13 Best Places to Retire in the US for Immigrants: Cost, Healthcare & Community Support
Are you an immigrant looking to retire in the US? Our guide suggests 13 best US cities that you may consider, and explains what factors you should keep in mind while planning for retirement.
To start your retirement planning, it’s important that you check your immigration status in the US. Get in touch with our immigration lawyers at Immigration Advice Service by calling us at +1 844 312 4979 or using our online form to discuss your circumstances and options.
Top Considerations Every Immigrant Needs to Make Before Retiring in the US
Before you commit to retiring in the US, it’s always essential that you make a few quick checks:
- Is your immigration or residency status valid, and for how long? If you have to continue the immigration process after you retire, it’s essential that you plan ahead with our legal counsel. Start today by using our online form or contacting us at +1 844 312 4979
- Do you have any health conditions that need specialist treatment? Requiring specialist healthcare will mean choosing the right insurance and ensuring you are close to a healthcare provider who can care for you
- What is your retirement budget and outgoing costs? Planning ahead with a financial advisor can help you choose a destination that fits your budget and leaves you with money to spare
- Is it important for you to be near your native culture? There are thriving immigrant communities in every state. Relocating to one can give you unique benefits, such as broader language support
- Do you need access to additional social support services like senior centers or immigrant services? This will also determine the top states and cities for you
Page Contents
- Top Considerations Every Immigrant Needs to Make Before Retiring in the US
- Criteria Used to Choose the Top 13 Places to Retire
- 13 Best Cities to Retire in the US for Immigrants
- What to Prepare Before Retiring to the US As An Immigrant
- Why Immigrant-Friendly Communities Matter
- How to Decide Which City Is Best to Retire In for You
- How can IAS Help?
- Frequently Asked Questions
Criteria Used to Choose the Top 13 Places to Retire
Affordability vs Retirement Income
The top 13 retirement destinations in this list will prioritize either affordability or value for money.
Access to Quality Healthcare
Each of the 13 towns or cities in this list has ample access to hospitals, outpatient facilities, and specialist healthcare to support your health throughout your retirement.
Community and Immigrant-Friendliness
Build strong ties with a thriving community. This guide will outline which immigrant communities have made a home in every destination.
Social and Recreational Amenities
Each of these 13 top cities to retire in offers a wide range of great restaurants, venues, arts and culture centers, theme parks, natural beauty, and even volunteering opportunities.
Safety
Every city on this list ranks well for safety, with lower violent crime rates than the national average.
13 Best Cities to Retire in the US for Immigrants
Given that the US has the 12th-highest cost of living globally, it’s important to consider all factors before deciding where to retire. These top cities balance everything from entertainment and amenities with healthcare access, cost of living, and diversity.
1. Orlando, FL
Orlando sits at the top of the list of the best places to retire in the US (having previously ranked as the best city for retirement in 2023), ranking highly for recreation, adult healthcare, and homemaker services. The city also features one of the country’s highest concentrations of home healthcare facilities per capita, geriatric hospitals, and gerontologists, making it an excellent destination for your healthcare needs.
As for the communities, you’ll find there’s a vibrant Hispanic and Latino population and a range of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) communities, making it a top choice for immigrant retirees.
Affordability
| Cost of Living vs National Average | Median House Price | Average Rent | Income Tax | Estate/Inheritance Taxes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| +6% | $376k | $1,901 | N/A | N/A |
Immigrant and retirement resources in Orlando:
- Orlando Senior Help Desk
- Mayor William Beardall Senior Center
- Renaissance Senior Center
2. Scottsdale, Arizona
Another sunshine state to reach the top of the lists is Arizona. Home to the Grand Canyon, forests, and mountain ranges, it’s a true haven for outdoor recreation and nature lovers. It also ranks third in the country for healthcare quality, making it a great choice for retirees.
