Top spots for retirement in the Midwest
In 2023, approximately 338,000 Americans opted for a new residence upon retirement, as reported by a January 2024 analysis of data from the U.S. Census Bureau. A quarter of these retirees crossed state borders, revealing that many are seeking destinations beyond their immediate areas to settle down. The findings further indicate that the Midwest is evolving into a more appealing option for those desiring a tranquil space during their retirement years.
Approaching retirement, individuals usually consider five essential factors when contemplating potential locations: cultural appeal, affordability, accessibility to health care and wellness services, climate, and crime statistics. While sunny Florida may pop into mind as a prime retirement destination that satisfies these conditions, the Midwestern U.S. is gaining traction as a favored locale for retirees.
The 2023 Census data highlighted two Midwestern urban areas—Kansas City and Cleveland-Elyria—among the top 10 choices for retirement, while a November 2023 analysis from U.S. News identified five Midwestern cities as among the most budget-friendly retirement locales nationwide.
This low living cost—which is increasingly rare along the coastlines, especially with escalating real estate values—can enhance the appeal for individuals with limited savings. This situation might soon apply to millions more Americans since research from Boston College’s Center for Retirement Research has uncovered that two out of five households currently lack sufficient resources saved for a comfortable retirement. Naturally, potential retirees will seek areas where their finances can go further, such as Ohio or Indiana, where $1 million could sustain a retiree for over 21 years.
From Niche’s 2022 Best Places to Retire, Stacker compiled a ranking of the top retirement spots in the Midwest. The rankings were established using metrics such as climate, safety, housing costs, and access to amenities like restaurants, golf courses, recreational facilities, and healthcare.
Continue reading to discover the best locations to retire in the core of the U.S.
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#50. Bridgman, Michigan
– National rank: 522nd best place to retire
– Population: 2,416
Situated on Lake Michigan’s sunset coastline, Bridgman was established in the late 1800s. Nearly 200 years later, the locality has preserved its quaint small-town essence. Residents of this close-knit community engage frequently in outdoor activities, taking advantage of Bridgman’s summer concert series and the 3 miles of coast that extend from Weko Beach to Warren Dunes State Park.
#49. Energy, Illinois
– National rank: 521st best place to retire
– Population: 1,208
The village of Energy in southern Illinois is petite both in area (about 1.2 square miles) and in populace (just over 1,200). While its smallness may deter some, the residents appreciate the village’s affordability, low crime statistics, and strong community ties. For leisure, there are plenty of museums, libraries, zoos, and theaters in nearby municipalities like Marion, Carbondale, Mt. Vernon, and Sparta.
#48. Orange, Ohio
– National rank: 513th best place to retire
– Population: 3,269
An upscale suburb of Cleveland, Orange, Ohio, is where President James A. Garfield was born. The township greatly values community, evident by its plethora of public events ranging from outdoor concerts and movie nights to holiday festivities and fireworks displays. Residents can also indulge in over 60 acres of public parks featuring amenities from putting greens to walking paths and community gardens.
#47. Long Beach, Indiana
– National rank: 506th best place to retire
– Population: 1,024
Once a summer escape for some of Chicago’s wealthiest individuals, the primary attraction of Long Beach, Indiana, remains its convenient access to Lake Michigan. The town comprises both seasonal and permanent residents, utilizing the 3 miles of public shoreline for pursuits like boating, swimming, and kayaking. Homeowners in the vicinity also enjoy complimentary access to the Long Beach Community and Fitness Center.
#46. Bluffton, Ohio
– National rank: 502nd best place to retire
– Population: 4,024
Life in Bluffton, Ohio revolves around its historic downtown, anchored by a 19th-century town hall and filled with numerous locally owned boutiques and eateries. Two significant draws for the community include a seasonal farmers market and the flagship site of Ten Thousand Villages, one of America’s oldest fair trade vendors. Nature enthusiasts will be thrilled by Bluffton’s extensive cycling path network, hiking at Motter Metro Park, and the Bluffton University Nature Preserve.
