Realtors Predict 11 Cities That Will Become Retirement Hot Spots in 2026
- - Realtors Predict 11 Cities That Will Become Retirement Hot Spots in 2026
Cat LafuenteDecember 10, 2025 at 3:04 AM
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Retirement signals a new chapter in your life, so it's no wonder that you'll want to use that opportunity to try something completely different, like making a major move.
Not only can that decision be good for your wallet — many retirees move to states with more favorable tax rates — but relocating to a retirement hotspot means you're likely to be able to build a community with fellow transplants, too.
Finding the perfect place can help make those dreams a reality when preparing for retirement, which is why we asked these real estate agents why these 11 cities are about to become very popular for retirees looking to make a major move in 2026.
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1. Sarasota, Florida
Sarasota Florida USA
SeanPavonePhoto/Adobe
This perennial retiree favorite has more than beautiful white sand beaches, according to real estate agent Yosef Adde, founder of I Buy LA in Southern California.
"Among Florida's cities, three aspects allow Sarasota to maintain its status as the best for retirement: the climate, the affordability when compared to other cities, and its culture," he says.
Excellent healthcare is also a big draw for retirees.
Because you can enjoy outdoor activities year-round, Sarasota will only get more popular in the next year, per Adde.
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2. Wilmington, North Carolina
downtown city center wilmington north carolina
Christopher Boswell/Adobe
Wilmington has a lot to offer retirees, according to real estate agent Rachel Stringer with Raleigh Realty in North Carolina.
"It's on the coast, which means easy access to the beach, but it's not overrun with tourists," she says. "The restaurant scene keeps getting better, and healthcare facilities are steadily improving."
Artsy Asheville is a North Carolina city to watch, too.
"Retirees are now drawn to its relaxed lifestyle that still offers plenty to do," Stringer continues. "Plus, there's a growing emphasis on health care and community support."
3. Des Moines, Iowa
des moines iowa city skyline
pabrady63/Adobe
Don't sleep on this affordable and tax-friendly city that real estate professional Ryan Dossey, co-founder of SoldFast, a real estate brokerage, says is poised to be a retiree magnet.
"Des Moines has a thriving food, art, and cultural scene that caught me by surprise," he says.
"Des Moines has excellent healthcare services, including beautiful live-in facility apartments that still allow for independence even in the face of severe health issues."
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4. San Antonio, Texas
san antonio texas
Kevin Ruck/Adobe
Retirees are already flocking to San Antonio, and real estate broker Levi Rodgers, owner of Levi Rodgers Real Estate Group and VA Loan Network in Texas, predicts that to continue with gusto in the new year.
"San Antonio is hitting that sweet spot of affordability, walkability, and reliable support services without feeling overcrowded or overhyped," he says.
And the perks don't stop there.
"There's a calmness to the city's neighborhoods, whether you're taking a stroll down the River Walk or relaxing in one of the well-kept parks," Rodgers continues. Healthcare is plentiful and accessible as well.
5. Santa Monica, California
urban view in santa monica
konoplizkaya/Adobe
Beachy Santa Monica is popular with every demographic, but Compass real estate agent Jennifer Okhovat shares that the area has great communities for retirees.
"It is an active city with nearby tennis and pickleball courts, golf communities, and a thriving art scene," she says.
There's also an abundance of dining, shopping, and entertainment.
Thanks to nearby UCLA, healthcare options are excellent in Santa Monica, and housing options are diverse.
"It has generally strict rent control, which can be beneficial for seniors," Okhovat adds.
6. Hickory, North Carolina
downtown Hickory southern city
J. Michael Jones/Adobe
"The city of Hickory, North Carolina, is fast becoming one of the most sought-after destinations for retirees, and quite rightfully so," says real estate agent Alexei Morgado, founder of Lexawise Real Estate Exam Preparation.
Why? The small city east of Asheville ticks all of the boxes.
"Hickory offers an excellent combination of affordability, excellent healthcare, and a warm, small-town feel, making it a very attractive destination for people who are trying to settle into their golden years," Morgado adds.
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7. The Villages, Florida
the villages residential community
RG/Adobe
An hour north of bustling Orlando is where you'll find retirement hotspot The Villages, notes realtor Omer Reiner, president of FL Cash Home Buyers.
"It is regularly on lists of great places for people 55 and older, and that rings true again," he says.
Why do so many retirees love living here? "The entire community can be traversed by golf carts, which goes along with the many golf courses there," Reiner continues.
"The community also has daily entertainment options, stores, medical facilities, restaurants, and more."
8. Tucson, Arizona
tucson arizona city skyline
mdurson/Adobe
While retirees historically flocked to Phoenix, Adde explains that mountainous Tucson is the Arizona city to watch in 2026.
"Tucson has a wide variety of resorts, a slower pace, and stunning views," he says.
"Coupled with this is a market that is much lower in housing density than Phoenix." Plus, the climate is anything but wintry.
"Cities like Tucson have better infrastructure and community building, making this another perfect place to enjoy retirement without the heavy expenses," Adde adds.
9. Greenville, South Carolina
Town of Greenville, South Carolina
digidreamgrafix/Adobe
Down-to-earth and charming, Stringer predicts retirees will flock to this South Carolina gem.
"Greenville's downtown has transformed into a very walkable area with plenty of dining and shopping options," she says. "It offers that calm environment retirees often seek, along with just enough to keep life interesting without feeling crowded or hectic."
Stringer adds that Greenville also has natural beauty, a strong sense of community, and all the practical amenities you need.
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10. Staunton, Virginia
staunton virginia
jonbilous/Adobe
Affordable, walkable, and tranquil, this small Virginia city is great for those who crave a small-town vibe, as noted by Dossey.
"Staunton is a beautiful place to retire if you want a lower-than-average cost of living, the outdoors, tax benefits, and a Hallmark-esque small-town feel," he says.
"Those tax benefits include no tax on social security, no estate tax, and no inheritance tax."
Augusta County also has an award-winning hospital with excellent healthcare.
11. Chattanooga, Tennessee
chattanooga tennessee skyline
Kevin Ruck/Adobe
This mountainous Tennessee city is going to be booming in 2026, according to Adde.
"The charm that Southern states hold in addition to the outdoor activities and affordable housing gives Chattanooga an edge," he says.
The balance in Chattanooga truly is just right, explains Adde.
"There are an increasing number of retirees looking for cities that are not overly crowded and that provide a tranquil atmosphere and eventful life," he continues.
Bottom line
If your retirement plan includes stepping out of your comfort zone and moving to a new place, these cities are just some of the hotspots to watch.
They each have amenities that retirees look for, as well as perks and advantages unique to their region.
Even if you're in the early stages of planning, it can be wise to keep your eye on the market and tease out any trends.
That way when the time comes to move, you'll be able to strike while the iron is hot.
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