A big part of retirement planning is choosing the best place to spend your golden years. For many current and soon-to-be retirees, that means finding a city with a large population of seniors just as ready to mingle as you are.
If you’re worried about being the only single senior in retirement, don’t be. There are plenty of fish in the sea of single retirees.
According to the Pew Research Center, just over a third of people 65 and older are single—meaning they don’t have a live-in partner or otherwise romantic relationship. If you’re one of them, chances are you can find someone to spend your retirement years with.
While the way you date might change as you age, by no means does retirement mark the end of your dating years. For many, 60 (or even 65) is the new 40. It’s a time when you’re free—perhaps freer than ever before—to get back out there and find someone to share your life with.
To help you decide where to live, we've put together this list of the best places for singles to retire based on 15 different categories. Whether you’re looking for a lively community of like-minded individuals or a more intimate lifestyle, there’s a place for you.
Just don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. You never know what exciting new prospects—and romantic relationships—await in this stage of life.
Methodology
To determine the best cities for single seniors, we started with the cities with the largest senior populations. Then, we evaluated each city across 14 categories important to single seniors, awarding “chili peppers” based on how well they meet the needs of single retirees.
Here’s how it worked:
- Chili pepper rating: Each city could earn up to 14 chili peppers, one for excelling in each category. The more chili peppers, the more single senior-friendly the city.
- Categories:
- Proximity to cruise lines (about 300 miles or less)
- Number of golf courses in the state
- Weather (number of sunny days)
- Safety (based on number of violent crimes)
- Air pollution
- Theaters nearby
- Pickleball courts
- Walkability (based on Walk Score measurements including nearby amenities and pedestrian friendliness)
- High number of physician group practices for healthcare
- Parks
- Casinos
- Religious groups/churches
- Museums
- Senior centers
- The rankings: From our cross-referenced list, we ranked the cities based on their total number of chili peppers.
The Villages, FL
The Villages is one of the best places to retire for singles because of its walkable communities, recreational opportunities (including golf, multiple parks, theaters, and casinos), proximity to cruise lines, year-round good weather, and no state income tax (a nice bonus for tax season). It’s also one of the safest cities adjacent to Orlando and has much less air pollution. As a bonus, roughly 86% of the population are 65 or older. Swing by for some golf at Mallory Hill Country Club and stop for a snack after your tee time at their restaurant.
Seattle, WA
Seattle is lively, culturally diverse, and plenty walkable. It also boasts some stunningly temperate summertime weather. And nearly 13% of its population is 65-plus—many of whom are single and looking to mingle. It’s also great for socially active retirees thanks to its many golf courses, pickleball courts, museums, theaters, parks, and churches. Plus, there’s no state income tax. Plan the perfect date with a stop at the Chihuly Garden and Glass for a beautiful experience you’re both sure to love.
New Orleans, LA
New Orleans is a charming, culture-rich city that’s home to casinos, historical museums like The Cabildo, and theaters where seniors can catch a show. For seniors who prefer to spend their time outdoors, the city is also quite walkable. Recreational opportunities abound, too, with a few cruise lines and golf courses to choose from. And more than 16% of the population is 65 or older.
Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia is known for its extensive healthcare services, lively senior centers (like the Philadelphia Senior Center), and indoor and outdoor recreational activities. From the Philadelphia Museum of Art and Walnut Street Theatre to the exclusive Bala Golf Club, there’s plenty to do.
Sarasota, FL
Nearly 1 in 3 Sarasota residents are 65 or older, but that’s not the only reason the city makes the list of best places for singles to retire. Sarasota has idyllic weather, clean air, and senior-friendly recreational activities like golf, pickleball, casinos, and cruises. Set sail on a sunset or dolphin watching cruise with LeBarge Tropical Cruises or take a quick drive to the Seminole Casino Brighton to see just how lucky you can get. There are also lots of senior centers, like the Senior Friendship Centers. Plus, Florida has a high concentration of physician group practices for healthcare.
San Francisco, CA
Single senior retirees seeking a Mediterranean climate, strikingly rugged coastline, and gorgeous parks like Pioneer Park and Golden Gate Park should look no further than San Francisco. The city is quite senior-friendly, with plenty of museums, golf courses, and even cruise lines a quick jaunt away. Set a tee time at TPC Harding Park or the Presidio Golf Course for a challenging day on the links. Its healthcare services are also robust. More than 17% of San Franciscans are 65 or older
Buffalo, NY
Buffalo is one of the best places for single women and men to retire due to its indoor and outdoor recreational activities, like Shea’s Buffalo Theatre, casinos, and golf courses. It’s close to cruise lines like Buffalo Harbor Cruises. It also has excellent senior centers (like Autumnwood Senior Center) and a robust healthcare system. Roughly 14% of the population are 65-plus.
