Sorry but saying Hawaii is awesome makes you think that it is…. when in reality, It is a Leftist controlled high tax state. But media says it is great, Leftist media. Here is a summation… of a Left-wing list. Notice California cities, what a joke!
When you start thinking where to relax your retirement years, your mind might sail beyond the common, beyond the mainland even, to somewhere where the ocean breeze brings in peace with a happy breath. According to the latest rankings from WalletHub, some of the finest places to enjoy your golden years lie far from the usual Florida coastline— nestled instead in the islands of Hawaii. Pearl City and Honolulu, perched on Oahu, top the charts, not just for their beauty, but for offering the kind of serene living retirees often seek— quiet mornings, warm air, and a sense of belonging that lingers like a gentle tide.
Florida still pulls its weight in the retirement dreamscape, but the first Florida town doesn’t even make an appearance on the quality-of-life list until the 17th spot. Despite its endless sunshine and allure for seniors, Florida gets edged out by Hawaii, where safety, year-round mild weather, and endless opportunities for outdoor activities put it at the top.
California Cities Top Both Ends of the Happiness Spectrum in the U.S.
According to a recent survey, San Diego has been crowned the happiest city in America, with an impressive 82% of its residents describing themselves as either “happy” or “very happy.” Following closely, New… pic.twitter.com/lQU6oPvDH2
— Wired_In (@GetWired_In) September 13, 2024
How did these rankings come together? WalletHub didn’t just go with intuition; they crunched numbers and looked at real life. They analyzed everything from how many of the town’s residents were over 65 to how easily walkable the area is, from crime rates to how supportive the community is for seniors. Digging into data from sources like the U.S. Census Bureau and the Tax Foundation, they built a clearer picture of what makes a place truly shine for retirees—and Hawaii came out glowing.
Chip Lupo, one of the analysts, shared that it’s not just about the beaches and sunsets (though those don’t hurt). It’s about building a community where retirees don’t just exist but thrive— where they find access to the activities they love, where safety is a priority, and where support systems are firm enough to lean on.
Let’s glance at the top 10 cities for quality of life in retirement:
1. Pearl City, Hawaii
2. Honolulu, Hawaii
3. Scottsdale, Arizona
4. Columbia, Maryland
5. Fremont, California
6. Glendale, California
7. Madison, Wisconsin
8. San Jose, California
9. Lexington-Fayette, Kentucky
10. San Diego, California
Take Pearl City for example. Just a stone’s throw from bustling Honolulu, it feels like its own peaceful corner of the island. With a population of around 45,000, it has the perfect balance of community and calm. And about 25% of those people are over 65—proof that it’s already a haven for retirees. The weather, of course, is a draw too. Low 70s to low 80s, almost all year, make every day a good one for a stroll by the beach or some outdoor time with neighbors.
Research from GOBankingRates looked at all U.S. cities with populations over 15,000 and 65-plus populations of more than 25% to find some of the most expensive cities to retire in. https://t.co/ngQDpdfYlN pic.twitter.com/8hpntoOiOl
— The Brainy Broker (@thebrainybroker) September 15, 2024
But paradise comes with a price. Beyond the warm breezes and crystal-clear water, Hawaii has its challenges. Natural disasters—tsunamis, hurricanes—are part of life here. And the cost of living? Let’s just say it’s not for the faint of heart. Homes in Pearl City might list at $795,000, but they often sell for well over a million. Renters aren’t spared either, with the average one-bedroom going for around $1,856 per month. That’s far above what you’d expect to pay in many other parts of the country.
Still, if the price doesn’t bother you, Pearl City has more than enough to offer. Its strong senior community means you’ll be surrounded by like-minded people, all soaking up the sun, enjoying life’s slower pace, and sharing the beauty of the islands. It even ties with Scottsdale, Arizona, for having one of the highest share of seniors in the country.
25 Best Places To Enjoy Your #Retirement In 2024. @forbes https://t.co/mnAaGBip9l
— Janet Novack (@novack.janet on Threads) (@janetnovack) September 14, 2024
Before you make the leap, though, it’s smart to dig into a calculation and recheck. Sure, lists like these help, but only you can decide what’s truly important for your retirement. Maybe it’s staying close to family, maybe it’s having great healthcare nearby, or maybe it’s just waking up each morning to the rhythm of the ocean waves. Experts often recommend visiting your potential retirement spot at different times of the year—get a feel for the seasons, the community vibe, and whether it truly feels like home. After all, retirement is very sensitive for an aged persons and it is why it is not just finding a new place to live— it’s about creating the life you have always dreamed of.
Major Points
- Hawaii’s Pearl City and Honolulu ranked as the top spots for retirement living, outshining Florida.
- WalletHub’s rankings were based on safety, weather, community support, and quality of life for retirees.
- Retirees are drawn to Hawaii’s outdoor activities, mild weather, and strong sense of community.
- High costs and natural disaster risks in Hawaii present challenges for those considering the islands.
- Experts recommend visiting potential retirement locations to ensure they fit personal needs and lifestyle.
Conner T – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News