When it comes to retirement, location is everything. Some retirees dream of teeing off under the desert sun, while others picture themselves walking along a sandy shoreline or breathing in crisp mountain air.
The great news is that in 2025, active adults have more options than ever. Whether your passion is golf, beaches, or mountains, there are U.S. states that offer affordable homes, thriving 55+ communities, and plenty of opportunities to live your retirement dream.
This guide will help you explore the best states for each lifestyle, compare costs, and discover communities designed for your ideal retirement..
Retiring for the Lifestyle You Love
Choosing a retirement state isn’t only about affordability, it’s about matching your lifestyle to your environment. Consider:
- Golf lovers: Need year-round sunshine, affordable courses, and golf-centric 55+ communities.
- Beach lovers: Value coastal living, access to the ocean, and vibrant seaside towns.
- Mountain lovers: Seek scenic beauty, four seasons, hiking, skiing, and fresh air.
Best States for Golf Lovers in 2025
Arizona
- Why It’s Great for Golfers: With over 300 days of sunshine a year, Arizona is a golfer’s paradise. Scottsdale, Mesa, and Tucson offer top-tier courses at both private clubs and public ranges.
- Cost Advantage: Lower housing costs than in California; tax-friendly for retirees.
- 55+ Community Spotlight: Trilogy at Wickenburg Ranch, AZ – a resort-style home community near Phoenix offering modern single-family and duplex homes, luxury amenities, and year-round outdoor living in Arizona’s scenic Sonoran Desert.
Florida
- Why It’s Great for Golfers: With more than 1,000 golf courses, Florida is the #1 golf state in America. From Naples to Orlando, you’ll never run out of options.
- Cost Advantage: No state income tax; affordable compared to Northeastern states.
- 55+ Community Spotlight: Shea Homes at Ocala Preserve, Ocala, FL – a 55+ luxury community in Florida’s “Horse Capital of the World,” offering modern single-family and duplex homes, resort-style amenities, golf, and abundant outdoor and cultural activities starting from the mid $200s.
South Carolina
- Why It’s Great for Golfers: Myrtle Beach is known as the “Golf Capital of the World,” with over 90 golf courses. Hilton Head also attracts retirees with its luxury golf resorts.
- Cost Advantage: Low property taxes, lower-than-average cost of living.
- 55+ Community Spotlight: Woodside in Aiken, SC – a master-planned community offering elegant homes, resort-style amenities, golf and fitness facilities, and a rich social scene, all set within the charm of Southern hospitality and convenient access to nearby destinations.
Best States for Beach Lovers in 2025
Florida
- Why It’s Great for Beach Lovers: From Gulf Coast sunsets to Atlantic Coast sunrises, Florida’s beaches are legendary. Coastal towns like Sarasota, Naples, and Daytona Beach are retiree favorites.
- Cost Advantage: Tax-friendly with affordable options inland but close to beaches.
- 55+ Community Spotlight: Sea Meadow in Boynton Beach is a 55+ manufactured home community just minutes from the Atlantic coast, offering resort-style amenities, lively social activities, and a relaxed beach-town lifestyle.
North Carolina
- Why It’s Great for Beach Lovers: The Outer Banks and Wilmington areas offer relaxed coastal living without Florida’s crowding.
- Cost Advantage: Lower real estate prices than in Florida, moderate taxes.
- 55+ Community Spotlight: Brunswick Forest in Leland, a short drive to beaches with coastal-inspired living.
California
- Why It’s Great for Beach Lovers: California’s coastline, from San Diego to Santa Barbara, is unbeatable for those who want beauty and culture alongside the beach.
- Cost Challenge: High housing costs, but retirees who can afford it enjoy unmatched scenery.
- 55+ Community Spotlight: Trilogy at Monarch Dunes (Nipomo, CA), resort-style living near the Pacific Ocean.
Best States for Mountain Lovers in 2025
Colorado
- Why It’s Great for Mountain Lovers: Retirees flock to Colorado for its Rocky Mountain views, hiking, and skiing. Boulder, Colorado Springs, and Fort Collins are retirement hot spots.
- Cost Advantage: Higher home prices in Denver, but affordable options in smaller towns.
- 55+ Community Spotlight: Inspiration Colorado in Aurora is an active adult living community with Mountain Views and Trails.
North Carolina
- Why It’s Great for Mountain Lovers: The Blue Ridge Mountains offer a picturesque retreat for those seeking a serene retirement. Asheville is especially popular for its arts, culture, and outdoor recreation.
- Cost Advantage: Affordable compared to Western mountain states.
- 55+ Community Spotlight: Biltmore Lake in Asheville is both lakeside and mountain living combined.
Utah
- Why It’s Great for Mountain Lovers: Known for national parks and ski resorts, Utah offers retirees outdoor adventures year-round. St. George and Salt Lake City attract active retirees.
- Cost Advantage: Lower property taxes and a moderate cost of living.
- 55+ Community Spotlight: SunRiver St. George is a 55+ community in southern Utah offering resort-style amenities, an 18-hole golf course, 70+ clubs, and low-maintenance single-family homes in a scenic desert setting.
Comparing Golf, Beach, and Mountain Retirement States
| Lifestyle | Best States | Why Retire Here | Average Home Price (2025 est.) | Tax Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Golf | Arizona, Florida, South Carolina | Year-round golf, golf-centric 55+ communities | $300k–$400k | AZ & FL: tax-friendly, SC: low property tax |
| Beach | Florida, North Carolina, California | Coastal living, sunshine, water recreation | $280k–$650k+ | FL: no state income tax, NC: moderate taxes |
| Mountain | Colorado, North Carolina, Utah | Hiking, skiing, scenic beauty | $350k–$500k | CO & UT: tax-friendly, NC: moderate taxes |
Tips for Choosing Your Retirement State
- Visit Before You Move: Spend a season in the area to test the weather, healthcare access, and lifestyle.
- Check Healthcare Facilities: Proximity to hospitals and specialists is critical.
- Understand Tax Implications: Some states tax Social Security, pensions, or IRAs differently.
- Look for Lifestyle Communities: Choose a 55+ community that matches your passion—golf, beach walks, or hiking.
- Balance Budget & Lifestyle: A slightly higher cost may be worth it for a dream lifestyle.
Whether you’re a golfer, a beach lover, or a mountain adventurer, retirement in 2025 is all about finding a community that fits your lifestyle.
Ready to explore? Browse thousands of 55+ communities across golf, beach, and mountain destinations on ActiveAdultLiving.com.
