U.S. News and World Report announced on Thursday that Naples, Florida, ranks No. 1 among the best places to retire in the United States.
Naples topped 149 other cities considered in the 2024-25 report, which is very impressive considering it finished No. 28 in the 2023-24 report.
U.S. News and World Report said the rankings are based on how well cities meet American retirees' expectations, with measures including happiness, affordability, health care, desirability, retiree taxes and the job market.
Desirability
Naples ranks third in desirability for retirement, according to a SurveyMonkey poll of over 3,500 people. The ranking reflects U.S. residents' interest in the city, as well as its abundance of entertainment and attractions relative to its population.
While Naples scores a value ranking of 95, it's far from affordable—the median home price is over $577,000, more than double the national average of $281,000. However, it boasts a strong job market for retirees still working and a median household income of $98,120, significantly higher than the national median of $75,149.
Considering Naples consists of 36% of residents age 65 or older, retirees will find themselves in comfortable company.
Health care availability
U.S. News and World Reports labeled NCH Baker Hospital and Physicians Regional-Pine Ridge Hospital as two of the best hospitals in Florida .
Due to the large population of retirees in Florida, the Sunshine State is home to excellent health care options for all areas of treatment.
Tax-friendly
Florida is one of the most tax-friendly states for retirees. The Sunshine State has no income tax, no taxes on Social Security, no inheritance tax, no estate tax and no taxes on retirement income like pensions, IRAs or 401Ks.
Beautiful weather
In 2024, Naples' average temperature sat at 78.04 degrees Fahrenheit. Spring average highs hit in March, April and May between 70 and 80 degrees, with lows in the 60s.
Summertime brings hotter weather, averaging between 83 and 90 degrees from July to August. Winter usually sits between 70 and 80 degrees.
Overall, Naples ranks No. 32 of 150 top U.S. cities for its weather.
Beaches
Naples sits along the Gulf Coast with a coastline stretching nearly 9 miles, offering access to 40 beaches.
Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park, a renowned white-sand beach, has been ranked No. 8 on Dr. Beach's 2024 Top 10 Beaches List. Dr. Beach, the pseudonym for a coastal scientist and expert, recognizes the best beaches annually.
Low crime rate
Naples boasts a lower crime rate than cities of similar size. According to the Collier County Sheriff’s Office, Naples and Collier County have the lowest crime rates among metropolitan counties in Florida.
In the coastal city, the chance of becoming a victim of property crime is 1 in 64, while violent crime is significantly less common, with a likelihood of just 1 in 934.
Housing market
The local housing supply increased by 40% from August 2023 to August 2024, with 1,035 new listings added in September, according to the Naples Area Board of Realtors.
Whether you’re looking for stunning waterfront views or convenient access to restaurants and shopping, there are excellent options available across a wide price range, from under $500,000 to $300 million.
According to recent data, Naples is ranked as one of the top housing markets in the state in 2024.
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