There’s a reason so many jokes are made about Florida being a retirement mecca. Its year-round warm weather and low taxes make it a retirement haven. However, seniors are discovering there are plenty of other places throughout the South to spend their golden years.
According to Travel & Leisure, real estate experts share that when looking for a retirement destination, clients are asking for lower living costs, quality health care, a mild climate, and an active, connected community. It compiled a list of the ten best places to retire in the South in 2026:
- Athens, Georgia, offers retirees a charming, affordable lifestyle in a vibrant college town.
- Dallas, Texas, has the “amenities of a big city but a lower cost of living.”
- Peachtree City, Georgia, is perfect for leisure seeking seniors. Located south of Atlanta, “retirees can take advantage of all of the golfing, boating, and walking opportunities.”
- Lexington, South Carolina, is ideal for those who love to fish and it’s highly affordable too.
- Huntsville, Alabama, “combines Southern charm with a high-tech, forward-thinking atmosphere.”
- Sarasota, Florida, is moderately priced for a coastal city known for white-sand beaches, world-class golf, boating, fishing, and cultural arts.
- Lake Nona, Florida, has plenty of pleasant qualities, but its location close to Orlanda’s theme parks means the grandkids will always want to come visit.
- Asheville, North Carolina, is nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, but it also offers a vibrant arts scene.
- The Villages, Florida, with a claim of “golf for life” offers retirees both amenities and activities.
- Greenville, South Carolina, gives retirees a taste of all four seasons plus an incredible cultural and culinary scene.
It’s clear to see there are plenty of perfect places to retire scattered throughout the South.
Council of Seniors Wants to Support Older Americans
The Council of Seniors strives to help seniors stay financially fit.
We are working diligently to get Congress to passThe SAVE Benefits Act. This crucial bill will put $581 back in retirees’ pockets to make up for Social Security cost-of-living adjustments that were far too low for years.
Sign our petition today to support our efforts. Congress has ignored the growing number of seniors expecting action for way too long.