CostTrek

โ˜… Best places to live

Best cities to retire in North America

Where a pension stretches furthest alongside good healthcare, low crime, clean air and a mild climate โ€” ranked for retirees.

The Best cities to retire in North America, ranked by Retiree score across 29 cities we track in the region. San Diego leads with 67/100, ahead of Austin and Charlotte.

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? Frequently asked questions

Which cities top this ranking?

San Diego leads at 67/100, followed by Austin and Charlotte. The full ranking of 29 cities is listed above.

How is this ranking calculated?

We sort all 29 cities in our index by Retiree score. Figures are calibrated estimates, refreshed as we expand coverage โ€” a practical guide, not official statistics.

Can I compare these cities in detail?

Yes. Open any city for its cost of living, rent, taxes, visas and quality of life, or use CostTrekโ€™s side-by-side comparison to weigh two cities against each other.