reverse mortgage usually isn’t a good choice if you plan to sell your primary residence in less than five years. 

SOURCES: Figures for living costs are based on the Council for Community and Economic Research’s Cost of Living Index. The average for all participating places is 100. Population data comes from the U.S. Census Bureau. Typical monthly rent and mortgage payments are provided by Zillow. Hospital information is from Medicare. 

Florence, SC

Population: 40,609 

Cost of living: 95.0 

Average temperature during snowbird season: 58 degrees 

Number of hospitals within 25 miles: 6 

Closest airport: Florence Regional Airport 

Local vibe: Growing community with a rich history 

Florence was a major railroad hub in the 19th century. For decades after its railroad heyday, the area was better known for empty storefronts and the demolition of culturally significant buildings in favor of new construction. 

However, in 2011, the city and a group of dedicated volunteers embarked on a revitalization plan that has attracted more than 90 new businesses to the community, along with more than 100 new housing units. In 2023, Downtown Florence Main Street was one of three winners of the Great American Main Street Award, which recognizes communities for comprehensive, preservation-based commercial district revitalization. 

The city is adorned with whimsical public art, reflecting its lively arts scene, and is home to award-winning entertainment venues, such as the Florence Little Theatre, a community theater that has been providing high-quality theatrical productions for more than 90 years. The Florence County Museum offers a mix of historical exhibits and contemporary art. 

One- and two-bedroom apartments are available for less than $1,500 a month. Home prices are affordable as well, with condos available for less than $150,000, according to listings on Zillow. However, buyers may want to act fast. In March 2024, AESC, a Japanese battery-technology company, announced a $1.5 billion expansion of its electric-vehicle battery plant in Florence County, which is expected to create 1,080 new jobs and increase demand for housing. 

MUSC Health Florence Medical Center is a 396-bed acute care facility with about 300 physicians representing all major specialties. Carolina Pines Regional Medical Center, located in nearby Hartsville, is a 116-bed acute care facility that offers emergency services, several surgical specialties, and inpatient and out-patient care. 

South Carolina’s state sales tax rate is 6%. Localities can add as much as 3%, and the average combined rate is 7.5%, according to the Tax Foundation. Groceries and prescription drugs are exempt. For residents, Social Security and military retirement income are tax-exempt; other income is taxed at rates ranging from 3% to 6.4%.

Brunswick, GA

Population: 16,122 

Cost of living: 85.0 

Average temperature during snowbird season: 68 degrees 

Number of hospitals within 25 miles: 1 

Closest airport: Jacksonville International Airport 

Local vibe: Historic coastal living 

Located in coastal Georgia, Brunswick has a lot to offer if you love to be outdoors. Blythe Island Regional Park provides an ideal location for camping, picnicking, fishing and boating, while the Marshes of Glynn Overlook Park is a great place for scenic walks and bird watching. After a day of outdoor adventuring, snowbirds have a host of attractive dining options to choose from, including award-winning cuisine at Mr. Shuck’s Seafood. 

Two-bedroom apartments and condos are available in Brunswick for less than $1,500 a month, and buyers can find three-bedroom condos for less than $200,000. 

Brunswick is adjacent to two famous resort islands, St. Simons and Jekyll Island. While St. Simons is perhaps the more popular destination of the two coastal isles, Jekyll Island also boasts beautiful beaches, bike trails and historical landmarks, including a financial landmark of sorts. 

In November 1910, six men met secretly at the Jekyll Island Club to plan a reform of the U.S. banking system; the meeting laid the foundation for the Federal Reserve System. Homes on these islands are considerably pricier than those in Brunswick, with the average house in St. Simons going for more than $650,000 and condos selling for $350,000 and up. 

The Southeast Georgia Health System’s Brunswick campus is a 300-bed acute care hospital with a cardiac rehabilitation and cancer care center, among other services. Baptist Medical Center Nassau, a 62-bed community hospital, is located 34 miles away — in Florida, just over the state line — and has physicians in 29 different specialties. 

Georgia’s state sales tax rate is 4%, and the combined state and local average rate is 7.35%, according to the Tax Foundation. Prescription drugs are exempt from sales taxes; groceries are exempt from state sales taxes, but local taxes may apply. Georgia doesn’t tax the Social Security benefits of full-time residents. The state taxes most other retirement income, but taxpayers 62 and older can exclude up to $35,000, and those 65 and older can exclude up to $65,000. Other income is taxed at a flat rate of 5.39%.

Vero Beach, FL

Population: 16,354 

Cost of living: 93.4 

Average temperature during snowbird season: 77 degrees 

Number of hospitals within 25 miles: 4 

Closest airport: Vero Beach Regional 

Local vibe: A thriving arts scene 

This longtime snowbird destination’s historic downtown area is a haven for art lovers. Check out the Gallery Veritas & Art Library, Gallery 14, or the Artists Guild Gallery of Vero Beach for selections of contemporary art. Just up the road, the Vero Beach Museum of Art has shifting exhibitions of international and national contemporary artwork, and it offers volunteer opportunities for those who want to get involved in the arts community. 

The Museum of Art sits near Riverside Park, a waterfront park nestled close to town. The Riverside Theater showcases a variety of performances, including musicals, plays, concerts and comedy shows, and it offers dance classes for children and adults. Locals also love pickleball, fishing in the Indian River in nearby Sebastian, and relaxing at one of the breweries or distilleries that have recently opened in the area. 

The cost of housing in Vero Beach is 83.1% of the national average, and at least 25% of the housing is available for seasonal residents, says Debbie Avery, a real estate agent and board member of the Vero Beach Chamber of Commerce. One- and two-bedroom condos are available for around $150,000, according to Zillow. If you’d rather rent, you can find one- and two-bedroom units between $1,500 and $2,500 a month. 

Vero Beach is home to Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital, a 332-bed facility that offers preventive, primary and acute hospital care and a broad array of specialty services. Other hospitals within 25 miles include HCA Florida Lawnwood, which has 435 beds and provides a full range of inpatient and outpatient services, and HCA Florida St. Lucie Hospital, a 222-bed hospital that offers a wide spectrum of services, including a senior-friendly emergency room. 

Florida has a 6% statewide sales tax. Localities can add as much as 2%, and the average combined rate is 7.002%, according to the Tax Foundation. Groceries and prescription drugs are tax-exempt. Snowbirds who decide to make Florida their primary residence will pay no income tax on retirement income or Social Security benefits.

Slidell, LA

Population: 28,781 

Cost of living: 99.0 

Average temperature during snowbird season: 69 degrees 

Number of hospitals within 25 miles: 9 

Closest airport: Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport 

Local vibe: Small-town southern charm 

Just 20 minutes from New Orleans, Slidell offers small-town living and a rich cultural heritage. The town hosts several local festivals and events throughout the year, including the Slidell Heritage Festival, which celebrates local history and traditions. 

Like much of Louisiana, Slidell participates in Mardi Gras with parades, balls and other festivities. And you’ll find no shortage of places that dish up traditional Creole, Cajun and southern food, including Palmettos on the Bayou, a waterfront restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere and award-winning cuisine. 