Scottsdale is home to McDowell Sonoran Preserve, a 30,500-acre protected desert habitat within city limits, making it the largest urban preserve in the US. There are over 230 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, including ADA-accessible routes in the preserve, as well as 11 miles of trails in the Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt, which runs through downtown. Between these outdoor activities and its entertainment district, Scottsdale, Arizona, has a high number of activities for retirees.
Scottsdale is a top choice for its 300 days of sunshine, ample retirement communities for over-55s, and the best-rated hospital in Arizona at your disposal. It’s even been ranked as the 3rd most caring city in the US.
Affordability
| Cost of Living vs National Average | Median House Price | Average Rent | Income Tax | Estate/Inheritance Taxes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| +13% | $895k | $2,167 | 2.5% | N/A |
Cultural and retirement resources in Scottsdale:
- Granite Reef Senior Center
- Via Linda Senior Center
- Adopt-a-Senior Program
3. Minneapolis, Minnesota
Minneapolis offers one of the most elderly-friendly labor markets, with 22% of the working population over 65, making it an ideal destination if you want to take on part-time work or volunteer. You will find a large Black or African American community, and a large retirement population with over 962,143 older adults retired as of 2025. Of the city’s total number of residents, 13.7% are foreign-born.
Where Minneapolis really stands out is in its healthcare infrastructure. It has the 8th best-rated hospital system. You will also benefit from a high number of nursing homes and gerontologists per capita. Care is taken very seriously in hospitals and care settings. So much so that Minnesota was ranked as the 10th best for elder abuse protections in the US in 2024.
The state itself is 16th in the country for safety, 16th for healthcare, 14th for its natural environment, and 3rd overall for transportation. This puts Minnesota as a whole in 3rd place nationwide.
Affordability
| Cost of Living vs National Average | Median House Price | Average Rent | Income Tax | Estate/Inheritance Tax |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| +3% | $339k | $1,600 | 5.45 to 9.85% | Yes |
Cultural and retirement resources in Minneapolis:
- Chinese Community Center
- Hmong Cultural Center
- American Swedish Institute
- Vietnamese Community of Minnesota
- Skyway Senior Center
4. The Woodlands, Texas
The Woodlands has been ranked 4th for Best Places to Retire by U.S. News & World Report, and for good reason. The report considers several factors, including quality of life, value, healthcare quality, senior communities, and tax benefits for retirees.
Those who choose The Woodlands benefit from over 150 parks, 220 miles of hiking and biking trails, and numerous activity centers, including gyms, pools, and golf courses, which make it easy for the residents to stay active and enjoy the great outdoors. There are several dedicated 55+ retirement communities to help you save, connect with fellow seniors, and enjoy on-site features ranging from on-site pools to healthcare.
The city is also incredibly diverse, with over 21.5% of its population born outside the US. If this sounds like the ideal place for you to retire, but you aren’t confident about your immigration status, get in touch with our friendly team by calling us at +1 844 312 4979 or using our online form.
Affordability
| Cost of Living vs National Average | Median House Price | Average Rent | Income Tax | Estate/Inheritance Tax |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| -2% | $472,814 | $1,440 | N/A | N/A |
Cultural and retirement resources in The Woodlands:
- TCCS Texas Center for Community Services
- Woodlands Newcomers & Friends
- Crossing Borders Language Center
- Alexander Deussen Park Seniors’ Center
- Madison Jobe Senior Center
5. Tampa, Florida
Another of Florida’s coastal towns to make it to the top five best cities to retire is Tampa, although it is infamous for its incredible hot summers and minimal rain. Entertainment venues and attractions like Busch Gardens theme park, the Museum of Science and History, and the Florida Aquarium give retirees plenty of options for taking their grandkids out and enjoying themselves during their golden years.
More importantly, Florida is one of the best states for healthcare access, with standout hospitals like Tampa General Hospital (ranked 2nd-best in Florida) and nearby Freedom Plaza, which offer extensive geriatrics, memory care, and other essential specialist care for seniors.
