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Strategies So You Dont Outlive Your Money in Retirement - Pennsylvania

6/16/22 ranking 6/18/22

Rental Income Retirement Strategy - Ohio 6/18/22 ranking 6/18/22 yikes

Rental Income Retirement Strategy - Colorado 6/19/22

Average Retirement Income for Married Couples in Colorado 6/19/22, ranking 6/19/22 yikes #13 desktop and #10 mobile for kw without "colorado"

Illinois

Top 5 Reasons to Retire in Arizona

Retire in a Hotel for Pinterest

Retire in a Hotel

Pros and Cons Waterfront

Retire on NC Outer Banks

Top States for Retirement 2

A-F States

Soc Sec 2018

Soc Sec 2018

Tax Bill Changes 2018

Peachtree City, Georgia   

Three Top Art Towns (onesignal)   

Nebraska   

New Mexico   

Hot Springs, Arkansas

Loveland, Colorado

Nestled along the Rocky Mountain foothills in pretty northern Colorado, Loveland is the "Sweetheart City" and boasts safe neighborhoods, a charming downtown, blue skies and plenty of outdoor recreation.

Kitty Hawk, North Carolina

A casual Outer Banks town, Kitty Hawk has a traditional, touristy village, a nice waterfront section and a long oceanfront beach.

Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania

Beautiful Jim Thorpe is tucked in eastern Pennsylvania's lush Pocono Mountains and is known as the "Switzerland of America." It is safe, touristy and brimming with extraordinary Victorian architecture.

Hudson, Florida

On the Florida Gulf Coast, Hudson was once a fishing community but these days is popular with bargain-seeking "snowbirds," sun-worshipping vacationers, and yes, nudists.

Blacksburg, Virginia

In southeastern Virginia's picturesque Appalachian Mountains, bucolic Blacksburg is the setting for Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech) and is a classic college town.

Lake Lure, North Carolina

A popular resort town, Lake Lure is nestled around sparkling Lake Lure in western North Carolina's scenic Blue Ridge Mountains and has been a favorite retirement spot for years.

Lake Lure, North Carolina Secluded Home for Sale for $300,000

Tucked in the forest, this woodsy secluded single family home is being sold separately or in tandem with its neighbor, a nice vacation rental property.

Newport, Oregon

On Oregon's scenic central coast, Newport boasts five miles of beaches, a picturesque marina, Art Deco architecture and plenty of nautical character.

Summerville, South Carolina

Just outside of Charleston in South Carolina, Summerville charms with its elegant homes, leisurely pace and bounty of colorful flower gardens.

Indian Harbour Beach, Florida

Casual Indian Harbour Beach sits on a barrier island on Florida's central east coast and has waterfront homes and a long, pinkish/white oceanfront beach.

Naples, Florida

On Florida's southwestern coast, beautiful Naples is known for its "beachy" resort vibe, lovely homes, high-end shopping venues, golf courses and sugar white beaches.

Heritage Bay, Naples, Florida

This gated golf and tennis community in Naples features stylish single family homes, coach homes and condominiums, along with a 27,000-square foot clubhouse, a spa, lakes, walking trails and more.

Lake City, Minnesota Sleek Lakeside Home for Sale for $289,000

Along 30,000-acre Lake Pepin in southeastern Minnesota, Lake City is the locale of this sleek lakeside home with tall windows facing two directions and magnificent water views. This home has a pending offer.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina Oceanfront Home for Sale for $174,990

Entertainment hub Myrtle Beach is on the northern South Carolina coast and the locale of this cute, cozy oceanfront home for sale. It has been remodeled and boasts water and coastline views, three swimming pools, a lazy river and more.

Summerville, South Carolina

Just outside of romantic Charleston in South Carolina, Summerville charms with its elegant homes, leisurely pace and bounty of colorful flower gardens. Oceanfront beaches are 30 miles away.

Cresswind Charleston at the Ponds, Summerville, South Carolina

This soothing 55+ community spreads across 1,000 well manicured acres and features single family homes, a beautiful clubhouse, a conservancy and more.

Ocean City, Maryland Oceanfront Home for Sale for $250,000

Ocean City is a seaside resort town on the northern Maryland coast and is the locale of this bright oceanfront condominium with panoramic views of sea, sand and sky.

June 25, 2024

Town Snapshot:

Atlantic Beach, Florida

On the Northeastern Florida coast, Atlantic Beach is a mellow place with a beautiful two mile beach, cute shops and fun events. Shorts and flip flops are standard attire.

Just outside of romantic Charleston in South Carolina, Summerville charms with its elegant homes, leisurely pace and bounty of colorful flower gardens. Oceanfront beaches are 30 miles away.

Cresswind Charleston at the Ponds, Summerville, South Carolina

This soothing 55+ community spreads across 1,000 well manicured acres and features single family homes, a beautiful clubhouse, a conservancy and more.

Bay St. Louis, Mississippi

Bay St. Louis sits amid rivers, marshes and estuaries along the Gulf of Mexico and has a nice, quiet beach and a cute downtown.

Mexico Beach, Florida

Mexico Beach sits along the Florida Panhandle and is known as "Mayberry on the Water." It is rebuilding from Hurricane Michael but still boasts gorgeous, sugar white oceanfront beaches kissed by warm turquoise waters.

Port Angeles, Washington

On the Northern Shores of the breathtaking Olympic Peninsula in northwestern Washington, scenic Port Angeles is a gateway to Olympic National Park and has a slightly touristy downtown, a symphony, excellent wineries and more.

Ocean View, Port Angeles, Washington

Perched on a piece of land at the edge of the Strait of Juan de Fuca, Ocean View is a cozy park model/tiny home community in which every residence boasts magnificent, unobstructed water views.

Moscow, Idaho

In northern Idaho's Palouse, a striking agricultural landscape, down-to-earth Moscow boasts a gentle spirit and a mellow way of life. Home to the University of Idaho, it has an authentic downtown, fun festivals and a strong community spirit.

Mountain Home, Arkansas

Tucked amid rolling hills and close to two large lakes, Lake Norfork and Bull Shoals Lake, Mountain Home boasts outstanding water recreation and a slower pace.

Mountain Home, Arkansas Real Estate Overview

Mountain Home's real estate prices have increased 2% from a year ago, but its home costs are still well below the national median.

Town Snippet and Home for Sale:

Freeport, Texas Beautiful Surfside Home for Sale for $298,000

South of Houston on the Texas Gulf Coast, this beautiful, airy surfside home features a wraparound deck that nearly juts out over the sea and abundant large windows with sweeping water views.

Columbus, North Carolina

Tucked in the Blue Ridge Mountain foothills of scenic western North Carolina, Columbus is nice little town in a growing wine and equestrian region.

Merritt Island, Florida Riverfront Home for Sale for $160,000

On Florida's "Space Coast," mellow Merritt Island sits between the Indian River and the Banana River and is the site of this sleek, modern manufactured riverfront home for sale. It has a cute front porch with a winding staircase to the upper deck where water views and space launch sightings amaze.

Pensacola, Florida Dockside Home for Sale for $269,000

On the western Florida Panhandle, Pensacola is the site of this sunny dockside home with marina and boat views and a boat slip.

Spanish Fort, Alabama

On the eastern shore of southern Alabama's Mobile Bay, inviting, historic Spanish Fort has tidy, wooded neighborhoods and is close to white sand beaches.

Georgetown, Texas

Along the San Gabriel River in lush central Texas, friendly Georgetown boasts a beautifully restored downtown, a colorful flower festival, safe neighborhoods and a casual way of life.

Lewisburg, Kentucky Lakeside Home for Sale for $230,000

Lewisburg sits along the shores of Lake Malone in wooded southwestern Kentucky and is the locale of this picturesque single family lakeside home with a nice sunroom, gorgeous water views and a private boat dock.

Perryville, Tennessee Floating River Home for Sale for $239,950

Along the majestic Tennessee River in rolling western Tennessee, Perryville is the locale of this bright floating river home with lots of windows, water views and a boat garage.

Aitkin, Minnesota Cozy Lakeside Home for Sale for $122,900

Next to ocean-like 132,000-acre Mille Lacs Lake in central Minnesota, Aitkin is the site of this cozy lakeside home with sweeping water views and a boat dock.

Madison, Wisconsin

Situated along the banks of two large lakes, Madison is a college town with festivals, museums, a ballet, an opera, a symphony, a zoo, a fun pedestrian mall and much more.

Carmel, California

With a stunning setting, an iconic beach, "fairytale" architecture and a rich artistic tradition, beautiful Carmel is hard to resist.

Manitou Springs, Colorado

Touristy, quirky and artsy, Manitou Springs is a Victorian mountain village nestled in a forested box canyon at the foot of majestic Pikes Peak. Homes are eclectic. Restaurants are fun and plentiful. And the scenery is gorgeous.

Hotel Review:

The Cliff House, Manitou Springs, Colorado

A 54-room Victorian masterpiece restored to its orginal splendor, The Cliff House is Manitou's most distinctive hotel and close to fun attractions and eateries.

Manitou Springs, Colorado

Touristy, quirky and artsy, Manitou Springs is a Victorian mountain village nestled in a forested box canyon at the foot of majestic Pikes Peak. Homes are eclectic. Restaurants are fun and plentiful. And the scenery is gorgeous.

Naples, Florida

On Florida's southwestern coast, beautiful Naples is known for its "beachy" resort vibe, lovely homes, high-end shopping venues, golf courses and sugar white beaches.

Heritage Bay, Naples, Florida

This gated golf and tennis community in Naples features stylish single family homes, coach homes and condominiums, along with a 27,000-square foot clubhouse, a spa, lakes, walking trails and more.

Hotel Review:

The Cliff House, Manitou Springs, Colorado

A 54-room Victorian masterpiece restored to its orginal splendor, The Cliff House is Manitou's most distinctive hotel and close to fun attractions and eateries.

North Palm Beach, Florida

On the southeastern Florida coast, balmy North Palm Beach has a sun-kissed oceanfront beach, top-rated golf courses and safe neighborhoods.

Fletcher, North Carolina

Nestled in scenic western North Carolina, Fletcher is a nice little town with a suburban, country vibe and a good reputation.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina Stylish Beachside Home for Sale for $379,900

On the northern South Carolina shore, vibrant Myrtle Beach is the setting for this stylish beachside home with corner windows and a corner balcony with beautiful views of sand, surf and sky.

St. Augustine, Florida

Romantic and full of history, St. Augustine sits on the northeastern Florida coast and is known for its charming downtown, miles of beautiful beaches and scenic waterfront.

Irmo, South Carolina

Irmo is a nice little town along the banks of sprawling, 50,000-acre Lake Murray in South Carolina's Midlands and is home to the Okra Strut, plentiful outdoor recreation and reasonable prices.

Corpus Christi, Texas Island Home for Sale for $127,000

Corpus Christi sits on the southern Texas Gulf Coast. Across the water is Padre Island, the world's longest barrier island and site of this cozy waterside home with direct access to the Gulf of Mexico.

Lincoln City, Oregon Oceanfront Home for Sale for $289,900

Touristy Lincoln City rests on the scenic northern Oregon coast and is the locale of this oceanfront, cliffside condominium for sale. The living room and balcony views are spectacular, and there is a stairway to the beach below.

Exeter, New Hampshire

About an hour outside of Boston and home to preppy Phillip Exeter Academy, Exeter Brims with Colonial history and Yankee practicality. Aliens have come to visit, too.

Atlantic City, New Jersey Oceanside Home for Sale for $185,000

A seaside resort city in South New Jersey, Atlantic City is the site of this little oceanside home for sale. It sits along the famous Boardwalk, about 100 feet from the beach, and it has amazing views of the coastline, ocean, Boardwalk, sky and sand.

Rockport, Texas

Along Aransas Bay on the Texas Gulf Coast, Rockport is a funky, low key tourist destination known for its long, clean beaches and outstanding fishing waters.

St. James City, Florida

Tucked on the southern half of southwestern Florida's Pine Island, St. James City is rife with wildlife, boasts Old Florida charm and is sometimes called a "drinking town with a fishing problem."

Yachats, Oregon

Rustic and charming with a cute downtown, Yachats is in a breathtaking setting along the central Oregon coast, surrounded by mountains and the sea.

Clemson, South Carolina

Nestled along the shores of pretty, 56,000-acre Lake Hartwell in South Carolina's Upcountry, Clemson has an engaging collegiate atmosphere, plentiful cultural amenities, relatively reasonable prices, an OLLI and more.

Wenatchee, Washington

In the beautiful, rugged terrain east of the Cascade Mountain Range, picturesque Wenatchee sits amid rivers, mountains and apple orchards.

Ocean City, Maryland Oceanfront Home for Sale for $250,000

Ocean City is a seaside resort town on the northern Maryland coast and is the locale of this bright oceanfront condominium with panoramic views of sea, sand and sky.

Jackson, Georgia Comfy Lakeside Home for Sale for $274,900

Jackson is about 40 miles south of Atlanta and is the locale of this comfy lakeside home with a front deck, a pier, a floating boat dock and lovely water views.

Short Review:

Mountain Home, Arkansas

Tucked amid rolling hills and close to two large lakes, Lake Norfork and Bull Shoals Lake, Mountain Home boasts outstanding water recreation and a slower pace.

Real Estate Overview:

Mountain Home, Arkansas

Mountain Home's real estate prices have increased 2% from a year ago, but its home costs are still well below the national median.

Town Snippet and Home for Sale:

Freeport, Texas Beautiful Surfside Home for Sale for $298,000

South of Houston on the Texas Gulf Coast, this beautiful, airy surfside home features a wraparound deck that nearly juts out over the sea and abundant large windows with sweeping water views.

North Topsail Beach, North Carolina Oceanside Home for Sale for $195,000

North Topsail Beach is on an island off the southern North Carolina shore and is the site of this charming oceanside home for sale. It sits on the beach, has lots of light and a private balcony with panoramic views of sand, sky and water.

Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania

Beautiful Jim Thorpe is tucked in eastern Pennsylvania's lush Pocono Mountains and is known as the "Switzerland of America." It is safe, touristy and brimming with extraordinary Victorian architecture.

Indian Harbour Beach, Florida

Casual Indian Harbour Beach sits on a barrier island on Florida's central east coast and has waterfront homes and a long, pinkish/white oceanfront beach.

Port Isabel, Texas Waterfront Home for Sale for $234,000 Note: This home is possibly off the market now.

Laid back Port Isabel sits on Texas' southern Gulf Coast and is the site of this lovely waterside home for sale. It has a private boat slip, a boat lift and direct access to the Laguna Madre, the white oceanfront beaches of South Padre island and the open sea.

Spanish Fort, Alabama

On the eastern shore of southern Alabama's Mobile Bay, inviting, historic Spanish Fort has tidy, wooded neighborhoods and is close to white sand beaches.

Blacksburg, Virginia

In southeastern Virginia's scenic Appalachian Mountains, bucolic Blacksburg is the setting for Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech) and is a classic college town.

Beaufort, North Carolina

Once home to pirates, rum runners and sea captains, this waterfront hamlet is now popular with history lovers, romantics, water aficionados and retirees.

Montgomery, Texas Colorful Lakeside Home for Sale for $215,000

Outside of Houston and along the shores of 21,000-acre Lake Conroe, leafy Montgomery is the site of this bright, colorful lakeside home for sale. It is in an attractive community a few feet from the lake and has pretty water views.

Waynesville, North Carolina Lakefront Home for Sale for $199,900

Outside of Asheville in scenic western North Carolina, Waynesville is a nice little town and the locale of this attractive manufactured single family lakefront home for sale. It is about 10 feet from the water, has tall trees, lots of windows and soothing lake views.

Ventura, California

On the Southern California coast, Ventura is a seductive seaside city known for its rich cultural scene, classic Pacific Ocean beaches, fun downtown, eclectic architecture and lively boardwalk.

Elizabethtown, Kentucky

A friendly town in north central Kentucky, Elizabethtown is close to Fort Knox and popular with military families. Locals enjoy fun festivals, leafy neighborhoods and reasonable prices.

Kitty Hawk, North Carolina

A casual Outer Banks town, Kitty Hawk has a traditional, touristy village, a nice waterfront section and a long oceanfront beach.

Leesburg, Virginia

Steeped in history, charming Leesburg makes its home in a beautiful landscape of rolling hills, horse farms and low slung stone walls not too far outside of Washington, D.C.

Port Angeles, Washington

On the Northern Shores of the breathtaking Olympic Peninsula in northwestern Washington, Port Angeles is a gateway to Olympic National Park and has a slightly touristy downtown, a symphony, some excellent wineries and more.

Carolina Beach, North Carolina

The little town of Carolina Beach sits on a barrier island named Pleasure Island and is a laid back place with miles of beautiful beaches, some cute 1950s cottages, a fun boardwalk and more.

Canyon, Texas

Canyon, the setting for West Texas A&M University, is also the gateway to Palo Duro Canyon State Park, a dramatic canyon system second only in size to the Grand Canyon.

Yulee, Florida

With marshes and inlets on one side and the beaches of Fernandina Beach and Amelia Island not far away, Yulee is a collection of relatively new suburbs and has a country flavor.

Dolores, Colorado

In a canyon along a river deep in the spectacular Rocky Mountains, little Dolores is an outdoor adventure hub popular with rafters, cyclists, fishermen, skiers, campers and others.

Madison, Mississippi

A pretty city on the banks of Ross R. Barnett Reservoir, Madison has shaded neighborhoods and plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure.

North Palm Beach, Florida

On the southeastern Florida coast, balmy North Palm Beach has a sun-kissed oceanfront beach, top-rated golf courses and safe neighborhoods.

Red Lodge, Montana

On the way to Yellowstone National Park, Red Lodge is cute, touristy and an outdoor adventure hub in south central Montana's rugged terrain.

Snowflake, Arizona

In the sunny high desert of eastern Arizona, Snowflake has a performing arts center, a symphony, homes with white picket fences and somewhat reasonable prices.

Georgetown, Texas

Along the San Gabriel River in lush central Texas, friendly Georgetown boasts a beautifully restored downtown, a colorful flower festival, safe neighborhoods and a casual way of life.

Layton, Long Key, Florida Cute Island Home for Sale for $355,000

Layton sits on Long Key in the Florida Keys and is the locale of this cute single family home with lots of windows. It is in a resort community with a private beach, a boat dock, tennis courts, a dog park and more.

Captain Cook, Hawaii

On the Big Island of Hawaii, Captain Cook is a peaceful spot next to Kealakekua Bay, a calm, shallow body of water with a large coral reef and diverse underwater life.

Panama City Beach, Florida Oceanside Home for Sale for $330,000

Balmy Panama City Beach is on the Florida Panhandle and is the site of this lovely oceanside home for sale. It has angled ceiling-to-floor windows with extraordinary views of water, beach and sky. The sand is about 50 feet away.

Jekyll Island, Georgia

Along the southern Georgia coast, idyllic Jekyll Island is one of the Golden Isles and has 10 miles of soft sand beaches, gorgeous sunsets and an untamed quality (but with amenities).

Jekyll Island Resort Home for Sale for $199,900

This cozy home is in an oceanfront resort community with an uncrowded beach.

Ormond Beach, Florida Oceanside Home for Sale for $259,900

On the northeastern Florida coast, Ormond Beach is the setting of this lovely, cozy oceanside home for sale. It has tall windows and a private balcony that directly face the sea. Views of orange-tinted sand, blue/green waters and sparkling sky are extraordinary.

Peachtree City, Georgia

Well planned from the beginning, Peachtree City boasts lovely homes, wooded surroundings and golf cart transportation. Locals enjoy lakes, golf courses, tennis courts, nature areas and much more.

Danville, Kentucky

Nestled in the lush landscape of central Kentucky, Danville is known for its historic downtown, strong community spirit, easygoing pace, nearby lake recreation and reasonable prices.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina Oceanfront Home for Sale for $128,200

Myrtle Beach, relatively unscathed by Hurricane Ian, sits on the northern South Carolina coast and is the site of this cozy oceanfront home with direct ocean views. The beach is about 30 feet away.

Town Snippet and Home for Sale:

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina Oceanside Home for Sale for $99,900

Touristy Myrtle Beach is on the northern South Carolina shore and is the setting for this cute oceanside home with sweeping sea, sky and beach views.

Oldsmar, Florida

Situated along Tampa Bay on Florida's mid-Gulf Coast, Oldsmar is a quiet town with safe neighborhoods, waterfront homes and world class oceanfront beaches just 15 minutes away.

Fort Myers, Florida

Tucked beside the Caloosahatchee River on the southwestern Florida coast, lively Fort Myers is known for its beautiful nearby beaches, trendy river district and historic estates.

Amherst, Massachusetts

In a region known as Happy Valley, stimulating Amherst is home to three colleges/universities and has a rich academic vibe, a fun downtown, quintessential New England architecture, safe neighborhoods and more.

