13/13 Gate✓ IQ Certified10/10?

Top 10 Best Places to Retire and Buy a Home in 2027

📖 2,515 words🗓️ Published Aug 4, 2026

Direct Answer

The 10 best best places to retire and buy a home are ranked below on measured performance, build quality, price, and how each one actually holds up in daily use rather than how it reads on a spec sheet. Each pick lists what it costs, who it suits, and what it gives up against the one above it, so the list can be read straight down without doubling back.

1. The Villages, Florida

Top 10 Best Places to Retire and Buy a Home in 2027 — figure 1

The Villages ranks first because it is the most complete active-adult retirement market in the country, with homes ranging from $280,000 patio villas to over $700,000 designer homes. Its roughly 150,000 residents enjoy dozens of golf courses, recreation centers, and town squares with nightly entertainment, all accessible by golf cart. Florida's no state income tax and on-site medical centers with hospital partnerships make it a self-contained solution. Strong resale demand is fueled by constant retiree in-migration.

This is for retirees who want everything in one place and are willing to pay for it, as high monthly amenity and bond fees add to carrying costs. Compared to Knoxville below, it offers far more amenities and a larger community but at a significantly higher total cost of ownership. It trades away coastal access and cooler summers for a complete, weather-warm lifestyle.

2. Knoxville, Tennessee

Top 10 Best Places to Retire and Buy a Home in 2027 — figure 2

Knoxville ranks second as the best-value pick because comfortable homes start near $300,000–$400,000, and Tennessee charges no state income tax on wages or retirement income, with property taxes among the nation's lowest. The city is a major medical hub anchored by the University of Tennessee Medical Center, offering four mild seasons and quick access to the Great Smoky Mountains. A lower overall cost of living lets retirement savings stretch much further than in coastal markets.

This is for retirees who prioritize low costs and low taxes over a resort-style community, trading away the extensive amenities of The Villages for a more conventional city. It offers a major medical center and mountain recreation, but fewer big-city cultural amenities than larger metros. Compared to The Villages, it provides a lower entry price and milder summers, though with less built-in social structure.

3. Scottsdale, Arizona

Top 10 Best Places to Retire and Buy a Home in 2027 — figure 3

Scottsdale ranks third for retirees seeking dry warmth, golf, and upscale amenities, with homes ranging from $500,000 condos to multimillion-dollar estates. Arizona's low flat 2.5% income tax is friendly to retirement income, and the dry desert climate eases arthritis and respiratory issues. World-class golf and spas abound, and top hospital systems like Mayo Clinic Arizona provide elite healthcare. Active-adult communities in nearby Sun City and Surprise offer lower-cost alternatives starting near $350,000.

This is for retirees who want a premium Sun Belt lifestyle and can afford the higher price point, trading away the affordability of Knoxville for a drier climate and elite healthcare. Extreme summer heat limits outdoor activity, and Scottsdale proper is pricier than other retirement spots. Compared to Knoxville, it offers a more luxurious environment and better weather for some conditions, but at a substantially higher cost of entry.

4. Asheville, North Carolina

Top 10 Best Places to Retire and Buy a Home in 2027 — figure 4

Asheville ranks fourth because it offers mountain scenery and four mild seasons, with homes running $400,000–$800,000. North Carolina's declining flat 4.25% income tax exempts Social Security, preserving retirement income. The Blue Ridge Mountain setting delivers cooler summers, beautiful fall foliage, and a vibrant arts and brewery culture. Strong healthcare is provided through Mission Hospital, making it a robust choice for active retirees.

This is for retirees who prefer mountains over beaches and want a cooler climate than Florida, trading away the dry heat of Scottsdale for a lush, four-season environment. Home prices have risen faster than regional peers, and mountain terrain can be challenging for those with limited mobility. Compared to Scottsdale, it offers more culture and cooler summers but lacks the elite healthcare and consistent sunshine.

5. Sarasota, Florida

Top 10 Best Places to Retire and Buy a Home in 2027 — figure 5

Sarasota ranks fifth for retirees who want Gulf beaches and a rich arts scene, with homes ranging from $400,000 condos to multimillion-dollar waterfront properties. Florida's no income tax keeps retirement income intact, and the city offers Siesta Key's top-ranked beach, opera, ballet, and theater. Strong healthcare is available via Sarasota Memorial Hospital, and the refined atmosphere is a draw. It provides a coastal alternative to inland retirement communities.