Situated near Lake Pontchartrain and the Gulf Coast, Slidell is also a popular spot for fishing and boating. Nearby Honey Island Swamp offers opportunities for guided swamp tours and close-up views of otters, gators, great blue herons, egrets and turtles — and with any luck, the Honey Island Swamp Monster, sometimes referred to as the “Tainted Keitre,” which inhabits the swamp, according to local legend. 

Renters can find one-bedroom units for less than $1,500 a month. Single-family homes are available for less than $250,000, according to Zillow — below the national average. 

There are nine hospitals within 25 miles of Slidell, so retirees have their pick of medical providers for their health-care needs. Slidell Memorial Hospital is a 223-bed acute care facility with specialties in cardiology and cancer. Our Lady of the Lake Surgical Hospital has 32 beds and specializes in cardiology, neurosurgery and orthopedics, among others. 

Louisiana has a 4.45% sales tax rate, and the combined average state and local sales tax rate is 9.55%, according to the Tax Foundation. Groceries and prescription drugs are exempt. Retirees who make Louisiana their full-time residence won’t pay taxes on Social Security benefits or federal retirement benefits, including military benefits. Residents 65 and older can also exclude up to $6,000 from state income tax, which ranges from 1.85% to 4.25%.

Northport, AL

Population: 37,961 

Cost of living: 91.7 

Average temperature during snowbird season: 50 degrees 

Number of hospitals within 25 miles: 2 

Closest airport: Tuscaloosa Regional Airport 

Local vibe: Barbecue and college football 

If you are looking for a town with southern charm and plenty of culture, Northport fits the bill. Each October at the annual Kentuck Art Center & Festival, art lovers can participate in educational workshops and see folk art made out of license plates and other unique objects. The city’s majestic Black Warrior River and the scenic Van de Graaff Park and Arboretum are inviting for retirees who want a winter getaway where they can fish and boat. 

Pay a visit to Dreamland BBQ in nearby Tuscaloosa for authentic southern cuisine. And if you’re a college football fan, you can head to Tuscaloosa to watch the University of Alabama Crimson Tide during the fall and winter. Seniors can also take advantage of classes and volunteering opportunities at the university’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute. 

Northport and surrounding areas offer a number of affordable housing options for snowbirds, says real estate agent Mary Harmon Young. If you’re in the market to buy, you can find three-bedroom houses for less than $250,000, according to Rocket Homes. Renters can find one- and two-bedroom apartments for less than $1,000 a month, and some two-bedroom places rent for as little as $675 a month, Harmon Young says. However, buyers and renters need to move fast because affordable housing is often snapped up quickly. 

Health care is available through Northport Medical Center, which has 207 beds and numerous specialty medical services in addition to inpatient and outpatient care. The DCH Regional Medical Center, in Tuscaloosa, offers 583 beds and advanced trauma and cardiology services, as well as specialty units for cancer patients. 

Alabama has a 4% statewide sales tax, and the average combined state and local rate is 9.289%, according to the Tax Foundation. Prescription drugs are exempt, but Alabama is one of a handful of states that tax groceries. Retirees who become full-time residents won’t pay taxes on Social Security benefits, federal government benefits, Alabama state and local government benefits, military retirement plans, or income from traditional pension plans. In addition, for residents 65 or older, up to $6,000 of retirement income is exempt from taxes. Other income is taxed at rates ranging from 2% to 5%.

Mission, TX

Population: 83,211 

Cost of living: 80.9 

Average temperature during snowbird season: 76 degrees 

Number of hospitals within 25 miles: 8 

Closest airport: McAllen Regional Airport 

Local vibe: Birds and butterflies on the border 

Attractions in Mission include the World Birding Center — home to more than 500 species — and the National Butterfly Center, a 100-acre wildlife center and nature preserve that features the largest variety of butterflies in the U.S. 

Mission is situated on the U.S.–Mexico border, so it’s a good place to sample Mexican cuisine — try Pepe’s Tacos Al Pastor or Casa del Taco. Known as the “Home of the Grapefruit,” Mission celebrates its heritage every January with the Texas Citrus Fiesta. The historic Border Theatre, in downtown Mission, hosts arts performances and special movie screenings, and the building features wall-to-wall murals of the Rio Grande Valley before modernization. 

Nearly 74% of vacant housing inventory in Mission is designed for seasonal use, according to a survey of snowbird destinations from StorageCafe, an online marketplace for storage facilities. Rising mortgage rates and falling demand have made Mission a buyer’s market, with three-bedroom houses available for less than $200,000. 

There’s also a good supply of rentals for snowbirds, says Hortencia Camargo, real estate agent with Coldwell Banker. If you want to rent for the winter, you can find a one-bedroom apartment for about $900 a month. If you prefer to have access to amenities such as a pool, you can expect to spend $1,200 to $1,500 a month for a two-bedroom apartment, she says. 

Camargo also notes there has been growth in different types of rentals in Mission, such as townhouses and multifamily homes. If you like to socialize with nearby neighbors, a townhouse rental community might be a good choice, she says. 

Mission Regional Medical Center, with 297 beds, provides a full range of emergency services, including emergency cardiology and orthopedic care. Rio Grande Regional Hospital, in nearby McAllen, is a full-service, 320-bed acute care hospital that provides heart treatment, rehabilitation and therapy, stroke and vascular care, and urgent care. 

Texas has a 6.25% state sales tax rate. Groceries, prescription drugs and over-the-counter medications are tax-exempt. Texas has no income tax, so full-time residents pay no taxes on retirement income. The state’s property taxes are above average for the U.S., but tax breaks are available for homeowners who are 65 or older.

Apache Junction, AZ

Population: 38,499 

Cost of living: 101.9 

Average temperature during snowbird season: 57 degrees 

Number of hospitals within 25 miles: 11 

Closest airport: Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport 

Local vibe: Old West and wilderness 

This desert town is a welcoming home for snowbirds who want to spend the winter months in the Southwest. Apache Junction is surrounded by wilderness, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. 

Active retirees can hike along the sprawling, 320-acre Lost Dutchman State Park, which was named after a lost gold mine. Retirees can also participate in special-interest classes and fitness activities at the Apache Junction Multi-Generational Center. Some of the programs require preregistration and payment, but many of the activities are free. 

Want a taste of the cowboy lifestyle? Go on horseback rides at the Superstitions OK Corral stables or visit the Lost Dutchman Days Rodeo, which takes place every February. Elvis fans shouldn’t miss the Elvis Presley Memorial Chapel at the Superstitious Mountain Museum, where the king of rock ’n’ roll filmed the western Calypso in the 1960s. For a bite to eat, enjoy chili burgers and fries at the Handlebar Pub and Grill or ribs and brisket at Papa’s BBQ. 

Seasonal rentals are widely available in Apache Junction, says Charlie Wise, Jr., a real estate agent with Lost Dutchman Realty. Apartments are relatively affordable, with a two-bedroom unit going for about $950 a month. Three-bedroom townhouses sell for about $295,000, according to Rocket Homes. 