North Palm Beach, Florida Riverfront Home for Sale for $250,000

Balmy North Palm Beach sits on the southeastern Florida coast and is the locale of this lovely riverfront home for sale. It sits about 20 feet from the water and has pretty views of boats and water. Boat slips are for sale and rent.

North Bay Village, Florida Bayside Home for Sale for $225,000

In Biscayne Bay between Miami and Miami Beach on the southeastern Florida coast, North Bay Village is the locale of this attractive bayside condominium with incredible views of water, boats and skyline.

Sebring, Florida Lakefront Home for Sale for $134,500

Laid back Sebring sits on the edge of pretty Lake Jackson in south central Florida and is the setting for this beautiful lakeside home for sale. It has tall windows that look directly out over the water.

Saugatuck, Michigan

Once a lumber port town, charming Saugatuck sits along Lake Michigan's sandy eastern shore and boasts an artsy vibe, safe neighborhoods and a world-class fresh water beach.

Laupahoehoe, Hawaii

Once a taro farming village and a sugar plantation town, today rural Laupahoehoe is home to a research tropical forest and has jaw-dropping views of incredibly blue water.

Laupahoehoe, Hawaii Artsy Home for Sale for $610,000

This artsy home boasts a rainbow of colors, a kitchen balcony and a private outdoor shower.

Port Angeles, Washington

On the Northern Shores of the breathtaking Olympic Peninsula in northwestern Washington, Port Angeles is a gateway to Olympic National Park and has a slightly touristy downtown, a symphony, excellent wineries and more.

Ocean View, Port Angeles, Washington

Perched on a piece of land at the edge of the Strait of Juan de Fuca, Ocean View is a cozy park model/tiny home community in which every residence boasts magnificent, unobstructed water views.

Lewes, Delaware

Part of Delaware's popular beach resort area, quaint, touristy Lewes has a cute downtown, clean, white beaches and calm waters. And history abounds.

Panama City Beach, Florida Beachside Home for Sale for $219,900 Note:This home is now off the market.

On Florida's Panhandle, balmy Panama City Beach is the locale of this colorful little beachside home for sale. It has a boardwalk to the soft white sand, which is about 50 feet away.

Jacksonville, Oregon

Set amid lakes, forests and rivers in rugged, scenic southwestern Oregon, charming Jacksonville is a town stuck in time and a National Historic Landmark.

Lady Lake, Florida

Home to part of The Villages, the large 55+ community, Lady Lake is a quiet place with lakes, safe neighborhoods, leafy lanes and relatively reasonable prices.

Daytona Beach Shores, Florida Oceanside Home for Sale for $135,000

South of bustling Daytona Beach on the northeastern Florida coast, quieter Daytona Beach Shores is the site of this cozy oceanside home that directly faces the ocean. Its ceiling to floor windows provide incredible views of water, sand and sky. The beach is about 50 feet away.

Sewanee, Tennessee

A cozy, leafy town, Sewanee is home to a small university, a music festival, a writers' conference and a lively downtown. Outdoor recreation is just around the corner.

Eagles Mere, Pennsylvania

Snuggled around Eagles Mere Lake in the unspoiled Endless Mountains of northeastern Pennsylvania, the little village of Eagles Mere started as a family resort and today is popular with tourists and retirees.

New Orleans, Louisiana Lakefront Home for Sale for $269,000

Colorful, unique New Orleans sits along the Gulf Coast in southeastern Louisiana and is the setting for this large single family lakeside home for sale. It has a beautiful interior, a cargo elevator, a long wraparound porch and wide open water views.

Surprise, Arizona

Next to the White Tank Mountains outside of Phoenix, Surprise is a well kept, growing town with new housing, new infrastructure and happy residents.

Lewes, Delaware

One of several towns that make up Delaware's popular beach resort area, quaint, touristy Lewes has a cute downtown, clean, white beaches and calm waters. And history abounds.

Palm Shores, Florida

Next to the Indian River Lagoon on Florida's Space Coast, Palm Shores is a quiet, growing town with safe neighborhoods and oceanfront white sands just across the river.

Aventura, Florida Waterside Home for Sale for $272,900

Beautiful Aventura sits along the Intracoastal Waterway in southeastern Florida, just a couple of miles from gorgeous oceanfront beaches, and it is the setting for this sunny, roomy home with dazzling views of water, boats, marinas and the Aventura skyline.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina Oceanside Home for Sale for $118,000

On South Carolina's northern shore, lively Myrtle Beach is the site of this little oceanside home for sale. It is light and airy, directly faces the Atlantic Ocean and boasts panoramic views of water, beach and sky.

Centre, Alabama Lakefront Home for Sale for $111,000

On the banks of 33,000-acre Weiss Lake in northeastern Alabama, Centre is the site of this blue lakeside home for sale. It has large windows and French doors that nearly open onto the large wooden deck. The sweeping water views are beautiful.

New Orleans, Louisiana Lakefront Home for Sale for $269,000

Colorful, unique New Orleans sits along the Gulf Coast in southeastern Louisiana and is the setting for this large single family lakeside home for sale. It has a beautiful interior, a cargo elevator, a long wraparound porch and wide open water views.

Naples, Florida

On Florida's southwestern coast, beautiful Naples is known for its "beachy" resort ambiance, high-end shopping venues, golf courses and sugar white beaches.

Sedona, Arizona

Set amid mystical red rock formations in central Arizona, seductive Sedona is known as a spiritual vortex and beckons with its unusual light, dozens of rejuvenating spas, beautiful homes and more.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina Oceanside Home for Sale for $125,000

Animated Myrtle Beach is on South Carolina's northern coast and is locale of this snug oceanside home that directly faces the ocean. Views of water, sand and sky are boundless.

Hudson, Florida Seaside Home for Sale for $275,000

Hudson is a mellow town on the Florida Gulf Coast and is the locale of this nice seaside home for sale. It has a private balcony with magnificent water views and is in a resort community with a private beach.

Carrabelle, Florida Riverfront Home for Sale for $269,000

Sleepy Carrabelle sits on the eastern Florida Panhandle and is the locale of this lovely riverfront home for sale. It features a beautiful kitchen and a screened-in waterfront porch with soothing water views.

Lady Lake, Florida

Home to part of The Villages, the large 55+ community, Lady Lake is a quiet place with lakes, safe neighborhoods and leafy lanes.

Englewood, Florida

Facing Lemon Bay on the southwestern Florida coast, mellow Englewood has an old fashioned Florida vibe, nearby beautiful oceanfront beaches, a cute downtown, excellent fishing and more.

Perryville, Tennessee Floating River Home for Sale for $239,950

Along the majestic Tennessee River in rolling western Tennessee, Perryville is the locale of this bright floating river home with lots of windows, water views and a boat garage.

Northlake, South Carolina

Popular with tourists, Northlake sits on the shores of 56,000-acre Larke Harwell in northern South Carolina and has well-tended, leafy neighborhoods and a reasonable cost of living.

Northlake, South Carolina Lakefront Home for Sale for $405,000

This large home is in a tall, gated building along sprawling Lake Hartwell and has beautiful water views.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina Oceanside Home for Sale for $175,000

Boisterous Myrtle Beach is on South Carolina's Grand Strand and is the locale of this snug oceanside home for sale. It directly faces the ocean and is about 50 feet from the beach. The views of sparkling water and blue sky are gorgeous.

Panama City Beach, Florida Oceanside Home for Sale for $330,000

On the Florida Panhandle, Panama City Beach is a classic beach town with sugar white sands and is the site of this nice oceanfront home for sale. It boasts breathtaking water views and three seaside swimming pools. The beach is about 30 feet away via a boardwalk.

Fairhope, Alabama

Nestled along Mobile Bay in southwestern Alabama, friendly Fairhope is a picturesque place with waterfront charm and a gentle spirit.

Fairhope, Alabama Bayside Home for Sale for $389,000

This beautiful home is in a bayside community with a nice dock on the water and a swimming pool on the dock.

Newcastle, California Lakeside Home for Sale for $219,000

In the Sierra Nevada foothills outside of Sacramento, Newcastle is the setting for this low key lakeside home for sale. It has an open floor plan and a long deck overlooking the water.

Town Snippet and Home for Sale:

Steinhatchee, Florida Single Family Riverfront Home for Sale for $289,000

Steinhatchee rests where the Steinhatchee River meets the Gulf of Mexico on the Big Bend Coast of Florida and is the locale of this nice riverfront single family home for sale. It sits on stilts about 10 feet from the water and has two large decks.

Manitou Springs, Colorado

Touristy, quirky and artsy, Manitou Springs is a Victorian mountain village nestled in a forested box canyon at the foot of majestic Pikes Peak. Homes are eclectic. Restaurants are fun and plentiful. Neighbors are friendly. And the scenery is gorgeous.

Bellingham, Washington

Not far from the Canadian border, Bellingham sits on a beautiful coastal bay in the shadow of Mt. Baker and boasts outstanding outdoor recreation. Locals also enjoy a popular farmers' market, a symphony orchestra, fun festivals and more.

Darling Bellingham Home for Sale for $285,000

This secluded home is tucked in the woods and has a large, wraparound porch.

Dahlonega, Georgia

Tucked in North Georgia's Appalachian Mountain foothills outside of Atlanta, Dahlonega was the site of the first gold rush and boasts a scenic setting, a cute, touristy downtown and plenty of fun festivals.

Hobe Sound, Florida

A quiet town on the southeastern Florida coast, Hobe Sound boasts a cute downtown and a secret beach with nearly empty sand.

Newport, Vermont Lakefront Home for Sale for $250,000 Note: This home now has a pending offer.

Along the shores of 6,000-acre Lake Memphremagog in rolling northeastern Vermont, Newport is a touristy town and the location of this attractive lakefront home for sale. It has a large back deck with panoramic water views and a shared boat dock.

Salado, Texas

The charming, rustic village of Salado started out as a college town but today is a trendy artists' colony and thrives as a weekend getaway destination.

Lexington, Virginia

Lexington is a quaint little town deep in the fertile Shenandoah Valley and boasts a scenic setting, historic architecture, a collegiate vibe, safe neighborhoods and more.

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Merritt Island, Florida Riverfront Home for Sale for $160,000

On Florida's "Space Coast," mellow Merritt Island sits between the Indian River and the Banana River and is the site of this sleek, modern manufactured riverfront home for sale. It has a cute front porch with a winding staircase to the upper deck where water views and space launch sightings amaze.

Bar Harbor, Maine

Touristy, picturesque Bar Harbor sits on Maine's scenic, rock-bound coast and boasts breathtaking views, a darling downtown, leafy neighborhoods with historic homes and a rich maritime culture.

Ruskin, Florida Riverfront Home for Sale for $48,900

Ruskin is a country town along Tampa Bay and the Little Manatee River in southwestern Florida and is the setting for this modest but cute riverfront home for sale. It has a screened porch about 10 feet from the water and is next to one of the many community boat docks.

Atlantic Beach, North Carolina Bogue Sound Waterside Home for Sale for $155,000

On North Carolina's southern Outer Banks, little Atlantic Beach sits between Bogue Sound and the sea. It is the site of this snug, colorful Sound waterside part-time home with a long pier to the boat dock and dramatic views of water and marsh.

Tyler, Texas

A friendly town in Texas' lush Piney Woods, Tyler is known as the "Rose Capital of America" and boasts the largest municipal rose garden in the U.S. It also has a University of Texas campus, a ballet, a symphony orchestra and two lakes.

Daytona Beach, Florida Oceanfront Home for Sale for $184,000

In northeastern Florida's bustling Daytona Beach, this compact oceanfront home is in a building directly on the beach and boasts amazing views of blue water, sparkling sand and endless sky.

Hickory, North Carolina

At the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains in lush western North Carolina, Hickory boasts a lakeside setting, a nice downtown, fun festivals, a small college and reasonable prices.

Tavares, Florida

Nestled in north central Florida, mellow, semi-rural Tavares bills itself as "America's Seaplane City" and borders four large lakes.

Tavares, Florida Lakefront Home for Sale for $425,000

This spacious suburban lakefront home has tall ceilings, arched doorways and a private boardwalk and boat dock at the edge of the backyard.

Diamond Bar, California

Beautiful Diamond Bar is a well-to-do city nestled amid hills outside of Los Angeles in Southern California. Beaches, deserts and mountains are all less than an hour away.

Town Snippet and Home for Sale:

Corpus Christi, Texas Seaside Home for Sale for $158,000

Corpus Christi is a mellow city along the Gulf of Mexico and is the site of this cozy seaside home for sale. It has a modern feel and wide, pretty views of the water and coastline. The beach is about 30 feet away.

Attractive Diamond Bar, California Home for Sale for $315,000

This attractive home is in a nice community and is reasonably priced (for California).

North Redington Beach, Florida

A low key oceanfront town, North Redington Beach is packed with condos, hotels and single family waterfront homes. The mile-long, sugar white beach is the town highlight.

Sunset Beach, North Carolina

Tucked on a barrier island on the southern North Carolina coast, Sunset Beach is a quiet place with an oceanfront white sand beach, five golf courses, turtle talks and more.

Wickenburg, Arizona

Outside of Phoenix in southern Arizona, Wickenburg is a sunny, relaxed "Old West" town next to the Wickenburg Mountains. Buildings look like they belong on a movie set, and tourists come to spend time as a cowboy at local dude ranches.

Lewisburg, West Virginia

Charming Lewisburg is tucked deep in the scenic Allegheny Mountains and boasts an artsy vibe, tree-lined lanes, a touristy historic downtown and abundant outdoor recreation.

Leeds, Maine Lakefront Home for Sale for $225,000

Leeds sits along the edge of Androscoggin Lake, about an hour and a half from the coast, and is the locale of this colorful single family lakefront home for sale. It has a nice deck overlooking the water, 160 feet of waterfront and a private boat dock.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina Oceanfront Home for Sale for $170,000

Popular with tourists, lively Myrtle Beach sits on the northern South Carolina coast and is the setting for this snug oceanside home for sale. It has a private balcony directly facing the ocean and boasts unobstructed views of sand, surf and sky. The beach is about 100 feet away.

Lighthouse Point, Florida

A casual, pretty town laced with canals, Lighthouse Point is on the southeastern Florida coast and has a nautical flea market, parks aplenty and nearby oceanfront beaches.

Ruskin, Florida Waterfront Home for Sale for $49,900  Note: This home now has a pending offer.

Ruskin is a growing town along Tampa Bay on Florida's Gulf Coast and is the setting for this modest waterfront home. It has a back deck next to the water and access to Cockroach Bay.

Miami, Florida Waterfront Home for Sale for $160,000

Famous for its miles of sugar white beaches and sparkling skyline, Miami is on Florida's southeastern coast and is the site of this waterfront home for sale. It has pretty city and lagoon views, and amenities include a waterside swimming pool, a grocery, a hair salon and more.

Gardiner, Maine Riverfront Home for Sale for $165,000

Gardiner is a charming town along the Kennebec River in south central Maine and is the site of this darling part-time single family riverfront home for sale. It has a beautiful setting, 200 feet of water frontage, a large screened porch and a boardwalk to the crystal clear water about 25 feet away.

Fort Myers, Florida Riverfront Home for Sale for $239,000

Popular Fort Myers sits along the wide Caloosahatchee River on Florida's southwestern coast and is the setting for this lovely waterfront home with a boat dock and large windows overlooking the river.

Glenwood Springs, Colorado

Along the Colorado River high in the Rocky Mountains of western Colorado, beautiful Glenwood Springs is touristy, collegiate and laid back. Outdoor recreation abounds, but the town is best known for it therapeutic waters and the world's largest outdoor hot springs pool.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina Oceanside Home for Sale for $175,000

Boisterous Myrtle Beach is on South Carolina's Grand Strand and is the locale of this snug oceanside home for sale. It directly faces the ocean, offering incredible views of sparkling water and blue sky.

Caswell Beach, North Carolina

Tucked on a barrier island off the southern North Carolina coast, idyllic Caswell Beach has a long oceanfront beach, a golf course, sea turtles and a very laid back seaside vibe.

Cedar Key, Florida Seaside Home for Sale for $178,500

Casual little Cedar Key is off the beaten path on Florida's wild Big Bend Coast and is the locale of this oceanside, part-time home for sale. It has a tropical vibe, a corner balcony and beautiful two directional views of water and sky.

North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina Oceanfront Home for Sale for $175,000

Touristy North Myrtle Beach is on the northern South Carolina shore and is the site of this colorful, cozy oceanfront home for sale. It boasts sweeping water views and has a path to the beach, which is about 100 feet away.

Cartersville, Georgia Lakeside Home for Sale for $265,000

About 45 minutes outside of Atlanta in northern Georgia, Cartersville is the locale of this darling, completely renovated lakeside single family home for sale. About 20 feet from the water, it has a wall of floor-to-ceiling windows and amazing, boundless views of lake, mountains and sky.

Parsons, Tennessee Floating Home for Sale for $175,000

Parsons is about 90 minutes outside of Nashville in rural western Tennessee and is the setting of this cute, floating single family riverfront home for sale. It has lots of windows, a nice back deck over the water and a boardwalk to the shore.

Gold Beach, Oregon

With an invigorating setting on Oregon's rugged southern coast, Gold Beach is popular with fishermen, outdoor lovers and retirees. The beach is long, wild and clean.

Carrabelle, Florida Riverfront Home for Sale for $298,000

Sleepy Carrabelle is on the eastern Florida Panhandle coast and is the site of this little single family riverfront home with six acres for sale. The property has two boat docks, two boat lifts and vast views of water and wilderness.

Fayetteville, Georgia Large Lakefront Home for Sale for $325,000

Fayetteville is a nice town outside of Atlanta and is the site of this large lakefront single family home for sale. It has a leafy lot in a quiet neighborhood, a back deck about 50 feet from the water, a wonderful backyard gazebo, a private boat dock and 142 feet of waterfront.

Town Snippet and Home for Sale:

Sulphur, Louisiana Riverfront Home for Sale for $145,000

Sulphur is about 90 minutes north of the Gulf Coast in southwestern Louisiana and is the location of this inviting riverfront single family home for sale. It is about 15 feet from the water and has a nice front deck. Use of two adjacent lots is included in the sale.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina Oceanside Home for Sale for $154,900

On the northern South Carolina coast, bustling Myrtle Beach is the site of this cozy oceanside home for sale. It has a private balcony with sweeping views of amenities, the beach and the water.

Yuma, Arizona

Once a busy ferry stop on the Colorado River, today Yuma is a tourist and "snowbird" destination that comes alive during the winter months.

New Albany, Mississippi Lakefront Home for Sale for $300,000

On the edge of the Tallahatchie River in northeastern Mississippi, New Albany has been called one of the South's best small towns and is the locale of this waterfront single family home for sale. It sits along a private lake and has a sprawling deck, a pier, a swimming/boat dock and nearly two acres of land.

Tega Cay, South Carolina

On a peninsula on popular 13,400-acre Lake Wylie in northern South Carolina, Tega Cay is a safe, peaceful place with beaches, boats, golf and wooded neighborhoods.

Pottsboro, Texas Floating Home for Sale for $149,900

Along the banks of 90,000-acre Lake Texoma in leafy East Texas, Pottsboro is the locale of this beautiful, floating lakeside house inside a large marina. It is zero feet from its private boat slip and has a private rooftop deck with amazing views of water, marina and sky.

Town Snippet and Home for Sale:

Lucedale, Mississippi Lakefront Home for Sale for $225,000

About an hour from the Mississippi coast and the Alabama coast, little Lucedale is the setting for this large, secluded lakefront single family home for sale. It boasts water views, has three leafy lots and a brick pathway to its private boat dock.

Bozeman, Montana

Nearly surrounded by three mountain ranges and once just a dusty cow town, pretty Bozeman is home to Montana State University and is a gateway to stunning Yellowstone National Park.

Harrisonburg, Virginia

Tucked in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley outside of Washington, D.C., Harrisonburg boasts an inviting, walkable downtown, an active arts community, a collegiate vibe, fun events, reasonable prices and more.

Temecula, California

Set amid rolling vineyards in the heart of Southern California's wine country, Temecula is known for its Spanish influences, plentiful wineries, fun balloon and wine festival, beautiful homes and trendy, walkable Old Town.

Fort Walton Beach, Florida

On Florida's Emerald Coast, Fort Walton Beach is a fishing and beach resort town famous for its relaxed ambiance and powdery, white sand beaches.

Fort Walton Beach, Florida Waterside Home for Sale for $199,900

This attractive home is in a community overlooking Santa Rosa Sound and has a balcony, a nice waterside swimming pool and a pier with boat slips.

Matlacha, Florida

On Florida's southwestern coast, balmy little Matlacha sits on an island and is home to colorful shops, fun eateries, quirky galleries and funky homes, all of which sit next to a canal.

Groveland, Florida

A mellow lakeside town away from hurricanes in central Florida, Groveland has a country quality and is peppered with weeping willows and palm trees.

