Coral Gables, Florida

A Floridian paradise in the suburbs of Miami, Coral Gables makes for a luxurious retirement in terms of both amenities and beauty. With its lush palm trees, Mediterranean-style architecture, and tropical climate, “the Gables” (as it’s informally called) may make you feel as if you’re no longer living stateside.

The city’s layout is well planned, with carefully crafted green spaces and shopping areas that will put both your legs and your credit cards to work. You’ll frequently see residents strolling the city’s many trails and sidewalks. Retirees can take their pick of activities, from enjoying the tranquil oasis of Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden to walking along the shores of the atoll pool in Matheson Hammock Park to teeing off at one of the city’s three golf courses, including the historic Biltmore Golf Course. 

They can shop at upscale Merrick Park or check out an art gallery on Miracle Mile, a well-known stretch of restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. Not far away is the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, which hosts everything from exhibits to the ballet. There’s also always a cultural event or lecture to check out at the University of Miami, which Coral Gables is home to. 

The university provides continuing education classes for seniors, as well as high-quality health care options through its University of Miami Health System. That’s not the only medical facility in the region; Coral Gables Hospital, Jackson Memorial Hospital, and Mount Sinai Medical Center are also within reach.

Since Coral Gables is so popular among retirees, it has a wide range of active retirement communities offering a resort-like experience for both assisted and independent living, such as the Palace at Coral Gables or Belmont Village Senior Living.