Apache Junction’s Banner Goldfield Medical Center is a small, 20-bed hospital that offers emergency services, surgical care and lab services. The Mountain Vista Medical Center, in nearby Mesa, offers emergency, orthopedic and cardiology care and has 178 beds. 

Arizona’s state sales tax rate is 5.6%. The average combined state and local sales tax rate is 8.37%, according to the Tax Foundation. Prescription drugs are tax-exempt; groceries are exempt from state sales taxes, but local taxes may apply. 

For full-time residents, up to $2,500 of income from the federal government, Arizona state government and Arizona local government retirement plans is exempt from income tax. Military pensions are fully exempt. Other income is taxed at a flat rate of 2.5%.

Mesquite, NV

Population: 20,471 

Cost of living: 97.6 

Average temperature during snowbird season: 50 degrees 

Number of hospitals within 25 miles: 1 

Closest airport: St. George Regional Airport 

Local vibe: Golf and desert vistas 

Mesquite is another great option for snowbirds who prefer a desert home. Retirees can tour the Hillside Arboretum’s beautiful parkways, stay active at the Old Mill Pickleball Courts or check out one of the area’s numerous golf courses. Just south of Mesquite, you can visit Gold Butte National Monument, which spreads across nearly 300,000 acres. 

When it’s time to relax, go to one of the city’s day spas or enjoy a meal at one of the town’s dining options. You can listen to classic rock ’n’ roll after having an ice cream float at Peggy Sue’s 50’s Diner, or taste authentic Mexican cuisine at La Fonda Mexican Restaurant. 

Retirees who are interested in exploring some of the West’s most famous landmarks can use Mesquite as a base to explore Bryce Canyon National Park and the Grand Canyon’s North Rim. Las Vegas is only an hour away. 

Homes and apartments are affordable, according to Irene Navarro, a real estate agent with ERA Brokers Consolidated. Although the inventory of homes for sale is low, plenty of rentals are available for snowbirds, with two-bedroom apartments going for about $1,200 a month. About 86% of vacant housing units in the city are available for seasonal use, according to StorageCafe. 

Mesa View Regional Hospital is a 25-bed facility with pain-management and radiology services. St. George Regional Hospital, in nearby St. George, Utah, is a larger facility, with 284 beds, a Level II trauma center, and orthopedic and oncology care. 

Nevada has a state sales tax rate of 6.85%. The average combined state and local sales tax rate is 8.23%, according to the Tax Foundation. Groceries and prescription drugs are exempt from sales taxes. Nevada has no personal income tax, so full-time residents pay no taxes on retirement income.

Note: This item first appeared in Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine, a monthly, trustworthy source of advice and guidance. Subscribe to help you make more money and keep more of the money you make here.

Related content

• Great Places to Retire If You Hate the Cold
• Best Destinations For Snowbirds This Winter
• This Is How You Can Be a Snowbird in Retirement

Florida is a bit more complicated than just beaches, Disney World and the massive retirement community known as The Villages. You'll want to consider all aspects of the state before packing up and heading South. In fact, we recommend you "try before you buy" — spend an extended period of time in the Sunshine State to get to know the place before you make a move.

Here's what you need to know about moving to Florida. So grab an OJ and dive on in. The water’s warm, but...complex.

1. Prepare for harsh weather

Sure, Florida has great weather. After all, it is called the Sunshine State. But don't expect every day to be sunny. Thunderstorms in Florida are frequent and intense. The Atlantic hurricane season lasts for six months, from June 1 until November 30, and peaks between mid-August and late October. Since 1850, all of Florida’s coastline has been impacted by at least one hurricane.

The most recent hurricane to wreak havoc on Florida was Hurricane Idalia, which made landfall as a Category 3 hurricane, bringing winds of 125 mph and seven to 12 feet of storm surge, before making its way toward Georgia and the Carolinas. Streets flooded, houses were destroyed, trees snapped and 300,000 individuals were left without power. 

The likelihood of harsh weather can affect the financial benefits of moving to Florida. Florida residents end up paying a lot more in insurance in order to protect their property. More on that below. 

2. You'll need plenty of insurance in Florida

The risk of hurricanes makes insuring your home in Florida much more complex and expensive than it is in many other areas. In many hurricane-prone areas, insurance companies often require property owners to not only purchase homeowners insurance but also flood insurance and sometimes even windstorm coverage. 

“The cost to insure a home without wind mitigation features could be four times higher than a home with wind mitigation,” says Chris Heidrick, an independent insurance agent in Sanibel, Fla.

Floods aren't covered by a standard homeowners policy, but you can get coverage from the National Flood Insurance Program. According to Policy Genius, flood insurance costs an average of $888 per year from the NFIP. You may also be able to find flood coverage from private insurers.

However, many insurance companies in Florida are leaving the state entirely. Others are choosing to significantly raise rates, limit coverage and even cancel policies. For example, last summer, AAA announced it would no longer be renewing policies with home, auto and umbrella bundles in Florida, and Farmers Insurance pulled out of Florida entirely, affecting 100,000 policies. 

For this reason, the availability of coverage and cost of premiums can vary a lot by insurer in Florida. Plus, expect to pay a higher deductible for hurricane damage — generally, 5% to 10% of your coverage amount for damages caused by a hurricane. The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation has a great Rate Comparison Tool that provides premium estimates from insurers in your county.

Overall, It’s important to find out about a house’s insurability before buying it, so you don’t end up with annual premiums that are several thousand dollars more than you were expecting to pay.

You can use our tool below — powered by Bankrate — to compare home insurance policies today.

3. Florida’s a lot less taxing

Moving to the Sunshine State could save you a lot of money in taxes. Florida, one of our 10 most tax-friendly states for retirees, has no state income tax. That means no state taxes on Social Security benefits, pensions, IRAs, 401(k)s and other retirement income. It also has no inheritance tax or estate tax.

But snowbirds who maintain a second home in a colder state can’t just tap their heels together to establish residency in Florida for tax purposes. You’ll need to show that you spend more than half the year — 183 days — in Florida. But don’t expect state tax auditors to take your word for it. For starters, keep a diary or log showing the number of days you spend in each state during the year, says Tim Steffen, director of financial planning for Robert W. Baird. Here's what else to do:

• Register to vote in Florida, and if you receive a jury summons, perform your civic duty
• Apply for a library card
• Change your driver’s license and car registration
• Establish relationships with health care providers in your new location
• Open an account at a local bank, and keep receipts of ATM withdrawals
• Shopping locally is also a good idea: State tax auditors sometimes review credit card records to determine where you were during the year
• File a Declaration of Domicile with your local county court

4. The state's population is growing fast

Retiring to Florida? Expect lots of company. Florida is already the third most populated state and just keeps growing.

Florida was the second fastest-growing state in the nation in 2023, growing by 1.6% to reach a population of 22,610,726. Before that, between 2021 and 2022, Florida’s population increased by 1.9%, making it the fastest-growing state for the first time since 1957. And out of the top ten fastest-growing metro areas (between July 2022 and July 2023), Florida is home to four.  

