Manatees Might Be Your Neighbors in These 11 Under-the-Radar Florida Retirement Spots

Florida’s Best Towns for Retirees

Florida has become home to more than 4.2 million retirees, and it’s not just for the sunshine. From quiet Gulf Coast waters to lively Atlantic beaches, the state offers many choices for retirement.

We’ve found 11 towns where your money goes further and life is good. Each place has excellent hospitals, things to do, and friendly neighbors, and without the tourist crowds of bigger cities.

Venice

This beach town is famous for its shark teeth fossils, with 100,000 found each year. Homes cost about $375,000, which is 15% cheaper than nearby Sarasota. The town has 14 miles of certified blue-flag beaches and a historic downtown with 127 local shops.

The Venice Theatre puts on more than 300 shows yearly, making it Florida’s second-largest community theater. You’ll find regular farmers markets, free concerts in the gazebo, and three hospitals within 20 miles. For active seniors, there are 16 pickleball courts that host regular tournaments.

Mount Dora

At 184 feet above sea level, this town stays 2-3 degrees cooler than other Florida places. Houses cost around $350,000, and you get lovely oak trees draped with Spanish moss. The downtown area has 32 antique shops and hosts Florida’s largest craft fair, bringing 200,000 visitors each October.

Three major medical centers, including AdventHealth and Orlando Health, are just 15 minutes away. The crime rate stays 45% below the national average, and the historic district hosts weekly community events.

Dunedin

Founded by Scottish settlers in 1899, this Gulf Coast town keeps its heritage alive with annual Highland Games and the Southeast’s only high school pipe band. The 39-mile Pinellas Trail has eight easy access points downtown, perfect for walking or biking.

For about $400,000, you can live near the Toronto Blue Jays’ spring training facility and get special access to tickets. Honeymoon Island State Park’s four miles of natural beach is just a short drive away, and the downtown has won awards for its small-town charm.

Sebastian

This treasure coast town guards Pelican Island, America’s first National Wildlife Refuge. Homes cost about $325,000, and you get access to North America’s most diverse estuary. Sebastian Inlet State Park is famous for record-breaking fish catches, especially snook and redfish.

The Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital, rated 4 stars by Medicare, offers special heart and stroke care. The Indian River Lagoon provides endless spots for kayaking and bird watching, with dozens of rare species spotted each year.

Crystal River

Called the “Manatee Capital of the World,” this town welcomes over 1,200 gentle sea cows each winter. Homes cost around $280,000, making it 13% cheaper than most U.S. cities. Three Sisters Springs attracts 100,000 visitors yearly to see its crystal-clear waters.

The 177-acre wildlife refuge protects natural habitats, while seven championship golf courses keep seniors active. With just 3,500 neighbors, everyone knows each other, and the small-town feeling stays strong.

Winter Garden

This former citrus town has transformed its 1920s downtown while keeping 24 historic buildings. The 22-mile West Orange Trail, built on old train tracks, connects the whole city. Houses average $425,000, but you’re close to six major Orlando hospitals.

The Winter Garden Farmers Market, voted Florida’s best three years running, brings 100+ vendors every Saturday. The Garden Theatre hosts professional shows year-round, and the downtown area has become a hub for art and music.

Punta Gorda

After Hurricane Charley, this waterfront town rebuilt stronger, with 55 miles of canals and homes averaging $350,000. The city offers 18 parks covering 942 acres and 18 miles of scenic walking paths.

Fishermen’s Village features 31 waterfront shops and restaurants overlooking Charlotte Harbor. The Peace River Botanical Gardens spans 11 acres of tropical beauty, and ShorePoint Health Hospital provides complete medical care right in town.

Safety Harbor

Named for healing springs found in 1539, this town pumps 39,000 gallons of mineral water daily at its historic spa. Crime stays 40% below Florida’s average, and $400,000 buys a home near Tampa Bay’s waterfront.

Main Street has 84 independent shops and restaurants. The Safety Harbor Art and Music Center offers 200 yearly classes designed for seniors, and the waterfront parks host regular community events.

St. Augustine Beach

While the main city gets 6 million yearly tourists, this beach community stays peaceful with 7,000 residents. For $450,000, you can live near 4 miles of pristine beaches where sea turtles nest. Free shuttles run every 20 minutes to historic downtown St. Augustine.

Flagler Hospital, ranked in Florida’s top 5% for heart care, is just 3 miles away. Local restaurants serve fresh seafood, and the weekly farmers market brings regional growers to town.

Homosassa

This old Florida fishing village offers waterfront living for just $260,000. The Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park guarantees daily manatee sightings and offers educational programs. The Old Homosassa district preserves 12 historic fish houses and seafood markets.

HCA Florida Oak Hill Hospital’s new heart unit is 30 minutes away, and the town’s location provides easy access to both Tampa and Orlando’s medical centers.

Lake Wales

Built on central Florida’s ridge, this town rises 115 feet above sea level, creating unique rolling hills. The 250-acre Bok Tower Gardens offers $35 senior memberships and hosts concerts in its 205-foot neo-Gothic tower.

Homes average $275,000 and often have long-range views. AdventHealth Lake Wales provides 24-hour emergency care and earned awards for orthopedic care in 2023. Being inland means lower insurance costs and fewer hurricane evacuations.

These Florida towns prove you can retire well without spending a fortune. Each place keeps its special character while providing great healthcare and plenty to do.