Tampa is also very diverse socially. Home to a large Black community and an even larger Hispanic and Latino community, the city appears to be particularly welcoming to immigrant retirees.
Affordability
| Cost of Living vs National Average | Median House Price | Average Rent | Income Tax | Estate/Inheritance Tax |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| +14% | $379k | $2000 | N/A | N/A |
Cultural and retirement resources in Tampa:
- L’unione Italiana
- Indian Cultural Center
- David M Barksdale Active Older Adult Center
- Carrollwood Cultural Center
6. Cincinnati, Ohio
Cincinnati offers a low cost of living, a large series of parks, and incredibly diverse neighborhoods. Westwood is home to large communities from Mali and Burkina Faso, East Price Hill and Covington have a strong Guatemala population, and Mt Airy is where you will find those from Bhutan and Congo, to name a few.
Cincinnati is so immigrant-friendly that it’s ranked 10th among cities for immigrant opportunity, making it an excellent destination for many retirees. If you need additional support with housing or civic participation, you can pop into Dayton, less than an hour away, which holds the country’s first Certified Welcoming status.
It also performs well in other key categories, like healthcare, thanks to hospitals like The Christ Hospital, which ranks 3rd in Ohio. Move here, and you will likely be within a 10-minute walk of a park, as an estimated 91% of Cincinnati residents live near one or other of the city’s green spaces.
Affordability
| Cost of Living vs National Average | Median House Price | Average Rent | Income Tax | Estate/Inheritance Tax |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| +1% | $254k | $1422 | No tax on Social Security, 2.75% to 3.75% on other retirement incomes | N/A |
Cultural and retirement resources in Cincinnati:
- Ola Immigrant Welcome Center
- Asian Community Alliance
- Hispanic Chamber Cincinnati Foundation
7. Madison, Wisconsin
Madison, Wisconsin, in the upper Midwest, is a fantastic place to retire thanks to several factors, starting with its high-quality healthcare system. Madison is home to multiple accredited hospitals, including UW Health University Hospital, which ranks #1 in Wisconsin and is nationally ranked for its diabetes, geriatrics, and orthopedics treatment and care.
You’ll have ample opportunities to get out and enjoy your golden years, thanks to the city’s massive green spaces. McPike Park (formerly Central Park), for example, offers nearly 10 acres of green spaces right in the heart of downtown. In addition to the many classic offerings a city can offer, Madison is also notable for hosting America’s largest producers-only farmers’ market, held every Saturday and Wednesday morning in the city.
While predominantly white, there are notable Asian (7.98%) and Black or African American (7.18%) communities.
Affordability
| Cost of Living vs National Average | Median House Price | Average Rent | Income Tax | Estate/Inheritance Tax |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| +10% | $435k | $1660 | No tax on Social Security; 3.50% to 7.65% on other retirement incomes | N/A |
Cultural and retirement resources in Madison:
- Bantaba Family Support Program
- African Center for Community Development
- Boabab Senior Circle
- ElderConnect
- Madison Senior Center
8. Omaha, Nebraska
Nebraska is ranked 5th overall in the country, 1st in infrastructure, and 15th in healthcare access. Omaha offers a lovely riverfront, with a picturesque downtown area full of restaurants, boutiques, and several museums. Outdoor and active retirees will have access to over 80,000 acres of state-protected lands and hundreds of hiking trails to explore right on their doorstep, too.
As for diversity, Omaha is home to notable Black and Hispanic populations, as well as Asian and Native American communities, making it an appealing option for many immigrant retirees.
Affordability
| Cost of Living vs National Average | Median House Price | Average Rent | Income Tax | Estate/Inheritance Tax |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| -4% | $299k | $1428 | No tax on Social Security; up to 5.2% on other retirement incomes | Yes |
Cultural and retirement resources in Omaha:
- World Speaks
- Nebraska Afghan Community Center
- Learning for ALL
- East African Development Association of Nebraska
- Intercultural Senior Center
9. Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville is a big city and one of the best places to retire for immigrants. Its ethnically diverse population earns the city a 70.73 diversity score. As Tennessee’s largest city, it’s home to a thriving entertainment scene. Here you’ll have access to many top music venues and world-class festivals like CMA Fest.