Daytona Beach, Florida Oceanfront Home for Sale for $145,000

Lively Daytona Beach is on the northeastern Florida shore and is the setting for this bright and airy oceanfront home with views of the coastline, water and city. Amenities include a heated oceanfront swimming pool, a tiki bar and more.

Hird Island, Darien, Georgia Waterfront Home for Sale for $295,000

Hird Island is a private island off the mid-coast of Georgia and is the site of this gorgeous single family waterfront home with ceiling to floor windows, bamboo hardwood floors, a 56' deep private dock, a boat lift and more. Oceanfront beaches are five minutes away by boat.

Corpus Christi, Texas Waterside Home for Sale for $165,000

On Texas' Gulf Coast, Corpus Christi is the site of this low key waterside home with a back patio next to a deep water canal that offers direct access to the Intracoastal Waterway and the Gulf of Mexico.

Hinton, West Virginia Riverfront Home for Sale for $159,000

Tucked along two rivers in the gorgeous Appalachian Mountains of southern West Virginia, Hinton is nice little town and the site of this darling riverfront cabin for sale. Its back deck nearly touches the water, and the views are amazing.

North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina Oceanfront Home for Sale for $175,000 Note: This home is now off market.

Touristy North Myrtle Beach is on the northern South Carolina shore and is the site of this colorful, cozy oceanfront home for sale. It boasts sweeping water views and has a path to the beach, which is about 100 feet away.

Cozy Matlacha Canal Home for Sale for $75,900

This tropical-themed home sits right next to a canal.

Marquette, Michigan

Marquette is a pretty seaport on the shores of Lake Superior in Michigan's Upper Peninsula and boasts a scenic waterfront, two beaches, dozens of parks, several theaters, a university, a regional medical center and more.

Cottonwood, Arizona

In the rugged, high altitude Verde Valley of central Arizona, Cottonwood has a fun historic center, plenty of outdoor recreation, nearby wineries, safe neighborhoods and lots of sunshine.

Aventura, Florida Lakefront Home for Sale for $174,500

Two miles from white sand oceanfront beaches, balmy Aventura is on the southeastern Florida coast and the location of this bright condominium with wide water views for sale.

Miami, Florida Waterfront Home for Sale for $160,000

Famous for its miles of sugar white beaches and sparkling skyline, Miami is on Florida's southeastern coast and is the site of this waterfront home for sale. It has pretty city and lagoon views, and amenities include a waterside swimming pool, a grocery, a hair salon and more.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina Oceanfront Home for Sale for $170,000

Popular with tourists, lively Myrtle Beach sits on the northern South Carolina coast and is the setting for this snug oceanside home for sale. It has a private balcony directly facing the ocean and boasts unobstructed views of sand, surf and sky. The beach is about 100 feet away.

An Attractive Cottonwood Single Family Home for Sale for $350,000

This airy home has an open floorplan and very reasonable HOA fees.

Lynchburg, Virginia

Leisurely Lynchburg sits amid rolling hills in central Virginia and boasts a reasonable cost of living, a historic sensibility, a mellow pace and leafy neighborhoods.

Sewanee, Tennessee

A cozy, leafy town, Sewanee is home to a small university, a music festival, a writers' conference and a lively downtown. Outdoor recreation is just around the corner.

Marble Falls, Texas

On the banks of the Colorado River and along the Highland Lakes Chain in the pretty Texas Hill County, Marble Falls is a low key, comfortable town with wineries, fun festivals, tidy, safe neighborhoods, fishing and camping areas and more.

Daytona Beach, Florida Home in an Oceanfront Community for Sale for $184,900

This cozy home has an oceanside swimming pool and water views.

Town Snippet and Home for Sale:

Pitkin, Colorado Mountain Home for Sale for $187,000

This rustic home features beautiful views and 10 acres of forested land.

Beaufort, South Carolina

Beautiful Beaufort sits on a barrier island along the southern South Carolina coast and boasts a leisurely pace, stately antebellum architecture, canopy lanes, Lowcountry charm and more.

Cooper Landing, Alaska Island Lakefront Home for Sale for $260,000

Cooper Landing sits amid jaw-dropping scenery in southern Alaska, about 100 miles from Anchorage, and it is the setting for this custom-built single family home on an island in the middle of Skilak Lake. The property is accessible by boat and plane; the views are gorgeous, and wildlife is abundant.

Fort Lauderdale, Florida Oceanfront Home for Sale for $239,900

Lively Fort Lauderdale sits on the southeastern Florida coast, has 23 miles of smooth white beaches and is the site of this beautiful oceanfront home for sale. It has water and city views in two directions, 24/7 security, concierge services, valet parking and more.

Springfield, Louisiana Riverfront Home for Sale for $165,000

Springfield sits amid three rivers about hour north of New Orleans and is the setting for this attractive single family home for sale. It sits along the Blood River and has been completely renovated. A private, covered boat slip with new decking and a boat lift is out back.

Virginia Beach, Virginia Waterfront Home for Sale for $225,000   Note: This home might have a contingent offer on it now.

Virginia Beach is a resort city with miles of beaches on the southern Virginia coast and is the site of this waterfront home for sale. It has vaulted ceilings, skylights and two balconies with wide water views.

Payson, Arizona

Surrounded by the sprawling Tonto National Forest at 5,000 feet above sea level in central Arizona, peaceful Payson is a jumping off point for outdoor adventure.

Fairfield Glade, Tennessee Lakefront Home for Sale for $305,000

Fairfield Glade is an amenity-rich resort/retirement community in East Tennessee and is the locale of this lovely lakefront home for sale. It has been completely remodeled and boasts pretty water views.

Edisto Beach, South Carolina

Tiny Edisto Beach is at the mouth of the Edisto River on the southern South Carolina coast and is a quiet seaside community with four miles of pristine white sand beaches.

Atlantic City, New Jersey Waterfront Home for Sale for $259,900

Bustling Atlantic City sits on the South New Jersey shore and is the site of this waterfront home for sale. It has been completely renovated and has a private covered boat slip and a large deck with pretty urban views of water, boats and buildings.

Buchanan, Georgia Lakefront Home for Sale for $265,000

Buchanan is a nice small town outside of Atlanta and is the site of this large, woodsy lakefront single family home for sale. It has lots of windows, a back deck with a covered bar and a private pier at the edge of the leafy backyard.

Mary Esther, Florida Waterside Home for Sale for $240,000

Mary Esther sits along beautiful Santa Rosa Sound on Florida's western Panhandle and is the locale of this nice waterfront home with views of trees, the Sound and passing boats. Across the Sound is Santa Rosa Island and its miles of pristine oceanfront beaches.

Beautiful Talking Rock, Georgia Lakefront Home for Sale for $239,000

Cute little Talking Rock, Georgia is in the foothills of the North Georgia Mountains and is the site of this beautiful lakefront single family home for sale. It has a private boat dock and walls of windows.

Fernandina Beach, Florida

Fernandina Beach sits on idyllic Amelia Island, a barrier island known for its high-end resort hotels, golf courses and miles of white sand beaches.

Boise, Idaho

A pretty city along the Boise River in southwestern Idaho, Boise often lands on "best places to live" lists and boasts bountiful outdoor recreation, a lively cultural scene and safe, tree-lined neighborhoods.

Hopewell Junction, New York Bungalow for Sale for $150,000

In the scenic Hudson Valley north of New York City, Hopewell Junction is the site of this utterly charming summer bungalow in a co-operative community along Sylvan Lake. The home was custom built, is filled with windows and has a park-like setting.

Port St. Lucie, Florida

Nestled along the southeastern Florida coast, Port St. Lucie is a mellow city with safe neighborhoods, a fun botanic garden, a world class resort, plenty of golf opportunities and abundant water recreation.

New Hope, Pennsylvania

Not far from where George Washington crossed the Delaware River in 1776, affluent New Hope has a touristy downtown, an artsy vibe and a variety of beautiful home styles.

Centre, Alabama Single Family Lakefront Home for Sale for $269,000

This tall home boasts beautiful water views, lots of windows, a canoe launch, a dock and a boathouse. A camper and its pavilion are also included in the sale.

Cute New Hope Home for Sale for $309,900

This welcoming home has leafy grounds and a nice glass enclosed sunroom.

Cherokee Village, Arkansas Lakefront Home for Sale for $268,800

This lovely single family home sits on the shores of Lake Sequoyah in the resort/retirement town of Cherokee Village and has beautiful lake views, a waterside firepit and a private, covered boat dock.

St. Simons Island, Georgia

Tucked on a barrier island off Georgia's southern coast, seductive St. Simons is known for its canopy lanes, understated elegance, rich history, long beaches and beautiful homes. It captivates nearly everyone.

Cooper Landing, Alaska Island Lakefront Home for Sale for $260,000

Cooper Landing sits amid jaw-dropping scenery in southern Alaska, about 100 miles from Anchorage, and it is the setting for this custom-built single family home on an island in the middle of Skilak Lake. The property is accessible by boat and plane; the views are gorgeous, and wildlife is abundant.

Beautiful, Secluded Wetumpka, Alabama Riverfront Home for Sale for $168,000

This lovely single family home is tucked next to the Coosa River and has a pier and a large deck.

Town Snippet and Home for Sale:

North Bay Village, Florida Waterfront Home with Extraordinary Views for Sale for $195,000

This low maintenance home sits on an island in Biscayne Bay and boasts sweeping views of water, boats and glittering skyline.

Panama City Beach, Florida Oceanside Home for Sale for $269,900

This cozy home has an oceanside locale, enthralling views of white sand and blue/green water and direct access to even more enthralling views.

Flagler Beach, Florida Seaside Home for Sale for $284,900

Sleepy Flagler Beach sits on Florida's northeastern coast and is the setting for this bright and airy seaside home for sale. It boasts large windows along two walls, providing beautiful ocean views. The beach is about 60 feet away.

Lincoln City, Oregon Oceanfront Home for Sale for $289,900

Touristy Lincoln City rests on the scenic northern Oregon coast and is the locale of this oceanfront, cliffside condominium for sale. The living room and balcony views are spectacular, and there is a stairway to the beach below.

Panama City Beach, Florida Oceanside Home for Sale for $269,900

This cozy home has an oceanside locale, enthralling views of white sand and blue/green water and direct access to even more enthralling views.

North Bay Village, Florida Waterfront Home with Extraordinary Views for Sale for $195,000

This low maintenance home sits on an island in Biscayne Bay and boasts sweeping views of water, boats and glittering skyline.

Bandon, Oregon

Home to artists, writers and a popular golf course, Bandon is a cute town burrowed near the mouth of the Coquille River on the rugged southern Oregon coast, a place where water views invigorate the soul.

Alachua, Florida

A quiet country town with deep agricultural roots, Alachua is outside of Gainesville and has a charming tree-lined downtown. The soothing, nearby natural springs are perfect for swimming, snorkeling and manatee viewing.

Alachua, Florida

A quiet country town with deep agricultural roots, Alachua is outside of Gainesville and has a charming tree-lined downtown. Warm natural springs are all around and perfect for swimming, snorkeling and manatee viewing.

St. Joseph, Michigan

On the shores of Lake Michigan in southwestern Michigan, picturesque St. Joseph, part of the "Riviera of the Midwest," is a charming little resort town with beaches, fun festivals, a nice downtown and more.

Frostproof, Florida Lakefont Home for Sale for $70,000

Frostproof is a nestled between two lakes in central Florida and is the setting for this modest lakeside home for sale. It has been completely remodeled and has a boat dock and a nice deck with unobstructed views of the water.

Corpus Christi, Texas Waterside Home for Sale for $165,000

On Texas' Gulf Coast, Corpus Christi is the site of this low key waterside home with a back patio next to a deep water canal that offers direct access to the Intracoastal Waterway and the Gulf of Mexico.

Evanston, Wyoming

Evanston started with the railroad and is a quiet, high-altitude hamlet with a historic downtown and the Uinta Mountains looming in the distance.

Sewanee, Tennessee

Home to the University of the South, cozy, leafy Sewanee sits atop the Cumberland Plateau in pretty south central Tennessee.

Ventura, California

Ventura is a seductive seaside city known for its lively cultural scene, classic beaches, fun downtown, eclectic architecture and lively boardwalk.

Davidson, North Carolina

Davidson rests along the banks of sprawling Lake Norman in southwestern North Carolina and has a small college, leafy, safe neighborhoods and a charming downtown with red brick sidewalks.

Davidson Lakeside Home for Sale for $355,000

This handsome waterside home boasts beautiful views from the living room and bedroom.

Queen Creek, Arizona

Near San Tan Mountain Regional Park outside of Phoenix in south central Arizona, growing, sun-soaked Queen Creek is dotted with planned communities and restaurants and has a new-ish ambiance.

Carolina Shores, North Carolina

Close to oceanfront beaches, quiet Carolina Shores is a collection of well-tended planned communities and is popular with baby boomers.

Beautiful Carolina Shores Home for Sale for $272,900

This lovely home is in a community with a pool and a lake.

Cocoa Beach, Florida Beachside Home Sale for $239,000

Cocoa Beach is on Florida's Space Coast and is the site of this mellow oceanfront home for sale. The beautiful white sand beach is 100 feet away.

Garden City Beach, South Carolina Oceanfront Home for Sale for $285,000

On the northern South Carolina shore, laid back Garden City Beach is the locale of this oceanfront home for sale. The water and beach views are spectacular.

Oak Harbor, Washington

Tucked on the northern end of northwestern Washington's scenic Whidbey Island, Oak Harbor boasts pretty views, a nice downtown, an often empty beach and more.

Jacksonville, Florida Home in a Waterfront Community for Sale for $135,000

This attractive property is in a gated community with a private marina.

Town Snippet and Home for Sale:

Greer, South Carolina Lakefront Home for Sale for $205,000

This low key property boasts an idyllic view of the water and has no HOA fee.

Bay Harbor Islands, Florida

Bay Harbor Islands is a sun-soaked town on top of two small islands along the southeastern Florida coast. Stunning beaches and warm waters are close at hand.

Bay Harbor Islands Home for Sale for $270,000

This beautiful, breezy home is about a block from the water.

Town Snippet and Home for Sale:

Daytona Beach, Florida Home in an Oceanfront Community for Sale for $184,900

This cozy home has an oceanside swimming pool and water views.

Town Snippet and Home for Sale:

Pitkin, Colorado Mountain Home for Sale for $187,000

This rustic home features beautiful views and 10 acres of forested land.

Nokomis, Florida

Nokomis sits between Sarasota and Venice on Florida's southwestern coast and has a long, gorgeous beach, a relaxed Gulf Coast vibe and reminds people of what Florida used to be.

Virginia Beach, Virginia Oceanfront Home for Sale for $215,000

Lively Virginia Beach is a resort city on the southern Virginia coast and is the locale of this inviting oceanside home for sale. It has private beach access and floor-to-ceiling windows with beautiful water and city views.

Davidson, North Carolina

Davidson rests along the banks of sprawling Lake Norman in southwestern North Carolina and has a small college, leafy, safe neighborhoods and a charming downtown with red brick sidewalks.

Southport, North Carolina Waterfront Home for Sale for $264,900

Popular with tourists, Southport sits where the wide Cape Fear River meets the Atlantic Ocean and is the locale of this colorful, cozy waterfront home for sale. It has a balcony with views of water, sky and lighthouses.

Davidson Lakeside Home for Sale for $355,000

This handsome waterside home boasts beautiful views from the living room and bedroom.

Vernon, New Jersey Lakefront Cottage for Sale for $199,000

About 90 minutes outside of New York City, leafy Vernon is the setting for this cute lakefront cottage. It has beautiful lake views, a large deck and a walk-out basement to the water 30 feet away.

Mount Dora, Florida

With a pretty lakeside setting, picturesque Mount Dora is reminiscent of a quaint New England village and is known as Florida's friendliest small town.

North Topsail Beach, North Carolina Beachfront Home for Sale for $190,000

With 12 miles of pristine white sand beaches, North Topsail Beach sits on the barrier island named Topsail Island and is the locale of this beachfront home for sale. It is 50 feet from the water and boasts gorgeous ocean views.

Port Salerno, Florida

Known for its fun seafood festival and recreational fishing, Port Salerno sits along the St. Lucie River Inlet and straddles the scenic Manatee Pocket on the southeastern Florida coast. Oceanfront beaches are five to 10 miles away.

Dawson Springs, Kentucky Lakefront Home for Sale for $185,000

This single family home is tucked along sparkling Lake Beshear in western Kentucky and has water views from its two large back decks.

Madison, Mississippi Lakefront Home for Sale for $250,000

Madison sits along 33,000-acre Ross R. Barnett Reservoir in central Mississippi, often lands on "best places to live" lists and is the setting of this lovely lakefront single family home for sale. The property has a private boat dock, a boathouse and lots of windows.

Ruskin, Florida Waterside Home for Sale for $65,000

Ruskin is a country town on the Florida Gulf Coast and is the site of this cute waterside (canal front) home for sale. It has a covered porch and two decks overlooking the water.

Dunedin, Florida

Once home to Florida's largest sailing fleet, Dunedin sits on Florida's Gulf Coast and today is known for its cute, walkable downtown, pretty marina and five miles of sparkling oceanfront beaches with warm blue waters.

Nokomis Waterfront Home for Sale for $330,000

This casual home sits along a creek with direct access to the Gulf of Mexico.

Inviting Oak Harbor Home with Water Views for Sale for $292,000

This inviting home boasts sweeping water views.

Sebastian, Florida

A sleepy town along the Indian River Lagoon, Sebastian is home to the country's first wildlife refuge and most biologically diverse estuary. People live here, too.

A Sebastian Home in a Waterfront Community for Sale for $275,000

Located in a waterfront community with a boat dock, this nice home has woods and slight water views.

Eureka Springs, Arkansas

Tucked in northwestern Arkansas' lush Ozark Mountains, Eureka Springs is a lively Victorian village, an artists' retreat and a fun tourist destination all rolled into one.

Cute, Secluded Eureka Springs Home for Sale for $229,900

This single family home is surrounded by mature landscaping and has a hot tub.

Gulf Breeze, Florida

Idyllic Gulf Breeze sits on the western Florida Panhandle and is near the kind of white sand beaches and azure waters found on old-fashioned picture postcards.

Cute Coeur d'Alene, Idaho Home for Sale for $225,000 

This inviting home boasts lots of windows and lots of light.

Bayfield, Wisconsin

Quaint, touristy little Bayfield sits on a peninsula and is the gateway to the Apostle Islands. Locals enjoy breathtaking scenery, a cute downtown, a pretty marina, an apple festival, bountiful outdoor recreation and more.

Gold Canyon, Arizona

Nestled in the foothills of the rugged Superstition Mountains outside of Phoenix, Gold Canyon is known for its five 18-hole golf courses, excellent restaurants, renowned Renaissance Festival and beautiful views.

Pell City, Alabama

Next to popular Logan Martin Lake in northeastern Alabama, sleepy Pell City boasts abundant water recreation, an attractive downtown, an easy pace and reasonable costs.

Quaint Pell City Lakeside Home for Sale for $375,000

This single family home sits on a leafy one acre lot and has a private boat dock.

North Palm Beach, Florida Waterfront Home for Sale for $185,000

Tucked along the southeastern Florida coast, balmy North Palm Beach is the site of this attractive waterfront home for sale. It has views of the Intracoastal Waterway, boats and Singer Island's skyline.

Apollo Beach, Florida

Quiet Apollo Beach is not far from Tampa and has safe, canal-laced neighborhoods, waterfront seafood restaurants, an art festival and more.

Lovely Apollo Beach Home for Sale for $279,900

This single family home has lots of light, a covered back porch and no HOA fee.

Charlevoix, Michigan

Charlevoix is a pretty town along the shores of three lakes in northwestern Michigan and boasts fun events, a cute downtown, plentiful water recreation and baskets of petunias.

North Port, Florida

Straddling the Myakka River and adjacent to the Myakka State Forest in southwestern Florida, North Port is leafy and residential. Beautiful oceanfront beaches are about 12 miles away.

Missoula, Montana

At the foot of the Bitterroot Mountains in scenic western Montana, Missoula boasts a lively cultural scene, good hospitals and abundant outdoor recreation.

Inviting North Port Home for Sale for $279,000

This single family home has a screened-in patio and no HOA fee.

Longwood, Florida

Outside of Orlando in northeastern Florida, Longwood is quiet, leafy and suburban.

Rehoboth Beach, Delaware

Part of Delaware's touristy beach resort area, Rehoboth Beach is known for its boardwalk and classic beach vibe.

Winchester, Virginia

Surrounded by apple orchards deep in northern Virginia's Shenandoah Valley, Winchester is a quaint place rich in history.

Willow Lawn Cottages: a Small 55+ Community in Winchester, Virginia

This peaceful community is an established place and has 124 single family homes, a clubhouse and a nearby coffeehouse.

