Top 9 Retirement Spots on the East Coast

Port St. Lucie, Florida

“Port St. Lucie is proud to be Florida’s sixth-largest city, with nearly 250,000 residents who call our vibrant community home,” says Mayor Shannon Martin in an interview with Dinogo. “Situated on the stunning Treasure Coast, our city acts as the economic center of the region... We are consistently recognized as one of the best places to live in the country, celebrated for our ethnic diversity, high rates of homeownership, and status as a prime retirement destination,” she notes, highlighting the city’s low crime rate. “For over a decade, we’ve been ranked as the safest large city in Florida and among the safest in the nation.”

Located on Florida’s Atlantic coast, approximately 110 miles north of Miami, Port St. Lucie features over 20 miles of pristine beaches, most of which offer free access and parking along with convenient amenities. Residents can enjoy a complimentary digital pass for nature and wildlife, which allows for wildlife watching, hiking trails, and visits to botanical gardens. The area is rich in cultural opportunities, including museums, art galleries, workshops, and performances. Additionally, several senior living communities are available, with the average home value reported by Zillow at $401,544.

Florida benefits from having no state income tax, meaning pensions, IRA and 401(k) distributions, and Social Security benefits are not subject to taxation—an advantage compared to many other states. There’s no inheritance or estate tax, and property and sales taxes are in line with the national average.

St. Simons, Georgia

St. Simons, the largest barrier island in Georgia’s Golden Isles, is situated along the coast, roughly 85 miles south of Savannah. "St. Simons Island is a fantastic place for both families and retirees. We feel fortunate to call this place home,” shares Jennifer Klonoski, community relations director at Magnolia Manor, a retirement community.

For Frances Woods, a retiree and resident of Magnolia Manor, it’s the “gorgeous beaches, unique shops, diverse activities, golf courses, excellent restaurants, scenic bike trails, lively entertainment, and welcoming community” that attracted her to St. Simons Island. Emilyn Clark, who has lived at Magnolia Manor for seven years, adds, “Retiring on St. Simons Island feels like being part of a close-knit neighborhood where everyone is friendly."

Niche ranks St. Simons as the second-best retirement destination in Georgia. The retiree-friendly state does not impose taxes on Social Security benefits. While other forms of retirement income (such as interest, dividends, capital gains, royalties, pensions, and annuities) are subject to taxation, residents aged 65 and older can enjoy a deduction of $65,000 per person, and those aged 62 to 64 can benefit from a $35,000 per person deduction.

Georgia does not levy estate or inheritance taxes, and homeowners aged 62 and above may qualify for homestead exemptions on property taxes for their primary residences. The sales and property tax rates are regarded as moderate.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

“Myrtle Beach is not just a vacation hotspot; it’s a lively community featuring 14 distinct neighborhoods that provide an unbeatable quality of life. With 60 miles of stunning coastline, a temperate climate all year round, and a flourishing local economy, it’s no surprise that families are drawn to make Myrtle Beach their home,” says Karen Riordan, president and CEO of Visit Myrtle Beach.

Residents and visitors enjoy exceptional golf courses, a wide variety of dining and entertainment choices, and the warm hospitality of the South. “Many visitors are so captivated by the charm of Myrtle Beach that they choose to settle down in this beautiful area,” Riordan adds.

Recognized as a retirement-friendly state, South Carolina exempts Social Security from taxation. Other forms of retirement income are taxable but come with a $10,000 deduction, at a marginal state tax rate of three percent. Property tax rates here are among the lowest in the nation, and South Carolina does not impose estate or inheritance taxes.

According to Niche, the median home value in Myrtle Beach is $287,900. The city boasts a diverse selection of housing options, from private residences to high-rise condominiums, catering to various budgets.

Carolina Beach, North Carolina

“The allure of this seaside community is just one of the many reasons retirees are drawn to Carolina Beach,” explains Carolyn Glaser from Intracoastal Realty. She highlights the area's near-perfect climate, stunning beaches, charming marinas, oceanfront seafood eateries, and the picturesque 11-acre Carolina Beach Lake, which is perfect for fishing. “For nature enthusiasts, Carolina Beach State Park features the highest elevation hiking trail in the county, along with a marina and campsites. Additionally, the Fort Fisher State Recreation Area is home to numerous resident and migratory bird species, as well as loggerhead turtles that nest on the island each year.”

In other words, you'll find a plethora of activities right on the island that cater to diverse interests. Visitors, especially grandchildren, will have a blast exploring attractions like the Carolina Beach Pier, the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, and the famous Britt's Donuts Shop.

“With low property and sales taxes combined with a growing yet affordable housing market, Carolina Beach stands out as a smart and appealing choice for retirees,” Glaser notes. As a relatively tax-friendly state for retirees, North Carolina does not tax Social Security retirement benefits. Other types of retirement income are taxed at a flat state rate of 4.75 percent, and the property and sales tax rates are both considered moderate.

Virginia Beach, Virginia

"Virginia Beach provides retirees with a serene coastal lifestyle and a wealth of recreational opportunities,” states Nancy Helman, director of the Virginia Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau. "The area’s stunning beaches, state parks, and biking paths, along with its welcoming neighborhoods and vibrant arts and culinary scenes, create the perfect environment for retirees to lead a fulfilling and enriched life."

