As traditional retirement havens like Florida and Arizona see rising home prices and increased congestion, retirees across the country are looking elsewhere for peace, affordability, and a better quality of life. The shift is driving attention to lesser-known destinations—places that offer natural beauty, friendly communities, and a more sustainable pace of living.
According to data from Cardinal Financial, home affordability is one of the top three priorities for retirees relocating in 2025, followed closely by healthcare access and proximity to nature. With that in mind, here are ten underrated U.S. communities emerging as retirement gems—and two standouts include Rarity Bay, Tennessee and Saratoga Springs, Utah.
Set along the scenic shoreline of Tellico Lake in East Tennessee, Rarity Bay is no longer just a hidden gem—it’s becoming a sought-after destination for retirees who want waterfront living without the high price tag.
With panoramic lake and Smoky Mountain views, this gated community offers golf, boating, horseback riding, and miles of walking trails. Residents enjoy resort-style amenities and strong community engagement, all within reach of Knoxville’s medical centers and cultural attractions.
According to Realtor.com, the median price of homes for sale in Rarity Bay remains well below prices in Florida’s more congested coastal areas, making it an attractive option for retirees looking to maximize value without sacrificing lifestyle.
While Florida and Phoenix dominate the retirement conversation, Prescott has steadily grown its reputation as a relaxed, artsy community with small-town charm and access to Arizona’s high desert beauty.
At 5,300 feet elevation, the weather is milder than the lowlands—warm summers and crisp winters without extreme heat. The area’s growing population of retirees has brought more local services, galleries, and dining options in recent years.
This small lakeside city in northern Michigan is best known for cherries, vineyards, and some of the most beautiful freshwater beaches in the country.
What makes Traverse City appealing to retirees? A combination of seasonal charm, walkable neighborhoods, and a health system ranked among the top in the state. Munson Medical Center offers high-quality care, and Michigan’s flat tax rate makes the region financially attractive.
According to Kiplinger, Michigan is one of the more tax-friendly states for retirees, especially when it comes to Social Security and pension income.
Greenville’s walkable downtown, vibrant arts scene, and mild four-season climate make it a well-rounded retirement option that hasn’t been overrun by tourists or sprawl.
With access to the Blue Ridge Mountains and proximity to major highways, it offers both serenity and connectivity. Housing remains affordable compared to larger southern cities like Charlotte or Atlanta, and South Carolina does not tax Social Security benefits—an added financial perk for retirees.
If you’re drawn to pine forests, mountain views, and lakeside serenity, Coeur d’Alene checks every box. While it’s become more popular in recent years, it’s still considered a “quiet West Coast escape” by many.
Outdoor recreation dominates the local lifestyle, with hiking, boating, and fishing accessible year-round. According to the Idaho Department of Labor, the city has one of the lowest crime rates in the state and a growing number of healthcare and wellness facilities catering to older residents.
Tucked along the northwest edge of Utah Lake and framed by the Wasatch Mountains, Saratoga Springs offers wide-open spaces, crisp air, and impressive views—all within an hour of Salt Lake City.
This fast-growing city has been quietly attracting retirees who want access to the outdoors without completely leaving civilization behind. According to U.S. Census Bureau data, the population of Saratoga Springs has more than doubled since 2010, and a portion of that growth is due to active adults seeking a quieter alternative to larger urban centers.
Communities like Starhaven Villas provide luxury single-level living and clubhouse amenities tailored to a retirement lifestyle, while local infrastructure continues to grow to meet demand.
Just inland from Hilton Head, Bluffton delivers the coastal lifestyle without the resort prices. This Lowcountry town mixes historic charm, riverfront access, and a thriving arts scene that keeps the community active and engaged.
According to a 2024 study by Retirement Living, Bluffton saw a 19% increase in retirement-age residents over the last five years—largely due to its proximity to healthcare, beach access, and favorable tax structure.
Positioned between Seattle and Vancouver, Bellingham offers a stunning mix of mountains, coastline, and forest—all packed into one of Washington’s most environmentally conscious cities.
The city’s strong sustainability values, lively downtown, and access to hiking and kayaking make it a natural fit for retirees looking to stay active. Washington has no state income tax, which appeals to retirees with pensions or retirement fund withdrawals.
Famous for its naturally heated springs and historic bathhouses, this Arkansas town has always had healing in its DNA.
Retirees are now seeing it in a new light: low home prices, historic architecture, and easy access to one of the most picturesque national parks in the South. According to Zillow, the median home price in Hot Springs is nearly 40% below the national average, making it one of the most affordable cities on this list.
Rounding out the list is a city that’s not so hidden anymore but still often overlooked in favor of flashier locations: St. George. Set against red rock cliffs and near Zion National Park, it’s a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts who don’t mind trading the beach for canyon hikes and golf.
Utah has a mixed tax picture—Social Security is taxed, but the overall income tax rate is modest and the state’s healthcare system ranks in the top 15 nationally, according to U.S. News & World Report.
The takeaway? Today’s retirees are more mobile, more active, and more thoughtful about where they choose to live. They’re looking beyond stereotypes and finding communities that match their values, lifestyle, and budget.
Whether it’s the lakeside calm of Rarity Bay or the mountain views of Saratoga Springs, retirement in 2025 is about quality of life—not just palm trees and sunshine.
