boomers are packing up and moving fast—but not to where you might think.
Retirement used to mean slowing down, but today’s Baby Boomers are doing the opposite. They’re ditching cold weather, high taxes, and sky-high living costs and heading for states that offer better weather, cheaper housing, and a more relaxed pace of life. The migration is real, and some places are seeing a major influx of silver-haired newcomers ready to start their next chapter.
These moves aren’t just about sunshine and golf courses. Boomers are looking for a mix of lifestyle perks—walkable towns, outdoor spaces, low taxes, and communities that actually feel welcoming. Their choices are shaking up local economies and even shifting political maps. So where are they all going? These 10 states are leading the pack, attracting retirees in big numbers and turning into the next hot spots for post-career living—sometimes surprising, sometimes obvious, but all worth watching.
1. Florida still holds the crown for retirement migration.
According to Leada Gore at AL, Florida continues to be the top spot for retirees, and it’s not hard to see why. Warm weather, no state income tax, and a wide variety of affordable housing options make it a magnet for Baby Boomers looking to stretch their savings without sacrificing lifestyle.
It’s more than beaches and bingo. Towns like The Villages and Sarasota offer everything from biking trails to community theater. Plus, the sheer number of other retirees makes it easy to build a social circle quickly. It’s classic, but it still works.
2. Arizona draws boomers with its dry climate and desert charm.
If you can handle the heat, Arizona delivers big perks. As reported by Laura Gariepy at Yahoo Finance, cities like Tucson and Mesa are seeing a wave of Boomer transplants who are tired of snow shovels and looking for affordable living in a low-humidity climate.
The desert views, vibrant arts scenes, and golf-friendly landscapes are major selling points. And healthcare access is solid, especially in places with established retiree communities. Add in the low property taxes and you’ve got a pretty compelling package.
3. Texas is winning over boomers with big cities and small towns.
Texas offers a little bit of everything—urban excitement in Austin or Dallas, slower living in Hill Country, and coastal breezes down in Corpus Christi. As stated by Matt Yan at The New York Times, no state income tax is a huge draw, and the cost of living remains below the national average in many areas.
Boomers are moving in for space, sunshine, and variety. The state’s size means you can find a vibe that suits you, whether that’s cowboy casual or suburban comfort. And with strong infrastructure and healthcare systems, it’s built for long-term living.
4. North Carolina blends natural beauty with small-town appeal.
Boomers are falling in love with North Carolina’s mix of mountain towns and charming coastal cities. Asheville and Wilmington are two of the top picks, offering culture, scenery, and a slower pace without feeling isolated.
It also helps that property taxes are low and the weather stays mild most of the year. The state has a growing number of age-friendly communities and walkable neighborhoods, making it a solid choice for active retirees looking to downshift without disappearing.
5. South Carolina brings affordability and coastal living.
South Carolina checks a lot of boxes for Boomers—warmer weather, charming towns like Beaufort and Charleston, and a cost of living that’s still manageable. Real estate is relatively affordable compared to other coastal states, and property taxes are among the lowest in the country.
The Southern hospitality doesn’t hurt either. Many retirees say the welcoming culture and pace of life are what seal the deal. You can get beach access, culture, and good healthcare without the Florida crowds or the California price tag.
6. Tennessee wins with no income tax and lots of culture.
Cities like Chattanooga and Knoxville are rising fast on the retirement radar. Tennessee offers scenic beauty, vibrant music and arts scenes, and zero state income tax—something Boomers with pensions and retirement savings definitely notice.
Outdoor activities are plentiful, and the four-season climate adds variety without the brutal winters. Many parts of the state are still affordable, and smaller cities are investing in revitalization, giving retirees more options than ever to live well for less.
7. Georgia is growing as a retirement haven in the Southeast.
Georgia gives Boomers warm weather, Southern charm, and surprisingly low living costs. Cities like Savannah and Athens are drawing older adults who want culture and walkability without massive crowds or high prices.
The state has a generous tax break for retirees and offers both urban and rural living within easy reach. Healthcare systems in the larger cities are solid, and the proximity to family in other East Coast states is a nice bonus for many moving south.
8. Nevada appeals to boomers with no income tax and plenty to do.
Las Vegas isn’t just for bachelor parties. It’s actually one of the fastest-growing retirement spots thanks to Nevada’s tax-friendly policies, endless entertainment options, and surprisingly affordable living outside the Strip.
Places like Henderson and Reno offer a quieter, more livable feel with quick access to healthcare, shopping, and recreation. The dry climate is another plus for Boomers with joint issues or allergies, and it’s easy to fly to and from for family visits.
9. Idaho surprises boomers with peaceful living and low taxes.
Idaho might not be top of mind for retirees, but it’s gaining attention for its clean air, gorgeous landscapes, and low-key lifestyle. Cities like Boise and Coeur d’Alene are seeing population growth—many of them Boomers looking to escape crowded metro areas.
The lower housing costs, light traffic, and slower pace are big draws. Idaho also offers a more laid-back lifestyle for people who want to stay active in nature without the buzz of a big city. It’s quiet, clean, and full of unexpected perks.
10. Oregon attracts nature lovers and progressive retirees.
Oregon’s appeal lies in its natural beauty and progressive culture. While it’s not the cheapest option on the list, towns like Bend, Ashland, and Eugene are seeing increased interest among retirees who want a mix of outdoor access, cultural events, and liberal-minded communities.
There’s no state sales tax, and healthcare access is strong in urban areas. While the cost of living is higher than in some Southern states, many Boomers find the lifestyle trade-offs worth it—especially if they’re looking for meaning and movement in retirement.