El Paso, TX
Nothing beats the dry, sunshine-packed weather of the Southwest, which is a big reason why El Paso makes this list. This West Texas city also has good healthcare services, no state income tax, and a relatively high 65-plus population of 13.9%. There are also nearly 300 city parks, several aquatic centers (like SISD Aquatics Center), golf courses, and casinos to visit.
Minneapolis, MN
Minneapolis might be on the chillier side, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing for single seniors approaching their retirement years. This safe, walkable city boasts 185 parks for when the weather’s nice, but it’s also got plenty to do indoors, including theaters like the Guthrie Theater or the Orpheum Theatre, museums like the Minneapolis Institute of Art, and pickleball. There are also many senior centers for the city’s larger senior population.
Dallas, TX
Dallas is among the best places to retire for singles seeking mild winters and hot, humid summers. This major city in the Lone Star State is packed with museums like the Dallas Museum of Art or Perot Museum of Nature and Science, theaters, churches, and expansive golf courses, like Luna Vista Golf Course. About 11% of the population is 65 or older. The healthcare also rates high, and there’s no state income tax in Texas.
Phoenix, AZ
Hot and dry throughout most of the year, Phoenix could be the perfect city for single seniors in search of communities with access to ample indoor and outdoor recreational activities. Arizona’s capital city is home to such splendors as the South Mountain Park and Preserve, as well as world-class golf courses like Boulders Golf Club or the expansive Wigwam Golf Club, stunning entertainment venues like the Orpheum Theatre, and great healthcare. Almost 12 in 100 residents are 65-plus.
Honolulu, HI
Hawaii’s capital city is a great place for single seniors to mingle while taking advantage of the city’s 30 senior centers, parks, stunning beaches, pickleball courts, and proximity to cruise lines. This tropical city also features walkable communities, safe neighborhoods, and clean air. Take advantage of the perfect year-round weather by booking a dinner at Duke’s Waikiki or Fête for a delicious dinner date. In fact, those 65 and older make up more than 20% of the population, which makes Honolulu a great option for romantic date nights and walks on the beach.
Washington, D.C.
As the epicenter of American politics, Washington, D.C., is in its own class when it comes to history and culture. It’s home to many affordable attractions and museums, including the Smithsonian, theaters including the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, parks, and iconic landmarks and memorials. This senior-friendly city also ranks high in overall safety, clean air, and walkability. Roughly 13% of the population is 65-plus.
Portland, OR
Located in the Pacific Northwest, Portland boasts stunning natural scenery—with majestic Mount Hood towering in the distance—and lots of senior-friendly amenities. Recreational activities include museums, parks, theaters, and cruises. What also makes Portland a great city for single senior retirees is its overall walkability and convenient public transit system. About 14% of the population is 65 or older. Take your date out to Jake’s Famous Crawfish or try Salty’s on the Columbia River for a delicious evening filled with food and conversation.
Tucson, AZ
About 110 miles southeast of Phoenix is Tucson, Arizona. Hot and arid, this Sonoran Desert city has a large population of residents 65 and older—almost 16%—and is a big draw for those looking to leave humidity and the cold behind. Tucson ranks high in terms of safety and healthcare services. It also boasts exciting casinos and more than 40 golf courses. Tee up at the Arizona National Golf Club or grab a celebratory dinner and glass of wine at The Grill at Hacienda del Sol Guest Ranch Resort and try out the AA Four Diamond Award nominee.
Chicago, IL
Far and away the most populous city in the Midwest, Chicago is one of the best places for singles to retire due to its ample senior-friendly amenities and senior centers. It has nearly 30 miles of lakefront, 600 parks, 8,800 acres of green space, and many museums and golf courses. Plan a day walking around the Field Museum or spend a romantic evening at Boka. Chicago also has a large senior population (almost 14% of residents are 65 and up).
Pittsburgh, PA
Roughly 15% of Pittsburgh’s population is 65 and older, so single seniors won’t have to worry about spending their retirement years apart from their peers. This walkable city boasts such sites as the Benedum Center for the Performing Arts, excellent healthcare facilities, manicured golf courses, and many casinos.
Las Vegas, NV
Las Vegas is perhaps best known for its big-name casinos and lively nightlife, and for good reason—the city is among the most populated casino cities in the world. While gaming is undoubtedly a major draw, Vegas also boasts its share of many museums, parks, and other senior-friendly amenities for its large senior community (almost 16% of its residents are 65 or older). The city also ranks well in terms of safety and walkability. Planning a romantic dinner for your date has never been easier than with the selection here. Consider Hugo’s Cellar or Top of the World for a decadent night out. Prefer a more intimate setting? Capo’s Restaurant and Speakeasy may be just the ticket.
Boston, MA
Boston is one of the best places for single women and men to retire if they’re looking for a highly populous city with plenty to do. The city boasts such attractions as the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, as well as an abundance of parks, theaters, and cruises. From the Boston Harbor City Cruises in Long Wharf to a Norwegian Cruise Line getaway, there’s something for everyone who wants to set sail, whether for an evening or a week. It’s also quite walkable, safe, and home to many aged 65 or older—13% of the population.
Richmond, VA
From the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts and the Poe Museum to stunning churches, historical sites, and riverfront canal cruises by Venture Richmond, Richmond also ranks as one of the best places for single retirees. The city also rates well in terms of walkability—good news for the almost 14% of the population who are 65 and older. There are also many senior centers for those wanting to integrate into a community.
Denver, CO
Denver is ideal for more active seniors who want to experience all four seasons. In and around the city are over more than 200 parks, an expansive network of bike paths, and walking trails—not to mention the Rocky Mountains. Denver is also home to museums for art, history, and natural science lovers. After a nature hike, unwind with your date at Yard House or dress up for an elevated evening at Kona Grill.
Tulsa, OK
What makes Tulsa perfect for single seniors in retirement is its large senior population, high safety score, and overall walkability. The city has a blend of quiet neighborhoods and a bustling downtown with churches, casinos, museums, and other attractions for those who want the best of both worlds. After an afternoon at the Philbrook Museum of Art, take the time to head to Bin 35 Bistro for an excursion for your taste buds.
Baton Rouge, LA
Single senior retirees who enjoy the South but want something a little less crowded and expensive than New Orleans might want to check out Baton Rouge, which is about an hour’s drive away. The capital of Louisiana, this city is home to historic districts, museums, cultural sites, casinos, and more. There are many senior centers, like the Pearl George Senior Center, to accommodate the 14% of the population who are 65 or older.
Madison, WI
A mid-sized city in the Midwest, Madison is reasonably walkable and has enough indoor and outdoor activities to keep even the most active seniors busy. Top attractions include the Olbrich Botanical Gardens, the State Capitol building, pickleball and tennis courts, and casinos.
Charleston, SC
One of the best places for singles to retire in the South is Charleston, South Carolina. An estimated 16% of the population is 65 or older—good news for those looking to mingle. The summers are long, hot, and humid, while the winters are short and mild. The pollen might be a bother, but the clean air, vast beaches, museums, and cruise options more than make up for it. Try the fresh seafood at Hyman’s Seafood or enjoy the nice weather at Berkeley’s.
The Remaining Top Cities for Single Seniors
Every single person, retired or otherwise, is unique. What you’re looking for in retirement might differ from the next person. Maybe you want an active lifestyle with a bustling community and plenty of attractions and amenities to keep you busy. Or maybe you’re hoping for a quieter, small-town feel without the noise.
For some retirees, even the most nuanced distinctions from one city to the next can make all the difference between the dream retirement lifestyle and the feeling that something’s missing. Whatever your retirement goals, preferences, and needs, it’s good to know your options.
To help you narrow down the list of options even further, we’ve compiled 50 more cities that could be a good fit for single seniors in retirement. Each location gets between two and three chili peppers, depending on its amenities and other key features like weather, safety, proximity to cruise lines, healthcare services, and senior population.
- Jacksonville, FL
- Oklahoma City, OK
- Milwaukee, WI
- Louisville, KY
- Myrtle Beach, SC
- Nashville, TN
- Albuquerque, NM
- Birmingham, AL
- Boise, ID
- Reno, NV
- Spokane, WA
- Miami, FL
- Los Angeles, CA
- Riverside, CA
- San Diego, CA
- Colorado Springs, CO
- Omaha, NE
- Kansas City, MO
- Austin, TX
- San Antonio, TX
- Indianapolis, IN
- Lexington, KY
- Memphis, TN
- Cincinnati, OH
- Columbus, OH
- Detroit, MI
- Cleveland, OH
- Atlanta, GA
- Tampa, FL
- Charlotte, NC
- Raleigh, VA
- Virginia Beach, VA
- Baltimore, MD
- New York City, NY
- Norfolk, VA
- St. Paul, MN
- St. Louis, MO
- Arlington, VA
- Mesa, AZ
- Paradise, CA
- Sacramento, CA
- Stockton, CA
- San Jose, CA
- Fresno, CA
- Bakersfield, CA
- Wichita, KS
- Des Moines, IA
- Grand Rapids, MI
- Toledo, OH
- Greensboro, NC
Start Planning Your Dream Retirement Now
Retirement is when seniors can truly focus on their hobbies, interests, and relationships. It’s the time to live the life of your dreams without having to worry about all the things you prioritized during your working years.
Of course, choosing where to spend your golden years isn’t always as easy as picking from a list. But this list of the best places for singles to retire should serve as a starting point as you start planning your retirement. Even if you’re already retired, it’s never too late to make a change in pursuit of your dreams.