While Nashville isn’t as affordable as other options in this list , it makes up for it with state tax incentives, including additional exemptions if you are low-income or disabled. If you want the amenities of Nashville within reach, but are looking for a slower pace, consider the neighboring Knoxville instead.
Affordability
| Cost of Living vs National Average | Median House Price | Average Rent | Income Tax | Estate/Inheritance Tax |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| +6% | $436k | $2200 | N/A | N/A |
Cultural and retirement resources in Nashville:
- Nashville International Center for Empowerment (NICE)
- Muslim American Cultural Center
- Global Education Center
- Conexión Américas
- FiftyForward Knowles
10. Sioux Falls, South Dakota
South Dakota is a great state for any retiree, owing to its lack of state income tax on retirement income. It’s also ranked 2nd in the country for infrastructure, 5th for natural environment, and 8th overall. Most notably for retirees, the Milken Institute has ranked South Dakota 5th for successful aging.
In South Dakota, Sioux Falls stands out for its low-cost, high-quality healthcare systems and hospitals, as well as its abundance of medical professionals. Sioux Falls is also notable for its affordability, great falls, and for the lifelong learning programs available at the nearby University of South Dakota’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute. At this institute, retirees choose from a host of topics to learn about in their free time, either in-person or online, for a very low semester or year fee.
While not as diverse as other options on this list, Sioux Falls does have growing Hispanic, Black, and Asian communities, adding to the area’s cultural diversity.
Affordability
| Cost of Living vs National Average | Median House Price | Average Rent | Income Tax | Estate/Inheritance Tax |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| -17% | $335k | $1195 | N/A | N/A |
Cultural and retirement resources in Sioux Falls:
- Cultural Crossings
- African Community Center of Sioux Falls
- Islamic Center of Sioux Falls
- Active Generations
- Kenny Anderson Community Center
11. Clifton, New Jersey
Clifton, New Jersey, is a top choice for those looking for a place to retire that offers huge diversity. It’s ranked 4th for its linguistic diversity, offering immigrant retirees the greatest opportunity to speak their native language. The city also has a very large Hispanic population, accounting for 39.4% of its population.
The city has also been named the best place to retire in New Jersey. With over 18% of the population over 65, you’ll be able to connect with a diverse retirement community while enjoying plenty of up-and-coming attractions.
While the main draw of Clifton is, of course, its proximity to New York City, the area also offers a host of amenities and attractions to keep you close to home. You’ll have a choice between 29 parks, the Clifton Arts Center, local museums, and restaurants. Residents love it for its lower-than-average crime rate and the fact that you can commute to Midtown Manhattan in just 15 minutes.
Affordability
| Cost of Living vs National Average | Median House Price | Average Rent | Income Tax | Estate/Inheritance Tax |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| +21% | $615k | $2415 | No tax on Social Security; 1.5% to 11.8% on other retirement incomes | Yes |
Cultural and retirement resources in Clifton:
- Clifton Senior Citizens
- Passaic Senior Center
- Palestinian American Community Center
- Albanian Cultural Center New Jersey
- Islamic Center of Passaic County
12. Cheyenne, Wyoming
Cheyenne, the capital city of Wyoming, has been ranked by Investopedia as one of the best places to retire in 2026. Reasons for its high ranking include lower-than-average national housing costs, great local and state parks (The Rocky Mountains are less than a 2-hour drive away), and excellent public transportation that’s available for free on fixed routes. You’ll also find a large Hispanic community in Cheyenne, with foreign-born residents coming largely from Mexico.
Wyoming has been ranked 7th for public safety, boasting both a low crime rate and strong elder abuse protections.
