Florida has long been regarded as a premier retirement destination. As more people approach retirement, they seek out locations that offer a higher quality of life, ideally featuring a warm climate, a wealth of activities, diverse dining and shopping options, low taxes, and access to excellent healthcare.
PJ Smith, the president of the Naples Area Board of Realtors and owner of Naples Golf to Gulf Real Estate, moved to Naples from Minnesota after spending nearly 20 years as a snowbird. He appreciates the area’s natural beauty and lifestyle. “First impressions were: fantastic beaches, easy access to the beach, and many options for golf memberships,” says Smith. “Old Naples, especially Fifth Avenue and Third Street, is lovely. You can meander through shops and restaurants while enjoying the beautiful weather. It’s a very dog-friendly community, too, which I love as I walk my Frenchie puppy.”
Naples has recently been ranked the No. 1 Best Place to Retire in the U.S. for 2025 by U.S. News & World Report. This ranking considers various factors, including affordability, desirability, happiness, taxes for retirees, local job opportunities, and access to healthcare. While personal preferences and proximity to family play a significant role in the decision of where to retire, the metrics used by U.S. News contribute to a high quality of life. The ranking compares 150 top cities across the nation.
In terms of desirability, Naples ranks No. 3—reflecting the high level of interest from U.S. residents wanting to retire there, according to a survey by SurveyMonkey with over 3,500 respondents. While the area’s cost of living and home prices are relatively high, with a median home price over $577,000 (more than twice the national average), the city’s job market is robust, especially for retirees still working. The median household income in Naples is $98,120, well above the national average of $75,149.
Healthcare in Naples is top-notch, with convenient access to high-quality facilities. “The area is known for its excellent health care services, including highly ranked hospitals and 24-hour emergency clinics,” says Patty Campbell, president of the Florida West Coast Division at GL Homes. Notable institutions like NCH Baker Hospital and Physicians Regional-Pine Ridge Hospital are recognized for their quality care, earning spots on U.S. News & World Report’s list of Best Hospitals in Florida.
Florida’s tax policies also make Naples an attractive choice for retirees. With no state income tax, no inheritance tax, and no tax on most retirement income, Naples offers substantial financial advantages. “Retirement income, including Social Security and pensions, is generally not taxed here,” says Lane Martinsen, CEO of Martinsen Wealth Management. “Property taxes in Naples are moderate, especially compared to other parts of the country.”
Naples is known for its consistently sunny weather, though afternoon thunderstorms are common during the summer. Humidity peaks in the hotter months, while spring and fall offer temperatures in the high 70s, making it ideal for outdoor activities. “We have sunny weather almost every day from October to May,” says Michelle Thomas, a global real estate advisor with Premier Sotheby’s International Realty. “The average winter high is in the 70s, and in the summer, it’s in the 80s.”
The beaches in Naples are a significant draw, with nearly nine miles of coastline and 40 beach accesses. The clear, warm waters and fine sandy shores make it a perfect spot for sunbathing, swimming, and leisurely walks. “Naples is famous for its white-sand beaches along the Gulf of Mexico, often regarded as some of the most beautiful in the U.S.,” says Smith. Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park, located on a barrier island, is ranked No. 8 on the Top 10 Beaches of 2024 list by Dr. Beach, a renowned beach expert.
For retirees, Naples offers a wide range of recreational activities. Pickleball, golf, and boating are especially popular. “We’re the pickleball capital of the world!” Smith says. The city boasts many public and private courts, with the East Naples Community Park hosting 64 courts and major tournaments, including the Minto U.S. Open Pickleball Championships. Additionally, boaters can explore the Gulf of Mexico, including nearby islands like Marco, Sanibel, and Captiva, while avid fishermen enjoy the Naples Pier and the region’s rivers and canals.
Golf enthusiasts are also well served, as Naples has around 90 golf courses, both public and private, many located within exclusive residential communities. “It’s truly a golfer’s paradise,” says Smith.
Naples offers a relaxed yet luxurious lifestyle. “What sets Naples apart is its combination of luxury and a laid-back atmosphere,” says Campbell. Retirees can enjoy resort-style living while benefiting from a vibrant community. “There’s plenty to do—shopping at luxury malls like Waterside Shops, dining at high-end restaurants, and attending live music performances, theater, and concerts,” says Thomas. Additionally, social clubs and leagues allow newcomers to connect and form friendships.
Naples’ crime rate is one of the lowest in Florida, contributing to its reputation as a safe and welcoming community. According to the Collier County Sheriff’s Office, Naples has the lowest crime rate among metropolitan counties in the state. “Despite growing in popularity, Naples has maintained its small-town feel, where people look out for one another,” says Kim Price, a real estate broker in Naples.
Overall, with its blend of natural beauty, tax benefits, excellent healthcare, and abundant leisure options, Naples is a standout choice for retirees seeking a high quality of life.
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