Depending on where you land, expect to be surrounded by people who look like you. By 2030, the number of seniors in the Sunshine State is expected to increase by several million.

“Everything is geared toward retired, older people,’’ said one resident, a January 2012 transplant from upstate New York who owns a home in Fort Myers Beach (Gulf side). “All the commercials are about things like walk-in bathtubs, insurance, Lifeline, i.e. ‘I've fallen and I can't get up.’ So many volunteer activities are during the workday. It's like they don't think people move down here to work.”

5. Florida’s tourists can slow you down

Don't underestimate the amount of tourists who pour into Florida every year. If you visited Walt Disney World when you were a kid you probably marveled at the crowds. As a resident, you’ll probably only be annoyed by them.

In 2023, Florida tourism reached unprecedented levels, with the state welcoming more than 140.6 million visitors, an increase of 2.3% from 2022. Approximately 137.6 million tourists visited Florida in 2022, setting a record for the highest visitation in state history at that time. In 2019, Florida had 131.42 million tourists, and the state has had more than 100 million visitors a year from 2010 to 2019 converging on the state’s famous theme parks, beaches and destination spots such as the Keys and Everglades National Park.

Think of all those tourists on the road as you try to run errands. Major headache.

6. Yes, there's such a thing as TOO much sun

Many of you beach bums in the swingin' '70s knew nothing of SPF. It was baby oil, baby, slathered on your tender skin to enhance rays of sunshine to deepen your tan. Little did you know. 

The sun on exposed skin was dangerous then and is dangerous now, especially if you're a tenderfoot moving from the Midwest or Northeast to year-round sunshine in tropical Florida. Sunburn can cause premature wrinkling and uneven skin coloring. And too many sunburns or too much sun will cause your skin's texture to change. 

"The skin can become tough and leathery," according to the Florida Institute of Neuroscience. "You may also notice more wrinkles. The sun can also cause brown, red, yellow, or gray spots in the skin called sun spots." 

And the most serious result of too much sun, of course, is skin cancer. Your risk for getting skin cancer increases the more sun exposure and sunburns you have. So be careful. A study found that Florida was the second in the nation for the highest rate of new melanoma cases. And at the time of the study, approximately one in ten Floridians had been told they have skin cancer (9.2%).

Sun worshippers are urged to stop sunbathing, avoid the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. (when the sun's rays are most damaging), and use broad-spectrum sunscreens. And when you are on the beach, sit under an umbrella or some other shaded protection from the sun.

7. Housing supply is increasing

Previously, Florida, like elsewhere in the country, was low on inventory in this seller's market. But recently, Florida has faced the opposite problem — an increase in inventory and not enough buyers. There has been a surge in the number of homes for sale on the Gulf Coast of Florida, according to Redfin. Specifically, the number of homes for sale in Cape Coral, FL and North Port, FL surged roughly 50% from a year earlier in March — more than anywhere else in the country. 

Of the 10 metro areas that experienced the largest year-over-year increases in supply, six are in Florida. As mentioned, Cape Coral, FL saw the biggest jump in homes for sale (51%), followed by North Port-Sarasota, FL (48%), Fort Lauderdale, FL (30%), Tampa, FL (29%), Orlando, FL (23%) and West Palm Beach, FL (20%).

The consequence of this? Sellers are slashing prices in these areas.

“Out-of-town homebuyers no longer see Florida as a place to get amazing value. Now they’re moving to North Carolina or Tennessee to get a good deal," Eric Auciello, a local Redfin sales manager says in the report. He goes on to say: "My advice to sellers is to price your home fairly; the comps from six months ago don’t exist now. And if you’re a buyer, know that the odds of getting an offer accepted below market value are pretty high.”

Of course, you're still going to find luxurious waterfront homes for several million in many Florida communities, but the average Florida home value is $399,944, up 3.2% over the past year. For comparison, the average United States home value is $360,681, up 4.3% over the past year.

8. Life’s not always a beach in Florida

There’s often a major misconception about Florida as a retirement destination: Many think the state is one big beach. An easy-to-reach beach. Not so. Those world-famous theme parks? They’re in Orlando, in the middle of the state, an hour or so car ride to the beach.

“People who are thinking about a move to Florida should really explore the state,” says Dania Perry, a real estate agent with Century 21 Jim White & Associates in St. Petersburg. “Each of Florida's metro areas has its own vibe. The east and west coasts of Florida are very different — as different as the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. North Florida features vast stretches of rolling hills and countryside.”

You already know the big destinations: Orlando, home to Disney World, Universal Studios and their smaller ilk; Miami, if you want to live out your “Miami Vice” or “Golden Girls” fantasies (whatever floats your boat; we’re in a no-judgment zone); and the Florida Keys for a laid-back lifestyle as far south as you can go in the state.

But other Florida towns belong on your Florida Retirement Planning Tour. Fort Myers Beach, for example. You’re right on the Gulf (or close to it), there are plenty of 55-and-older communities, yet it remains youthful during the high season, with plenty of young people flocking to the resort area with its boardwalk and bars.

Sarasota has plenty of beaches, and the small city moves a bit slower than some of the larger towns in Florida. There is a wide array of restaurants and stores in St. Armands Circle, the island shopping center. Another bonus: access to the Sarasota Memorial Health Care system, which is one of the largest medical centers in Florida.

Is retiring to a college town — to teach part-time, take courses (free for folks age 60 or older) or just hang out with the young’uns — a must for you? Check out Gainesville, home of the University of Florida. But bear in mind that Gainesville is deep in the heart of Florida, 75 miles from any beaches.

9. Florida has lots of creepy, crawly things

Florida is its very own ecosystem, and the state’s various creatures may do more than make your skin crawl. They might also eat into your budget.

For instance, dealing with termites is just part of the routine for Florida homeowners. Of the top 10 U.S. cities where Orkin performed the most termite treatments from February 1, 2022 to January 31, 2023, Florida scores three: Miami, Tampa and Orlando. As you can see, Miami scored the #1 spot on the list.

A termite inspection by a pro ranges from free to $325, with an averaging of around $150. The average cost for the treatment of termites is $575. 

Then there are the rats — on the beach, in the trees, and perhaps on your roof, too. Yes, they are the same rats you know and loathe; they've just adapted to the climate and are called, among other things, palm rats and roof rats. Rat control can cost homeowners upward of $300 a year.

As a Floridian, you’ll also have to keep an eye out for alligators, panthers and pythons. Oh my. Florida has an estimated 1.3 million alligators of the approximately five million in the U.S., and you might encounter them slinking across a golf course or gliding in backyard swimming pools. 

“Beware of Alligators” signs are posted at lakes, lagoons, parks, ponds, golf courses and elsewhere throughout Florida. Alligator attacks are rising partly due to rising temperatures, development and people visiting their habitat more frequently, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission experts say. 

Panthers, the state animal of Florida, are another tale. While there have been no documented panther attacks on humans, they do dine on pets and livestock.

And Burmese pythons, which aren’t native to Florida, are growing in numbers in Everglades National Park — and showing up in homeowners’ pantries, cars, laundry rooms and other spots.