Affordability
| Cost of Living vs National Average | Median House Price | Average Rent | Income Tax | Estate/Inheritance Tax |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| -8% | $389k | $1500 | N/A | N/A |
Cultural and retirement resources in Cheyenne:
- Cheyenne and Arapaho Culture Program
- Hispanic Organization for Progress and Education (HOPE)
- Cheyenne Intercultural Diversity Foundation
- Laramie County Senior Activity Center
13. Exeter, New Hampshire
Exeter is one of the most sought-after towns to retire in for New Hampshire residents, and its appeal is quickly becoming recognized by Americans and immigrants around the country. It features a picturesque, walkable downtown area that offers museums, riverside walks, farmers’ markets, and festivals. You’ll even be within a 15-minute drive of Hampton Beach.
While Exeter has higher-than-average housing costs, seniors can access property tax relief. If you are over 65, you can have between $152,251 and $236,251 (depending on your age) removed from the assessed value of your property, lowering your annual tax burden. There’s also no state income, general sales, or estate/inheritance tax, allowing you to spread your monthly budget further.
Retirees are also choosing Exeter for its safety (New Hampshire is ranked 1st in the country), air and water quality (4th), and healthcare access (7th). Those with medical needs will benefit from the high number of medical centers (5.42 per 1,000 residents).
Affordability
| Cost of Living vs National Average | Median House Price | Average Rent | Income Tax | Estate/Inheritance Tax |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| +19% | $615k | $2470 | N/A | N/A |
Cultural and retirement resources in Exeter:
- International Institute of New England
- Welcoming NH
- Exeter Senior Citizens Center
What to Prepare Before Retiring to the US As An Immigrant
There are a few steps and documents you will want to take and check before retiring in the US as an immigrant.
1. Check Your Visa
There isn’t a dedicated retirement visa in the US. This means you’ll need a Green Card in advance. You can earn a Green Card if you:
- Are the spouse of a US citizen (you may also be engaged, or a widow(er))
- Were an “immigrant worker”, a physician under the National Interest Waiver, or an investor, and in the US under an employment visa
- Were granted a visa as a Special Immigrant, for example, if you were an Afghan or Iraqi translator or interpreter for the US government
- Were granted asylum
- Have resided continuously in the US. since before Jan 1, 1972 (this will require you to register for a Green Card, which can be a complicated legal process best handled with the help of our friendly IAS immigration lawyers)
Tip: You can apply for citizenship if you have had your Green Card for three (if through marriage) or five years of continuous residence in the US. Securing your citizenship before you retire can help avoid immigration stress later. If you need help transitioning from your Green Card or have questions about your immigration status, get in touch with our friendly team at +1 844 312 4979 or by using our online form.
Work with a Financial Advisor
We recommend you work with a financial advisor to understand your finances as you move into retirement. They can help you maximize your retirement through professional estate and tax planning. At a minimum, you will need to understand your tax obligations, your outgoing costs upon retirement, and your budget.
Get a Health Check
Everyone should get a health check from a certified professional before they retire to ensure they are in good health. This can help spot issues early so you can address them then and there, or, alternatively, be aware of the lifestyle, health, and financial changes you must adopt moving forward.
Why Immigrant-Friendly Communities Matter
While the top 13 cities and towns outlined in this list offer a good quality of life, care, and recreation at a low cost (compared to the national average), it is important that you find your community.
There are so many reasons to prioritize areas that have immigrant-friendly communities, including:
- Diverse neighborhoods are more accepting and welcoming of immigrants
- Diverse cities often have hubs of immigrant communities, offering easy access to cultural institutions, community centers, services in your native language, and more
- Diversity boosts the number of recreational opportunities you have, thanks to the influx of fresh ideas and inspirations
Immigrant-friendly communities also tend to have more immigration services nearby, but this doesn’t mean you have to live in an area with a high number of foreign-born residents to get help.
Our friendly lawyers are here to help you through all your immigration needs, wherever you are. Simply call us at +1 844 312 4979 or use our online form to get in touch.