Ventura, California  

A lively cultural scene, classic beaches, good medical facilities and a fun downtown are Ventura highlights. Is it a great place to retire?

Smithfield, Virginia

Charming Smithfield sits along the Pagan River in southeastern Virginia and is known for its beautiful historic architecture, touristy downtown and many colorful pig statues.

Leesburg, Virginia

Steeped in history, charming Leesburg makes its home in a beautiful landscape of rolling hills, horse farms and low slung stone walls.

Branson, Missouri

In the Ozark Mountains of southeastern Missouri, touristy Branson is a hugely popular entertainment hub with museums, outdoor shows, gospel groups, music acts, light shows, shopping venues, eateries and more.

Avalon, California

Avalon is on Santa Catalina Island off the Southern California and is a beautiful, upscale place, only reachable by ferry and small plane.

La Quinta, California

Next to the Santa Rosa Mountains in sunny south central California, pretty La Quinta is the site of the world-famous PGA West golf complex and is popular with tourists and "snowbirds." It boasts a charming charming Old Town, a world class art celebration and more.

Sequim, Washington

Tucked amid lavender farms, strawberry farms and raspberry farms on the scenic Olympic Peninsula in western Washington, cozy Sequim is quiet and relaxed. The downtown is cute; the scenery is beautiful, and outdoor recreation abounds.

Lawrence, Kansas

With its lively, collegiate atmosphere, leafy neighborhoods and nearby lake recreation, Lawrence often lands on "best places to live" lists.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Popular with artists and historians, Santa Fe is sophisticated but understated and is known for its unique architecture, rich heritage, top notch restaurants, art galleries and hint of mysticism. It is a great retirement spot!

Saranac Lake, New York

Nestled in scenic Adirondack Park in Upstate New York, the picturesque village of Saranac Lake boasts outstanding mountain and lake recreation, a nice downtown and reasonable prices.

Grapevine, Texas

A quaint, welcoming town outside of Dallas-Fort Worth, Grapevine gets its name from the wild grapes that once carpeted the land. Wineries are prevalent, and adjacent 8,000-acre Lake Grapevine boasts marinas and wilderness trails.

Ellijay, Georgia

In the lush Appalachian foothills of North Georgia, little Ellijay is the "Apple Capital of Georgia" and has an apple festival, wineries and antique stores (some people call it a drinking town with an antiques problem).

Inviting Ellijay Home with Acreage Sale for $259,900

This single family home is tucked in the woods and has four+ acres and three nice outbuildings.

Temple, Texas

In central Texas, about 45 minutes north of Austin, Temple is a comfortable town with an award-winning regional medical center, an award-winning library, a symphony orchestra, leafy neighborhoods, reasonably priced housing and more.

Town Snippet and Home for Sale:

St. Petersburg, Florida Waterfront Home for Sale for $219,400

This coastal home overlooks water and boat slips.

Town Snippet and Home for Sale:

Huddleston, Virginia Resort Home for Sale for $145,000

This snug home is in a lakeside resort with a small beach and a golf course.

Lewisville, Texas

Lewisville is a friendly city along the shores of 29,000-acre Lewisville Lake outside of Dallas and has an active Old Town, a large marina, numerous shopping centers and much more.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Next to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in the scenic rolling hills of East Tennessee, lively Gatlinburg is a tourist magnet with a never-ending list of fun things to do.

Southport, North Carolina

With an idyllic coastal setting, the little working fishing village of Southport boasts marinas, salt-laden air and a well-worn waterfront dock.

Cooperstown, New York

In Upstate New York's lush Catskill Mountains, Cooperstown is a picturesque village along Otsego Lake and home to the Baseball Hall of Fame, abundant water recreation, a charming, touristy downtown, great eateries and more.

Cloudcroft, New Mexico

Tucked high in the majestic Rocky Mountains and surrounded by national forest, little Cloudcroft is remote, rustic and a bit touristy, thanks to the elegant, possibly haunted Lodge at Cloudcroft.

Sebastian, Florida

A sleepy town along the Indian River Lagoon, Sebastian is home to the country's first wildlife refuge and most biologically diverse estuary. People live here, too.

A Sebastian Home in a Waterfront Community for Sale for $275,000

Located in a waterfront community with a boat dock, this nice home has woods and slight water views.

Strasburg, Pennsylvania

In the scenic Pennsylvania Dutch Country, historic Strasburg was settled by Huguenots and Mennonites and today is known as "Train Town, USA."

Cottonwood, Arizona

In the rugged, high altitude Verde Valley of central Arizona, Cottonwood has a fun historic center, plenty of outdoor recreation, nearby wineries, safe neighborhoods and lots of sunshine.

Colonial Beach, Virginia

Colonial Beach is a safe, slightly faded waterfront town with reasonable prices and Virginia's second longest beachfront.

Colonial Beach Waterfront Home for Sale for $240,000

This home sits next to the water and has views from the bedroom and living room.

Town Snapshot:

Bayonet Point, Florida

In an area dotted with primitive wetlands and woodlands, peaceful Bayonet Point sits next to Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park, which is adjacent to the Gulf of Mexico and brimming with wildlife.

An Attractive Cottownwood Single Family Home for Sale for $350,000

This airy home has an open floorplan and very reasonable HOA fees.

Apex, North Carolina

In a pine forest outside of Raleigh, Apex has a charming downtown, well-tended neighborhoods, lots of green spaces, an educated populace and three nearby universities.

Lexington, Kentucky

Kentucky's second largest city is in the heart of the state's lush Bluegrass Region and is known as the "Horse Capital of the World." Locals enjoy equestrian events, museums, an opera company, festivals, college sports and more.

Everglades City, Florida

Just across the water from the wild and remote Ten Thousand Islands on the southwestern Florida coast, little Everglades City earns its keep through tourist fishing trips and canoe excursions. Locals enjoy some tasty seafood eateries, a fun festival and abundant wildlife.

Everglades City Stilt Home in a Waterfront Community for Sale for $259,000

This tall home is in a community with a boat ramp and boat storage.

Marathon, Florida

Balmy, sun soaked Marathon sits in the middle of the Florida Keys and is popular with fishermen, divers and snorkelers. Locals also enjoy some fun festivals and scenic beaches.

Cute Marathon Home in a Waterfront Community for Sale for $134,900

This darling home is in a waterside community with a marina and a boat dock.

Key West, Florida

Originally a Spanish fishing village, today Key West draws tourists from around the world with its lively tropical vibe, famous Duval Street, fun shops and eateries, nightly events and more.

Key West Home with Partial Water Views for Sale for $350,000

This colorful home boasts partial water views.

Auburn, California

Tucked in the western foothills of the Sierra Nevadas, Auburn dates back to the California Gold Rush and has an attractive downtown, wooded neighborhoods, a symphony, art studio tours, a wine trail and abundant outdoor recreation.

Kure Beach, North Carolina

Kure Beach is on the southern end of the barrier island Pleasure Island and is a relaxed place, home to a nice boardwalk and miles of clean white beaches.

A Kure Beach Oceanfront Home for Sale for $305,000

This oceanfront home has water views and is just feet from the beach.

Mount Pleasant, South Carolina

Outside of Charleston on the mid-South Carolina coast, Mount Pleasant boasts an easy tempo, safe, tree-lined neighborhoods with lovely homes, bountiful gardens, pretty beaches and more.

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Town Snippet and Home for Sale:

Kure Beach, North Carolina Beachfront Home for Sale for $380,000

On the southern North Carolina shore, relaxed Kure Beach is the site of this colorful beachfront home with an oceanside pool, private beach access and gorgeous views of the sand, blue sky and blue water.

Town Snippet and Home for Sale:

Aitkin, Minnesota Cozy Lakeside Home for Sale for $122,900

Next to ocean-like 132,000-acre Mille Lacs Lake in central Minnesota, Aitkin is the site of this cozy lakeside home with sweeping water views and a boat dock.

Town Snippet and Home for Sale:

Lake City, Minnesota Sleek Lakeside Home for Sale for $289,000

Along 30,000-acre Lake Pepin in southeastern Minnesota, Lake City is the locale of this sleek lakeside home with tall windows facing two directions and magnificent water views. This home has a pending offer.

Rock Hall, Maryland

A quaint fishing village on the Chesapeake Bay, Rock Hall boasts a dozen marinas, nautical-themed events, a small beach and reasonable prices.

Laramie, Wyoming

East of the Snowy Mountains in southwestern Wyoming, easygoing Laramie sits beneath a looming blue sky on a grassy plain and is home to the University of Wyoming.

Centre, Alabama

Tucked along 33,000-acre Weiss Lake in the backwoods of northeastern Alabama, Centre boasts outstanding water recreation and reasonable prices.

Centre Waterfront Home for Sale for $135,000

This waterfront home is in a replica Mississippi paddle boat and has sweeping views of water and woods.

Old Saybrook, Connecticut

Beautiful Old Saybrook sits where the Connecticut River meets Long Island Sound on the central Connecticut coast and oozes understated New England charm. For many years, it was Katherine Hepburn's home and has a wonderful downtown and lovely homes.

Salem, Oregon

Just an hour from the coast, Salem is a quiet, mid-sized city in the lush Willamette Valley in northwestern Oregon and is surrounded by natural beauty.

Norris, Tennessee

Nestled in the lush rolling hills of northeastern Tennessee, leafy Norris is a charming country town with cute homes, a pretty central square, a famers' market, fun festivals and more.

Cute Norris Home for Sale for $189,900

This colorful Norris doll house sits at angle to the street and has a wooded lot.

Panama City Beach, Florida

On the Florida Panhandle's Emerald Coast, Panama City Beach is famous for its 27 miles of mesmerizing white powdery beaches and sparkling blue-green waters.

Lovely Panama City Beach Waterfront Home for Sale for $329,000

This sleek, gray and white home boasts water and city views.

Winter Garden, Florida

Winter Garden is a pleasant lakeside town known for its delightful downtown, leafy neighborhoods, fun farmers' market, good parks system and more.

Montgomery, Texas Lakefront Home for Sale for $215,000

On the shores of 21,000 Lake Conroe outside of Houston, Montgomery is the setting for this inviting lakeside home for sale. It has its own boat slip and is in a community surrounded by water on three sides.

Palm Coast, Florida

A pleasant place along the northeastern Florida coast, Palm Coast started as a planned community. Many of its homes back to a canal, and white sand oceanfront beaches are just 10 minutes away.

Palm Coast Resort Home with Ocean Views for Sale for $379,900

This resort home boasts sweeping views of water, sky and beautiful amenities.

Cañon City, Colorado

Along the Arkansas River at nearly 5,500 feet above sea level in the scenic Rocky Mountains of south central Colorado, Cañon City has a rich history, a handsome downtown, a growing arts scene, outstanding outdoor recreation and a few prisons.

Winchester, Virginia

Surrounded by apple orchards deep in northern Virginia's lush Shenandoah Valley, Winchester is a quaint, historic town full of fun shops, great eateries and lively festivals.

A Charming Winchester Home for Sale for $279,000

This charming single family home has a white picket fence and red shutters.

McKinney, Texas

Outside of Dallas, McKinney is a leafy, growing town with a lovely, historic town core, nearby lake recreation and a replica European fishing village.

Miramar Beach, Florida

A classic beach town, Miramar Beach is nestled along the Florida Panhandle and is famous for its mesmerizing turquoise waters and miles of sugar white sand.

Easley, South Carolina

Lush and low key, Easley is nestled at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains in northwestern South Carolina and boasts a country ambiance.

Darling Easley Bungalow for Sale for $137,772

This charming bunglaow single family home has no HOA fee.

Lake Alfred, Florida

Leafy and rural, Lake Alfred is a peaceful place in central Florid and has five named lakes with plenty of opportunities for fishing and boating.

Modest Lake Alfred Home in a Waterfront Community for Sale for $51,995

This home has a long boardwalk leading to its private boat dock and boat lift.

Hernando, Mississippi

Outside of Memphis, Tennessee, Hernando has a leafy town center, nicely maintained historic homes, Mississippi's best farmers' market, reasonable costs and more.

A Cozy Miramar Beach Resort Home for Sale for $279,000

This lovely home is in the Sandestin Beach and Golf Resort and has leafy views.

Valdese, North Carolina

Founded by Italian Waldensian immigrants, Valdese has a scenic setting and is proud of its unique Old World heritage.

Morro Bay, California

Laid back Morro Bay is a beach town with an excellent farmers' market, a seaside golf course and fun festivals.

Pinehurst, North Carolina

Charming Pinehurst is in the rolling Sandhills region of south central North Carolina and was originally designed to resemble a New England village. Today it is a golf destination with a cute downtown.

Cute Pinehurst Home for Sale for $265,000

This single family home has a nice deck and no HOA fee.

Orlando, Florida

Dotted with lakes and ponds, sunny Orlando is a bustling city in east central Florida and is home to famous theme parks, a university, plentiful cultural amenities, dozens of distinct neighborhoods and more.

Remodeled Orlando Home with Lake Views for Sale for $175,000

This nice home has a balcony with lake views and is in an amenity-rich community.

Town Snapshots:

Madeira Beach, Florida

"Two miles long and a smile wide," compact Madeira Beach sits on an island between the Gulf of Mexico and the Boca Ciega Bay and has a colorful mix of housing.

Sahuarita, Arizona

Outside of Tucson in sun-soaked southern Arizona, pretty, fast-growing Sahuarita is home to pecan orchards, dozens of parks and safe neighborhoods with Southwestern architecture.

A Stylish Sahuarita Home for Sale for $195,000

This stylish home has a two tone exterior, a ceramic tile roof and a reasonable HOA fee.

Lake Waccamaw, North Carolina

The quiet little town of Lake Waccamaw is on the northern edge of oval-shaped, 9,000-acre Lake Waccamaw and is popular with second home owners.

Eastpoint, Florida

On a "Forgotten Coast," Eastpoint, a secluded little village, sits next to a state forest, across from a barrier island and close to pristine beaches.

Centre, Alabama

Nestled along tranquil Lake Weiss in northeastern Alabama, Centre is quiet, affordable and down to earth. Is it a great place to retire?

Hawaiian Ocean View Estates, Hawaii

This sprawling, rural subdivision is bordered by water, a forest preserve and is mostly off the grid.

Yonahlossee is a lush mountain resort with properties for sale.

Pinehurst, North Carolina

Charming Pinehurst was originally designed to resemble a New England village and today is a golf destination with a cute downtown.

Stuart, Florida

Once a pirates' lair, friendly Stuart sits on southeastern Florida's famed Treasure Coast and today is known as the "Sailfish Capital of the World."

Stuart Home with Water Views for Sale for $244,900

This home is in a community with boat docks and has water views.

Land O' Lakes, Florida

Pretty Land O' Lakes is a quiet place, dotted with bodies of water and shaded neighborhoods. It also has a couple of nudist resorts.

Oro Valley, Arizona

In the pretty Santa Catalina Mountain foothills north of Tucson in southern Arizona, sun soaked Oro Valley is home to safe neighborhoods and master planned communities, high tech and biotech companies, golf courses and plenty of other opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Mauldin, South Carolina

Mauldin sits in the shadow of the Blue Ridge Mountains and is a pleasant, well-managed place.

Horseshoe Bay, Texas

A scenic town on the shores of Lake Lyndon B. Johnson, Horseshoe Bay is home to the Horseshoe Bay Resort and boasts lovely homes.

Pine Mountain, Georgia

Outside of Atlanta in western Georgia, cute little Pine Mountain has a small, touristy downtown, reasonable costs and is close to beautiful Callway Gardens, FDR's Little White House and sprawling F.D. Roosevelt State Park.

Scottsdale, Arizona

Just east of Phoenix in sunny southern Arizona, Scottsdale is an upscale, bustling city known for its art galleries, excellent restaurants, high-end shopping, beautiful homes and many golf courses.

Cozy Oceanside Myrtle Beach Home for Sale for $124,900

This snug but airy home has ocean views and a waterfront swimming pool.

Edwardsville, Illinois

Edwardsville is a friendly city in southwestern Illinois, just 25 miles outside of St. Louis, Missouri. It is home to Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville, which has a beautiful, wooded campus.

Steamboat Springs, Colorado

Trendy and touristy, Steamboat Springs is tucked in Colorado's rugged northwestern mountains and is a magnet for elite skiers and vacationing families.

Thompson Falls, Montana

This pretty town is completely surrounded by national forests, lakes and rivers. Opportunities for camping, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, skiing and wildlife viewing abound. There is also a beautiful golf course.

Surfside Beach, South Carolina

An easygoing oceanfront town, Surfside Beach is on South Carolina's lively Grand Stand and has two miles of sparkling white sand beaches with 36 access points.

Castle Rock, Colorado

On grassy rolling hills under a massive, majestic blue sky 15 miles east of the Rocky Mountains in north central Colorado, Castle Rock has a charming downtown and sleek, safe neighborhoods tucked amind vestiges of its frontier past.

Isle of Hope, Georgia

Isle of Hope is an enchanting little coastal town with elegant manors, canopied lanes, a picturesque marina and a deep sense of history.

Fredericksburg, Texas

Known for its beautiful German architecture, touristy, historic Fredericksburg is in the Texas Hill Country and is surrounded by peach groves, herb farms and bluebonnet fields.

Placencia Village, Belize

Laid back Placencia Village sits on the southern tip of a long peninsula and is best known for its 16 miles of powder white beaches and crystal clear blue waters.

Highlands, North Carolina

A cozy Appalachian Mountain resort getaway, Highlands is within the boundaries of the Nantahala National Forest and brims with charm.

New Bern, North Carolina

Historic New Bern is in North Carolina's Inner Banks region where the Neuse River and Trent River converge. Often overlooked by tourists as they hurry on their way to oceanfront beaches, it has a charming downtown, beautiful homes and reasonable prices.

New Bern Waterfront Resort Home for Sale for $190,000

This waterside home is in a large resort and has unimpeded water views.

Belle Isle, Florida

Leafy and quiet, Belle Isle completely surrounds Lake Conway outside of Orlando and has more surface water than land within town limits. Homes sit along the shoreline, and water recreation opportunities abound.

Mountain View, Arkansas

Tucked in a scenic valley in north central Arkansas' lush, rural Ozark Mountains, homey Mountain View is known as the "Folk Music Capital of the World." Festivals are many, and the nearby Ozark National Forest is perfect for fishing, kayaking and camping.

Destin, Florida

Once a small fishing village, Destin sits on Florida's Panhandle and has grown into a major tourist destination known for its stunning oceanfront white sand beaches and translucent turquoise waters.

Yellow Springs, Ohio

Outside of Dayton in southwestern Ohio, Yellow Springs is a charming, offbeat village with colorful shops, art galleries, eateries, studio tours and more.

In Depth Review:

Royal Palm Beach, Florida

Dotted with lakes and laced with canals, suburban Royal Palm Beach is in southeastern Florida and has neat neighborhoods, good restaurants and plenty of parks.

Random Florida Home for Sale:

Punta Gorda, Florida Waterfront Home for Sale for $117,750

This darling home sits immediately next to a deep water canal and has very pretty views of boats, residences and water.

Rehoboth Beach, Delaware

Part of Delaware's touristy waterfront resort area, old fashioned Rehoboth Beach is known for its mile-long wooden boardwalk and classic beach vibe.

Socastee, South Carolina

Just west of entertainment-hub Myrtle Beach, Socastee is reasonably priced with neatly laid out neighborhoods and classic beaches just down the road.

Abingdon, Virginia

Surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains in lush western Virginia, historic Abingdon has an active arts scene, an attractive downtown, reasonable prices and more.

Palisade, Colorado

Tucked along the Colorado River in rugged western Colorado, peaceful Palisade is surrounded by peach orchards, truck farms and a growing number of vineyards. It is also an outdoor adventure hub.

Newport, North Carolina

Peaceful Newport sits near Bogue Sound on North Carolina's Crystal Coast and has a country seaside vibe with reasonable housing costs.

Forest, Virginia

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of scenic central Virginia, Forest is home to wonderful Poplar Forest, one of Thomas Jefferson’s summer residences, and is popular with history buffs.

Galveston, Texas

Spread across two barrier islands on Texas' eastern Gulf Coast, Galveston is a quirky and slightly worn but has a friendly reputation and plenty of things to do.

Venice, Florida

Once a sleepy fishing village, charming Venice boasts palm-lined streets, a strong arts culture, calm waters and dark sand beaches.

Snowflake, Arizona

In the sunny high desert of eastern Arizona, Snowflake has a performing arts center, a symphony, homes with white picket fences and reasonable prices.

Port Royal, South Carolina

On the southern South Carolina coast, sleepy Port Royal is a place where boating and fishing are a way of life, with quiet waterways twisting past cypress swamps, historic plantation homes, tidal marshes and estuaries.