Related Content

• 10 Reasons You Don't Want to Retire in Florida
• The Best Places to Retire in the World
• How to Find the Best Retirement Community for You

“Let’s be real: a $15 charge may not mean a lot to someone who has the means, but it can break the budget of a working- or middle-class household. It puts the squeeze on the very people who make this City go: the teachers, first responders, small business workers, bodega owners. And given these financial pressures, I cannot add another burden to working- and middle-class New Yorkers – or create another obstacle to continued recovery” said Gov. Hochul in her statement, pausing the new toll. 

The Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA) had overwhelmingly approved the proposed congestion pricing plan by a 12-1 vote. Motorists entering what the MTA calls the Congestion Relief Zone (streets and avenues at or below 60th Street in Manhattan) would have had to pay a toll beginning on June 30.

What next?

The MTA is still facing legal opposition to the plan. The most recent lawsuit was filed in the Southern District of New York on May 30 by the Trucking Association of New York. The suit argues that the congestion pricing policy unfairly targets trucking and logistics companies, which are charged far higher rates than passenger vehicles.

The 110 gantries needed to detect motorists entering the zone and assess tolls have been erected. The MTA signed a contract with a Nashville-based company to install equipment related to the plan across Manhattan at a cost of more than $500 million, according to the New York Times. No information about what will happen to the equipment or the contract signed by the authority has been released.

Gov. Hochul will need MTA approval to halt the implementation of the congestion pricing plan, reported the Times. There is no plan for that vote to take place yet. However, the next regularly scheduled MTA board meeting is June 24. 

• Free Things to Do in New York City
• NYC Congestion Pricing Makes Traveling By Car More Expensive
• The 10 Most Expensive Cities to Live in the U.S.

However, some New England states have overcome potential turn-offs and drawn an influx of newly retired residents. In 2023, Vermont and Rhode Island were among the top 10 states people moved to for retirement, according to United Van Lines' annual national movers study. 

If you're pondering a move to New England while reviewing your retirement checklist, we suggest you consider the following spots. We highlighted one great retirement destination in every state, taking into account living costs, safety, median incomes and poverty rates, as well as residents' sense of well-being and the availability of recreational and healthcare facilities. 

Our six choices are in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont.

• City population: 48,729
• Share of population 65+: 15.5%
• Cost of living: 14% above the national average
• Average income for population 65+: $47,599
• Well-being score: 64
• Connecticut State Tax Guide
  

Like much of the Northeast, Connecticut is known to be a high-cost area, and Middletown is no exception. Residents tend to pull in high enough incomes to make it work. The city's average income for all households is $90,731 a year, but it's not as good for the older population. Incomes for residents age 65 and up average $47,599 a year.

However, being home to Wesleyan University, Middletown offers all the benefits of retiring to a college town, including numerous restaurants, shops and cultural attractions. You can also take advantage of the Wesleyan Institute for Lifelong Learning, which offers free college courses (for no credit), lectures and other educational opportunities at minimal cost and is open to the entire community. 

And while the nearby city of Hartford has a high crime rate — with 5.68 violent crimes per 1,000 residents — Middletown is far safer with 0.99 violent crimes per 1,000 residents.

• City population: 68,424
• Share of population 65+: 16.8%
• Cost of living: 15% above the national average
• Average income for population 65+: $45,373
• Well-being score: 64
• Maine State Tax Guide
  

The largest city in Maine, Portland offers a lively downtown and plenty of urban-esque amenities amidst the great outdoors of the Pine Tree State. You can enjoy museums, theaters and an array of eclectic dining. The flagship L.L. Bean store in nearby Freeport is a must-see for many visitors, but resident shoppers also flock to Portland’s unique boutiques and outlets.

All the while, you’re never too far from the area's many beaches. That means ample opportunity to lounge on the shore or dive into water-based activities including fishing, kayaking, sailing and even surfing. And of course, hiking and biking trails abound — perfect in the (much) colder months, too, for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

• City population: 43,310
• Share of population 65+: 20.0%
• Cost of living: 10% above the national average
• Average income for population 65+: $44,759
• Well-being score: 59
• Massachusetts State Tax Guide
  

New England is notoriously expensive, but Pittsfield, located in the western part of Massachusetts, offers a small pocket of relative affordability — more reasonably priced than Boston and Cambridge, where living costs are, respectively, 50% and 73% above the U.S. average. Housing in Pittsfield is also notably affordable: The average Pittsfield home value is $282,706, compared with $612,509 for all of Massachusetts, $741,153 for Boston proper and $993,022 in Cambridge.

Leaf peeping in the fall may be enough to draw you to the Berkshires. But you have plenty to enjoy all year round, including excellent sites for camping, fishing, hiking and skiing. Nearby, enjoy musical performances at the Tanglewood Music Center, the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. There’s also world-class art at the Clark Art Institute in Williamstown and the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (MASS MoCa, for short) in North Adams.

Pittsfield, Massachusetts also made our list of 12 places to retire if you're sick of the heat. 

• City population: 17,086
• Share of population 65+: 22.0%
• Cost of living: n/a
• Average income for population 65+: $50,030
• Well-being score: 52*
• New Hampshire State Tax Guide
  

Tucked between Lake Winnipesaukee and Winnisquam Lake, Laconia has been dubbed "The City on the Lake," the home city to New Hampshire's Lakes Region. That means plenty of beaches and water-related activities for you in the warmer months. Other outdoor recreation abounds nearby, too. Gunstock Mountain Resort in neighboring Gilford, for example, offers camping, ziplining and snow sports, as well as fairs, events and dining options. 

Local crime may be worth noting: While the state sports a low rate of 1.26 crimes per 1,000 residents, Laconia's rate is slightly higher, at 1.26, according to Neighborhood Scout. The site lists Lakeport, Laconia North and Interlaken Park/Pendleton Beach as the safest Laconia neighborhoods.

Plus, the Granite State's tax situation for retirees is solid, too. Social Security benefits are not taxed, and income from retirement plans is exempt from New Hampshire's interest and dividends tax.

*For Belknap County, where Laconia is located. 

• City population: 189,563
• Share of population 65+: 11.8%
• Cost of living: 13% above the national average
• Average income for population 65+: $32,381
• Well-being score: 62
• Rhode Island State Tax Guide

Home to Ivy League Brown University and the world-renowned Rhode Island School of Design, as well as a handful of other colleges, Providence can be a great fit for retired intellectuals and artists. They'll have no shortage of things to do, with the schools offering gallery nights, performing arts events, educational opportunities and more. And the schools' presence has helped draw a variety of restaurants and businesses to the area, too.

Unfortunately, higher-than-average tax rates and home values can be prohibitive throughout the tiny state. The average effective property tax rate in Rhode Island is 1.53%, and the average Providence home value is $382,032 (compared to $451,868 for the state of Rhode Island).

• City population: 44,595
• Share of population 65+: 11.6%
• Cost of living: 16% above the national average
• Average income for population 65+: $44,524
• Well-being score: 69
• Vermont State Tax Guide
  

This small mountain city on the shores of Lake Champlain is a picturesque setting for tree-hugging retirees. Outdoor recreation is plentiful with miles of hiking and biking paths, nearby beaches where you can swim, kayak or paddleboard in the warmer months, and numerous skiing options. An eco-friendly vibe permeates the town, from the businesses bolstering the city's economy, such as household-products maker Seventh Generation, to the local food movement feeding the neighborhood.

But being green isn't easy on your wallet. Taxes and living costs are high. While the average home value is $381,042 in the Green Mountain State, compared with the median of $354,179 for the U.S., it climbs to $512,485 in Burlington. The median cost of a semi-private room in a nursing home in Burlington is a hefty $13,231 per month, according to Genworth.

But at least you can save money on academic pursuits. The University of Vermont will cover tuition costs for state residents aged 65 and older who wish to take a class, even those for credit.

To pinpoint one great retirement destination in each state, we weighed a number of factors:

• Cost of living comes from Payscale.com.
• Average income for population 65+ comes from Point2homes.com.
• Household incomes, poverty rates and number of healthcare facilities are from the U.S. Census Bureau.
• Community well-being and physical well-being scores are provided by digital health company Sharecare, in collaboration with Gallup. These are two of the five elements of well-being that make up the overall Gallup-Sharecare Well-Being Index. (The other three elements are purpose, social and financial well-being.) The index is calculated on a scale of 0 to 100 and based on more than 2.5 million nationally representative surveys. Community well-being is defined as "liking where you live, feeling safe and having pride in your community." Physical well-being is "having good health and enough energy to get things done daily." We display the community score for each place we chose.
• Population data, including the percentage of the population that is age 65 and older, is also provided by the Census Bureau. The figures are highlighted in these rankings for the benefit of readers, but were not factors in our methodology for ranking the best places to retire.

Related Content

• 12 Places to Retire If You're Sick of the Heat
• The Best Places to Retire in the World
• Nine Things You Must Know About Retiring in Arizona

Happiness is contagious. Even Lucille Ball noted, “It’s a helluva start, being able to recognize what makes you happy.” Maybe it’s a healthy body, a new job, financial well-being or simply where you live. And although the U.S. is one of the richest countries in the world, it ranks only 15th on the World Happiness Report.

WalletHub’s new 2024 report, Happiest States in America, examined each city based on 29 key indicators for happiness — from depression and income, to average leisure time spent each day — to determine the happiest places to live in the U.S. 

We’ve listed the top (and bottom) 25. Don’t find your city listed here? Read the full report from WalletHub. 

Happiest places to live in the U.S.

Least happiest places to live in the U.S.

Top three Happiest cities

What makes Fremont, CA, Overland Park, KS and San Jose, CA so happy? Here's a sneak peek. 

Fremont, CA — One reason Fremont, CA, takes the top spot is the nearly 80% share of households with an income over $75,000. Who says money doesn’t buy happiness? It’s true that people in Fremont also have a high rate of life satisfaction, a low depression rate, and a long average lifespan. Fremont also has a low separation and divorce rate — the lowest in the country at only 8.9%. 

Overland Park, KS — Overland Park, KS, is the second-happiest city. Contributing factors may include the lowest poverty rate in the country, at just 4.2%, and one of the lowest unemployment rates, at 3%, which can equate to a low food insecurity rate. When people can provide for their families and take care for themselves, their happiness naturally increases. 

Overland Park residents also have a lot of leisure time compared to people in most other cities. The city has one of the highest sports participation rates in the country, which can be very beneficial for one’s emotional and physical well-being. Interestingly, Overland Park residents also get more sleep than people in most other cities.

San Jose, CA — San Jose, CA, has the longest average life expectancy in the country, allowing people to enjoy their lives into old age and helping push San Jose to come in third. The city also has one of the lowest separation and divorce rates and scores the best for health and wellness by Sharecare’s Community Well-Being Index. San Jose residents’ happiness is demonstrated by the city’s low rates of depression and suicide.

What determines how happy a city is?

WalletHub also looked at depression rates in cities across the U.S., which can lead to more or less happiness. In first place for the lowest depression rate was Pearl City, HI, followed closely by Honolulu, HI. Cities with the highest depression rate were Huntington, WV, and Lewiston, ME. 

What role does lack of sleep play in happiness?

Like depression rates, lack of sleep can also lead to unhappiness. Cities with the highest sleep rates are South Burlington, VT and Madison, WI. On the other hand, the cities with minimal sleep rates include Cleveland, OH, and Detroit, MI.

Signs of happiness

Although happiness tends to be such a broadly defined term, most people say the meaning of happiness is how they feel in the present moment or how they feel about life overall. Even so, happiness isn't the same for everyone, but there are certain similarities that always stand out.

• Feeling like you are living the life you want
• Feeling that the conditions of your life are good
• A willingness to take life as it comes
• Feeling that you have accomplished all you want in life
• Being open to new ideas and experiences
• Practicing self-care 
• Wanting to share your happiness and joy with others

"Location can influence happiness once basic safety, security, and shelter needs are met. Only then can individuals focus on attitude and match their actions to achieving happiness", according to Lisa Jane Laird, Director, Career Center – Snow College. "Of course, research shows that quality of life factors such as city services, parks, recreation, and a sense of community all influence happiness, but so does attitude once basic needs are met."

Related Content

• The 10 Most Expensive Cities to Live in the U.S.
• The 25 Cheapest Places to Live: U.S. Cities Edition
• 10 Big U.S. Cities With the Cheapest Apartment Rents
• 12 Cheapest Small Towns to Live In

There are still a few small hiccups. The MTA is still facing seven lawsuits that oppose the plan, but the agency is undeterred and will continue working toward implementation. The 110 gantries needed to detect motorists entering the zone and assess tolls have been erected. 

Details of how much the first congestion pricing plan in the U.S. will cost have been finalized. The toll will apply to most motorized vehicles that drive in the Manhattan Central Business District during designated hours. Passengers of taxi and ride share services will have an additional fee added to the fare. 

There are schedules for both peak and off-peak pricing. Vehicles that pay any way other than using the E-ZPass electronic toll system will pay significantly more. For instance, the peak price for passenger vehicles is $15.00 with E-ZPass and $22.50 without. The tolls for non-E-ZPass users are on average 33.4% more.

Where is the toll zone?

The Central Business District (CBD) Tolling Program is the official name of the congestion pricing program that will take effect sometime this year in parts of Manhattan. 

Drivers will be charged a toll to enter the Manhattan Central Business District that begins in Manhattan south of and including  60th Street down to the southern tip of the Financial District. The plan excludes the FDR Drive, the West Side Highway and the Hugh L. Carey Tunnel connection to West St. Vehicles will be charged the full toll if they deviate from these highways or connections.  

How do you pay the toll?

Drivers will be able to use their E-ZPass tags as they already do to pay tolls on other roads, bridges and tunnels. For those who do not have E-ZPass, a bill will be sent by mail to the registered owner of the vehicle. 