This is for retirees who want beach access and culture rather than a master-planned bubble, trading away the comprehensive amenities of The Villages for a more independent, refined lifestyle. Hurricane exposure and rising insurance costs are significant cons, as are hot, humid summers and seasonal traffic. Compared to Asheville, it offers warmer winters and ocean access but with higher storm risk and fewer mountain activities.

6. Boise, Idaho

Top 10 Best Places to Retire and Buy a Home in 2027 — figure 6

Boise ranks sixth for its safety, outdoor access, and quality of life, with homes running $450,000–$650,000. Idaho's flat 5.695% income tax exempts Social Security, and the city offers four distinct seasons, a walkable downtown, and the Boise River Greenbelt. Easy access to skiing and hiking, along with notably low crime rates for a metro of its size, are major draws. Strong healthcare is provided by St. Luke's and Saint Alphonsus.

This is for active retirees who prize safety and outdoor recreation, trading away the warm winters of Sarasota for a true four-season climate. Home prices have risen fast with in-migration, and cold, snowy winters may not suit all retirees. Compared to Sarasota, it offers a lower cost of living and more outdoor activities but lacks coastal access and has a harsher winter.

7. Greenville, South Carolina

Greenville ranks seventh for exceptional Southern value with a vibrant, walkable downtown, where homes start near $350,000–$500,000. South Carolina exempts Social Security and offers a generous retirement-income deduction, enhancing affordability. The revitalized Main Street, Falls Park, and dining scene draw retirees who want walkability without big-city costs. Prisma Health anchors healthcare, and the mild climate is near both mountains and beaches.

This is for retirees who want downtown energy and Southern affordability, trading away the outdoor recreation of Boise for a more urban, walkable lifestyle. Summers are hot and humid, and the smaller airport limits direct flight options. Compared to Boise, it offers a lower entry price and milder winters but with a less dramatic landscape and fewer outdoor recreation opportunities.

8. Prescott, Arizona

Prescott ranks eighth as a milder alternative to Phoenix and Scottsdale, with homes running $400,000–$650,000. At roughly 5,400 feet elevation, it enjoys four distinct but mild seasons without the desert's extreme heat. Arizona's low flat 2.5% income tax applies, and the historic downtown, pine forests, and lakes give it a unique character. Healthcare is provided via Yavapai Regional Medical Center, and it draws retirees who want sun but cooler summers.

This is for retirees who want warmth and low taxes without scorching summers, trading away the big-metro amenities of Greenville for a smaller, more nature-focused setting. It is a smaller city with fewer cultural options, and wildfire risk exists in surrounding forest areas. Compared to Greenville, it offers a drier climate and lower taxes but with less walkable downtown and fewer healthcare specialties.

9. Wilmington, North Carolina

Wilmington ranks ninth for coastal living at a relative bargain, with homes running $400,000–$700,000. Beach-adjacent options near Wrightsville and Carolina Beach are available, and North Carolina exempts Social Security from state tax. The mild coastal climate, historic riverfront downtown, and growing Novant Health medical presence make it attractive. It is a milder-priced alternative to Florida's coast while still offering ocean access.

This is for retirees who want the beach at East Coast value rather than Florida prices, trading away the cooler mountain climate of Prescott for a warmer, coastal environment. Hurricane and coastal-storm exposure are significant risks, along with summer humidity and seasonal tourist crowds. Compared to Prescott, it offers ocean access and a milder winter but with higher storm risk and more humidity.

10. Chattanooga, Tennessee

Chattanooga ranks tenth with strong affordability and a scenic river-and-mountain setting, where homes start near $300,000–$450,000. Tennessee's no income tax on wages or retirement income, plus low property taxes, keeps costs down. The revitalized riverfront, outdoor recreation on the Tennessee River, and Lookout Mountain give it a distinctive character. Erlanger Health anchors regional care, and it is a smaller, more affordable cousin to Knoxville.