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#45. Williams Bay, Wisconsin
– National rank: 500th best place to retire
– Population: 2,607
Nestled beside a lush stretch of Geneva Lake, the village of Williams Bay, Wisconsin, is a small, family-friendly locale. Once a vacation spot for Chicago’s elite, the area now features a 21-mile walking path that encircles the lake, showcasing stunning views of century-old summer residences. The region also boasts the Yerkes Observatory, Kishwauketoe Nature Conservancy, and expansive public beaches where residents can swim, fish, and boat.
#44. Kirkwood, Missouri
– National rank: 497th best place to retire
– Population: 27,772
Located in St. Louis suburb Kirkwood, Missouri is near the Shepherd’s Center, which provides programs, services, and classes for older adults. The center organizes several clubs, including a monthly book club and Monday Scrabblers. Since opening in 1972, Shepherd’s Center has enlisted over 200 volunteers, including individuals who assist seniors with tasks like plumbing and home repairs.
#43. Ottawa Hills, Ohio
– National rank: 495th best place to retire
– Population: 4,485
A planned suburb near Toledo, Ottawa Hills is an upscale community with a family-oriented approach. Residents can access a broad range of affordable programs offered by the Village Life office, including activities ranging from yoga to coding, ensuring an array of opportunities to learn and engage. Individuals who favor a more unstructured lifestyle can explore the public sculpture garden or spend leisure time by the Ottawa River.
#42. Leawood, Kansas
– National rank: 493rd best place to retire
– Population: 34,702
Leawood is not only recognized as the best suburb in Kansas for raising a family, but is also noted for having the top public schools in the state. For those considering a move, it is also the fourth-best suburb to purchase a home in Kansas. The town, housing over 34,000 individuals, features numerous restaurants, coffee houses, and parks for both locals and visitors to revel in.
#41. Baldwin Township, Michigan
– National rank: 481st best place to retire
– Population: 1,952
Retirees seeking a more rural lifestyle should explore Baldwin Township, Michigan. Covering over 31 square miles, there’s ample room for residents to stretch out. The absence of chain establishments contributes to the township’s nostalgic charm.
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#40. Wetherington, Ohio
– National rank: 479th best place to retire
– Population: 1,271
At the center of Wetherington, Ohio, lies the Wetherington Golf and Country Club. Established in 1991, the facility features amenities such as an 18-hole course, swimming pool, tennis courts, and dining, positioning the club as the hub of social activity within the gated enclave.
#39. Hurley, Wisconsin
– National rank: 476th best place to retire
– Population: 1,395
Hurley, Wisconsin, promotes itself as “an outdoor adventurist utopia.” This northern city offers miles of ATV and snowmobile paths, some of the best downhill skiing in the Midwest, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in forested areas, multiple inland lakes for fishing, and countless hiking trails. If the idea of spending your retirement years exploring the wild wonders of the country is appealing, then you should certainly consider making this place your home.
#38. Central City, Nebraska
– National rank: 472nd best place to retire
– Population: 2,906
The seat of Merrick County, Central City, Nebraska, is undeniably the largest town in the vicinity. However, being small (with fewer than 3,000 residents) does not detract from the entertainment divide. Residents engage in leisure activities like the 8-mile Dark Island hiking and biking path, events at the 520-seat performing arts venue, and fitness classes at the local aquatics center. There is also a nine-hole golf course, winery, and several historic homes and museums to visit.
#37. Eureka, Kansas
– National rank: 450th best place to retire
– Population: 2,217
The low living expenses and relaxed atmosphere are the main attractions of Eureka, Kansas. The historic town has a demographic largely comprised of retirement-age individuals, meaning job opportunities are not plentiful. However, it offers numerous chances to bond with others at a similar life stage.
#36. The Village of Indian Hill, Ohio
– National rank: 444th best place to retire
– Population: 5,770
Although its population officially classifies it as a city, The Village of Indian Hill maintains a tranquil lifestyle that makes it feel much smaller. As a suburb of Cincinnati, the area offers 75 miles of equestrian paths, nature reserves, an arboretum, a shooting club, and various public parks to keep residents entertained and active. Additionally, residents appreciate the safety of the area as a significant advantage to living there.
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#35. Westlake, Ohio
– National rank: 437th best place to retire
– Population: 32,154
The suburb of Westlake, situated near Cleveland, offers retirees the chance to reside right alongside Lake Erie. Locals frequently visit Huntington Beach, where they can fish and appreciate the scenic city views. Hiking enthusiasts will also enjoy the nature trails and wildlife at Rocky River Reservation. Additionally, lifelong learners can enhance their understanding of the natural world at Lake Erie Nature & Science Center.
#34. Bloomfield Charter Township, Michigan
– National rank: 424th best place to retire
– Population: 42,031
Bloomfield Charter Township, Michigan, houses the Bloomfield Township Senior Center, which operates Monday through Saturday for those aged 50 and above. Members can engage in day excursions, partake in fitness classes like Chair Yoga or Pilates, and receive education on driver safety or bridge-playing. Two additional senior centers are available in close proximity, less than 5 miles away: Birmingham Next and Robert Bowens Senior Center.
#33. Grosse Pointe Farms, Michigan
– National rank: 404th best place to retire
– Population: 9,142
Situated 10 miles north of Detroit, Grosse Pointe Farms lies along the shores of Lake St. Clair. Recognized as one of Michigan’s top places to reside, the township is secure, budget-friendly, and pedestrian-friendly, with a strong sense of community. The commercial area features locally owned enterprises and restaurants. Residents can also spend leisure time in the community’s numerous parks, boating or kayaking on the lake, or exploring the latest releases at one of the three nearby libraries.
#32. Rossmoyne, Ohio
– National rank: 395th best place to retire
– Population: 1,605
If you are searching for a locale where your retirement funds can stretch considerably, consider Rossmoyne, Ohio. A Cincinnati suburb, the area offers an extraordinarily low cost of living (according to Niche, with the average rent hovering around $900—a steal in the current housing landscape).
#31. Thiensville, Wisconsin
– National rank: 379th best place to retire
– Population: 3,149
A small suburb of Milwaukee, Thiensville embodies a vintage small-town atmosphere. A visit to this town resembles a journey back in time with its seasonal farmers market, numerous holiday celebrations, and historic downtown charm. Residents greatly appreciate Thiensville’s affordability and overall sense of security.
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#30. Kimberling City, Missouri
– National rank: 373rd best place to retire
– Population: 2,711
Located along the shores of Table Rock Lake, Kimberling City is dedicated to fostering a safe and tranquil setting for its inhabitants. Like a scene from a Hallmark movie, the town thrives with local businesses, community organizations, and public festivities (such as Fourth of July celebrations and Pups and Popcorn in the Park) that foster camaraderie. Numerous options for water activities abound, including swimming, fishing, kayaking, and boating.
#29. Clear Lake, Iowa
– National rank: 367th best place to retire
– Population: 7,594
Clear Lake, named after the adjacent body of water, ranks as the best retirement destination in Iowa. Twenty-four percent of its population is aged 65 or older, while 16% are between the ages of 55 and 64. Beyond its water feature, Clear Lake boasts numerous restaurants and parks that residents regularly visit.
#28. Inverness, Illinois
– National rank: 364th best place to retire
– Population: 7,959
Inverness, Illinois, provides its residents with the advantages of both proximity to Chicago and the natural reserves within the town itself. Nature enthusiasts can explore the hiking trails and biking paths at Deer Grove Forest Preserve, Deer Grove East, and Baker’s Lake Nature Preserve, while those who enjoy hunting can do so at Camp Alphonse.
