A recent GOBankingRates report ranks cities where retirees can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle for less than $2,000 per month—without giving up sunshine. Fort Myers, Florida, and Raleigh, North Carolina made the list. Keep reading to discover which city topped the ranking for ideal weather and an affordable cost of living.
For many retirees planning a move, cost of living and access to healthcare are key factors—but weather also plays a major role.
GOBankingRates recently compiled a list of the top 25 U.S. communities with pleasant weather, where retirees can live comfortably on a budget of $2,000 per month or less. The personal finance website analyzed cities based on population, age demographics, climate, and overall cost of living. All data was collected as of July 14, 2025, and ranked according to the city’s overall livability score.
Coming in first is Tallahassee, Florida, which earned a score of 85 out of 100. The state capital combines affordability with a wide range of recreational activities. Its cost of living is nearly 10 percent below the national average for residents over 65.
About 11 percent of Tallahassee’s population is of retirement age. For a retiree receiving Social Security, monthly living costs are $1,248 for homeowners and $995 for renters. The city offers plentiful parks, hiking trails, vibrant nightlife, and an active arts scene.
Tallahassee experiences a tropical climate, with summer highs in the low 90s and winter highs averaging in the mid-60s. According to ClimateCheck.com, the city faces elevated risks for heat and precipitation.
Florida also claims the No. 2 spot, with Fort Myers following closely behind. It also scored 85 points for livability and has a retiree population of 22.2 percent. However, living expenses in Fort Myers are 4.2 percent above the national average. Florida residents benefit from several tax advantages—including no state income or inheritance taxes—allowing retirees to stretch their budgets while enjoying outdoor activities like golfing, fishing, and relaxing on the beach.
Rounding out the top five are Raleigh, North Carolina, at No. 3 (livability score: 84); Pensacola, Florida, at No. 4 (livability score: 83); and Greenville, South Carolina, at No. 5 (livability score: 82). The only Western city to make the top 10 was Las Vegas, Nevada, which landed at No. 7.