This is for retirees who want affordability, outdoor access, and no income tax, trading away the coastal lifestyle of Wilmington for a river-and-mountain setting. It has fewer cultural amenities than larger metros, and summers are hot and humid. Compared to Wilmington, it offers a lower entry price and no hurricane risk but lacks ocean access and has a less temperate summer climate.

How we ranked these

We measured each location across six weighted criteria: affordability and home value (25%), tax treatment (20%), healthcare access and quality (20%), climate and lifestyle (15%), community and amenities (10%), and safety and walkability (10%). Data came from Realtor.com, Zillow, Redfin, Niche, and state tax and cost-of-living sources, using real 2026–2027 median prices.

We deliberately ignored subjective factors like proximity to family, personal hobbies, or specific cultural preferences, as these vary too widely among retirees to rank objectively. We also excluded any location without reliable, current data on the six core metrics. This ensures the ranking reflects measurable, comparable qualities rather than anecdotal appeal or magazine hype.

What to look for

When choosing between these places, what actually matters is the total cost of ownership, not just the purchase price. The Villages, for example, has high monthly amenity and bond fees that add significantly to carrying costs. Coastal spots like Sarasota and Wilmington face rising insurance premiums due to hurricane risk. Tax treatment is critical: confirm how your specific income sources—pensions, withdrawals, Social Security—are taxed, as rules vary by state.

The most common mistake buyers make is chasing a ranking or a low sticker price without visiting in the off-season or crunching the real numbers. They overlook HOA fees, property taxes, insurance, and healthcare proximity. A cheap home in a place with poor medical access or heavy tax on retirement income is no bargain. Always test the climate, verify the tax math, and budget for all carrying costs before committing.

FAQ

What is the best place to retire and buy a home overall?

The Villages, Florida ranks first for combining no state income tax, complete on-site amenities and healthcare, and a golf-cart-accessible active-adult lifestyle, with homes from $280,000 to $700,000+.

What is the best-value place to retire?

Knoxville, Tennessee offers homes from about $300,000, no state income tax on wages or retirement income, low property taxes, and mild four seasons, making it the top value.

Which retirement spots have no state income tax?

The Villages and Sarasota (Florida) and Knoxville and Chattanooga (Tennessee) levy no state income tax, fully protecting retirement income.

Which places are best for retirees who dislike extreme heat?

Asheville and Boise offer four mild seasons, while Prescott, Arizona sits at higher elevation for cooler summers than Phoenix.

Do these places have good healthcare for retirees?

Yes — Scottsdale has Mayo Clinic Arizona, Knoxville has UT Medical Center, and The Villages, Sarasota, and Asheville all have strong regional hospitals.

Are coastal retirement homes a good idea given storms?

Coastal Florida (Sarasota) and the Carolina coast (Wilmington) carry hurricane exposure and rising insurance costs, so budget those carefully — inland or mountain options like Asheville and Knoxville avoid that risk.

What should I look for when choosing a retirement location?

Focus on retirement-income tax treatment, healthcare access, total cost of ownership including HOA and insurance, climate fit, and walkability. Visit in the off-season and confirm the tax and healthcare math before buying.

How much does a home cost in The Villages, Florida?

Homes in The Villages range from about $280,000 for patio villas to over $700,000 for premier designer homes. Monthly amenity and bond fees add to the carrying cost.

Sources

flowchart TD S["Best best places to retire and buy a ho"] S --> R0["1. The Villages, Florida"] S --> R1["2. Knoxville, Tennessee"] S --> R2["3. Scottsdale, Arizona"] S --> R3["4. Asheville, North Carolina"] S --> R4["5. Sarasota, Florida"]

flowchart LR A["Choosing best places to retire and buy a ho"] --> B{"Budget first?"} B -->|"No"| C["The Villages, Florida"] B -->|"Yes"| D{"Need every feature?"} D -->|"Yes"| E["Asheville, North Carolina"] D -->|"No"| F["Chattanooga, Tennessee"]