#27. Charlevoix Township, Michigan
– National rank: 360th best place to retire
– Population: 1,780
This favored summer destination, Charlevoix Township, has around 1,800 year-round residents, with its population often doubling during the heat of summer. The median age of permanent residents is 54, ensuring anyone relocating here will encounter many peers in similar life stages. Bordered by two bodies of water (Lake Michigan and Lake Charlevoix), there are countless opportunities for outdoor enjoyment and water activities.
#26. Lake Ozark, Missouri
– National rank: 356th best place to retire
– Population: 2,317
Lake Ozark, Missouri, has been a favored vacation spot for years. However, its residential population has been rapidly increasing over recent years. While much of the town’s vibrancy revolves around the lake and its tourist-oriented restaurants and souvenir shops, recent additions include a movie theater and a new shopping complex. The town is ideal for someone seeking a peaceful and affordable retreat, free from excessive amenities, where they can enjoy nature.
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#25. Sabetha, Kansas
– National rank: 349th best place to retire
– Population: 2,550
Sabetha, Kansas, is a densely populated suburban town that reflects typical Midwestern culture. It may lack the large city attractions (no vibrant art scenes or towering skyscrapers) but compensates with community-focused events and local sports leagues (for both children and adults) to keep residents active. The locality also features affordable housing, excellent schools, and a relatively low living cost, making it an appealing choice for retirees seeking to maximize their savings.
#24. Weatherby Lake, Missouri
– National rank: 337th best place to retire
– Population: 2,510
Weatherby Lake, Missouri, encompasses 274 of its 836 acres as a private body of water. Considered one of the cleanest in the nation, the lake is central to the tranquil community, where residents appreciate activities like fishing and swimming in its gentle waters. Nine parks scattered throughout the area provide abundant opportunities for land-based leisure activities.
#23. Sixteen Mile Stand, Ohio
– National rank: 334th best place to retire
– Population: 3,120
Situated merely 16 miles from downtown Cincinnati, Sixteen Mile Stand is a relatively urban area predominantly filled with commuters. Its affordable living costs and elevated safety levels make it especially attractive to retirees wishing to enjoy a measure of seclusion from the often frenetic downtown atmosphere.
#22. Kingman, Kansas
– National rank: 332nd best place to retire
– Population: 2,859
Thrilled at the prospect of spending your newfound retirement time unwinding? Think about relocating to Kingman, Kansas. The rural village caters to a variety of tastes—museums, hunting reserves, recreational lakes, wildlife refuges, golf courses, an arboretum, theaters, a sizable public library, and numerous shopping and dining opportunities.
#21. Ladue, Missouri
– National rank: 312th best place to retire
– Population: 8,631
Ladue, Missouri, falls within St. Louis County, which became part of the World Health Organization and AARP’s Network of Age-Friendly Communities in 2013. The St. Louis County Parks Department organizes “Young at Heart” activities for older adults, featuring physical activities such as pickleball, alongside educational sessions for computers as well as bridge and mahjong clubs.
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#20. Warson Woods, Missouri
– National rank: 305th best place to retire
– Population: 2,387
Located about 25 miles west of downtown St. Louis, Warson Woods acts as a serene, wooded neighborhood with a reputation for family-friendliness. The area features three parks, a swim club, public tennis facilities, and a variety of seasonal festivals. If you seek more than these small-town diversions, the entertainment of the big city is a short distance away.
#19. Kohler, Wisconsin
– National rank: 291st best place to retire
– Population: 2,016
Named after the Kohler Company (which originated here), Kohler, Wisconsin, is a charming town located just west of Sheboygan and Lake Michigan. Home to one of only a few five-diamond resorts in the country (the American Club Resort), residents have easy access to all the luxury it entails: fine dining, world-class golfing, a luxury spa, and exceptional shopping. For those who prefer a more intimate experience with nature, Kohler-Andrae State Park offers green spaces and sand dunes.