Virginia Beach features a three-mile boardwalk that includes a dedicated bike path, along with a variety of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options. Visitors can also enjoy the Sandler Center for the Performing Arts, a local theater, and various art galleries.

In Virginia, Social Security income is not subject to taxation, but other retirement income sources such as pensions and withdrawals from IRAs and 401(k)s are taxable, with seniors eligible for a $12,000 deduction. Virginia enjoys low property and sales tax rates, and many towns and cities provide property tax relief for retirees aged 65 and over, with the relief amount depending on income and property value.

As per BestPlaces, the cost of living in Virginia Beach is roughly five percent above the national average. The site states, “Homeowners can explore a variety of housing options, from single-family homes to luxury condominiums, while renters can also find increasingly appealing deals.”

Surf City, New Jersey

Situated on Long Beach Island, Surf City is a community that attracts both year-round residents and summer visitors. Marcus Pinto, a full-time resident, realtor, and principal at Compass, remarked on the area’s strong sense of community and its vibrant arts, culture, and dining options: “Surf City is incredibly walkable. You’re just a block from the beach and another block from the bay. With year-round residents, there are more choices for dining, shopping, and activities.”

Pinto envisions Long Beach Island as a potential Blue Zone. “I often play pickleball with residents in their 80s — they are fit, energetic, and keep pace with much younger players.” He also notes that the island is conveniently located only a mile from the New Jersey mainland.

As reported by Niche, the median home price in Surf City stands at $884,000. Social Security in New Jersey is exempt from taxation, and the state offers low income taxes for retirees earning under $75,000 for single filers or $100,000 for joint filers from retirement accounts and pensions. However, property taxes in New Jersey are among the highest in the nation.

Lewes, Delaware

Situated at the junction of the Delaware Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, Lewes is accessible via a scenic ferry ride from Cape May, New Jersey's southernmost point. This inviting community boasts a walkable downtown area, a summer farmers market, restaurants, boutiques, and antique shops, and has a population just over 3,000. According to HomeSnacks, the median home price in Lewes is $676,000.

T+L interviewed Grace Hoinowski from Schell Brothers, a home-building company, who highlighted that Delaware's tax benefits and low cost of living are attracting new residents, including remote workers and retirees. "Historically, this area was seasonal, but in the last decade, many visitors have transitioned to full-time residents. The expanding neighborhoods offer more services, amenities, restaurants, medical specialists, and enhanced infrastructure," Hoinowski notes. She also emphasizes the region's Native American heritage, walkable downtown, beach access, and charming vintage Victorian architecture.

Delaware is recognized as a tax-friendly state for retirees. It is one of only four states without a state or local sales tax and features some of the lowest property tax rates in the nation. Furthermore, seniors aged 65 and above may qualify for property tax relief based on their income and property value. Delaware imposes no estate or inheritance tax and does not tax Social Security benefits. However, income from pensions, IRAs, and 401(k)s is subject to partial taxation.

Stony Brook, New York

Nestled along Long Island’s north shore, Stony Brook is a top choice for retirees. Its Village Center hosts the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, celebrating the area's musical history, while the 18th-century Stony Brook Grist Mill preserves local heritage. The Long Island Museum displays art, historical artifacts, and early modes of transportation. Stony Brook University enhances the town, offering healthcare and cultural activities for residents.

According to Niche, the median home value in Stony Brook is $576,800. The scenic Long Island Sound beaches are rocky, not sandy, adding to the area’s charm. A two-hour train ride on the Long Island Rail Road takes residents to Manhattan’s Penn Station, providing easy access to theaters, restaurants, and museums. Meanwhile, the North Fork’s vineyards and farms are just an hour away for wine tasting and fresh produce.

New York exempts Social Security benefits from taxes, which is a relief for retirees in this otherwise high-tax state. Pension and retirement income is partially taxable, but an exemption of up to $20,000 per year is available. Property and sales taxes are steep, and the state also imposes an estate tax.

Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Situated on the coast, Portsmouth boasts a historic downtown, pristine beaches, parks, museums, vibrant nightlife, and a picturesque waterfront. Founded in the early 1600s, it has earned recognition from the National Trust for Historic Preservation as a 'Distinctive Destination,' celebrated for its mix of historic architecture, sidewalk cafes, fine dining, art galleries, jazz clubs, and artisan boutiques.

Niche lists Portsmouth as one of the top places to live in New Hampshire, with a median home price of $594,000.

Local realtor Barbara Dunnington shared with T+L that Portsmouth is a charming city, attracting retirees who enjoy summer concerts, theater performances, dining, and exploring local history at the Strawbery Banke Museum, which offers guided tours of historic homes.

Dunnington notes, 'Portsmouth is a wonderful place to live, but property prices are high, and rental costs are steep.' For retirees who can afford it, the city offers a lively, walkable downtown, a vibrant waterfront, and plenty of cultural activities.

Though New Hampshire does not tax income from salaries, Social Security, pensions, or retirement accounts, it has some of the highest property taxes in the U.S., according to SmartAsset. There is a 5% tax on interest and dividends over $2,400 ($4,800 for joint filers), but this tax is being phased out by 2027, with gradual rate reductions until then. The state also has no sales, estate, or inheritance taxes.