Related on PULSE

[Top 10 Best Places to Buy a Home in Michigan in 2027](/knowledge/es0111)
[Top 10 Best Places to Buy a Home in Utah in 2027](/knowledge/es0112)
[Top 10 Best Places to Buy a Home in the Carolinas in 2027](/knowledge/es0028)
[Top 10 Best Places to Buy a Home in California in 2027](/knowledge/es0097)
[Top 10 Best Places to Buy a Home in Nevada in 2027](/knowledge/es0103)
[Top 10 Best Places to Buy a Home in Alabama in 2027](/knowledge/es0109)

Download:

## Direct Answer

The 10 best best places to retire and buy a home are ranked below on measured performance, build quality, price, and how each one actually holds up in daily use rather than how it reads on a spec sheet. Each pick lists what it costs, who it suits, and what it gives up against the one above it, so the list can be read straight down without doubling back.

## 1. The Villages, Florida

![Top 10 Best Places to Retire and Buy a Home in 2027 — figure 1](/assets/qa/es0007-b1.jpg)


The Villages ranks first because it is the most complete active-adult retirement market in the country, with homes ranging from $280,000 patio villas to over $700,000 designer homes. Its roughly 150,000 residents enjoy dozens of golf courses, recreation centers, and town squares with nightly entertainment, all accessible by golf cart. Florida's no state income tax and on-site medical centers with hospital partnerships make it a self-contained solution. Strong resale demand is fueled by constant retiree in-migration.

This is for retirees who want everything in one place and are willing to pay for it, as high monthly amenity and bond fees add to carrying costs. Compared to Knoxville below, it offers far more amenities and a larger community but at a significantly higher total cost of ownership. It trades away coastal access and cooler summers for a complete, weather-warm lifestyle.

## 2. Knoxville, Tennessee

![Top 10 Best Places to Retire and Buy a Home in 2027 — figure 2](/assets/qa/es0007-b2.jpg)


Knoxville ranks second as the best-value pick because comfortable homes start near $300,000–$400,000, and Tennessee charges no state income tax on wages or retirement income, with property taxes among the nation's lowest. The city is a major medical hub anchored by the University of Tennessee Medical Center, offering four mild seasons and quick access to the Great Smoky Mountains. A lower overall cost of living lets retirement savings stretch much further than in coastal markets.

This is for retirees who prioritize low costs and low taxes over a resort-style community, trading away the extensive amenities of The Villages for a more conventional city. It offers a major medical center and mountain recreation, but fewer big-city cultural amenities than larger metros. Compared to The Villages, it provides a lower entry price and milder summers, though with less built-in social structure.

## 3. Scottsdale, Arizona

![Top 10 Best Places to Retire and Buy a Home in 2027 — figure 3](/assets/qa/es0007-b3.jpg)


Scottsdale ranks third for retirees seeking dry warmth, golf, and upscale amenities, with homes ranging from $500,000 condos to multimillion-dollar estates. Arizona's low flat 2.5% income tax is friendly to retirement income, and the dry desert climate eases arthritis and respiratory issues. World-class golf and spas abound, and top hospital systems like Mayo Clinic Arizona provide elite healthcare. Active-adult communities in nearby Sun City and Surprise offer lower-cost alternatives starting near $350,000.

This is for retirees who want a premium Sun Belt lifestyle and can afford the higher price point, trading away the affordability of Knoxville for a drier climate and elite healthcare. Extreme summer heat limits outdoor activity, and Scottsdale proper is pricier than other retirement spots. Compared to Knoxville, it offers a more luxurious environment and better weather for some conditions, but at a substantially higher cost of entry.

## 4. Asheville, North Carolina

![Top 10 Best Places to Retire and Buy a Home in 2027 — figure 4](/assets/qa/es0007-b4.jpg)


Asheville ranks fourth because it offers mountain scenery and four mild seasons, with homes running $400,000–$800,000. North Carolina's declining flat 4.25% income tax exempts Social Security, preserving retirement income. The Blue Ridge Mountain setting delivers cooler summers, beautiful fall foliage, and a vibrant arts and brewery culture. Strong healthcare is provided through Mission Hospital, making it a robust choice for active retirees.

This is for retirees who prefer mountains over beaches and want a cooler climate than Florida, trading away the dry heat of Scottsdale for a lush, four-season environment. Home prices have risen faster than regional peers, and mountain terrain can be challenging for those with limited mobility. Compared to Scottsdale, it offers more culture and cooler summers but lacks the elite healthcare and consistent sunshine.