Consider getting an E-ZPass transponder and driving to Manhattan if you don't have one. The tolls are 66.6% higher when you pay any way other than E-ZPass. 

In the first 60 days of the program, drivers will only be charged the applicable Congestion Relief Zone toll. No additional fees, charges, or fines, such as late fees, will be applied.

How much will drivers be charged? 

Below is the schedule of toll fees that will be charged based on the type of vehicle used in the congestion zone.

Are there any exemptions to the toll?

New York City operates over 30,000 vehicles, the largest municipal fleet in the country, according to the mayor's office. In addition to the previous exemption of qualified emergency and specialized government vehicles, the MTA  has added an exemption for virtually every city-owned official car.

Qualifying authorized emergency vehicles, such as ambulances and fire trucks, will be exempt from the congestion tax. Specialized government vehicles not intended for general transportation, including street sweepers, sanitation trucks, and roadway repair equipment, will also be exempt from the congestion tax. 

• Exemptions for the disabled: The Individual Disability Exemption Plan (INDP) is an exemption for qualifying vehicles transporting people with disabilities. Disabled individuals can apply for an exemption for their car or one they designate. Vehicles successfully enrolled in the Individual Disability Exemption Plan (IDEP) are exempt from the tolls. Instructions and requirements to receive the INDP can be found here on the MTA website.
• Exemptions for busses: Transit buses, commuter buses and school buses will also qualify but sightseeing buses will pay the toll. School busses serving public, charter and parochial schools all qualify for the exemption. The Hampton Jitney, Greyhound, Mega Bus and FlixBus will not be hit by the toll. 
• Busses NOT exempt: Charter, NY Waterway buses and NYU employee shuttles will not get an exemption. 
• Tunnel crossing credits: Vehicles using E-ZPass and entering in the daytime via one of the four tolled entries in the CBD (Lincoln Tunnel, Holland Tunnels, Queens-Midtown Tunnel, and Hugh L. Carey Tunnel) will be eligible for a credit. The credit amount will be up to $5 for passenger vehicles, up to $2.50 for motorcycles, up to $12 for small trucks and charter buses and up to $20 for large trucks and tour buses. The schedule of credits can be found here on the MTA's website. There is no tunnel credit during off-peak hours when fares drop by 75%.
• Low-income drivers: Drivers that receive SNAP, WIC, or TANF benefits or whose household federal adjusted gross income is no more than $50,000 may be eligible for a 50% discount from the peak period passenger vehicle toll rate on their eleventh trip and all trips thereafter in a calendar month. Instructions and requirements to join the  Low-Income Discount Plan can be found here on the MTA website. 
• Low-Income Tax Credit for Residents: This credit is for residents of the Central Business District whose NY State adjusted gross income is under $60,000. These residents may qualify for a tax credit in the amount of tolls paid. The NYS Department of Taxation and Finance will publish more information about this tax credit in the fall of 2024.

Related Content

• The 10 Most Expensive Cities to Live in the U.S.
• 10 Big U.S. Cities With the Cheapest Apartment Rents
• The 15 Most Expensive Housing Markets in the US: Cities with the Highest Average Home Prices

But there are a number of cities where the income and the cost of living align. These cities, what RentCafe calls the "sweet spots" for renting, are the places where you can afford the rent based on your income. 

The #1 spot? Sunnyvale, CA, in the heart of Silicon Valley. Here's the breakdown:

• The highest median wages in the nation make it easier to cover living expenses in Sunnyvale, CA. 
• Surprise, AZ, came in at #2, followed by Arlington, VA, #3; Bethesda, MD, #4; and Alexandria, VA, #5. 
• Texas has the most cities where salary and rent align, with Round Rock as the highest-ranking Texas city at #8.
• Renters spent a smaller portion of their pay for rent and basic necessities in suburban locations in the Southwest.  
• The Mountain region was the second-best area for renters looking to hit that perfect balance between salary and living expenses.
• In the Northeast, Pittsburgh took the lead as the top city where renters could stretch their dollars furthest. 
• The Southeast has the most cities in the top 30.
• Jacksonville, NC, came in at #30. 

The cities that strike that perfect balance between income, rent and expenses, such as utilities, groceries, healthcare, transportation and entertainment, include (in order, 1 - 10):

1. Sunnyvale, CA

California can be an expensive place to live. But when you consider that in Sunnyvale, CA, the average salary is about $146,000 per year, or triple the median wage in the U.S., paying an average rent of $3,000 per month is affordable. This is especially true when you factor in the total price for basic necessities is roughly 28% above the national benchmark.

2. Surprise, AZ

The first of two Arizona cities at the top of our list, Surprise, AZ ranked second. With a current population of 149,191, this Phoenix metro area is home to several tech and healthcare giants where renters can enjoy the seventh-highest annual median income in the country — about $86,000 per year — and pay an average rent of $1,781. Even monthly costs come in below the national average.

3. Arlington, VA

Located right across the Potomac River from the nation’s capital, Arlington, VA, is ranked third among the U.S. cities where renters can get the most out of their paychecks. The city boasts an average yearly wage of $102,710 (the third-highest annual income out of the 189 cities that were analyzed) and an average monthly rent of just under $2,500. Monthly expenses are close to the national average. Arlington is also one of the top cities to watch in 2024 due to increased rental demand last year.

4. Bethesda, MD

Bethesda, MD, another Washington, D.C., suburb, comes in at number four. With a yearly income of $99,315, renters pay an average monthly rent of $2,684 and basic living expenses of $1,093, which is on par with the national average. However, utilities are high and make up nearly half of the $404 price calculated for basic needs.

5. Alexandria, VA

Another D.C suburb, Alexandria, VA, is a mix of federal agencies, corporate offices and tourism. Alexandria ranked fifth among the cities where renters could easily hit a balance between income and expenses, with the sixth-highest annual income out of all the cities at $89,845, enough to cover the $2,068 monthly rent and the $1,174 total price for basic necessities.

6. Westminster, CO

With an elevation of 5,381 feet above sea level, the Denver suburb of Westminster, CO, came in sixth, where renters could make the most out of their salaries. Renters can expect a median annual wage of $75,841, an average rent of $1,864, and a monthly cost of basic necessities of just under $1,000, which are some of the lowest living expenses in the country.

7. Scottsdale, AZ

The “West’s Most Western Town,” Scottsdale, AZ, ranks seventh out of the top 30. Renters benefit from a median annual income of $82,865 — the eighth-highest in the U.S. — an average monthly rent of just above $2,000 and a monthly cost of essential items and services at $1,087. And, with an average of 314 sunny days per year, low crime rates and endless outdoor activities, Scottsdale makes living and working a breeze.

8. Round Rock, TX

Round Rock, TX, is a short 20-minute drive to Austin, TX, one of the nation’s hottest tech hubs. With an average rent of $1,574 and an average annual income of around $68,517 (39% higher than the norm), Round Rock offers renters more bang for their buck. This is especially true when considering that expenses for basic necessities such as utilities, food, healthcare, transportation, and common goods and services are slightly below average at $1,058.