#18. Mission Hills, Kansas
– National rank: 286th best place to retire
– Population: 3,563
Designed to be one of America’s most distinguished garden communities, Mission Hills is an upscale suburb adorned with expertly manicured gardens that seamlessly merge with the surrounding hills and valleys. Three golf courses create ample opportunity to relish the vistas, as do numerous annual community events, typically held in one of the area’s many green spaces.
#17. Creve Coeur, Missouri
– National rank: 282nd best place to retire
– Population: 18,627
Creve Coeur provides multiple programs aimed at helping seniors support an active and healthy lifestyle. Older adults can engage in tai chi, which suits seniors as it is low-impact, self-paced, and enhances confidence and balance. Every week, the town also offers yoga classes for newcomers eager to learn poses, correct alignment, and breathing techniques.
#16. King, Wisconsin
– National rank: 277th best place to retire
– Population: 1,790
For outdoor lovers, King, Wisconsin, is a year-round paradise. In winter, enjoy the extensive snowmobiling trails and perfect conditions for cross-country skiing. Summer offers state parks to explore, ATV trails to traverse, and fishing along the various rivers and small lakes in the vicinity.
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#15. Village of Grosse Pointe Shores, Michigan
– National rank: 274th best place to retire
– Population: 2,791
A picturesque town along the shores of Lake St. Clair, the Village of Grosse Pointe Shores is renowned for its stunning vistas, award-winning landscaping, and magnificent historical mansions. The lively downtown area, filled with locally owned eateries, shopping complexes, and a well-positioned marina, ensures there’s always plenty to do. Residents also benefit from access to top-notch medical care.
#14. Chesterfield, Missouri
– National rank: 264th best place to retire
– Population: 47,603
Chesterfield ranks as the fourth-best place to retire in Missouri and is also listed among the top 50 suburbs nationwide. Of the over 47,000 residents living in the St. Louis suburb, 23% are aged 65 or older, and 15% are between 55 and 64. Retired residents with school-aged children will also be pleased to find the public schooling system in Chesterfield is highly regarded.
#13. Village of Four Seasons, Missouri
– National rank: 246th best place to retire
– Population: 2,103
The Village of Four Seasons boasts a greater share of waterfront and lake-view properties than any other planned community in the U.S. Situated adjacent to Lake Ozark, the area features multiple large resorts that feature spectacular spas and dining, along with superbly designed golf courses. As one of the oldest planned communities in the Lake Ozark area, Four Seasons is also recognized for being an exceptionally safe town.
#12. Clarkson Valley, Missouri
– National rank: 231st best place to retire
– Population: 2,619
As part of St. Louis’s many suburbs, Clarkson Valley, Missouri, presents retirees with a perfect small-town ambiance while remaining accessible to urban benefits. Composed of 14 subdivisions—each with a minimum lot size of 1 acre—this area feels tranquil and pastoral, particularly when considering the adjacent hills, valleys, and forests. Locally, many of the town’s social events are held around the country club and various churches.
#11. Meridian Hills, Indiana
– National rank: 220th best place to retire
– Population: 1,712
The small, exclusive town of Meridian Hills, located just north of Indianapolis, is acknowledged for its quiet, affluent atmosphere. Social life in the area predominantly revolves around its country club and golf course, though individuals looking for more urban activities have easy access to the nearby city. Property values are high in this community, and residents report relatively low crime rates.
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#10. Riverwoods, Illinois
– National rank: 208th best place to retire
– Population: 3,536
Another town that was historically a vacation retreat for Chicago’s elite, Riverwoods, Illinois, is situated on the banks of the Des Plaines River. Unlike many other neighborhoods in the area, which have adopted a more metropolitan and commercial feel, Riverwoods retains its natural, wooded character, primarily due to its extensive forest preserve. Local regulations limit the magnitude of new homes or developments to ensure that this characteristic remains intact for years ahead.
#9. Aledo, Illinois
– National rank: 192nd best place to retire
– Population: 3,625
Aledo, Illinois, markets itself as the ideal place to escape routine. Located thirty minutes south of the Quad Cities, this area is rural and tranquil, boasting a robust sense of community and local pride. Residents can also break away from the frenzy of urban life by partaking in any of the numerous outdoor activities available nearby.