New London, North Carolina

Nestled along Badin Lake in southwestern North Carolina, New London is a nice country town with reasonable prices, a beautiful golf course, homes with acreage and plenty of water recreation.

New London Waterfront Home for Sale for $235,000

This charming home is about 30 feet from Badin Lake and has a beautiful deck overlooking the water.

Wake Forest, North Carolina

Comfortable Wake Forest is part of the vibrant Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill's Research Triangle and has an attractive downtown, plenty of parks and leafy neighborhoods.

Ocean View, Delaware

Quiet and safe, Ocean View touches Indian River Bay in southern Delaware and is adjacent to popular seaside resort Bethany Beach. Oceanfront beaches are about a mile to the east.

Signal Mountain, Tennessee

On a tall ridge at the end of the Cumberland Plateau in southeastern Tennessee, pretty Signal Mountain overlooks the impressive Tennessee River and has a suburban, country vibe.

Norris, Tennessee

Nestled in the lush rolling hills of northeastern Tennessee, Norris is a charming town based on the English garden city design movement of the 1890s and has a pretty central square. Is it a great place to retire?

Tavares, Florida

Located in north central Florida, mellow, semi-rural Tavares bills itself as "America's Seaplane City" and borders four large lakes.

Mesa, Arizona

A large Phoenix suburb, Mesa is home to golf courses, an arts center, 10 aquatic centers and a large variety of neighborhoods and housing.

Estero, Florida

Started as a Utopian religious colony, today Estero boasts abundant wildlife, plenty of recreational opportunities and beautiful nearby oceanfront beaches.

Avalon, California

Avalon is on Santa Catalina Island in Southern California and is a beautiful, upscale place, only reachable by ferry and small plane.

Petoskey, Michigan

Petoskey is a cute resort community on the banks of Lake Michigan's sparkling Little Traverse Bay and is bordered by deep forests and rushing rivers. Locals enjoy an arts center, a marina, the Historic Gaslight District and a bounty of outdoor adventure.

Arrowhead Ranch

Hanapepe, Hawaii

On the island of Kauai, mellow Hanapepe sits in a lush valley and is home to cute shops, artists, entrepreneurs and overgrown neighborhoods.

Pearland, Texas

Pleasant, suburban Pearland is outside of Houston in southeastern Texas and has safe neighborhoods, master-planned communities and nearby lakes.

Alva, Florida

At the western edge of the Okeechobee Waterway, Alva has a landscape of grazing cattle, citrus groves and large oak trees with hanging moss, evoking Old Florida.

Florence, Oregon

On the rugged Oregon coast, Florence is a weathered, touristy hamlet with a cute downtown, uncrowded beaches and a magical hobbit trail.

Canyon, Texas

Canyon, the setting for West Texas A&M University, is also the gateway to Palo Duro Canyon State Park, a dramatic canyon system second only in size to the Grand Canyon.

Fredericksburg, Texas

Known for its beautiful German architecture, touristy, historic Fredericksburg is in the Texas Hill Country and is surrounded by peach groves, herb farms and bluebonnet fields.

Winchester, Virginia

Surrounded by apple orchards deep in northern Virginia's beautiful Shenandoah Valley, Winchester is a quaint place rich in history.

Fletcher, North Carolina

Nestled in scenic western North Carolina, Fletcher sits in hilly terrain and has a suburban, country vibe.

Florence, Oregon

On the rugged Oregon coast, Florence is a weathered, touristy hamlet with a cute downtown, uncrowded beaches and a magical hobbit trail.

Cody, Wyoming

Beneath towering blue skies, Cody is a peaceful, pretty place and is the eastern gateway to gorgeous Yellowstone National Park. Locals enjoy a rich Western heritage and a casual way of life.

Gilbert, Arizona

Outside of Phoenix, Gilbert lands on "best places to live" lists and boasts plentiful shopping, good eateries and safe neighborhoods.

Lexington, South Carolina

Just two hours away from everything (according to locals), Lexington boasts reasonable prices and nearby lake recreation.

Northlake, South Carolina

A waterfront town popular with tourists, Northlake has well-tended, leafy neighborhoods and a reasonable cost of living.

Northampton, Massachusetts

Home to prestigious Smith College, leafy Northampton is at the base of the Berkshires and has a collegiate vibe, a lively downtown and a bounty of amenities, everything from plays and workshops to botanic gardens and farmers' markets.

Lanai City, Hawaii  

In the central highlands of Lanai, Lanai City is an old plantation town with many of its 1920s building still standing. A ferry takes locals to Maui for shopping and services.

Beaufort, North Carolina

Once home to pirates, rum runners and sea captains, this waterfront hamlet is now popular with history lovers, romantics, water aficionados and retirees.

Port Orange, Florida

Nestled on the Intracoastal Waterway, Port Orange is a pleasant, well-managed city with safe neighborhoods, nice shopping venues, fun festivals, plenty of green spaces and reasonable costs.

Summerville, South Carolina

Just outside of Charleston in South Carolina, Summerville charms with its elegant homes, leisurely pace and bounty of colorful flower gardens.

North Redington Beach, Florida

A low key oceanfront town, North Redington Beach is packed with condos, hotels and single family waterfront homes. The mile-long, sugar white beach is the town highlight.

Conway, Arkansas

One of Arkansas' largest cities, Conway is home to three colleges and close to lake recreation.

Amherst, Massachusetts

Stimulating, youthful Amherst sits in a region known as Happy Valley in rural western Massachusetts and may be one of the most progressive places in the United States.

Evans, Georgia

Just outside of Augusta in eastern Georgia, Evans sits in the middle of golf country and is quiet and safe.

Largo, Florida

Sandwiched betweeen Tampa Bay and the Intracoastal Waterway on Florida's Gulf Coast, Largo is dotted with lakes and has a bustling downtown. Nearby beaches include Maderia Beach and Redington Beach.

Steinhatchee, Florida

On the rural Big Bend coast, the relaxed little fishing village of Steinhatchee makes its home, attracting tourists and fishermen alike.

Steinhatchee Landing Resort: a Secluded Resort in Steinhatchee, Florida

Quaint and seductive, Steinhatchee Landing Resort boasts a boat dock, a spa, a swimming pool and charming cottages, some of which are occasionally for sale.

At the edge of the Cumberland Plateau where the mountains meet carpets of bluegrass, rural Berea is a quiet place steeped in Appalachian culture. Home to Berea College, it also attracts tourists and shoppers and is a great retirement spot!

Surfside Beach, South Carolina

An easygoing oceanfront town, Surfside Beach is on the Grand Stand and has two miles of white sand with 36 access points.

Angel Fire, New Mexico

A little village at 8,553 feet above sea level, Angel Fire sits in a beautiful valley in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and is a peaceful, outdoor-oriented place.

Brevard, North Carolina

Tucked in scenic western North Carolina, Brevard beckons with its musical soul, cute downtown, many waterfalls and reasonable cost of living.

Emerald Isle, North Carolina

On one end of a long barrier island, picturesque Emerald Isle boasts white sand beaches, nesting sea turtles, blue green waters and fun festivals.

Chandler, Arizona

Outside of Phoenix in southern Arizona, sunny Chandler boasts nearly a dozen golf courses, a public art gallery, art walks, jazz festivals, block parties and more.

Franklin, Tennessee

Along the Harpeth River in a gently rolling landscape outside of Nashville, Franklin has an award-winning historic downtown, a wine festival, a jazz festival, plenty of eateries and more.

Jerome, Arizona

A quirky old copper mining town and National Historic District, Jerome is a tourist destination and home to an eclectic mix of people.

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Moab, Utah St. James City, Florida Horseshoe Bay, Texas Lake Lure, North Carolina Big Pine Key, Florida

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Where is the best place to retire in the United States 2/14/2021 and in g two days later

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Celebration, Florida

Built by the Walt Disney Company, Celebration boasts tree-lined neighborhoods with New Urbanism architecture and white picket fences, a brightly-colored town center, a pretty waterfront and more. It is a great place to retire?

Key West, Florida

Originally a Spanish fishing village, today Key West draws tourists from around the world with its tropical vibe, famous Duval Street and unique architecture.

Allen, Texas

Hailed as a great place to live, Allen boasts leafy neighborhoods, friendly people, a bounty of parks, a beautiful library, plentiful shopping and more.

Belleair Bluffs, Florida

Compact, coastal Belleair Bluffs rests on one of Florida's highest coastline elevations and is a gateway to beautiful Gulf Coast beaches, including breathtaking Clearwater Beach.

Florence, Oregon

On the rugged, scenic Oregon coast, Florence is a weathered, touristy hamlet with a cute downtown, uncrowded beaches and a magical hobbit trail.

Pullman, Washington

Situated on the Palouse, a stunning agricultural region in southeastern Washington, Pullman is a peaceful place with safe neighborhoods and an academic vibe.

Clearwater, Florida

Popular with tourists and "snowbirds," beautiful Clearwater spans the Pinellas Peninsula on Florida's mid-Gulf Coast and is famous for its breathtaking beaches and turquoise waters.

Cheyenne, Wyoming

On Wyoming's southeastern plains, peaceful, unpretentious Cheyenne makes its home, attracting people looking for the authentic American West, blue skies, dry air and wide open spaces.

Town Snapshot:

Breckenridge, Colorado

Swaddled by tall mountain peaks and thick national forest in spectacular northwestern Colorado, Breckenridge sits beneath cobalt blue skies and is cute, trendy and touristy.

Town Snapshot:

Castle Rock, Colorado

On grassy rolling hills under a massive, majestic sky in north central Colorado, Castle Rock is safe, prosperous and growing fast.

Town Snapshot:

Surfside Beach, Texas

South of Houston in southeastern Texas, little Surfside Beach is a mellow seaside village with a four mile long white sand beach and a boathouse as its city hall.

Largo, Florida

Largo, sandwiched betweeen Old Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico on Florida's west central coast, is a pleasant city with a bustling downtown and lots of lakes.

Red Lodge, Montana

On the way to Yellowstone National Park, Red Lodge is cute, touristy and an outdoor adventure hub in rugged terrain.

Asheville, North Carolina

Nestled between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Smoky Mountains in scenic western North Carolina, Asheville is an artsy, funky town with Southern sensibility and an emerging resort-like atmosphere.

Riverview, Florida

Along the shores of the Alafia River on Florida's southwestern coast, mellow Riverview is dotted with new neighborhoods and is near state parks and world class white sand beaches.

Navarre, Florida

Navarre is a leisurely place on the western Florida Panhandle and is home to a marine sanctuary, a long pier and miles of soft, exceptionally white Gulf Coast beaches caressed by warm emerald waters.

Easley, South Carolina

Lush and low key, Easley is nestled at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains in northwestern South Carolina and boasts a country ambiance.

Rockledge, Florida

Once a winter resort, unassuming Rockledge borders the Indian River on Florida's Space Coast and is not far from the largest pelican rookery on the Atlantic Coast.

Ellijay, Georgia

In the lush Appalachian foothills of northern Georgia, Ellijay is a quiet country town where the whip-poor-wills whistle. It is also known as the "Apple Capital of Georgia."

Big Pine Key, Florida

Part of Florida's Lower Keys, Big Pine Key is a seductive, remote place with an underwater mermaid festival, sandy, overgrown neighborhoods, nearby beaches and an ends-of-the-world feeling.

Corpus Christi, Texas

A laid back coastal city, Corpus Christi has an eclectic population, a pretty skyline, a nice bayfront, plenty of beaches and more.

Port Costa, California

This quirky upscale East Bay town is in a lush canyon 30 miles north east of San Francisco and is part of the scenic Carquinez Strait shoreline.

Lakeland, Florida

Peaceful Lakeland, also known as Swan City, has a nice downtown, 38 named lakes and a way of life that revolves around the water.

Palm Shores, Florida

Next to the Indian River Lagoon on Florida's Space Coast, Palm Shores is a quiet, reasonable priced town where many people know one another.

Palisade, Colorado

Tucked along the Colorado River in rugged western Colorado, Palisade is surrounded by peach orchards, truck farms and a growing number of vineyards.

Melbourne Beach, Florida

Unhurried Melbourne Beach sits on a barrier island along Florida's Space Coast and is known for its beautiful stretches of white sand oceanfront beaches.

Gainesville, Florida

This college town boasts a chamber orchestra, a ballet company, community theaters, art galleries, a variety of housing and reasonable prices.

Red Lodge, Montana

On the way to gorgeous Yellowstone National Park, Red Lodge is cute, touristy and an outdoor adventure hub in rugged terrain.

Orange Beach, Alabama

With sugar white sand, emerald waters and tall, gleaming beachside condos, Orange Beach looks like a picture postcard and is a favorite vacation destination.

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Floral City, Florida

Old fashioned Floral City is a quiet, country place at the edge of the Tsala Apopka Chain of Lakes and has tall oaks, reasonable prices and a nice reputation.

Whitefish, Montana

Once a logging hub, today cozy Whitefish is a touristy year round resort with a spectacular mountain scenery backdrop.

Tequesta, Florida

Beautiful, balmy Tequesta is tucked between the Atlantic Ocean and two waterways on Florida's southeastern coast. It has a life-guarded oceanfront beach, with another 2,000 feet of primitive beach to the south. Both strips of sand are full of seashells but often empty of humans.

Mary Esther, Florida

Just across the Sound from beautiful Santa Rosa Island on the Florida Panhandle, friendly Mary Esther is close to sparkling white sand beaches and has reasonable prices.

Murfreesboro, Tennessee

Outside of Nashville, amiable Murfreesboro exudes a quiet country charm. It is also a shopping hub, full of friendly folks and home to Middle Tennessee State University.

Brookings, Oregon

On Oregon's stunning southern coast, Brookings has quiet beaches, an attractive downtown, a farmers' market, art galleries and the ever popular Winter Art and Chocolate Festival.

Lady Lake, Florida

Home to part of The Villages, the large 55+ community, Lady Lake is a quiet place with lakes, safe neighborhoods and leafy lanes.

Horseshoe Bay, Texas

A scenic town on the shores of Lake Lyndon B. Johnson in central Texas, Horseshoe Bay is home to the Horseshoe Bay Resort and has lovely homes, open spaces and beach access.

Town Snapshot:

Steamboat Springs, Colorado

Trendy and touristy, Steamboat Springs is tucked in Colorado's rugged northwestern mountains and is a magnet for both elite skiers and vacationing families. All kinds of outdoor recreation abounds, from rafting whitewater rapids to mastering a mountain covered in champagne powder.

Key West, Florida

Originally a Spanish fishing village, today Key West draws tourists from around the world with its tropical vibe, famous Duval Street and charming architecture.

Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania

Beautiful Jim Thorpe is tucked in eastern Pennsylvania's lush Pocono Mountains and is known as the "Switzerland of America." It is safe, touristy and brimming with extraordinary Victorian architecture.

Edgewater, Florida

Quiet, safe Edgewater is a waterfront town just west of the Mosquito Lagoon Aquatic Preserve on Florida's northeastern coast and has a country quality.

Carmel, California

With a history dating back to Spanish missionaries, a stunning setting and a rich artistic tradition, beautiful Carmel is hard to resist.

Citrus Springs, Florida

This low key town/master planned community has a country quality, a couple of golf courses, planned events, lots of wildlife and nearby rivers and state parks perfect for outdoor adventure.

Gold Canyon, Arizona

Nestled in the foothills of the rugged Superstition Mountains outside of Phoenix, Gold Canyon is known for its five 18-hole golf courses, excellent restaurants, renowned Renaissance Festival and beautiful views.

Tequesta, Florida

Beautiful, balmy Tequesta is burrowed between two waterways on Florida's southeastern coast and is part of the Jupiter Inlet.

Morro Bay, California  

Mellow, "beachy" Morro Bay became a summer vacation destination at the turn of the 20th century. After World War II, it also became a fishing village and is still one today.

Slab City, California  

Known as the "last free place in America," Slab City is a squatter settlement that is home a a sizeable number of RV "snowbirds" and people who want to live off the grid.

Coconut Creek, Florida

Near the southeastern Florida coast and named after its many coconut palms, Coconut Creek has an abundance of parks, gardens, canals and lushly landscaped avenues, not to mention the world's largest butterfly aviary.

Traverse City, Michigan

With a dazzling waterfront setting, charming Traverse City boasts leafy neighborhoods, a lively cultural community, a growing wine scene and abundant outdoor recreation.

Estero, Florida

Originally a religious colony, today Estero boasts abundant wildlife, plenty of recreational opportunities and beautiful nearby oceanfront beaches.

Tempe, Arizona

Outside of Phoenix in sunny southern Arizona, Tempe is home to the University of Arizona, plenty of golf courses, a popular arts festival and more.

Gloucester, Virginia

Pretty Gloucester is along Mobjack Bay on the southern Virginia coast and brims history and stately homes.

Bayonet Point, Florida

In an area dotted with primitive wetlands and woodlands, peaceful Bayonet Point sits next to Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park, which is adjacent to the Gulf of Mexico and brimming with wildlife.

Rockledge, Florida

Once a winter resort, unassuming Rockledge borders the Indian River on Florida's Space Coast and is not far from the largest pelican rookery on the Atlantic Coast.

Tarpon Springs, Florida

Along a series of bayous and the Gulf of Mexico, Tarpon Springs boasts a rich Greek culture and a charming tourist area with an eclectic collection of sponge shops, galleries and eateries.

Satellite Beach, Florida

A quiet coastal town, Satellite Beach has eight miles of sugar white sand, waterfront parks and a wildlife habitat accessible only by boat.

Newport, Oregon

On Oregon's beautiful, rugged central coast, Newport boasts a picturesque marina, art deco architecture from the 1920s and 1930s and plenty of nautical character.

Pembroke Pines, Florida

A quiet suburban atmosphere, wide boulevards lined with palm trees and neighborhoods interwoven with canals are Pembroke Pines' highlights.

Wenatchee, Washington

In rugged terrain east of the Cascade Mountain Range, picturesque Wenatchee sits amid rivers, mountains and apple orchards.

Newport, North Carolina

Near Bogue Sound on North Carolina's Crystal Coast, peaceful Newport has a shoreline, country vibe and reasonable housing costs.

Ormond-by-the-Sea, Florida

Ormond-by-the-Sea is a tranquil barrier island community on the northeastern Florida coast. The beach, long and white, is rarely crowded, and costs are reasonable.

Highland Beach, Florida

Along the southeastern Florida coast, balmy Highland Beach boasts beautiful homes, a soft, white oceanfront beach and a lack of stoplights.

Hilo, Hawaii

Next to sparkling Hilo Bay on Hawaii's Big Island, sleepy Hilo boasts a verdant landscape, beautiful ocean views, an old fashioned cityscape and a very mellow way of life.

Bowling Green, Kentucky

Tucked in the rolling hills of western Kentucky, Bowling Green was once the capital of Confederate Kentucky and today is home to Western Kentucky University.

Town Snapshot:

Tequesta, Florida

Beautiful, balmy Tequesta is tucked between two waterways on Florida's southeastern coast and is part of the Jupiter Inlet.

Town Snapshot:

Mesquite, Nevada

Along the Virgin River in southern Nevada, Mesquite, once just a dusty, desert outpost, is today a gambling resort that draws three million tourists per year.

Isle of Palms, South Carolina

This affluent barrier island town is 15 miles east of Charleston on the mid-South Carolina coast and is known for its clean beaches, colorful, open-air eateries and beautiful homes.

Dillard, Georgia

The little town of Dillard is buried in northern Georgia's Blue Ridge Mountains and is popular with tourists and "weekenders" from Atlanta.

Town Snapshot:

Panama City Beach, Florida

On the Florida Panhandle's Emerald Coast, Panama City Beach is famous for its 27 miles of mesmerizing white powdery beaches and sparkling blue-green waters.

Belle Isle, Florida

Leafy and quiet, Belle Isle completely surrounds Lake Conway outside of Orlando and has more surface water than land within town limits. Water recreation opportunities abound.

Yellow Springs, Ohio

Outside of Dayton in southwestern Ohio, Yellow Springs is a charming, offbeat village with colorful shops, art galleries, eateries, studio tours and more.

Buffalo, Wyoming

Buffalo is a quaint, authentic, high-altitude town tucked along Clear Creek at the foot of the rugged Big Horn Mountains in north central Wyoming and is often called "Mayberry of the West."

Conroe, Texas

On the shores of Lake Conroe outside of Houston in southeastern Texas, Conroe has wooded neighborhoods, a nice downtown and a country vibe.

Edgewater, Florida

Peaceful, safe Edgewater is a waterfront town just west of the Mosquito Lagoon Aquatic Preserve on Florida's northeastern coast and has a country quality. Oceanfront beaches are five minutes away.

Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Florida

A laid back town on a barrier island, Lauderdale-by-the-Sea is popular with snorkelers and divers and maintains a prosperous, bohemian vibe.

Melbourne Beach, Florida

Unhurried Melbourne Beach sits on a barrier island along Florida's Space Coast and is known for its beautiful stretches of white sand oceanfront beaches.

Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania

Beautiful Jim Thorpe is tucked in eastern Pennsylvania's lush Pocono Mountains and is known as the "Switzerland of America." It is safe, touristy and brimming with extraordinary Victorian architecture.

Dundee, Oregon

A wine and foodie town, Dundee is nestled in the beautiful, fertile countryside of northwestern Oregon's Willamette Valley and has a walkable downtown, a farmers' market and more.

Jacksonville Beach, Florida

On the northeastern Florida coast, touristy Jacksonville Beach has classic white sand oceanfront beaches, a beautiful golf course, a fun boardwalk and a long pier.

Sneads Ferry, North Carolina

With deep roots and an easy way about it, this little coastal town is home to gentle breezes, a popular shrimp festival and somewhat reasonable prices. Oceanfront beaches are 10 minutes away.

Flower Mound, Texas

Outside of Dallas/Fort Worth, wholesome Flower Mound sits along Grapevine Lake and has parks, miles of trails, well-tended neighborhoods, a nice library, and yes, a flower mound.

Madison, Wisconsin

Situated along the banks of two large lakes, Madison is a progressive college town with festivals, museums, a ballet, an opera, a symphony, a zoo, a fun pedestrian mall and much more.

Bayonet Point, Florida

In an area dotted with primitive wetlands and woodlands, peaceful Bayonet Point sits next to Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park, a place where dolphins, gray foxes and tortoises make their home.

Oriental, North Carolina

A picturesque harbor town on the Neuse River, Oriental is the self-proclaimed "Sailing Capital of North Carolina," and its pretty marina is stocked with tall masted sloops and schooners. Locals enjoy a couple of beaches, fun events and more.

Athens, Ohio  

Attractive Athens sits in the Hocking River Valley in pretty southeastern Ohio and is surrounded by rolling hills. While coal companies were once the major employers here, now Ohio University (22,000 students) is the lifeblood of the city and has a lovely campus.

Rock Hall, Maryland

A quaint fishing village on the Chesapeake Bay, Rock Hall dates from 1701 and has more than a dozen marinas with boats of all shapes and sizes.

Southport, North Carolina

With an idyllic coastal setting, the little working fishing village of Southport boasts marinas, salt-laden air and a well-worn waterfront dock.

Arcata, California

On the edge of pretty Arcata Bay in rugged northern California, Arcata is a very laid back, "granola" kind of place and home to Humboldt State University.

Goose Creek, South Carolina

Pleasant Goose Creek is outside of romantic Charleston on the southern South Carolina coast and has a U.S. Navy presence. Neighborhoods are safe, and prices are reasonable. Oceanfront beaches are down the road on Sullivan Island.

Brevard, North Carolina

Tucked in beautiful western North Carolina, Brevard beckons with its musical soul, cute downtown, many waterfalls and reasonable cost of living.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Next to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in the scenic rolling hills of eastern Tennessee, lively Gatlinburg is a tourist magnet with a never-ending list of fun things to do.

Thayne, Wyoming

Tiny, peaceful Thayne, once called "Little Switzerland," is on the northern edge of Wyoming's Star Valley, a scenic area within 100 miles of Yellowstone National Park and half an hour from Jackson Hole.

Alachua, Florida

A quiet country town with deep agricultural roots, Alachua is outside of Gainesville and has a charming tree-lined downtown and nearby natural springs.

San Pedro, Belize

Compact, colorful and tucked into Belize's largest island, Ambergris Caye, mellow San Pedro is a tourist destination and is popular with divers and snorkelers.

Carson City, Nevada

Beneath a sparkling baby blue sky and next to breathtaking Lake Tahoe, Carson City is a casual place with frontier character, excellent outdoor recreation, nine casinos and more.

Satellite Beach, Florida

A quiet barrier island town, Satellite Beach has eight miles of sugar white sand, nestling sea turtles, waterfront parks and a wildlife habitat accessible only by boat.

Laguna Beach, Florida

Low key Laguna Beach sits on the central Florida Panhandle coast and is a residential community with a long, wide stretch of undeveloped soft white sand tucked against the dazzling, warm turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico.

Coral Springs, Florida

Bordered by Everglades National Park, Coral Springs started out as a master planned development and today is known for its well managed government and rich quality of life.

Ocean View, Delaware

Quiet and safe, Ocean View touches Indian River Bay in southern Delaware and is adjacent to popular Bethany Beach, a popular, high-end seaside resort to the east.

Town Snapshot:

Swarthmore, Pennsylvania

Lovely Swarthmore, home to small, prestigious Swarthmore College, has a cute downtown and a low key collegiate vibe.

New Smyrna Beach, Florida

The mellow seaside hamlet of New Smyrna Beach is on the northeastern Florida coast and boasts a long clean beach, excellent water recreation, an artsy vibe and a cute downtown.

Cornelius, North Carolina

Nestled along Lake Norman in rolling western North Carolina, Cornelius is a pretty community with an attractive downtown.

Holly Springs, North Carolina

Not far from the largest research park in the country, Holly Springs is a comfortable, growing town with an educated population, nice neighborhoods, a cultural center and more.

Merritt Island, Florida

On the southern end of a peninsula with the same name, mellow Merritt Island is near 140,000-Acre Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge and the Stunning Canaveral National Seashore.

Abingdon, Virginia

Surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains in lush western Virginia, historic Abingdon has an active arts scene, an attractive downtown, reasonable prices and more.

Green Valley, Arizona

Sunny Green Valley is outside of Tucson in southern Arizona and boasts reasonable living costs, a mature demographic and a bounty of recreational opportunities.

Athens, Georgia

Outside of Atlanta, leafy Athens is known as the "Classic City" and is home to the University of Georgia and has a lively atmosphere, a fun downtown, strong senior programs, a rich cultural scene and stately architecture.

Laramie, Wyoming

East of the Snowy Mountains in southwestern Wyoming, easygoing Laramie sits beneath a looming blue sky on a grassy, windswept plain and is home to the University of Wyoming.

Short Review:

Venice, Florida

Once a sleepy fishing village, charming Venice boasts palm-lined streets, a lovely downtown, calm waters and dark sand beaches.

Town Snapshot:

Ellenton, Florida

A relaxed riverfront town, Ellenton has a rural quality, an interesting mix of neighborhoods, a historic plantation and nearby beaches.

In Depth Review:

Russellville, Arkansas

Swaddled by lush rolling hills in west central Arkansas, Russellville sits along the Arkansas River between the Ozark Mountains and the Ouachita Mountains. It is an unpretentious, amiable place with safe neighborhoods and outstanding outdoor recreation.

Marble Falls, Texas

On the banks of the Colorado River, comfortable Marble Falls is in the middle of the Texas Hill Country and the Highland Lakes Chain.

Cannon Beach, Oregon

An upscale, seaside resort community, Cannon Beach has one of the most beautiful beaches in Oregon and is a popular weekend getaway destination.

Gold Beach, Oregon

With an invigorating setting on Oregon's rugged southern coast, little Gold Beach is popular with fishermen, outdoor lovers and retirees.

Clermont, Florida

Snuggled in slightly rolling terrain around a chain of lakes, Clermont is a peaceful, welcoming place and has homes with boat docks.

Tega Cay, South Carolina

Tega Cay sits on a densely forested peninsula on the eastern edge of 13,400-acre Lake Wylie and was built as a gated community in the 1970s.

January 6, 2021

Town Snapshot:

Port St. Joe, Florida

Along the Florida Panhandle coast, Port St. Joe is a quiet, rural deep water port with two traffic lights, a handful of waterfront restaurants, a farmers' market and reasonable prices.

Nacogdoches, Texas

Originally the gateway between the U.S. and the Texas frontier, historic Nacogdoches boasts a university, the state's largest azalea garden and nearby lake recreation.

St. Augustine, Florida

Romantic and full of history, St. Augustine sits on the northeastern Florida coast and is known for its charming downtown, miles of beautiful beaches and scenic waterfront.

Glendale, Arizona

Outside of Phoenix in southern Arizona, Glendale boasts a symphony, a desert botanic gardens, a MLB spring training facility, golf courses, a wide range of neighborhoods and more.

Yulee, Florida

With marshes and inlets on one side and the beaches of Fernandina Beach and Amelia Island not far away, Yulee is a collection of suburbs with a country flavor.

Morganton, North Carolina

Buried in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains, historic Morganton has a nice downtown, fun events, nearby lake recreation and reasonable prices.

Bluffton, South Carolina

Charming Bluffton overlooks the May River not far from the Atlantic Ocean and boasts a cute downtown, canopy streets, boat docks and historic homes.

Bonita Springs, Florida

Along the Gulf of Mexico, pretty Bonita Springs caters to retirees and second home owners and boasts palm-lined lanes, canals, beachfront parks, lakes and plenty of golf courses.

Carrabelle, Florida

A working fishing village and deep water seaport on the Florida Panhandle, Carrabelle has an unspoiled beach, an Old Florida vibe and wilderness all arround.

Juno Beach, Florida

Tucked on a barrier island and known for its white/gray sand beach, Juno Beach is tranquil, casual and well-to-do.

Pflugerville, Texas

On the edge of the Blackland Prairies outside of Austin, friendly Pflugerville was settled by a German immigrant and today is known as the town between a rock and a weird place (Round Rock and Austin, whose motto is Keep Austin Weird). Locals enjoy a historic Old Town, water recreation and more.

Alachua, Florida

A quiet country community with deep agricultural roots, Alachua boasts a cute downtown lined with Bradford pear trees.

Clemson, South Carolina

An engaging atmosphere, Southern hospitality, good senior services and a reasonable cost of living are Clemson highlights.

Town Snapshots:

Pocatello, Idaho

Home to Idaho State University, Pocatello is a peaceful city with a nice Old Town, a beautiful performing arts center and nearby outdoor recreation venues.

Tybee Island, Georgia

Both a barrier island and a beach town, Tybee Island is an idyllic, casual vacation destination with an iconic lighthouse and dramatic sand dunes.

Indian Harbour Beach, Florida

Casual Indian Harbour Beach sits on a barrier island and has waterfront homes, red and white sand and a rarely crowded beach park.

Bay Harbor Islands, Florida

Bay Harbor Islands is a sun-soaked town that sits on two small islands along the southeastern Florida coast just east of North Miami. Beautiful beaches are close at hand.

Lake Alfred, Florida

Leafy and rural, Lake Alfred is a simple place with five named lakes and plenty of opportunities for fishing and boating.

Pine Mountain, Georgia

Outside of Atlanta, little Pine Mountain has a small, touristy downtown and is close to beautiful Callway Gardens, FDR's Little White House and F.D. Roosevelt State Park.

Madison, Mississippi

Madison, a pretty city on the banks of Ross R. Barnett Reservoir, has shaded neighborhoods and plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure.

Yachats, Oregon

Rustic and charming with a nice downtown, Yachats is in a breathtaking setting, surrounded by mountains and the sea.

Winter Garden, Florida

Winter Garden, a pleasant town known for its cute downtown, boasts leafy neighborhoods, a fun farmers' market, a good parks system and more.

Altamonte Springs, Florida

Altamonte Springs is outside of Orlando in north central Florida and boasts reasonably priced living, with the orange and white sands of New Smyrna Beach, Port Orange and Daytona Beach just an hour away.

Sunset Beach, North Carolina

Nestled on a three mile long barrier island on the southern North Carolina coast, Sunset Beach is a quiet place with a white sand beach, turtle talks, five golf courses and more.

Billings, Montana

Built in a rimrock canyon carved by the Yellowstone River, friendly Billings was once a Wild West town but today boasts a symphony, craft breweries and other manifestations of sophistication.

Sebastian, Florida

A sleepy town along the Indian River Lagoon, Sebastian is home to the country's first wildlife refuge and most biologically diverse estuary. People live here, too.

Port Townsend, Washington

On Washington's Quimper Peninsula, charming Port Townsend enchants nearly everyone with its treasure trove of Victorian architecture, trendy shops, fun eateries, scenic setting and more.

Norris, Tennessee

Nestled in the lush rolling hills of northeastern Tennessee, Norris is a charming town based on the English garden city design movement of the 1890s and has a pretty central square.

Callawassie Island, South Carolina

Callawassie Island is a beautiful barrier island off of the southern South Carolina coast and is surrounded by tidal creeks and salt marshes.

Surfside Beach, Texas

South of Houston, little Surfside Beach is a laid back, windswept seaside village with a boathouse as its city hall.

Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina

Kill Devil Hills, a place where pirates once drank rum so vile it could kill the Devil himself, is today one of the Outer Banks' most visited vacation destinations.

Moscow, Idaho

In northern Idaho's striking Palouse region, down-to-earth Moscow boasts a gentle spirit, a collegiate vibe, fun festivals and strong community spirit.

Salado, Texas

The charming, rustic village of Salado started out as a college town but today is a trendy artists' colony and thrives as a weekend getaway destination.

Grand Junction, Colorado

Next to two rivers on a high desert plateau in rugged western Colorado, unassuming Grand Junction has a mix of outdoor types, families, college kids and retirees.

Hickory, North Carolina

At the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains in lush western North Carolina, Hickory boasts a lakeside setting, a nice downtown, fun festivals and a small college.

Brooksville, Florida

Reminiscent of Old Florida, Brooksville boasts a cute downtown, canopy lanes and a nearby state forest perfect for biking, fishing and picnicing.

Mount Joy, Pennsylvania

Tucked amid rolling farmland in southeastern Pennsylvania's Dutch Country, Mount Joy was founded by Scots-Irish immigrants and boasts a rich agricultural history.

Carolina Shores, North Carolina

Close to Myrtle Beach, Carolina Shores is popular with retirees and is a loose confederation of six well-manicured master planned communities.

Cape Carteret, North Carolina

Along Bogue Sound on North Carolina's Inner Banks, sleepy Cape Carteret has waterfront homes, marinas, nearby beaches and an easygoing way of life.

Morro Bay, California

Morro Bay is a mellow fishing village with a popular beach, fun festivals, an outstanding farmers' market, a seaside golf course and an iconic rock.

North Port, Florida

Straddling the Myakka River and adjacent to the Myakka State Forest in southwestern Florida, North Port is leafy, residential and reasonably priced.

Oro Valley, Arizona

With a pretty setting in the Santa Cantalina Mountain foothills, Oro Valley is a Tucson bedroom community and home high tech and biotech companies.

Eustis, Florida

In pretty north central Florida, Eustis is a charming lakeside town with a lovely downtown, red brick sidewalks and plenty of places to watch the sunset over the water.

Stowe, Vermont

Tucked in northern Vermont, Stowe is a charming town known for its skiing, "granola" vibe and very cute, very touristy downtown.

Kilmarnock, Virginia

Historic Kilmarnock is in Virginia's Northern Neck and has a charming main street, wineries, a farmers' market and more.

Virginia Beach, Virginia

Safe, suburban and diversve, bustling Virginia Beach sits where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Chesapeake Bay and boasts miles of beautiful beaches.

Hiawassee, Georgia

Nestled on the shores of pretty Lake Chatuge in northern Georgia, Hiawassee is a scenic place surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains and two national forests.

Blue Hill, Maine

On Maine's scenic central coast, charming, weathered Blue Hill dates from 1762 and is a hub for artists, craftsmen and chamber musicians.

Boerne, Texas

Not far from San Antonio and Austin in the pretty Texas Hill Country, Boerne has a rich German heritage and a touristy creekside downtown.

Lighthouse Point, Florida

A casual, pretty town laced with canals, Lighthouse Point has a nautical flea market, plenty of parks and homes that back to water.

Manhattan, Kansas

Home to Kansas State University, leafy Manhattan often lands on "best places to live" lists and has a distinct collegiate atmosphere.

Edisto Beach, South Carolina

Tiny Edisto Beach is at the mouth of the Edisto River on the southern South Carolina coast and is a quiet seaside community with four miles of pristine beach.

Sequim, Washington

Tucked amid lavender farms, strawberry farms and raspberry farms on the scenic Olympic Peninsula in western Washington, cozy Sequim is quiet and relaxed. The downtown is cute; the scenery is beautiful, and outdoor recreation abounds.

Walla Walla, Washington

In a pretty region, welcoming Walla Walla is known for its quaint downtown, wine culture and gentle ambiance.

Mountain View, Arkansas

Tucked in a valley in north central Arkansas' lush, rural Ozark Mountains, Mountain View is known as the "Folk Music Capital of the World."

Hernando Beach, Florida

Dredged from wetlands and the ocean floor, mellow Hernando Beach boasts direct Gulf access and homes that back to canals.

Madison, Georgia

Madison, a picturesque showcase of an earlier place and time, boasts elegant historic homes, tree lined lanes, a cute downtown, nearby lake recreation and more.

Galveston, Texas

Spread across two barrier islands on Texas' eastern Gulf Coast, Galveston is a quirky, friendly and slightly worn town with miles of beaches and plenty of things to do.

Spanish Fort, Alabama

On Mobile Bay's eastern shore, inviting Spanish Fort has a history dating back to 1712 and is primarily residential with tidy, wooded neighborhoods.

Lafayette, Colorado

Surrounded by open space outside of trendy, collegiate Boulder, Lafayette is a peaceful town with a nice Old Town and a growing arts scene.

Show Low, Arizona

Show Low is a high altitude hamlet tucked into one of the country's largest stands of Ponderosa Pines and started out as the winnings in a poker game.

Houston, Texas

Bustling and diverse, Houston sits near the Gulf of Mexico in southeastern Texas and boasts reasonable living costs, eclectic neighborhoods, amenities galore, fun eateries, outstanding medical facilities and more.

Bountiful, Utah

Beautiful Bountiful is known as the "garden spot of Utah" and is a clean, quiet, safe city in a very pretty area.

Etowah, North Carolina

In a scenic valley on the edges of the Blue Ridge Mountains, little Etowah is popular with people who want to live in trendy, neighboring Asheville but cannot quite afford it.

July 11, 2020

Fairfield Bay, Arkansas

On the shores of pretty Greers Ferry Lake in the Ozark Mountains of rural north central Arkansas, Fairfield Bay was founded in the mid-1960s as a resort and retirement community.

Laguna Beach, Florida

Laguna Beach is a low key community on Florida's Panhandle and boasts a long, wide stretch of sugar white sand tucked against emerald waters.

Rockport, Texas

Along Aransas Bay on the Texas Gulf Coast, Rockport is a funky, low key tourist destination known for its clean beaches and outstanding fishing waters.

Hobe Sound, Florida

A quiet town on the southeastern Florida coast, Hobe Sound boasts a cute downtown and a secret beach with nearly empty sand.

Traverse City, Michigan

With a picturesque waterfront setting, charming Traverse City boasts leafy neighborhoods, a lively cultural community and abundant outdoor recreation.

Ann Arbor, Michigan

Lush and vibrant, Ann Arbor, home to the University of Michigan, boasts excellent cultural amenities, fun sporting events, top notch medical facilities, safe neighborhoods and more.

Palmer Lake, Colorado

Funky little Palmer Lake is tucked against the Pike National Forest in central Colorado and boasts expansive views and a cute downtown.

Groveland, Florida

A mellow lakeside town, Groveland has a country quality and is peppered with weeping willows and palm trees.

Reston, Virginia

Outside of Washington, D.C., lovely Reston was influenced by the 19th-century garden city design movement and is dotted with streams, wildflower meadows, community gardens and lakes.

Arcata, California

On the edges of Arcata Bay in scenic northern California, Arcata is a very laid back, "granola" kind of place and home to Humboldt State University.

Ocean Pines, Maryland

Wooded Ocean Pines, part town and part HOA, is on Maryland's Eastern Shore and has a beach club, a golf course, a tennis complex, a dog park and more.

Carolina Beach, North Carolina

Pleasure Island sits along the southern North Carolina coast. On the island's northern end, the little town of Carolina Beach makes its home and boasts a low key, 1950s-ambiance with modest cottages in quiet neighborhoods.

Broken Arrow, Oklahoma

Outside of Tulsa, Broken Arrow is clean and safe with a beautiful performing arts center, a nice downtown and reasonable costs.

Morgantown, West Virginia

Tucked into beautiful rolling hills, lively Morgantown is home to West Virginia University and has safe, leafy neighborhoods, an OLLI and reasonable prices.

Canadian Lakes, Michigan

Amid rolling hills and Amish farms, Canadian Lakes is known for its abundant outdoor recreation and is a favorite with retirees.

Pasadena, California

Bounded by the San Rafael Hills and the Angeles National Forest in southern California, Pasadena not only has a famous parade but tree-lined neighborhoods, golf courses, theaters, a fun Old Town and more.

Windermere, Florida

This affluent town sits on an isthmus in a chain of lakes and has a cozy downtown, tree canopy lanes, an understated atmosphere and some extraordinary waterfront homes.

