Newport, Rhode Island

For retirees who can’t part with New England charm, living in coastal Newport feels like a permanent vacation in the northeastern region thanks to its beautiful beaches and waterfront walks. With sailboats speckling the harbors and Gilded Age mansions overlooking the cliffs, the city offers a pristine and peaceful atmosphere that might appeal to seniors looking to spend their golden years listening to water lapping the shoreline.

But Newport’s tranquil vibes don’t mean that there’s nothing to do. Seniors can get their steps in walking the 3.5-mile cliff trail that boasts views of the mansions or by strolling through the historic downtown area, which is teeming with shops and classic New England architecture. Along the waterfront are a number of restaurants offering fresh seafood for those who love a local catch.

The city offers many activities that can help seniors feel connected—concerts at King Park, fitness programs at Edward King House Senior Center, and workshops at the Newport Public Library. Outdoors, there’s no shortage of recreational opportunities for activities like fishing and golfing; there are 23 golf courses within a 25-mile radius of Newport.

Retirees also have plenty of options for medical care. There’s the Newport Hospital, which is affiliated with Lifespan, the state’s largest health care system. And Newport isn’t far from bigger cities like Providence and Boston, should seniors need more specialized care.

While the cost of living in Newport is a little on the higher side, Rhode Island has tax benefits for retirees that help offset some of these expenses, such as exemptions for Social Security income and other retirement income for qualifying individuals.