Best Places to Retire in the United States

Retirement isn’t about slowing down—it’s about freedom. It’s your time to connect with others, explore new experiences, and truly thrive in a place you love to call home. The right location can set the tone for this exciting chapter, and across the United States, several destinations stand out for their climate, amenities, affordability, and quality of life.

Let’s take a closer look at five of the best states to retire in the US—Florida, Colorado, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee—and why they’re consistently ranked among the best places to retire. We’ll also highlight Dream Finders Homes’ Reverie communities in each state, designed specifically for active adults looking to stay social, adventurous, and energized every day.

Florida often tops the list of the best places to retire in the US, offering retirees sunshine year-round, no state income tax, and endless opportunities for recreation and relaxation. Whether you’re drawn to golf, boating, coastal walks, or simply enjoying warm evenings outdoors, Florida is a haven for those seeking an active lifestyle.

Reverie Active Adult by Dream Finders Homes offers a variety of 55+ communities in Northeast and Southeast Florida, all designed to help residents connect, explore, and thrive:

• Reverie at Silverleaf (St. Johns): A gated enclave within a larger master-planned community where neighbors come together over pickleball games, poolside gatherings, and walking clubs.

• Reverie at Trailmark (St. Augustine): A nature-inspired setting with scenic walking and biking trails, community events, and easy access to historic downtown.

• Everlake at Mandarin (Jacksonville): A boutique-style community that fosters connection and low-maintenance living close to shopping, dining, and healthcare.

• Reverie at Palm Coast (Jacksonville): Located in a serene setting just outside the city, this community offers resort-style amenities and easy access to Jacksonville’s cultural scene and nearby Atlantic beaches.

• Reverie at Solaeris (Port St. Lucie): Positioned on Florida’s Treasure Coast, this new active adult neighborhood is coming soon and will offer proximity to pristine beaches, golf courses, and local dining. Designed for exploration and relaxation, Solaeris is ideal for those looking to thrive in a coastal setting.

With diverse locations and lifestyle options, Florida continues to be one of the best states to retire, offering something for every kind of retiree.

For retirees who dream of mountain views and endless outdoor recreation, Colorado is one of the best states to retire in the US. It offers an active lifestyle with hiking, biking, skiing, and wellness-focused living around every corner.

Reverie at Looking Glass, coming soon to Parker, Colorado, is designed for adults who love to explore. From nearby scenic trails to community activities that keep you moving and engaged, this location makes it easy to embrace fresh air living while still having quick access to the cultural perks of Denver.

North Carolina strikes a balance between laid-back charm and city conveniences, making it one of the best places to retire. The state offers four-season weather, diverse landscapes, and tax-friendly policies for retirees.

Reverie at Lake Norman is coming soon and will sit just north of Charlotte, giving residents a chance to connect with neighbors at the clubhouse, explore the surrounding lakefront and trails, and thrive in a community where every detail—from home designs to amenities—is crafted with active adults in mind. 

With its warm climate, rich history, and lower cost of living, South Carolina has become a top choice for retirees seeking slower-paced days with plenty of opportunity to explore charming towns and coastal escapes.

Reverie Active Adult by Dream Finders Homes plans to bring its Reverie brand to the Palmetto State in the near future, delivering the same community-driven approach that encourages residents to connect through events, explore local culture and scenery, and thrive in a supportive, vibrant environment.

Tennessee is quickly becoming one of the best states to retire in the US thanks to its no state income tax policy, affordable housing, and exciting cultural scene. With the Smoky Mountains, lakeside recreation, and the music-filled streets of Nashville, Tennessee offers the perfect blend of activity and charm.

Dream Finders Homes will be expanding its active adult brand in the Nashville area with two exciting communities:

• Reverie at Parkhaven: A gated neighborhood focused on wellness and connection, where planned social events and inviting amenities make it easy to connect with new friends.

• Reverie at Music City: Coming soon, this community places residents close to Nashville’s energy, where you can explore local music, dining, and cultural experiences before returning home to a peaceful retreat where you can thrive.

Your retirement years are meant to be vibrant, fulfilling, and full of opportunities to grow. Whether you’re craving Florida’s sun-soaked beaches, Colorado’s fresh mountain air, or Tennessee’s music and culture, there’s a destination that aligns with your vision for the future.

Reverie Active Adult communities are thoughtfully designed to support every aspect of the lifestyle you want to build. With homes crafted for comfort and convenience, amenities that foster wellness, and a focus on helping you connect, explore, and thrive, Reverie offers more than just a place to live—it’s where you can write your next chapter in some of the best retirement cities in the United States.

Learn more about these vibrant 55+ communities and find your perfect place to call home at Dream Finders Active Adult.