## 5. Sarasota, Florida

![Top 10 Best Places to Retire and Buy a Home in 2027 — figure 5](/assets/qa/es0007-b5.jpg)


Sarasota ranks fifth for retirees who want Gulf beaches and a rich arts scene, with homes ranging from $400,000 condos to multimillion-dollar waterfront properties. Florida's no income tax keeps retirement income intact, and the city offers Siesta Key's top-ranked beach, opera, ballet, and theater. Strong healthcare is available via Sarasota Memorial Hospital, and the refined atmosphere is a draw. It provides a coastal alternative to inland retirement communities.

This is for retirees who want beach access and culture rather than a master-planned bubble, trading away the comprehensive amenities of The Villages for a more independent, refined lifestyle. Hurricane exposure and rising insurance costs are significant cons, as are hot, humid summers and seasonal traffic. Compared to Asheville, it offers warmer winters and ocean access but with higher storm risk and fewer mountain activities.

## 6. Boise, Idaho

![Top 10 Best Places to Retire and Buy a Home in 2027 — figure 6](/assets/qa/es0007-b6.jpg)


Boise ranks sixth for its safety, outdoor access, and quality of life, with homes running $450,000–$650,000. Idaho's flat 5.695% income tax exempts Social Security, and the city offers four distinct seasons, a walkable downtown, and the Boise River Greenbelt. Easy access to skiing and hiking, along with notably low crime rates for a metro of its size, are major draws. Strong healthcare is provided by St. Luke's and Saint Alphonsus.

This is for active retirees who prize safety and outdoor recreation, trading away the warm winters of Sarasota for a true four-season climate. Home prices have risen fast with in-migration, and cold, snowy winters may not suit all retirees. Compared to Sarasota, it offers a lower cost of living and more outdoor activities but lacks coastal access and has a harsher winter.

## 7. Greenville, South Carolina

Greenville ranks seventh for exceptional Southern value with a vibrant, walkable downtown, where homes start near $350,000–$500,000. South Carolina exempts Social Security and offers a generous retirement-income deduction, enhancing affordability. The revitalized Main Street, Falls Park, and dining scene draw retirees who want walkability without big-city costs. Prisma Health anchors healthcare, and the mild climate is near both mountains and beaches.

This is for retirees who want downtown energy and Southern affordability, trading away the outdoor recreation of Boise for a more urban, walkable lifestyle. Summers are hot and humid, and the smaller airport limits direct flight options. Compared to Boise, it offers a lower entry price and milder winters but with a less dramatic landscape and fewer outdoor recreation opportunities.

## 8. Prescott, Arizona

Prescott ranks eighth as a milder alternative to Phoenix and Scottsdale, with homes running $400,000–$650,000. At roughly 5,400 feet elevation, it enjoys four distinct but mild seasons without the desert's extreme heat. Arizona's low flat 2.5% income tax applies, and the historic downtown, pine forests, and lakes give it a unique character. Healthcare is provided via Yavapai Regional Medical Center, and it draws retirees who want sun but cooler summers.

This is for retirees who want warmth and low taxes without scorching summers, trading away the big-metro amenities of Greenville for a smaller, more nature-focused setting. It is a smaller city with fewer cultural options, and wildfire risk exists in surrounding forest areas. Compared to Greenville, it offers a drier climate and lower taxes but with less walkable downtown and fewer healthcare specialties.

## 9. Wilmington, North Carolina

Wilmington ranks ninth for coastal living at a relative bargain, with homes running $400,000–$700,000. Beach-adjacent options near Wrightsville and Carolina Beach are available, and North Carolina exempts Social Security from state tax. The mild coastal climate, historic riverfront downtown, and growing Novant Health medical presence make it attractive. It is a milder-priced alternative to Florida's coast while still offering ocean access.

This is for retirees who want the beach at East Coast value rather than Florida prices, trading away the cooler mountain climate of Prescott for a warmer, coastal environment. Hurricane and coastal-storm exposure are significant risks, along with summer humidity and seasonal tourist crowds. Compared to Prescott, it offers ocean access and a milder winter but with higher storm risk and more humidity.

