Best places to retire in 2026 ranked in new study, see the list

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Midland, Michigan is known for its cultural and artistic attractions. (Getty Images)

A new U.S. News & World Report study has ranked the best places to retire in 2026, with a Midwest city coming in at number one.

Dig deeper:

For the 2026 ranking, U.S. News & World Report evaluated more than 850 U.S. cities, based on how well they meet American retirees' expectations against measures including quality of life, affordability, health care, retiree taxes, job market, and, for the first time, population and migration for retirees aged 55 and older.   

What they're saying:

Midland, Michigan took the No. 1 spot for scoring high on affordability and retiree taxes.  The city is known for its cultural and artistic attractions like the Midland Center for the Arts, and its  natural spaces such as Dow Gardens and the Chippewa Nature Center.  Midland is home to the corporate headquarters of The Dow Chemical Company.  

The No. 2 spot on the list is Weirton, West Virginia, known for its history as a major steel-producing city. The city, located between Pittsburgh and Steubenville,  has museums, local restaurants, and lots of outdoor recreation opportunities. Weirtion is home to the headquarters of the Homer Laughlin China Company Factory.

A Florida city comes in at No. 3. Homosassa Springs, located 75 miles north of Tampa, is a family-friendly fishing and outdoor destination with manatees, spring-fed rivers, waterfront resorts and restaurants, and some of the best scalloping spots in the state. 

2026 U.S. News & World Report Top 10 Best Places to Retire

1. Midland, Michigan

2. Weirton, West Virginia

3. Homosassa Springs, Florida

4. The Woodlands, Texas

5. Spring, Texas

6. Rancho Rio, New Mexico

7. Spring Hill, Florida

8. Altoona, Pennsylvania

9. Palm Coast, Florida

10. Lynchburg, Virginia

View the complete list here