How to Decide Which City Is Best to Retire In for You
Finding the perfect place for you will depend on your personal preferences and priorities. To help you choose wisely, here’s a quick rundown of the best cities based on your priority:
| Priority | Best Cities | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Orlando, The Woodlands, Minneapolis | Strong combination of quality healthcare, amenities, diversity, and retirement services |
| Best Healthcare | Minneapolis, Madison, Orlando | Top-rated hospitals, specialists, and senior care services |
| Most Affordable | Sioux Falls, Cheyenne, Omaha | Housing prices and/or living costs below the US average to help those on a fixed income |
| Diversity | Orlando, Tampa, The Woodlands, Clifton | Strong immigrant populations and cultural resources |
How can IAS Help?
The US doesn’t have a formal retirement visa for foreigners. That’s why it’s critical that you ensure you are on the right immigration path. Obtaining a Green Card and then securing American citizenship, if possible, will help safeguard your retirement future.
Our US immigration law experts can help assess your immigration status, guide you through the next steps, and provide essential support throughout the process.
Get in touch with our team by calling +1 844 312 4979 or using our online form. We can help you with step-by-step support until your visa is approved or you have obtained citizenship, so that you can confidently retire in any of these top 13 cities in the US.
Legal Disclaimer
The information provided is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we make every effort to ensure accuracy, the law may change, and the information may not reflect the most current legal developments. No warranty is given regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information, and we do not accept liability in such cases. We recommend consulting with a qualified lawyer at Immigration Advice Service before making any decisions based on the content provided.
Last modified on August 12th, 2026 at 3:30 am
Advice Package
Comprehensive immigration advice tailored to your circumstances and goals.
Application Package
Designed to make your visa application as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Fast Track Package
Premium application service that ensures your visa application is submitted to meet your deadline.
Appeal Package
Ensure you have the greatest chance of a successful appeal. We will represent you in any case.
The Advice Package
With our Advice Session, our professional immigration lawyers will review your case and provide you with comprehensive advice, completely tailored to your needs and your situation.
The Application Package
With our Application Package, your dedicated caseworker will advise you on your application process and eligibility. Your legal advisor will then complete and submit your forms to the Home Office on your behalf.
The Fast Track Package
Our Fast-Track Application Package is a premium service for those who need to submit their application in time with their deadlines. Your case will become a top priority for our lawyers and you will benefit from our highest-quality services.
The Appeal Package
By choosing our Appeal Package, you can rely on our lawyers’ legal knowledge and experience to ensure you have the highest chance of a successful appeal. We will also fully represent you in any hearings/tribunals.
Related pages for your continued reading.
Frequently Asked Questions
Generally, you will only pay income tax in the state you are living in. The exception is if you earn an income outside of the state you reside in, for example, if you own a rental property in another state that does have income tax.
Medicare Part A requires you to have sufficient US work credits or to qualify through an American spouse. Other eligibility criteria depend on your state and income.
To ensure your pensions and other financial assets abroad are secure and accessible in the US banking system, you should consult a financial advisor. In addition to ensuring the bank you choose is insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) or the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), you will need a specialist who understands both countries’ tax laws.
Until you have American citizenship, it’s always wise to stay on top of any changes to immigration laws. You can do this by ensuring your contact details with the US government are correct, signing up for email updates from the USCIS newsroom, and monitoring your immigration status on the USCIS Online Account portal.
Staying up to date with the latest changes is essential. Doing so will help you avoid accidentally breaching the conditions of your Green Card, ensure you file correctly and on time, and help you continue to understand your rights. Failing to meet a deadline or breaching your Green Card could result in possible deportation. If you’re worried, get in touch with our IAS team at +1 844 312 4979, and we will review your status.
Each city has its own immigrant, refugee, and cultural community centers. These centers provide classes, help prevent social isolation by helping you meet new friends, and are essential for successfully finding and building a community in your new home. There are also national non-profit services like the ICS and national services like the suicide and crisis lifeline.