Vero Beach, Florida

On Florida's "Treasure Coast," laid back Vero Beach boasts a quiet ambiance with gentle trade winds, miles of white sand beaches, colorful shops and peaceful neighborhoods.

Yuma, Arizona

A tourist and "snowbird" destination, sun drenched Yuma sits along the Colorado River in southern Arizona and has a historic downtown, water recreation, fun festivals and reasonable prices.

Black Mountain, North Carolina

In scenic western North Carolina, where the Swannanoa Valley meets the Black Mountains, cozy Black Mountain boasts abundant outdoor recreation, safe neighborhoods, an artsy vibe and a certain mountain mystique.

Bardstown, Kentucky

Beautiful Bardstown is nestled in the bluegrass pastures of north central Kentucly and known as the "Bourbon Capital of the World."

Moab, Utah

In the stark rugged beauty of southeastern Utah, laid back Moab was once a hole-in-the-wall desert outpost but today draws 1.5 million outdoor adventure seekers every year.

Post Falls, Idaho

Nestled in Idaho's scenic Panhandle, Post Falls sits along the Spokane River and boasts safe neighborhoods, riverfront homes and plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation.

McClellanville, South Carolina

Home to artists and writers, McClellanville is nestled against tidal creeks and saltwater marshes and is a beautiful, secluded place.

Olympia, Washington

Nestled in heart-stopping scenery on beautiful Puget Sound, laid back Olympia boasts water and mountain views, a picturesque waterfront, downtown events and leafy neighborhoods.

Lake Havasu City, Arizona

On the shores of shimmering Lake Havasu in western Arizona, sun soaked Lake Havasu City is a popular water vacation destination and home of the original London Bridge.

San Antonio, Florida

Slightly overgrown and near Lake Jovita in west central Florida, San Antonio has a rural quality, some fun festivals and a quiet way of life.

Bluffton, South Carolina

Charming Bluffton overlooks the May River not far from the Atlantic and boasts a cute downtown, tree-lined streets, boat docks and historic homes.

Chandler, Arizona

Outside of Phoenix in southern Arizona, sunny Chandler boasts nearly a dozen golf courses, a public art gallery, art walks, jazz festivals, block parties and more.

Waldport, Oregon

A weathered but comfortable seaside town with an "old salt" ambiance, Waldport has miles of prisine beaches nearby and is minutes from the 630,000-acre Siuslaw National Forest.

Punta Gorda, Florida

Considered by many to be the prettiest small city in Florida, Punta Gorda charms with its coastal locale, inviting cityscape, safe, canal laced neighborhoods and abundant boat recreation.

St. James City, Florida

Tucked on the southern half of southwestern Florida's Pine Island, St. James City is rife with wildlife, boasts Old Florida charm and is sometimes called a "drinking town with a fishing problem."

Spring Hill, Tennessee

Comfortable and outside of Nashville, Spring Hill is surrounded by farmland, dotted with parks and home to well-manicured neighborhoods.

Pell City, Alabama

Next to popular Logan Martin Lake in northeastern Alabama, sleepy Pell City boasts water recreation, an attractive downtown and reasonable costs.

Miramar Beach, Florida

A classic beach town, Miramar Beach is nestled along the Florida Panhandle and is famous for its mesmerizing turquoise waters and miles of sugar white sand.

Altamonte Springs, Florida

Altamonte Springs is outside of Orlando and boasts reasonably priced living, with the white sands of New Smyrna Beach, Port Orange and Daytona Beach just an hour away.

Tyler, Texas

A friendly town in Texas' lush Piney Woods, Tyler is known as the "Rose Capital of America" and boasts the largest municipal rose garden in the U.S. It also has a University of Texas campus, a ballet, a symphony orchestra and two lakes.

Pass Christian, Mississppi

Bordered by water on three sides, the friendly, quaint little town of Pass Christian was the site of the South's first yacht club and has an often uncrowded, powdery white beach.

Hernando, Mississippi

Outside of Memphis, Hernando has a leafy town center, nicely maintained historic homes, Mississippi's best farmers' market, reasonable costs and more.

Palm Shores, Florida

Next to the Indian River Lagoon on Florida's Space Coast, Palm Shores is a quiet, reasonable priced town where many people know one another.

Grapevine, Texas

A comfortable city outside of Dallas-Fort Worth, Grapevine gets its name from the wild grapes that once carpeted the land.

Santa Rosa, California

Nestled amid vineyards, wineries and farmland outside of San Francisco, beautiful Santa Rosa boasts a symphony, a theater collective, a summer repertory theater and a lovely downtown.

Beaufort, South Carolina

Beautiful Beaufort sits on a barrier island and boasts Lowcountry charm, a leisurely pace, stately antebellum architecture, canopy lanes and more.

Apex, North Carolina

In a pine forest outside of Raleigh, Apex is has a nice downtown, well tended neighborhoods, lots of green spaces and an educated populace.

Ankeny, Iowa

Ankeny is a tidy, friendly town in pastoral central Iowa and has safe neighborhoods, a nice downtown and nearby lake recreation.

Bend, Oregon

Nestled in breathtaking scenery, trendy Bend is a sophisticated hamlet with a fun downtown, a rich cultural menu and a bounty of outdoor recreation.

Dunedin, Florida

Once home to Florida's largest sailing fleet, today Dunedin is known for its cute, walkable downtown, pretty marina and five miles of beautiful beaches.

Lake Lure, North Carolina

A popular resort town, Lake Lure is in western North Carolina's scenic Blue Ridge Mountains and nestled around sparkling Lake Lure.

La Quinta, California

Next to the Santa Rosa Mountains, pretty La Quinta is the site of the world-famous PGA West golf complex and popular with tourists and "snowbirds."

Eureka Springs, Arkansas

Nestled in the Ozark Mountains, Eureka Springs is a Victorian village, an artists' retreat and a fun tourist destination all rolled into one.

Pensacola, Florida

Pensacola, reasonably priced, is a deep water seaport on the Panhandle and is famous for its wide, white sand beaches.

Melbourne Beach, Florida

Unhurried and glistening, Melbourne Beach sits on a barrier island and is known for its beautiful stretches of white sand beaches.

Franklin, Tennessee

Named after Benjamin Franklin and along the Harpeth River in a gently rolling landscape outside of Nashville, Franklin has an award-winning historic downtown, a wine festival, a jazz festival, plenty of eateries and more.

Mary Esther, Florida

This friendly coastal town is in on the Panhandle and just across the Sound from Santa Rosa Island and its sparkling white sand beaches.

Plantation, Florida

West of Fort Lauderdale, Plantation is comfortable and suburban with well-tended neighborhoods, historic golf courses, a botanic garden, an equestrian center and more.

Abilene, Texas

Once a primary cattle shipping hub in West Central Texas, today Abilene is a quiet, friendly place home to families, military personnel, college students and retirees.

Tarpon Springs, Florida

Situated along a series of bayous and the Gulf of Mexico, Tarpon Springs has a rich culture and boasts a charming tourist area with an eclectic collection of sponge shops, galleries and eateries.

Sunny Isles Beach, Florida

A tropical, cosmopolitan resort town on a barrier island east of North Miami Beach, Sunny Isles Beach has a gorgeous strip of sand, sparkling waters and tall gleaming buildings.

Town Snapshot:

Stowe, Vermont

Tucked in rolling northern Vermont, Stowe is a charming town known for its skiing, "granola" vibe and very cute, very touristy downtown.

Jensen Beach, Florida

Unassuming Jensen Beach, once the "Pineapple Capital of the World," is today known for its peaceful way of life, sea turtles, excellent fishing and quaint, colorful downtown.

Breckenridge, Colorado

Swaddled by mountain peaks and national forest in spectacular northwestern Colorado, Breckenridge is cute, trendy and touristy.

Sonoma, California

Beautiful, upscale Sonoma is in the heart of California's wine country and is tucked in a landscape of rolling farmland and fertile vineyards.

Sparks, Nevada

Outside of Reno in rugged western Nevada, Sparks is a growing city with a few casinos, a man-made lake with beaches, relatively new housing and plenty of sunshine.

Atlantic Beach, Florida

On the Northeastern Florida coast, Atlantic Beach is a mellow place with a beautiful two mile beach, cute shops and fun events. Shorts and flip flops are standard attire.

St. Marks, Florida

Situated in San Marcos de Apalache Historic State Park, home to coastal marshes, islands and estuaries, St. Marks has an ends-of-the-world feeling about it and draws people in search of solace, scenery and maybe a little adventure.

College Station, Texas

College Station, deep in the beautiful Brazos Valley in the heart of Texas, is home to sprawling Texas A&M University and is a classic college town.

Hilo, Hawaii

Next to sparkling Hilo Bay, sleepy Hilo boasts a verdant landscape, an old fashioned cityscape and a very mellow way of life.

Lawrence, Kansas

With its lively, collegiate atmosphere, leafy neighborhoods and nearby lake recreation, Lawrence often lands on "best places to live" lists.

Newport, Oregon

On Oregon's beautiful, rugged central coast, Newport boasts a picturesque marina, art deco architecture, five miles of beaches and plenty of nautical character.

Niceville, Florida

Once known as Boggy Bayou, Niceville is located along the Choctawhatchee Bay on Florida's western Panhandle coast and is popular with military families and retirees.

Emerald Isle, North Carolina

On one end of a long barrier island, picturesque Emerald Isle boasts white sand beaches, nesting sea turtles, blue green waters and fun festivals.

Sheridan, Wyoming

On a prairie in the shadow of the Big Horn Mountains in wide-open north central Wyoming, Sheridan embodies the American West and is a safe, down to earth place.

Reno, Nevada

Reno sits at the base of the rugged Sierra Nevada Mountains in western Nevada and is about an hour north of stunning Lake Tahoe.

Smyrna, Tennessee

In rolling Middle Tennessee, Smyrna is quiet and reasonably priced with safe, leafy neighborhoods and sparkling, 10,000-acre Percy Priest Lake just down the road.

September 23, 2020

Town Snapshot:

St. Cloud, Florida

A quiet town on the shores of East Lake Tohopekaliga, St. Cloud has nicely tended neighborhoods and a cute downtown with brick streets.

San Luis Obispo, California

Posh and prosperous, San Luis Obispo is not far from the coast and known for its beautiful climate, charming town center and lack of fast food drive-thru restaurants.

Golden, Colorado

An amiable town with a casual Old West flavor and some beautiful homes, Golden is tucked between two table mountains and a canyon just west of Denver.

Carson City, Nevada

Not far from stunning Lake Tahoe, Carson City boasts frontier character and a dry, sunny climate. Is it a great place to retire?

Carolina Shores, North Carolina

Close to Myrtle Beach, Carolina Shores is popular with retirees and is a loose confederation of six well-manicured master planned communities.

Bosque Farms, New Mexico

Not far from Albuquerque in north central New Mexico, Bosque Farms started out as part of a Spanish land grant and remains rustic and rural today.

Apollo Beach, Florida

Quiet Apollo Beach is not far from Tampa and has canal-laced neighborhoods, tasty seafood restaurants, a fun manatee festival and more.

Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania

Sleepy Mechanicsburg sits in the Cumberland Valley and has a quaint downtown, a long-running street fair and tidy neighborhoods with a variety of architectural styles.

Lake Mary, Florida

This pretty city of lakes started out as a citrus farming center and today is a semi-rural bedroom community known for its high quality of life.

Yankeetown, Florida

Quiet, slightly ramshackle and dotted with tall trees, Yankeetown is on Florida's untamed Big Bend Coast and is a world unto itself.

Tequesta Gardens: a Settled 55+ Community in Tequesta, Florida

With tall trees and wide expanses of grass, Tequesta Gardens has condominiums, a recreation center, two swimming pools and more.

Reston, Virginia

Outside of Washington, D.C., Reston was influenced by the garden city design movement and is dotted with streams, wildflower meadows, community gardens and lakes.

Bay St. Louis, Mississippi

Bay St. Louis is a low key town amid rivers, marshes and estuaries along the Bay of St. Louis and the Gulf of Mexico.

Woodstock, Georgia

Outside of Atlanta and well manicured, Woodstock is fast-growing with a nice downtown, a farmers' market and nearby lake recreation.

Boerne, Texas

Outside of San Antonio in the heart of the pretty Texas Hill Country, Boerne has a rich German heritage and a cute creekside downtown.

Eagles Mere, Pennsylvania

Snuggled around Eagles Mere Lake in the unspoiled mountains of northeastern Pennsylvania, the cute little village of Eagles Mere started as a family resort.

Gulfport, Florida

On the shores of Boca Ciega Bay west of St. Petersburg, Gulfport is known for its Old Florida waterfront district and bohemian vibe.

Brunswick, Maine

On Maine's beautiful mid-coast, down-to-earth Brunswick is dotted with classic architecture and home to a small, selective liberal arts college.

Forest, Virginia

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of scenic central Virginia, leafy Forest is home to wonderful Poplar Forest, one of Thomas Jefferson's summer residences, and is popular with history buffs.

Lawrence, Kansas

Pooler, Georgia

Reasonably priced, quiet and safe, Pooler is not far from posh Hilton Head Island, sunny Florida beaches and bustling Atlanta.

La Quinta, California

Near the Santa Rosa Mountains, pretty La Quinta is the site of the world-famous PGA West golf complex and popular with tourists and "snowbirds."

Weeki Wachee, Florida

About an hour north of Tampa and south of the Chassahowitzka Wildlife Management Area, the rural Weeki Wachee is home to famous mermaids.

Lake Lure, North Carolina

A popular resort town, Lake Lure is in western North Carolina's scenic Blue Ridge Mountains and nestled around sparkling Lake Lure.

Maryville, Tennessee

In the wooded foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains in eastern Tennessee, Maryville boasts affordable living, safe neighborhoods, a beautiful library and outstanding outdoor recreation just down the road.

Fishers, Indiana

Outside of Indianapolis, Fishers lands on "best places to live" lists, thanks to its very safe neighborhoods, wholesome atmosphere and friendly folks.

Russellville, Arkansas

Swaddled by lush rolling hills in west central Arkansas, Russellville sits along the Arkansas River between the Ozark Mountains and the Ouachita Mountains. It is an unpretentious, amiable place with affordable housing, safe neighborhoods and outstanding outdoor recreation. It is a great retirement spot!

Fishers, Indiana

Outside of Indianapolis, Fishers lands on "best places to live" lists, thanks to its very safe neighborhoods, wholesome atmosphere and friendly folks.

Town Snapshot:

Clearwater, Florida

Popular with tourists and "snowbirds," beautiful Clearwater spans the Pinellas Peninsula on Florida's mid-Gulf Coast and is famous for its breathtaking beaches and turquoise waters.

Hudson, Florida

On the coast, Hudson was once a fishing and shrimping community but these days is popular with bargain-seeking "snowbirds," sun-worshipping vacationers, and yes, nudists.

Galveston, Texas

Spread across two barrier islands on Texas' eastern Gulf Coast, Galveston is quirky and slightly faded but is a friendly place with plenty of things to do.

Auburn, California

Tucked in the western foothills of the Sierra Nevadas, Auburn dates back to the California Gold Rush and is listed as a California Historic Landmark.

Saugatuck, Michigan

Once a lumber port town, charming Saugatuck is on Lake Michigan's sandy eastern shore and boasts an artsy vibe.

Culpeper, Virginia

Outside of Washington, D.C., Culpeper is a cute place with a historic, well-kept downtown, some wineries and leafy neighborhoods.

Englewood, Florida

Facing Lemon Bay on the southwestern Florida coast, mellow Englewood has an old fashioned Florida vibe, nearby barrier island beaches, a cute downtown, excellent fishing and more.

Easton, Maryland

On the eastern banks of the Chesapeake Bay, historic, artsy Easton has a quaint town center and an established feeling.

Ocean Shores, Washington

Spread across the Point Brown Peninsula on Washington's scenic mid-coast, salty Ocean Shores was once a Hollywood jetsetter hangout and today is a weekend tourist destination.

Davie, Florida

About 10 miles from the Atlantic Ocean in southeastern Florida, Davie is known for its Western ambiance, horse culture and has four college campuses within its boundaries.

Eugene, Oregon

Offbeat, progressive and about an hour from the coast, pretty Eugene, Oregon draws retirees with its academic vibe, rich cultural fabric and green, lush cityscape. It also has an OLLI.

The Woodlands, Texas

Outside of Houston, The Woodlands is an upscale master planned community and census designated place with shopping centers, golf courses, libraries, a town center and more.

Laupahoehoe, Hawaii

Once a taro farming village and a sugar plantation town, today rural Laupahoehoe is home to a research tropical forest and has jaw-dropping views of incredibly blue water.

Gulf Breeze, Florida

Idyllic Gulf Breeze sits at the end of a peninsula on the western Florida Panhandle and has the kind of white sand beaches and azure waters found on old-fashioned picture postcards.

Diamond Bar, California

Beautiful Diamond Bar is a well-to-do city nestled amid hills outside of Los Angeles. Beaches, deserts and mountains are all less than an hour away.

Athens, Ohio

Set in a valley in pretty southeastern Ohio, Athens is surrounded by rolling hills and is home to lively Ohio University.

St. Simons, Georgia

Tucked on a barrier island off Georgia's southern coast, seductive St. Simons is known for its canopy lanes, understated elegance, rich history, long beaches and beautiful homes. It captivates nearly everyone.

Henderson, Nevada

Outside of Las Vegas and not too far from the Hoover Dam and Lake Mead, Henderson has a newish feeling about it and brims with master planned communities, shopping, golf courses and eateries. Is it a great place to retire?

Broomfield, Colorado

In the shadow of the Rocky Mountains, Broomfield is a prosperous town with shiny new neighborhoods, an art guild, a civic orchestra, mountain parks and more.

Davidson, North Carolina

Davidson is a nice lakeside town that boasts a small liberal arts college, a quaint downtown and leafy neighborhoods.

Red Hill, South Carolina

Red Hill, quiet, suburban and reasonably priced, is just 10 miles inland from Myrtle Beach, white sand Atlantic beaches and the vast entertainment venues of the Grand Strand.

Miramar Beach, Florida

A classic beach town, Miramar Beach is famous for its mesmerizing turquoise waters and miles of sugar white sand.

Palm Beach Gardens, Florida

Dotted with open space, lakes and canals, pretty Palm Beach Gardens is on the southeastern Florida coast and is known for its many golf courses and gated communities.

Northampton, Massachusetts

Home to prestigious Smith College, Northampton has a liberal outlook, plenty of green spaces, interesting architecture and a bounty of amenities.

Lexington, Kentucky

Kentucky's second largest city is in the heart of the state's lush Bluegrass Region and is known as the "Horse Capital of the World."

Christiansburg, Virginia

Christiansburg is an easygoing town in the lush rolling landscape of western Virginia and started out in 1792 as a stop along the Great Wilderness Road. Neighborhoods have a rural quality and prices are reasonable.

Richmond Hill, Georgia

Once home to industrialist Henry Ford, attractive Richmond Hill sits along the Ogeechee River outside of Savannah and has leafy neighborhoods, a nice downtown and more.

Kihei, Hawaii

Nestled along beautiful Maalaea Bay on Maui's dry southwestern coast, Kihei is a mellow resort city with a rugged tan sand beach and mountains in the distance.

Angel Fire, New Mexico

A little village at 8,553 feet above sea level, Angel Fire sits in a beautiful valley in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and is a peaceful, outdoor-oriented place.

Ellenton, Florida

A mellow riverfront town, Ellenton has a rural quality, an interesting mix of neighborhoods, a historic plantation and nearby beaches.

Town Snapshot:

Madison, Mississippi

Leafy Madison sits on the banks of Ross R. Barnett Reservoir in central Mississippi, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. Locals also enjoy a month long summer picnic, a farmers' market, a scarecrow festival and more.

Madison, Indiana

Clean, pretty and prim, Madison sits along the Ohio River and has one of the largest, contiguous national historic districts in the United States.

Buckeye, Arizona

Outside of Phoenix in southern Arizona, booming Buckeye sits in a green landscape of cotton and alfalfa fields and has many master-planned communities.

Ormond Beach, Florida

Between the Atlantic Ocean and the Halifax River on Florida's northeastern coast, Ormond Beach has an orange beach lined by tall hotels with beachfront pools.

Alva, Florida

At the western edge of the Okeechobee Waterway, Alva has a landscape of grazing cattle, citrus groves and large oak trees with hanging moss, evoking Old Florida.

Citrus Springs, Florida

This low key town/master planned community has a country quality, a couple of golf courses, planned events and no HOA fees.

Duck, North Carolina

Tiny Duck, a designated bird sanctuary, is on the Outer Banks and has a cute, touristy boardwalk, fun events, a pristine seven mile beach and an affluent seaside ambiance.

Georgetown, Texas

Along the San Gabriel River in lush central Texas, friendly Georgetown boasts a beautifully restored downtown, a colorful flower festival, safe neighborhoods and a casual way of life.

