With a record wave of Americans preparing to retire over the next couple of years, many are on the hunt for the perfect place to settle into their next chapter — and one sunny city in Arizona has just earned top marks.
Niche.com, a data-driven platform best known for its community and education rankings, has released its 11th annual “Best Places to Live in America” list. Drawing on data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, along with millions of genuine resident reviews, the company evaluated 230 cities and more than 18,000 communities nationwide. Key factors included affordability, housing trends, diversity, school quality, and walkability.
Photo: unsplash.com/@merittthomas
When the results came in, Scottsdale, Arizona, claimed the title as the best city in the U.S. to retire.
“With some of the best weather in the country, Scottsdale is the perfect oasis for retirement,” said Zach Chatham, public relations manager for Niche.com, in an interview with Travel + Leisure. “The city’s abundance of outdoor activities and focus on health and wellness make it ideal for anyone who wants to stay active and enjoy a long, vibrant life.”
According to Niche’s analysis, Scottsdale earned an overall A rating. The city offers a dense suburban atmosphere, with most residents owning their homes. The median rent is around $1,900 per month, while homes typically sell for just under $710,000. Scottsdale also scored a B+ for ethnic and economic diversity.
One local reviewer summed up the city’s appeal perfectly:
“Scottsdale blends modern living with a touch of Old West charm. The desert scenery is stunning, and there’s always something to do — from hiking Camelback Mountain to exploring the art galleries and nightlife in Old Town. Yes, summers get hot, but the winters are perfection. It’s a little pricey, especially up north, but worth it for the restaurants, shopping, and outdoor life. If you love golf, luxury resorts, or just good energy, this is the place to be.”
Photo: unsplash.com/@thatsmrbio
Scottsdale wasn’t the only city that impressed. Rounding out the top five best places to retire were Clearwater, Florida; Metairie, Louisiana; St. Petersburg, Florida; and Cape Coral, Florida.
This isn’t the first time Scottsdale has been recognized as a retirement haven. WalletHub also ranked it among the best U.S. cities for retirees last year, citing its excellent quality of life and wide range of recreational options. Census data backs it up — about one in four residents is already 65 or older.
For the complete ranking and more community insights, visit Niche.com.