#8. Centerville, Ohio
– National rank: 172nd best place to retire
– Population: 23,766
The city of Centerville, Ohio, implements an exterior home maintenance program for older residents needing assistance with raking leaves, shoveling snow, and overall home upkeep. Residents of Centerville can also volunteer for the program to aid their neighbors with repairs. The local police department maintains a well-being call program for seniors living alone, offering daily check-ins for designated adults.
#7. Pleasant Ridge, Michigan
– National rank: 155th best place to retire
– Population: 2,589
A Detroit suburb, Pleasant Ridge may not boast the bustling commercial district seen in many of the other towns on our list. However, it compensates with its dedication to public recreational spaces and community centers. LGBTQ+ individuals should be aware that the neighborhood is recognized as one of the top destinations in the nation for same-sex couples. Although this may not encompass single queer individuals, it suggests a welcoming atmosphere for people across diverse backgrounds.
#6. Bellbrook, Ohio
– National rank: 144th best place to retire
– Population: 7,277
For anyone considering retirement in Bellbrook, Ohio—the top choice for retirement in the state—keeping busy will never be an issue. Those who wish to stay connected with nature and maintain an active lifestyle can enjoy the trails at Sugarcreek MetroPark, Bellbrook Park, Sackett-Wright Park, and Magee Park. The town is also home to the Bellbrook Historical Museum, which provides unique insights into the area’s past.
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#5. North Newton, Kansas
– National rank: 128th best place to retire
– Population: 1,981
North Newton, Kansas, is home to the country’s oldest Mennonite college, Bethel College. This institution allows anyone aged 65 and over to audit classes for free, a unique benefit for those wanting to learn something new or simply keep mentally sharp. The locality also features a low cost of living and emphasizes preserving its historical essence.
#4. Town and Country, Missouri
– National rank: 104th best place to retire
– Population: 11,109
Recognized as one of the premier retirement destinations in the Midwest, Town and Country, Missouri, offers numerous services aimed at ensuring a healthy and fulfilling lifestyle for retirees. The town features a Neighbor Driving Neighbor volunteer initiative that assists older adults with errands. Furthermore, the city offers the Care Calls program where volunteers perform wellness checks on seniors to combat feelings of isolation. The town also hosts the Age Smart, Age Well program, featuring classes in computers, Microsoft Word, and email.
#3. Elm Grove, Wisconsin
– National rank: 88th best place to retire
– Population: 6,156
St. Mary’s Visitation Catholic Parish in Elm Grove, Wisconsin, organizes a “Seniors Club” that gathers twice a month on Mondays. This club offers various programs, including day excursions, luncheons, dances, games, and guest speakers. Open to all adults eager to broaden their education and stay engaged socially in Elm Grove, the club is a welcoming environment.
#2. Bingham Farms, Michigan
– National rank: 30th best place to retire
– Population: 1,539
Residents of Bingham Farms, Michigan, enjoy two equally thrilling entertainment options at their doorstep. They can travel 20 minutes south to Detroit for the city’s shopping, dining, and cultural experiences, or venture 20 minutes west to the Brighton-Howell region and explore its vast public parks, hiking trails, and numerous golf courses. After a day packed with fun, they can return to their safe and affordable haven to recharge for the next adventure.
#1. Leland Grove, Illinois
– National rank: 10th best place to retire
– Population: 1,237
Just outside Springfield, Leland Grove, Illinois, embodies the ideal balance of the conveniences of a major city (like abundant shopping, dining, and cultural prospects) without the downsides (such as high crime rates and exorbitant living expenses). Another potential advantage for retirees moving to this area entails that the median age is 54 to 55, indicating a community of individuals also eager to make the most of their retirement years. Talk about having a ready-made community!
Additional content by Cu Fleshman.
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