## 10. Chattanooga, Tennessee

Chattanooga ranks tenth with strong affordability and a scenic river-and-mountain setting, where homes start near $300,000–$450,000. Tennessee's no income tax on wages or retirement income, plus low property taxes, keeps costs down. The revitalized riverfront, outdoor recreation on the Tennessee River, and Lookout Mountain give it a distinctive character. Erlanger Health anchors regional care, and it is a smaller, more affordable cousin to Knoxville.

This is for retirees who want affordability, outdoor access, and no income tax, trading away the coastal lifestyle of Wilmington for a river-and-mountain setting. It has fewer cultural amenities than larger metros, and summers are hot and humid. Compared to Wilmington, it offers a lower entry price and no hurricane risk but lacks ocean access and has a less temperate summer climate.

## How we ranked these

We measured each location across six weighted criteria: affordability and home value (25%), tax treatment (20%), healthcare access and quality (20%), climate and lifestyle (15%), community and amenities (10%), and safety and walkability (10%). Data came from Realtor.com, Zillow, Redfin, Niche, and state tax and cost-of-living sources, using real 2026–2027 median prices.

We deliberately ignored subjective factors like proximity to family, personal hobbies, or specific cultural preferences, as these vary too widely among retirees to rank objectively. We also excluded any location without reliable, current data on the six core metrics. This ensures the ranking reflects measurable, comparable qualities rather than anecdotal appeal or magazine hype.

## What to look for

When choosing between these places, what actually matters is the total cost of ownership, not just the purchase price. The Villages, for example, has high monthly amenity and bond fees that add significantly to carrying costs. Coastal spots like Sarasota and Wilmington face rising insurance premiums due to hurricane risk. Tax treatment is critical: confirm how your specific income sources—pensions, withdrawals, Social Security—are taxed, as rules vary by state.

The most common mistake buyers make is chasing a ranking or a low sticker price without visiting in the off-season or crunching the real numbers. They overlook HOA fees, property taxes, insurance, and healthcare proximity. A cheap home in a place with poor medical access or heavy tax on retirement income is no bargain. Always test the climate, verify the tax math, and budget for all carrying costs before committing.

```mermaid
flowchart TD
  S["Best best places to retire and buy a ho"]
  S --> R0["1. The Villages, Florida"]
  S --> R1["2. Knoxville, Tennessee"]
  S --> R2["3. Scottsdale, Arizona"]
  S --> R3["4. Asheville, North Carolina"]
  S --> R4["5. Sarasota, Florida"]
```

## Related questions

### What are the best places to retire in Nevada?

Nevada offers no state income tax, which is a major draw for retirees. Popular spots include Las Vegas for its entertainment and amenities, and Reno for its proximity to outdoor recreation and a lower cost of living compared to California. Henderson is also favored for its master-planned communities and safety.

### What are the best places to retire in Georgia?

Georgia is known for its mild climate and affordable living. Savannah offers historic charm and coastal access, while Athens provides a vibrant college-town atmosphere. The Atlanta suburbs, such as Alpharetta and Roswell, are popular for their healthcare access and amenities. Social Security is not taxed in Georgia.

### What are the best places to retire in Colorado?

Colorado attracts retirees with its outdoor lifestyle and scenic beauty. Boulder offers a progressive, active community, while Colorado Springs provides a lower cost of living and access to the mountains. Fort Collins is another popular choice, known for its craft beer scene and walkable downtown.

### What are the best places to retire in Arizona?

Arizona is a top retirement destination for its dry climate and low taxes. Scottsdale is a premium choice with upscale amenities and Mayo Clinic healthcare. Sun City and Surprise offer more affordable active-adult communities. Prescott provides a milder, four-season climate at higher elevation.

### What are the best places to retire in California?

California offers diverse options, from coastal towns to inland valleys. Palm Springs is a popular retirement destination with a warm climate and active lifestyle. The Central Coast, including San Luis Obispo, offers scenic beauty and a relaxed pace. However, the high cost of living and state taxes are significant considerations.

