In this article, we take a look at the 5 best cities in northern florida to retire. If you want to check out more cities, go directly to the 12 Best Cities in Northern Florida to Retire.
5. Daytona Beach
Insider Monkey Score: 2
Retirees looking for plenty of sunshine and relaxation can also consider Daytona Beach for retirement. This city is revered for its affordable housing options, retirement-friendly taxes, and low cost of living. Daytona Beach, as evident from the name, offers miles of coastline for retirees to come and relax under the sun.
There are 55+ active adult and retirement communities, with Latitude Margaritaville being the most popular one. The average cost of living in the city is $2,086, which is quite low compared to the state average. Retirees in the city can also enjoy golfing and fishing, racing at Daytona International Speedway, and even enjoy the performing arts center, many restaurants, and theaters.
4. Tallahassee
Insider Monkey Score: 2
Low cost of living, affordable healthcare, and year-round sunshine are what make the city of Tallahassee one of the best places in florida to retire.
While the rest of Florida is known for its sandy beaches and long palm trees, people know this city best for its hills and outdoor space. The city is home to wonderful outdoor attractions such as Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park, full of nature trails, hiking trails, and even a botanical garden.
J.R. Alford Greenway Trail gives you a chance to enjoy cycling, bird watching, and even horseback riding. There are hundreds of locally-owned restaurants to explore, and the average cost of living is 4-5% lower than the state average.
3. Gainesville
Insider Monkey Score: 3
Retiring in a college town has its own perks, and Gainesville gives retirees a chance to enjoy that. A thriving arts and culture scene, dozens of theaters and auditoriums, and plenty of shopping locations are some prime features of this location. Moreover, there are plenty of ethnic restaurants to try, such as Mexican, Greek, and even Italian.
Most importantly, the University of Florida in Gainesville gives people of all ages a chance to keep on learning. The city has its own medical and surgical acute care center called North Florida Regional Medical Centre. The cost of living in Florida stands at 90, which means it is 10% lower than the U.S. average. Groceries are 8% cheaper, but utilities are 5% more expensive. Median home costs around $271,700.
2. Live Oak
Insider Monkey Score: 3
Thriving retirement communities, lush state parks, and lots of forests make up the city of Live Oak, Florida. Live Oak is a great place for retirement considering its scenic beauty full of tall trees and green pastures. The pace of life is very relaxed and calm, just what seniors need for their golden years. There are plenty of shopping centers, outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, and fishing, and of course, restaurants and entertainment options. The best part about Live Oak is its affordability, as the cost of living is approximately 18% lower than the U.S. average. Moreover, median monthly rents are between $800-$990 only.
1. Jacksonville
Insider Monkey Score: 3
Abundant parks, good air quality, and affordable living are the prime features of the thriving city of Jacksonville. The city gives retirees a chance to enjoy year-round sunshine, a warm climate, and a favorable tax climate. Approximately 14% of the population in the city is 65 or older, and there are plenty of retirement communities to choose from. The average home value in the city stands at $295,000, while median rents are $1,552. Overall, the cost of living is 6% lower than the U.S. average, and it is one of the ideal cities in Northern Florida to consider for retirement.
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