9. Plano, TX

Known for low crime rates and great schools, Plano, TX, managed to rank ninth by hitting a favorable balance between renters’ income and the price of everyday necessities. The monthly rent was close to the national benchmark at $1,786, while basic living expenses were slightly above the average at $1,204. Factoring in an annual income of $76,824 (the 11th-highest in the country) makes Plano an affordable place for renters to maintain financial health.

10. Broken Arrow, OK

Part of the Tulsa Metropolitan area, Broken Arrow boasts a $54,594 annual income that can easily cover the below-average monthly rent of $1,165 and the price of basic living expenses. The city's population continues to grow and now stands at 116,330, according to the latest census. It is Oklahoma’s fourth-largest city.

Related Content

• The 15 Most Expensive Housing Markets in the US: Cities with the Highest Average Home Prices
• How Much Can You Make Renting Your Home?
• 10 Big U.S. Cities With the Cheapest Apartment Rents
• The 25 Cheapest Places to Live: U.S. Cities Edition

The Air Factor tool, developed by First Street Foundation in partnership with the tech real estate company, Redfin, quantifies that risk. The tool is based on research that examined poor air quality in the U.S. due to ozone (formed when hot temperatures combine with emissions from a car or factory) and wildfire smoke. 

"This is really a Western story," said Dr. Jeremy Porter, head of climate implications for the foundation. Although ozone pollution is a serious problem in much of the U.S., wildfires in the west and along the border of Florida and Georgia contribute to the worst air pollution in the country. The map below shows the number of "orange" (unsafe for sensitive groups) or worse days projected for 2024. 

How do I see a home's air pollution risk?

The Air Factor tool assigns each U.S. property a rating from one (minimal risk) to ten (extreme risk). Minimal risk means that the property is unlikely to experience any days of unhealthy air each year, while extreme risk means that 21 or more days will be unhealthy in a given year. 

There are a few ways you can access the rating for your own home, or a home you might purchase in the U.S.

If you have an Apple phone: Download the free Redfin iOS app. From the main page, type in the address to search. From the property's landing page, select the "climate" button. It may be on the upper right-hand side of your screen, or you may have to scroll through the listing. Click on "Air Factor." If you would prefer not to download an app you can use the instructions below.

If you have an Android phone or are searching from a computer or tablet: Go to Riskfactor.com. Enter an address to search. You will see five scores for the property detailing climate risk "factors," from flooding, wind, heat, fire and air quality. Click on "Air Factor."

Next steps: You will see an Air Factor score from one to ten, as explained above. You will also see the home's current and future number of unhealthy air days.

Here is an example of the Air Factor score for a property listed for sale in Portland, Oregon, for over a million dollars.

If you moved into this house, you could expect almost three weeks of unhealthy air per year. Portland used to have excellent air quality, but the quality has degraded substantially over the past few years, largely due to wildfires.

Will a high Air Risk score lower my home's value?

The short answer? It's complicated. What's clear is that there's been an exodus from some of the most polluted areas in the country to those with cleaner air. The U.S. metro areas with poor air quality had about one million people move out between 2021 and 2022, according to a recent Redfin study. Cleaner metro areas saw one million more people moving in than out during the same period. 

Consider that many areas with wildfire risk are in highly-desirable locations near forests, or with plenty of greenspace. As a result, these areas tend to share both wildfire risk and higher home values. Roughly 9% of respondents said that they were moving due to climate concerns like wildfire smoke, according to a recent Redfin survey, while 20% said they were looking for cheaper housing.

Moving away from wildfire risk is no guarantee that you won't encounter another problem, such as flooding. A 2023 study by Redfin found that Americans leaving western states are flocking to areas with high wind and flooding risk. In some cases, moving to Florida, Arizona or Texas for cheaper housing could wind up costing just as much as a pricier area when factoring in expensive home and auto insurance, or even rebuilding after a storm. 

What can I do if my home has a high Air Risk score?

For general advice on how to improve your home's indoor air quality you can follow advice from Risk Factor or the EPA. In addition to portable air filters, improving sealing and insulation can help keep pollution out of your home. If that sounds too costly, remember that insulation and replacement windows may qualify for energy efficiency home improvement tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act.

If you want advice tailored to your specific home, a subscription-level service to Risk Factor might be helpful. You could sign up for a free, seven-day trial and then cancel your subscription before the monthly fee of $29.99 applies. Once you've signed up, click the "Indoor Air Quality Calculator" tab for your home in the Air Risk section of your home profile. You'll be able to modify your home's existing profile that Risk Factor automatically uploads from public documents (for example, the home's age, what construction material it's made of, and size). Then you can see how various remediations like air filters or insulation could improve your indoor air quality. 

Beyond pollution risk

As you explore your home's Air Factor score, you may notice other climate-related scores. Risk factor also offers free scores on residential properties for flood, fire, wind and heat risks. Just as with Air Factor, type in your home address at Riskfactor.com to see these scores.

If you're thinking of moving but haven't yet picked out a specific property to research, you may also search the site by city or county name. This is a great way to learn about an area's risks, but also the steps that local governments are taking to lessen risks for homeowners. Denver, Colorado, for example, has a major wildfire risk, but it is one of the most prepared cities to handle climate extremes, according to Architectural Digest.

Read More

• How to Shop for a Low Mortgage Rate
• How to Protect Your Home From Natural Disasters with the Right Insurance
• Home Upgrades That Pay Off
• The Five Safest Cities in the U.S.

In a recent survery — 2024's Cities With the Biggest and Smallest Yards — LawnStarter compared 2,000 of the biggest U.S. cities based on the average yard size of single-family homes from data by the Federal Finance Housing Agency. The lower the score, the Lawn-liest your city is, translating to less maintenance, less watering, less fertilizer and fewer lawn care costs. 

Four of the top five were in New Jersey, with San Francisco taking the No. 3 spot. Overall, 11 of the 25 lawn-liest cities were in New Jersey.

Not sure where your city ranks in the grand scheme of things? Check out LawnStarter’s 25 cities with the smallest yards below.

25 lawn-liest cities in America

Don’t see your city listed here? Check out LawnStarter's full rankings.

Key insights from the study

Small-city living offers the most yard space and each of the top 10 cities in the LawnStarter study has a population below 50,000. But if you're looking for a big-city lifestyle and big backyards, think about house-hunting in places like Charlotte,  NC, Jacksonville, FL or Oklahoma City, OK. 

• Hoboken, NJ wins the prize as the #1 city with the smallest yards.
• New Jersey boasts six cities in the top ten and 11 in the top 25. 
• Populous cities like New York and San Francisco have some of the smallest yards.
• The average yard size among the lawn-liest 97 cities is less than 0.1 acres.
• Only one California city — Fallbrook — landed among the top 10 cities with the biggest yards, while 255 California cities landed in the bottom half of the rankings.

Related Content

• 10 Most Livable Small & Midsize U.S. Cities
• The 10 Most Expensive Cities to Live in the U.S.
• 12 Cheapest Small Towns to Live In
• Need Your Lawn Mowed? Uber May Soon Offer Help With That