5 Best Small Towns in Florida to Retire

This article takes a look at the 5 best small towns in Florida to retire. If you wish to check out our detailed analysis of retirement living in America’s Sunshine State, you may go to 20 Best Small Towns in Florida to Retire.

5. Okeechobee

Insider Monkey Score: 88

Cost of Living Index: 85

Water & Air Index: 60.5

Livability Score: 76

A tropical town, Okeechobee boasts alligators, dolphins, eagles, and mangroves, giving nature-loving retirees a great place to live out their post-work life. With a favorable cost of living, senior citizens can have a picnic at the Okeechobee Kiwanis Park, go shopping at the La Fiesta Supermarket, or indulge their fast food cravings at Wendy’s. The cost of living here is 15% lower than the national average.

4. Inverness

Insider Monkey Score: 88

Cost of Living Index: 87.8 

Water & Air Index: 74

Livability Score: 63

Number four on our list of best small towns in Florida to retire is Inverness. With a cost of living more than 12% lower than the national average and great water and air quality, Inverness is a senior citizen haven. Complete with museums, parks, and a theater, there won’t be a boring day if Inverness is where you choose to retire. Also, the cost of living in this town 12.2% lower than the national average.

3. Crystal River

Insider Monkey Score: 92

Cost of Living Index: 87.8

Water & Air Index: 77

Livability Score: 65

A coastal town located in Western Florida, Crystal River is perhaps one of America’s most beautiful spots. Home to the Three Sisters Springs Wildlife Refuge, the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, and the Crystal River Archaeological State Park, this small town is a treasure trove for nature-loving retirees. The cost of living in Crystal River 12.2% lower than the national average.

2. Apalachicola

Insider Monkey Score: 98

Cost of Living Index: 97.4

Water & Air Index: 76

Livability Score: 78

With a population of under 3000 residents, Apalachicola is a small, homely town perfect for those who want a slower retirement. Our number two choice for the best small towns in Florida to retire, Apalachicola is a fishing town popular for its seafood, waterfronts, and extensive maritime history. The cost of living in this town is 2.6% lower than the national average.

1. Perry 

Insider Monkey Score: 100

Cost of Living Index: 77.4

Water & Air Index: 72

Livability Score: 64

Our pick for the best small town in Florida to retire for retirees is Perry, situated in Taylor County. With reasonable rent, good air and water, and the perfect mix of rural and suburban living, Perry offers retirees a more peaceful way of life. Brush up on your history at the Forest Capital Museum, grab a coffee at Courthouse Cafe, or take a walk in the Econfina River State Park. The cost of living in Perry is 22.6% lower than the national average.

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