Maple Valley, Washington

With no state income tax, Washington is high on retirees’ radar. And the commuter town of Maple Valley, just 50 minutes from Seattle and 30 minutes from Tacoma, is a beautiful place to land. Surrounded by lush forests and panoramic views of Mount Rainier, it’s a nature lover’s paradise for retirees who enjoy the outdoors and soothing green terrain.

There are more than 300 acres of park space with 10-plus miles of trails. You can go fishing or boating in Lake Wilderness Park, or walk along the three-mile Green to Cedar River Trail, which follows an abandoned railroad route. Those seeking even more wilderness can head to Tiger Mountain State Forest, which is basically in Maple Valley’s backyard.  

Although the city experiences its fair share of rainy days in true Pacific Northwest fashion, temperatures are mild year-round, making it an ideal option for those who prefer to avoid extreme heat or cold. 

The town is family-oriented and friendly, giving off a welcoming feel that can help retirees stay connected with other locals. They can take part in plenty of community activities, from the annual Maple Valley Days festival to weekly farmers’ markets.

You can get more house for your money in Maple Valley compared with Seattle; the former has a lower cost of living and a sleepier vibe. But Maple Valley’s proximity to big-city life means that it’s close to several high-quality health care facilities in Seattle and Bellevue, such as the University of Washington Medical Center, which is consistently ranked as the top hospital in the region.