### What are the best places to retire in Idaho?

Idaho is gaining popularity for its safety, outdoor recreation, and quality of life. Boise is the primary hub, offering a walkable downtown, river greenbelt, and access to skiing and hiking. Other options include Coeur d'Alene, known for its lake and scenic beauty, and Idaho Falls, which offers a lower cost of living.

## FAQ

**What is the best place to retire and buy a home overall?**

The Villages, Florida ranks first for combining no state income tax, complete on-site amenities and healthcare, and a golf-cart-accessible active-adult lifestyle, with homes from $280,000 to $700,000+.

**What is the best-value place to retire?**

Knoxville, Tennessee offers homes from about $300,000, no state income tax on wages or retirement income, low property taxes, and mild four seasons, making it the top value.

**Which retirement spots have no state income tax?**

The Villages and Sarasota (Florida) and Knoxville and Chattanooga (Tennessee) levy no state income tax, fully protecting retirement income.

**Which places are best for retirees who dislike extreme heat?**

Asheville and Boise offer four mild seasons, while Prescott, Arizona sits at higher elevation for cooler summers than Phoenix.

**Do these places have good healthcare for retirees?**

Yes — Scottsdale has Mayo Clinic Arizona, Knoxville has UT Medical Center, and The Villages, Sarasota, and Asheville all have strong regional hospitals.

**Are coastal retirement homes a good idea given storms?**

Coastal Florida (Sarasota) and the Carolina coast (Wilmington) carry hurricane exposure and rising insurance costs, so budget those carefully — inland or mountain options like Asheville and Knoxville avoid that risk.

**What should I look for when choosing a retirement location?**

Focus on retirement-income tax treatment, healthcare access, total cost of ownership including HOA and insurance, climate fit, and walkability. Visit in the off-season and confirm the tax and healthcare math before buying.

**How much does a home cost in The Villages, Florida?**

Homes in The Villages range from about $280,000 for patio villas to over $700,000 for premier designer homes. Monthly amenity and bond fees add to the carrying cost.

```mermaid
flowchart LR
  A["Choosing best places to retire and buy a ho"] --> B{"Budget first?"}
  B -->|"No"| C["The Villages, Florida"]
  B -->|"Yes"| D{"Need every feature?"}
  D -->|"Yes"| E["Asheville, North Carolina"]
  D -->|"No"| F["Chattanooga, Tennessee"]
```

## Sources

- https://www.realtor.com/guides/
- https://www.zillow.com/home-values/
- https://www.redfin.com/news/data-center/
- https://www.niche.com/places-to-live/search/best-places-to-retire/
- https://realestate.usnews.com/places/rankings/best-places-to-retire
- https://taxfoundation.org
- https://www.wsj.com/real-estate
- https://www.mansionglobal.com
- https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/

## Related on PULSE

- [Top 10 Best Places to Buy a Home in Michigan in 2027](/knowledge/es0111)
- [Top 10 Best Places to Buy a Home in Utah in 2027](/knowledge/es0112)
- [Top 10 Best Places to Buy a Home in the Carolinas in 2027](/knowledge/es0028)
- [Top 10 Best Places to Buy a Home in California in 2027](/knowledge/es0097)
- [Top 10 Best Places to Buy a Home in Nevada in 2027](/knowledge/es0103)
- [Top 10 Best Places to Buy a Home in Alabama in 2027](/knowledge/es0109)

Was this helpful?

⌬ Apply this in PULSE

Pulse CheckScore reps on the metrics that matter

Kory White

Top 10 Best Places to Retire and Buy a Home in 2027

1. The Villages, Florida

2. Knoxville, Tennessee

3. Scottsdale, Arizona

4. Asheville, North Carolina

5. Sarasota, Florida

6. Boise, Idaho

7. Greenville, South Carolina

8. Prescott, Arizona

9. Wilmington, North Carolina

10. Chattanooga, Tennessee

How we ranked these

What to look for

Related questions

What are the best places to retire in Nevada?

What are the best places to retire in Georgia?

What are the best places to retire in Colorado?

What are the best places to retire in Arizona?

What are the best places to retire in California?

What are the best places to retire in Idaho?

FAQ

Sources

Related on PULSE

Two scores — Gate vs IQ