14 Places to Retire in the U.S.A. that Seem Like Hawaii But are Better and Cheaper

Stephanie Allen

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Key West
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Retirement in Hawaii is a fantasy for more than a few, maybe even you. When you see the cost of living in Hawaii, that dream quickly brings you back to reality. The Hawaiian Islands are some of the most beautiful places on earth but also some of the most expensive places to live. 

If Hawaiian retirement is out of reach because of finances, that doesn’t mean you must give up your dream. Other places in the U.S. are also tropical paradises on Earth but cost considerably less and are just as, if not more, stunning. 

1. Puerto Rico

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The U.S. territory is an island paradise in the Caribbean and is a much more economical place to live than Hawaii. It’s the ideal place for budget-minded expats who want to enjoy fun in the sun all year long, not to mention unbelievably delicious food.

Puerto Rico has six different regions to live in, each with its own features that are authentically Puerto Rican. Whether you live in the mountains or closer to the beaches, you’re sure to fall in love with the Boricua way of life. 

2. Fort Myers Beach, Florida

Aerial View of Surfside Beach Florida
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The name Fort Myers Beach is one of the towns that make up the islands of Fort Myers. The name implies there’s only one beach but there are three beaches in the perpetually sunny town. No matter how you plan to spend your retirement, you’ll find something to do there. 

Want to get physically fit or keep up your fitness routine? Check out Hammerhead Beach Gym. You can try and land the catch of the day on the Luck o’ The Irish or Pale Horse Fishing Charters. Parasailing is also available for the adventurous at heart. 

3. Ventura, California 

Channel Islands National Park
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For a retirement that’s full of creativity, Ventura, California has it all. What’s referred to as Ventura’s artistic and cultural underground is an eclectic mix of art, music, murals, theater, museums, and architecture dating back centuries. 

Incidentally, Florida isn’t the only place where you can experience island culture. The Channel Islands National Park offers an up-close look at nature’s wonders. Whale watching and diving, along with hiking and camping are all a part of living in Ventura. 

4. Panama City Beach, Florida

Panama City, Floridas
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27 miles of pristine beachfront await you in Panama City Beach, Florida, and many activities go along with it. Enjoy the warm Gulf Coast waters on a catamaran, or pick a spot on a beach pier to go fishing throughout the year. 

Besides its beaches, Panama City Beach also has several state parks that are optimal for hiking, biking, kayaking, and observing the native wildlife. Geocaching is a popular activity for visitors to St. Andrews State Park. 

5. Eureka, California

Topsail
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When you live in Eureka, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy an environmentally diverse city. You can find vivid florals in the Humboldt Botanical Garden, which is made up of ten distinct gardens. The massive redwood trees and the wildlife at the Redwood Sky Walk at Sequoia Park Zoo will inspire a sense of awe. 

If spending time on the water is more to your liking, you can take a sports fishing charter, go sailing with the Humboldt Yacht Club, or take the Madaket Harbor Cruise. Dog owners can take their furry friends to the dog-friendly parks of Eureka for lots of playtime with other pups. 

6. Venice, Florida

Venice Beach
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Located on the Gulf of Mexico, Venice is perfect for snowbirds looking for a permanent refuge from cold winters. For golf enthusiasts who want to perfect their swing, Lake Venice Golf Club is on the edge of the Gulf and is open to everyone. 

Meet other Venice residents at the Venice Community Center, a hub that hosts numerous events such as weddings, seminars, and expos. Stop by the Venice Arts Center to view an exhibit and stay for an art class. 

7. Destin, Florida

Destin, FL
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Nestled between Pensacola and Panama City is Destin, Florida. It may not be the most well-known of beach cities, but the small fishing village is an attractive place to retire. Jet ski and boat rentals are a part of the Destin way of life. 

Other activities and events that are a part of the Destin lifestyle include going on dolphin cruises, snorkeling to the artificial reefs, and booking a charter to Crab Island to chill with other residents and vacationers. 

8. Crescent City, California 

Crescent City, California
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History runs deep in Crescent City. What was once a rough gold mining and logging town has become a lovely city bordering the Pacific Ocean, with the Battery Point Lighthouse overlooking the waters since 1856. 

After becoming acquainted with the city’s history, you can venture outdoors to the Tolowa Dunes State Park for hiking and biking. You can see some of the more than 100,000 seabirds by taking a guided kayaking cruise to the Castle Rock Wildlife Refuge. 

9. St. Petersburg-Clearwater, Florida

St. Petersburg, FL
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Some of the best beaches in the country are found in St. Petersburg-Clearwater. The 35 miles of shoreline all but guarantee fun in the sand and the water. As terrific as their beaches are, there’s more to the region to be appreciated. 

The art and culture scene in St. Petersburg-Clearwater is a perfect opportunity to get to know the community better. The St. Petersburg Museum of Fine Arts has some of the works of Georgia O’Keeffe and Claude Monet on display, and The Chihuly Collection has a large collection of glass sculptures. 

10. Treasure Island, Florida

Things to do in Florida

Treasure Island is more than just a fixture in the history of Walt Disney films, it’s an actual place where you can spend your retirement years at the beach or being engaged in different activities offered within the community.

The city has many activities and classes to participate in, like Slow Flow Yoga, Sound Meditation, and Bingo. You can also get in touch with your creative self by taking art classes such as The Art Guild's Portrait Workshop, and the Create a Drawing then Paint It course. 

11. Arcata, California 

Redwood National and State Parks
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A hidden gem amid Northern California’s redwoods, Arcata is a quaint city that’ll make you wonder why it wasn’t on your radar. In addition to seeing the state’s majestic redwood trees, you’ll be treated to views of Arcata Bay. 

Wherever you are in Arcata, you’re not far from having something to do. If you prefer to buy locally sourced fresh foods, the Arcata Plaza Farmers’ Market is open year-round, and on the second Sunday of each month, the Humboldt Flea Market is held. 

12. Delray Beach, Florida

Delray Beach
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“The Most Fun Small Town in America” is like a siren call to retirees who want to check out the retail shopping scene. The main strip in Delray Beach is Atlantic Avenue, which is the longest main street in the entire state. 

Along Atlantic Avenue are shops like Sugar Factory American Brasserie, Lemongrass Asian Bistro, Private Jewelers, and Alluring Image Medspa & Wellness. Whether you want to shop, dine, or relax, you’ll find something on what the locals call The Ave. 

13. Oxnard, California 

Coronado Beach, California
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A city that prides itself on its chill vibes, Oxnard is different from the run-of-the-mill retirement spots, in the best ways possible. The city’s divergent cultures are unique, but they also coexist in a way that somehow makes sense. 

Oxnard’s sugar sand beaches are perfect for beachcombing and surfing. Community festivals are held throughout the year and outdoor concerts are held in the summer. The invigorating nightlife includes clubs, live music, and events. 

14. Key West, Florida

Key West, FL
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Key West is one of Florida’s most famous islands and for a lot of reasons. It’s culturally diverse and has a deep artistic history as the home of Jimmy Buffett, Robert Frost, Ernest Hemingway, and Tennessee Williams,

It’s also known for its laidback way of life but also has attractions to keep you fulfilled all day, every day. You can go sightseeing, golfing, and also participate in the nightly revelry of the Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square. 

Start Your Retirement Planning (and Packing)

Social Security Planning
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You don’t have to give up your dream of a tropical retirement simply because Hawaii is too expensive. With these alternatives, you can enjoy your retirement in the sun and keep more money in your pocket. 

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