Top 5 Best Places to Retire in the U.S. 2026- Including Houston's Best Retirement Spots

by Kristi Newcomb

Ready to start your next chapter?

If you’re nearing retirement, there’s no better time to plan where you’ll live next. Whether you’re dreaming of warm weather, low taxes, or staying close to family in Texas, your next home should support your lifestyle and help your savings stretch further.

At Newcomb Realty Group, based in Houston, Texas, we’ve helped hundreds of families relocate and downsize with confidence. Below are five of the best places to retire in 2026, including top Texas communities like The Woodlands and Spring, ranked for affordability, healthcare, and lifestyle.

1. Midland, Michigan

Midland ranks high in affordability and healthcare access, offering retirees a balance of value and quality of life.

Housing Market: Median home prices range around $250K–$300K, well below the national average. This gives retirees solid buying power and access to single-story homes or townhomes that offer low-maintenance living.

Healthcare: Midland’s MyMichigan Medical Center offers full-service, top-rated care with specialists, senior wellness programs, and a strong hospital reputation that gives retirees peace of mind.

Taxes: Michigan recently rolled back taxes on retirement income; Social Security isn’t taxed, making the state more retiree-friendly than ever.

Lifestyle: Enjoy four distinct seasons, beautiful parks, and vibrant community programs in a peaceful, walkable town that blends small-city charm with big amenities like arts, dining, and recreation.

Ideal for retirees seeking small-city charm, community activities, and solid healthcare access without big-city chaos.

2. Weirton, West Virginia

Tucked along the Ohio River, Weirton, West Virginia combines small-town serenity with exceptional value.

Housing Market: Median home prices average around $140K–$190K, well below the national average. Homes tend to be well-built and spacious, with opportunities to buy single-level or renovated ranch-style homes at very manageable prices.

Healthcare: Weirton Medical Center, a full-service 238-bed regional hospital, provides emergency and specialty care. For more advanced services, Pittsburgh’s world-class hospitals are just a 45-minute drive away, offering retirees peace of mind without big-city prices.

Taxes: West Virginia does not tax Social Security benefits, and overall property taxes are among the lowest in the U.S.. Some retirement income may still be taxed, depending on your sources, but exemptions and credits can offset this for many retirees.

Lifestyle: Weirton’s small-town atmosphere, safe neighborhoods, and community events make it appealing to those seeking a peaceful, friendly environment. With nearby rivers, hills, and parks, retirees can enjoy fishing, scenic drives, or quick trips into Pittsburgh for dining and culture.

Ideal for retirees seeking simplicity, affordability, and a close-knit community where your retirement dollars go further.

3. Homosassa Springs, Florida

Tucked along Florida’s Nature Coast, Homosassa Springs offers retirees waterfront charm and incredible affordability.

Housing Market: Median home prices range around $250K–$300K, a sweet spot for Florida retirees, with affordable ranch homes and even some waterfront condos available under $350K.

Healthcare: HCA Florida Citrus Hospital provides strong, quality care close to home, while larger regional medical centers are within a 30-minute drive for specialized needs.

Taxes: Florida is one of the most tax-friendly states for retirees, with no state income tax on Social Security, pensions, or retirement withdrawals.

Lifestyle: Known for its crystal-clear springs, boating, and fishing, Homosassa Springs offers a relaxed pace and year-round warmth. Imagine kayaking with manatees and morning walks beneath moss-draped oaks in a friendly, small-town community.

Best for retirees who want the Florida lifestyle without the Miami or Naples price tag.

4. The Woodlands, Texas

Just north of Houston, The Woodlands consistently ranks among the best places to retire in Texas by blending luxury, amenities, and access to world-class healthcare.

Housing Market: Median home prices hover around $500K–$580K, but many low-maintenance condos, patio homes, and 55+ communities are available at lower price points. These are ideal for retirees seeking comfort and convenience without heavy upkeep. The Woodlands is one of the top master-planned communities near Houston.

Healthcare: Top-rated hospitals like Memorial Hermann The Woodlands and Houston Methodist provide nationally recognized care just minutes away, giving retirees peace of mind and access to advanced specialists.

Taxes: Texas has no state income tax, which benefits retirees, though property taxes can be higher. Reach out to your local realtor to help you plan around to make the most of your retirement budget.

Lifestyle: With over 200 miles of trails, beautiful golf courses, shopping centers, restaurants, and year-round community events, The Woodlands feels more like a resort than a suburb, making it one of the most livable areas in America.

Perfect for retirees who want resort-style amenities without leaving Texas.

5. Spring, Texas

Spring sits just minutes north of Houston, offering suburban comfort with easy access to major Houston attractions, restaurants, and medical centers.

Housing Market: Median home prices range around $310K–$365K, keeping Spring more affordable than nearby Houston suburbs. Retirees can find single-story homes, patio houses, and newer low-maintenance communities designed for easy living.

Healthcare: St. Luke’s Health – Springwoods Village Hospital provides full-service care, and residents are within a short drive to Houston’s top-ranked medical systems, including Memorial Hermann and Houston Methodist.

Taxes: Texas has no state income tax, so retirement income and Social Security benefits stay in your pocket. Be sure to plan for property taxes, which can vary by county.

Lifestyle: Spring offers all the perks of suburban living from walking trails and golf courses to shopping, and restaurants. With easy access to Houston’s arts, sports, and culture, you’ll enjoy the best of both worlds: a relaxed neighborhood feel and proximity to major amenities.

Perfect for retirees who want affordability, tax savings, and easy access to top-tier healthcare without living in the city.

Retirement Decision Checklist

Before you pack up and move, ask yourself:

Do I prefer sunny or four-season weather?
How much of my retirement income will go to housing + healthcare?
Will I need proximity to hospitals or family?
Does the area offer community engagement like senior centers, clubs, or volunteer options?

Your answers will help narrow down which destination fits best.

Work With a Real Estate Team That Knows Retiree Needs

At Newcomb Realty Group, we guide retirees across Houston and all of Texas through every step of buying or selling, from planning your downsizing move to identifying 55+ communities and low-maintenance homes.

Our team specializes in: