Florida Faces Serious Competition for the Best State to Retire in 2027
How the ranking was built
US News & World Report assessed more than 850 cities for its 2027 retirement ranking. The analysis considered quality of life, affordability, healthcare, taxes for retirees, the job market, and population and migration patterns among people 55 and older.
The six criteria were drawn from a survey of Americans aged 45 and older about what mattered when choosing a retirement location. Affordability received particular attention in this year’s rankings.
Texas gains ground
Texas cities made up six of the top 15 destinations this year, compared with three on last year’s list. Two Texas cities placed in the top five. The article attributes Texas’ appeal to its overall affordability, which can also attract people from other generations. It does not identify the individual cities or say which one ranked first.
Florida remains in the mix
Florida continued to feature prominently, with two cities in the top 15. Still, no city in either Florida or Texas claimed the top spot. US News & World Report assistant managing editor Megan Wood said retirees want a place offering security and comfort. She also said the organization adjusted its weighting to better reflect affordability concerns and retirees’ priorities.
Key points
- US News & World Report evaluated more than 850 cities for its 2027 ranking.
- Texas had six cities in the top 15, including two in the top five.
- Florida had two cities in the top 15, but neither state had the top-ranked city.
- Affordability was a key consideration in the updated rankings.