The 5 Best Places to Retire on the East Coast
Retirement — when the biggest decision of each day is whether you want to play a round of golf, or take a stroll on the beach. If retirement is on the horizon for you, you may be carefully considering where you want to spend your golden years. Whether you prefer white sand beaches or majestic mountain ranges, read on to discover the best places to retire on the east coast.
1. Kiawah Island, South Carolina
Shimmering shorelines, renowned golf courses, impeccable dining — that’s what awaits you on Kiawah Island. Boasting 10+ miles of pristine beaches with temperate weather year-round, the Island is ideal for retirees who enjoy spending time outdoors. Kiawah residents also appreciate the Island’s proximity to Charleston, making for a great day trip to the “Best City in the World.”
At Seafields on Kiawah Island, an all new 62+ active adult community coming in fall of 2024, the beauty of nature will be coupled with luxurious amenities and a sense of camaraderie. Residents will spend their days on the move — exploring scenic trails and taking enrichment classes that promote creativity. In addition to independent living, Seafields will also offer on-site nurses, housekeeping, and a MUSC clinic — making for an easy transition to assisted living if needed in the future.
2. Sarasota, Florida
If you’ve been searching for the best places to retire on the east coast, you have probably come across Sarasota, Florida. A beautiful beach city just south of Tampa, Sarasota is home to an abundance of retirement communities. In fact, the entire state of Florida has the highest population of senior citizens in the United States.
The white sand beaches and crystal clear water of Sarasota make it a beautiful place to retire. The weather is typically sunny with temperatures reaching the upper 90s during the hot summer months, and rarely dropping below 70 even in the winter. Because of the warm climate, it’s no wonder tourists and vacationers alike flock to Sarasota during the wintertime to escape the freezing temperatures of their hometowns.
3. Asheville, North Carolina
If you prefer the mountains over the beach, then Asheville, North Carolina is the place for you. Located along the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is an eclectic hub of both recreation and culture. The downtown area is chock-full of craft breweries, art galleries, and unique boutiques. Meanwhile, the mountains and ample waterways provide plenty of opportunity to hike, fish, and ski to your heart’s desire. Residents of Asheville enjoy all four seasons, but rarely experience frigid temperatures or sweltering heat.
For retirees looking to experience resort-style living during retirement, we recommend The Cliffs at Walnut Cove. This community provides residents with the excitement of living in Asheville, coupled with the luxurious ease of a private community nestled in the mountains. With world-renowned golf courses and wellness centers located within the community, retirees are always out and about enjoying everything The Cliffs has to offer.
4. Bar Harbor, Maine
If you’re looking to retire somewhere with a colder climate, the northeast is home to a variety of quaint coastal towns — one of them being Bar Harbor, Maine. Nestled between Cadillac Mountain and Frenchman Bay, Bar Harbor provides the best of both the mountains and the beach. With its rocky shoreline full of evergreen trees lining the coast, the landscape of the region is truly a sight to behold.
The area also welcomes a magnitude of travelers each year since it is situated next to Acadia National Park — one of the most visited parks in the United States. With amazing hikes, scenic drives, and walks to iconic lighthouses, retirees never run out of adventures. And in downtown Bar Harbor, you will find plenty of quaint coffee shops, bakeries, and boutiques to enjoy with friends and family. With beautiful scenery and endless exploration, it’s no wonder Bar Harbor is one of the best places to retire on the east coast — just be sure you are prepared for cold winters with plenty of snow!
5. Bluffton, South Carolina
Looking to retire in a quaint, southern town with a rich history? Look no further than Bluffton, South Carolina. Known as the “Heart of the Lowcountry,” this small town sits upon the serene May River and boasts a lively culture. The vibrant downtown is home to local seafood eateries and art galleries, and proudly hosts town traditions that have spanned years and years. In addition to the hub of small businesses, retirees also enjoy the variety of outdoor activities that Bluffton provides. From fishing in the river to relaxing on the sandbar, Bluffton truly encompasses all that inspires Lowcountry living.
If you are considering retiring to a private community, you may want to explore Palmetto Bluff. Situated on 20,000 acres of lush land, residents enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and picturesque scenery. With a variety of sporting activities, including hunting, horseback riding, golf, and racquet sports, Palmetto Bluff has plenty of activities to keep you on your toes.
Ready to Begin Planning Your Retirement?
A continuing care retirement community provides maintenance-free living, convenient access to health and wellness
During retirement, your location plays a large part in your overall happiness. So, it is important to really consider what feeds your soul. Whether it’s beautiful scenery, exciting social events, or endless adventures, the choice is yours to make.
If the Lowcountry lifestyle interests you, please reach out to one of our team members to learn more about retiring at Seafields on Kiawah Island.
