Florida's Wealthiest Retirement Destinations: Where US Retirees Are Settling With the Highest Incomes

Florida continues to dominate America’s retirement landscape, claiming a significant share of the nation’s most affluent senior communities. Data analysis reveals that one-fifth of America’s most prosperous retirement towns are concentrated in the Sunshine State, making it an attractive destination for financially secure retirees seeking both comfort and community.

Methodology and Data Sources

To identify these premier retirement communities, researchers analyzed data from the U.S. Census American Community Survey, focusing on municipalities with populations exceeding 15,000 and senior populations (age 65+) representing at least 25% of residents. The rankings reflect median household income levels, combined with demographic analysis of senior concentration in each location.

The Top 10 Wealthiest Retirement Communities in Florida

1. Naples, Florida Standing at the pinnacle of Florida’s affluent retirement market, Naples attracts seniors with exceptional financial resources. With 56.2% of residents aged 65 and older, this community boasts a median household income of $140,833—the highest among Florida’s retirement destinations.

2. Lakewood Ranch, Florida This master-planned community maintains strong financial demographics with 31.4% senior population and a median household income of $123,471, appealing to retirees seeking organized, upscale living environments.

3. Palm Valley, Florida Positioned as the third-wealthiest option, Palm Valley hosts 26.4% seniors with median household income reaching $118,280, combining suburban tranquility with economic stability.

4. Palm City, Florida With 28.8% of its population aged 65 or older, Palm City records a median household income of $117,689, maintaining its status as a financially robust senior community.

5. Palm Beach Gardens, Florida This established retirement hub supports 30.6% senior residents with median household income of $110,563, consistently attracting well-off retirees throughout the US seeking premium living standards.

6. Marco Island, Florida Known for upscale waterfront living, Marco Island features an exceptionally high senior concentration of 59.0% and maintains a median household income of $104,105.

7. Palmer Ranch, Florida Another planned community, Palmer Ranch, hosts 51.1% residents aged 65+ with median household income of $103,682, blending community amenities with financial security.

8. Estero, Florida With half its population over 65 (50.7%), Estero demonstrates strong senior preference and records median household income of $100,459, establishing itself as a financially comfortable retirement choice.

9. East Lake, Florida Supporting 28.7% senior residents, East Lake maintains median household income of $93,862, contributing to Florida’s diverse retirement portfolio.

10. Merritt Island, Florida Completing the top ten, Merritt Island serves 26.1% seniors with median household income of $91,020, representing stable retirement economics in the central Florida region.

Why Florida Dominates US Retirement Markets

Florida’s concentration of wealthy retirement communities reflects multiple advantages: favorable tax conditions, year-round climate, established healthcare infrastructure, and mature senior-focused amenities. The state’s proven track record in senior living development has attracted retirees with substantial resources across multiple generations.

The data confirms that retiring in Florida offers options across various income levels and community preferences—from exclusive waterfront destinations like Marco Island and Naples to organized master-planned communities such as Lakewood Ranch and Palmer Ranch. Each town provides distinct advantages while maintaining economic prosperity and substantial senior populations.

Data sourced from U.S. Census American Community Survey, collected and current as of February 4, 2025. Community livability assessments derived from AreaVibes platform analysis.