Midwest City Named Best U.S Place To Retire – Choosing where to retire is an important decision. Some people prefer to stay where they are, while others want to move somewhere new with a good lifestyle and affordable living. If you’re still deciding, this news may help.
According to the latest U.S. News & World Report Best Places to Retire list, a city in the Midwest has taken the top spot. Midland, Michigan, with a population of about 42,700, has been ranked the No. 1 place to retire in the U.S. It is followed by Weirton, West Virginia, and Homosassa Springs, Florida.
Midland is located about 90 minutes north of Lansing, Michigan’s capital. One of the biggest reasons for its top ranking is affordability. The median home price in Midland is around $206,000, which is much lower than the national average of about $370,000. Rent is also affordable, averaging around $790 per month. The city’s median household income is just over $76,000.
However, affordability wasn’t the only factor. U.S. News & World Report studied data from more than 850 cities across the country. Researchers ranked cities based on taxes, quality of life, healthcare, job opportunities, senior population trends, and overall value. A survey of 3,500 Americans in March 2025 determined the weight of these factors. Midland scored 6.8 out of 10 overall. Midland ranks highly for retirees but has a relatively young population.The median age is 38.8, and only about 20% of residents are over 65.
Life in Midland offers plenty to enjoy, especially for those who love nature. The Chippewa Nature Center spans 1,200 acres and offers kayaking and walking trails. Dow Gardens is another popular spot, featuring beautiful landscapes and the longest canopy walk in the country.If Michigan isn’t your first choice, you can explore the full retirement rankings on U.S. News & World Report to find a place that suits your needs.