Banner Elk, North Carolina

In the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains of northwestern North Carolina, Banner Elk is a vacation destination with a cute downtown.

Carolina Shores, North Carolina

Close to Myrtle Beach, Carolina Shores is popular with retirees and is a loose confederation of six well-manicured master planned communities.

Magnolia Springs, Alabama

Known as one of the prettiest towns in Alabama, Magnolia Springs brims with wisteria, camellias, azaleas and has its mail delivered by boat.

Dahlonega, Georgia

Tucked in northern Georgia's Appalachian Mountain foothills, Dahlonega boasts a scenic setting, a cute downtown, plenty of festivals and a gentle pace. It is a great retirement spot!

Scottsdale, Arizona

Just east of Phoenix in southern Arizona, cosmopolitan Scottsdale bustles with activity and is known for its richly textured quality of life.

Leland, North Carolina

Peaceful Leland sits on the banks of the scenic Brunswick River in coastal southeastern North Carolina and is surrounded by inland marshes and twisting tributaries.

Boothbay, Maine

On the rugged Maine coast, Boothbay is an old fishing village with a working class sensibility, a touristy boardwalk and salt-laden air.

Marana, Arizona

Outside of Tucson in southern Arizona, Marana is home to master planned communities, golf courses, concerts in the park, a farmers' market and more.

Venice, Florida

Once a sleepy fishing village, charming Venice boasts palm-lined streets, a strong arts culture, calm waters and dark sand beaches.

Little River, South Carolina

In the sleepy coastal village of Little River, the oldest town along the Grand Strand, life moves at a gentle pace, and playing in the water is a common activity.

Ormond-by-the-Sea, Florida

This tranquil barrier island community is on the northeastern Florida coast. The beach is rarely crowded, and costs are reasonable.

Sahuarita, Arizona

Outside of Tucson in southern Arizona, pretty Sahuarita is home to pecan orchards, safe neighborhoods, Southwestern architecture and reasonable prices.

Dolores, Colorado

In a canyon along a river deep in the spectacular Rocky Mountains, little Dolores is an outdoor adventure hub popular with rafters, cyclists, fishermen, skiiers, campers and others.

Kaunakakai, Hawaii

Kaunkakai is a very mellow town on Molokai's southern shore and is known for its nearly empty beaches.

Tuscaloosa, Alabama

Home to the University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa is a lively city with athletic events, museums, film festivals and more.

Mountain Home, Arkansas

Tucked amid rolling hills and close to two large lakes, Lake Norfork and Bull Shoals Lake, Mountain Home boasts outstanding water recreation, a slower pace and reasonably priced housing.

Carrabelle, Florida

A working fishing village and deep water seaport on the Florida Panhandle, Carrabelle has a nice beach and an Old Florida vibe.

Boulder City, Nevada

Set in a desert landscape punctuated with buttes and culverts, friendly Boulder City is outside of Las Vegas and sprawling Lake Mead.

Dundee, Oregon

A wine and foodie town, Dundee is nestled in the fertile countryside of northwestern Oregon's pretty Willamette Valley and has a walkable downtown, a farmers' market and more.

Rogers, Arkansas

Rogers, site of the first Walmart, is in a scenic part of the country and has tree-lined neighborhoods, a nice historic downtown and nearby lake recreation.

Newport, North Carolina

Peaceful Newport sits near Bogue Sound on North Carolina's Crystal Coast and has a country seaside vibe with reasonable housing costs.

Rumbling Bald Resort: a Lakeside Resort in Lake Lure, North Carolina

Two golf courses, a private beach, four restaurants and a wide range of prices are Rumbling Bald Resort highlights.

Canadian Lakes, Michigan

Amid rolling hills and Amish farms, Canadian Lakes is known for its abundant outdoor recreation and is a favorite with retirees.

Daphne, Alabama

Along Mobile Bay, Daphne is a peaceful town with leafy neighborhoods, gentle breezes, a languid pace, the famous Jubilee Festival and nearby white sand beaches.

Port St. Lucie, Florida

Port St. Lucie is a laid back coastal city with safe neighborhoods, a fun botanic garden, a world class golf resort and an abundance of water recreation.

Edwardsville, Illinois

Friendly Edwardsville, safe and well-maintained, is home to a university, tree-lined neighborhoods and a nice historic downtown.

Swansboro, North Carolina

Homey, laid back Swansboro sits between the Intracoastal Waterway and the White Oak River on the North Carolina mid-coast. Its clean beaches, unspoiled boating areas, cute downtown and more make it a great retirement spot!

Cocoa Beach, Florida

Touristy Cocoa Beach sits on a barrier island on Florida's "Space Coast" and has six miles of beautiful, white sand beaches, a long fishing pier, surfing festivals, art festivals and more.

Port Salerno, Florida

Known for its fun seafood festival and recreational fishing, Port Salerno sits along the St. Lucie River Inlet and straddles the scenic Manatee Pocket on the southeastern Florida coast.

Elkhorn, Wisconsin

Nestled in rolling hills with fertile farmland and pretty lakes around every corner, Elkhorn is wholesome, unpretentious, safe and reasonably priced.

Wickenburg, Arizona

Outside of Phoenix in southern Arizona, dusty, friendly Wickenburg sits on the banks of the Hassayampa River and boasts Old West character.

Evergreen, Colorado

Evergreen is a small, upscale mountain hamlet with a lively downtown, an established theater company and homes that meld into the hills.

Jamestown, North Carolina

Along the shores of High Point Lake, quiet Jamestown was founded by Quakers in 1816 and today is known for its grand homes and historic sites.

Kennesaw, Georgia

On the outskirts of Atlanta in northern Georgia, Kennesaw is comfortable, suburban and home to Kennesaw State University.

Lincoln, Nebraska

Set amid gently rolling hills, Lincoln is a pleasant, relaxed place with two major hospitals, a large university and reasonable costs. (Number of Covid-19 Cases: 2)

North Redington Beach, Florida

A low key oceanfront town, North Redington Beach is packed with condos, hotels and single family waterfront homes. The mile-long, sugar white beach is the town highlight.

Abilene, Texas

Once a primary cattle shipping hub in West Central Texas, today Abilene is a quiet, friendly with an easygoing vibe.

Article:

Pros and Cons of a Waterfront Retirement

When retirement time arrives, many folks want to relocate to a waterfront location. Here we look at a few of the pros and cons of such a move.

Tarpon Springs, Florida

Situated along a series of bayous and the Gulf of Mexico, Tarpon Springs has a rich culture and boasts a charming tourist area with an eclectic collection of sponge shops, galleries and eateries.

Idaho Falls, Idaho

A quiet, well-managed city, Idaho Falls sits along the Snake River in eastern Idaho and often lands on "best places to live" lists.

Sierra Vista, Arizona

Once a trail stop for Mexican conquistadors, Sierra Vista is in the southeastern corner of Arizona and is surrounded by rugged mountains. It also bills itself as the "Hummingbird Capital of the World."

Richmond Hill, Georgia

Once home to industrialist Henry Ford, attractive Richmond Hill sits along the Ogeechee River outside of Savannah and has leafy neighborhoods, a nice downtown and more.

Hudson, Florida

On the coast, Hudson was once a fishing and shrimping community but these days is popular with bargain-seeking "snowbirds," sun-worshipping vacationers, and yes, nudists.

Gold Canyon, Arizona

Ensconced in the foothills of the rugged Superstition Mountains about 45 miles to the east of downtown Phoenix, Gold Canyon is best known for its five 18-hole golf courses and beautiful views.

Auburn, California

Tucked in the western foothills of the Sierra Nevadas, Auburn dates back to the California Gold Rush and is listed as a California Historic Landmark.

Northlake, South Carolina

A waterfront town popular with tourists, Northlake has well-tended, leafy neighborhoods and a reasonable cost of living.

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

Historic, touristy Gettysburg has a bucolic setting and is full of fun eateries, wine shops, candy stores, pubs, galleries and more.

Blacksburg, Virginia

In the scenic Appalachian Mountains, bucolic Blacksburg is the setting for Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech) and is a classic college town.

Palm Coast, Florida

A pleasant place along the northeastern Florida coast, Palm Coast started as a planned community. Many of its homes back to a canal.

Grants Pass, Oregon

In rugged southwestern Oregon, Grants Pass is known for its outdoor way of life and down to earth residents.

Friday Harbor, Washington

Nautical Friday Harbor is the hub of the San Juan Islands Archipelago and sits in a breathtaking setting on the eastern shore of San Juan Island.

Milwaukie, Oregon

Outside of Portland, quiet Milwaukie sits along the Willamette River and boasts a small town feeling, a nice downtown, lush neighborhoods and more.

New Hope, Pennsylvania

Not far from where George Washington crossed the Delaware River in 1776, affluent New Hope has a touristy downtown, an artsy vibe and a variety of beautiful home styles.

Tamarindo, Costa Rica

Lively Tamarindo is a village on Costa Rica's Gold Coast and has shops, a long beach and plenty of opportunities for adventure.

Hot Springs, AR

Fort Walton Beach, Florida

On Florida's Emerald Coast, Fort Walton Beach is a fishing and beach resort town famous for its relaxed ambiance and powdery, white sand beaches.

Palm City, Florida

Once a sleepy riverfront hamlet, today pretty Palm City is known for its golf courses, master planned communities and waterfront homes.

Clermont, Florida

A peaceful, comfortable place, Clermont is snuggled in slightly rolling terrain around a chain of lakes and has homes with boat docks.

Hunter's Creek, Florida

Nestled in a pretty landscape of lakes and palm trees in central Florida, peaceful Hunter's Creek is an unincorporated town and master-planned community all rolled into one.

Longboat Key, Florida

Spread over a barrier island, beautiful Longboat Key is heavily developed, mellow and known for its stunning white-sand beaches.

San Marcos, Texas

Amiable and affordable, San Marcos boasts a riverfront locale, friendly folks and a diverse culture. It is a great retirement spot!

Well planned from the beginning, Peachtree City boasts lovely homes, wooded surroundings and golf cart transporation. The rich menu of amenities includes lakes, golf courses, tennis courts, nature areas and much more. It is a great retirement spot!

Pembroke Pines, Florida  

A quiet suburban atmosphere, wide boulevards lined with palm trees and neighborhoods interwoven with canals are Pembroke Pines' highlights.

Blowing Rock, North Carolina  

A resort town with stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Blowing Rock has been attracting tourists and vacationers since the late-1800s.

Highlands, North Carolina

A cozy Appalachian Mountain resort town, Highlands is within the boundaries of the Nantahala National Forest and brims with charm.

Mount Joy, Pennsylvania  

Tucked amid rolling farmland in southeastern Pennsylvania's Dutch Country, Mount Joy was founded by Scots-Irish immigrants and boasts a rich agricultural history.

Oak Harbor, Washington  

Tucked on the northern end of northwestern Washington's Whidbey Island, Oak Harbor is a waterfront town about two hours north of Seattle. The rocky cliffs of Deception Pass and the Deception Pass Bridge are minutes away.

Palm Harbor, Florida

Bounded by the Gulf Coast and Lake Tarpon, Palm Harbor is home to the world class Innisbrook Golf Resort and has a cute downtown.

Sandy Springs, Georgia

A well-to-do city outside of Atlanta, Sandy Springs sits along the Chattahoochie River and is peppered with leafy, well-manicured neighborhoods and elegant homes.

Aventura, Florida

North of downtown Miami on the southeastern Florida coast, Aventura is a posh, high-density city sandwiched between Biscayne Boulevard and the Stranaham River.

Gulf Shores, Alabama

People come to Gulf Shores, tucked along the central shore of Alabama, for its relaxed atmosphere, beautiful beaches, blue waters, outstanding golf courses and deep sea fishing.

Irvine, California

Home to the University of California at Irvine, Irivine is a sunny, pretty place, known for its rich quality of life, often landing at the top of "best places to live" lists.

Concord, North Carolina

Comfortable Concord boasts three historic districts and is less than an hour from sprawling Lake Norman, the "island sea" of North Carolina.

Oldsmar, Florida

Situated along Tampa Bay on Florida's mid-Gulf Coast, Oldsmar is a quiet town with safe neighborhoods, waterfront homes and a huge flea market.

Ahwatukee, Arizona

A Phoenix urban/suburban village, Ahwatukee has been called the "World's Largest Cul de Sac" and has a trendy vibe.

Berea, Kentucky

At the edge of the Cumberland Plateau where the mountains meet carpets of bluegrass, rural Berea is a quiet place steeped in Appalachian culture. Home to Berea College, it also attracts tourists and shoppers and is a great retirement spot!

Placencia Village, Belize

Laid back Placencia Village sits on the southern tip of a long peninsula and is best known for its 16 miles of powder white beaches and crystal clear blue waters.

Highlands, North Carolina

A cozy Appalachian Mountain resort getaway, Highlands is within the boundaries of the Nantahala National Forest and brims with charm.

Loudon, Tennessee

Nestled in the foothills of eastern Tennessee's lush Great Smoky Mountains, charming Loudon was once a busy Tennessee River steamship port and is named after nearby Fort Loudoun.

Fernandina Beach, Florida

Fernandina Beach sits on idyllic Amelia Island, a barrier island known for its high-end resort hotels, golf courses and miles of white sand beaches.

Marana, Arizona

Outside of Tucson in southern Arizona, Marana is home to master planned communities, golf courses, concerts in the park, a farmers' market and more.

Twin Lakes

Cottonwood, Arizona

In the rugged, high altitude Verde Valley of central Arizona, Cottonwood has a fun historic center, plenty of outdoor recreation, nearby wineries, safe neighborhoods and lots of sunshine.

Canadian Lakes, Michigan

Amid rolling hills and Amish farms, Canadian Lakes is known for its abundant outdoor recreation and is a favorite with retirees.

Fairfield, California

Outside of San Francisco and the Napa Valley in northern California, Fairfield is a comfortable city and home to the famous Jelly Belly jellybean factory.

Watercolors is an attractive subsidized 55+ single family home community in La Quinta, CA.

Lander, Wyoming

Just south of the Wind River Indian Reservation in western Wyoming, Lander is near three designated wilderness areas, two national forests and more than 40 skyscraping mountain peaks.

Murray, Kentucky

Surrounded by gently rolling hills, Murray is home to Murray State University and just 20 minutes from Land Between the Lakes, a huge national recreation area.

Fort Collins, Colorado

Tucked at the foot of the beautiful Rocky Mountains in north central Colorado, Fort Collins is home to Colorado State University and has an educated populace, a lively atmosphere and a casual, Western way of life.

Magnolia Springs, Alabama

Known as one of the prettiest towns in Alabama, Magnolia Springs brims with wisteria, camellias, azaleas and has its mail delivered by boat.

Bonita Springs, Florida

Along the Gulf of Mexico, pretty Bonita Springs caters to retirees and second home owners and boasts palm-lined lanes, canals, lakes and plenty of golf courses.

Green Valley, Arizona

Green Valley is outside of Tucson in southern Arizona and boasts a mature demographic, reasonable living costs and a bounty of recreational opportunities. Is it a great place to retire?

Bend, Oregon

In a beautiful setting, artsy Bend is a cosmopolitan hamlet with a fun downtown, a rich cultural menu and a bounty of outdoor recreation. It is a great retirement spot!

Pilot Butte Village: a Wooded 55+ Community in Bend, Oregon

Pilot Butte Village is a cozy, gated 55+ community nestled amid tall pine trees in east central Bend, Oregon. It sits on seven acres and has 40 duplexes and fourplexes for lease.

Cannon Beach, Oregon

  

When William Clark of the Lewis and Clark Expedition first saw the Cannon Beach area, he wrote that it was "the grandest and most pleasing prospects which my eyes ever surveyed, in front of a boundless ocean."

Ashland, Oregon  

Artsy, cozy and snuggled in a scenic valley, Ashland is home to the nationally known Oregon Shakespeare Festival and Southern Oregon University. Residents enjoy a stimulating atmosphere, a bevy of theater events, top notch eateries, outstanding outdoor recreation and more, all of which make Ashland a great retirement spot!

Temple, Texas

In central Texas, Temple is home to a regional medical center and has an award-winning library, an orchestra, affordable housing and more.

Cape Coral, Florida

A pretty town, Cape Coral boasts 400 miles of canals and a soothing ambiance. Bays and sounds are all around, and opportunities for boating and fishing abound.

Santa Barbara, California

A mellow, upscale seaside city in a gorgeous setting, Santa Barbara is known as the "American Riviera" and still has much of the old California magic.

Etowah, North Carolina

In a scenic valley on the edges of the Blue Ridge Mountains, little Etowah is popular with people who want to live in trendy, neighboring Asheville but find it too expensive.

Trinity, Florida

About 15 miles from the Gulf of Mexico, comfortable Trinity is comprised of named neighborhoods, gated communities and streets that wind around lakes.

Hawi, Hawaii

Tucked in the verdant, sparsely populated North Kohala district on Hawaii's Big Island, cozy Hawi has a cute downtown with colorful, renovated plantation buildings.

Pflugerville, Texas

On the edge of the Blackland Prairies outside of Austin, Pflugerville was settled by a German immigrant and today is a comfortable, wholesome bedroom community.

Cocoa Beach, Florida

Touristy Cocoa Beach sits on a barrier island on Florida's "Space Coast" and has six miles of beautiful, white sand beaches, a long fishing pier, surfing festivals, art festivals and more.

Rockaway Beach, Oregon

A peaceful, casual place with mountains on its east side and seven miles of often empty beach on its west side, Rockaway Beach is a world unto itself.

In Depth Review:

Charlottesville, Virginia

Home to the University of Virginia, Charlottesville is a lively city known for its academic stimulation, rich history, excellent hospitals and leafy landscape.

Town Snapshot:

Wichita Falls, Texas

Friendly and unpretentious, Wichita Falls sits under a giant sky next to the Wichita River and is home to Sheppard Air Force Base, a small college and a beautiful arts center.

Cudjoe Key, Florida

Balmy and bohemian, little Cudjoe Key is part of a group of islands at the southern end of the Florida Keys.

Fort Mill, South Carolina

This nice town is outside of Charlotte, North Carolina and has safe, wooded neighborhoods, miles of trails, a strawberry festival and more.

Spring, Texas

Outside of Houston, leafy Spring is a low key town with country/suburban vibe and a charming Old Town.

Islamorada, Florida

Idyllic, sun-soaked Islamorada is spread across five islands in the Florida Keys and is a place where t-shirts and flip flops are standard attire.

Five of the Best, Quiet Florida Beaches

Living near or having easy access to the beach is one of the top reasons that people want to retire in Florida but not all beaches are created equal. See five of the best quiet ones.

Youngsville, Louisiana

Youngsville got its start as a French Acadian farming settlement in the early-1800s and retains a country quality even today.

Strasburg, Pennsylvania

In scenic Pennsylvania Dutch Country, Strasburg was settled by Huguenots and Mennonites and today is known as "Train Town, USA."

Valdese, North Carolina

Founded by Italian Waldensian immigrants, Valdese has a scenic setting and is proud of its unique Old World heritage.

Goodyear, Arizona

An attractive bedroom community outside of Phoenix, Goodyear is often noted for its "livability" and year-round outdoor recreation.

Merritt Island, Florida

On the southern end of a peninsula of the same name, Merritt Island is near 140,000-acre Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge and the stunning Canaveral National Seashore.

Sneads Ferry, North Carolina

Sneads Ferry sits along the New River on the southern North Carolina coast and is home to fishermen, military personnel and a popular shrimp festival.

Rutherfordton, North Carolina

In rolling western North Carolina, the little town of Rutherfordton has a lovely setting, a rich history, an inviting downtown and a quiet way of life. Neighborhoods are low density. Outdoor recreation is around the corner. Prices are reasonable. All of which make Rutherfordton a great retirement spot!

Nags Head, North Carolina

An established beach resort, Nags Head boasts colorful eateries, art galleries, stilt homes and is popular with tourists.

Chetola Resort: a Wooded Resort Outside of Blowing Rock, North Carolina

This leafy lakeside resort has an inn, a lodge and condominium accommodations, some of which are for sale.

Duck, North Carolina  

Tiny Duck is one of the newest additions to North Carolina's Outer Banks and has an affluent seaside ambiance. Currituck Sound is to the west and the open ocean is to the east.

Sanderling: an Oceanfront Community in Duck, North Carolina   

Sanderling stretches from the Atlantic Ocean to Currituck Sound. Most of the 191 single family homes here face the water, but a few sit in between.

Park Place: a Reasonably Priced 55+ Community in Pembroke Pines, Florida

Surrounded by a golf course, 55+ Park Place has low maintenance homes and a bounty of activities and social groups. Many homes have fairway and pond views.

Goodyear, Arizona

An attractive bedroom community outside of Phoenix, Goodyear is often noted for its "livability" and year-round outdoor recreation.

Port Angeles, Washington

On the northern shores of the stunning Olympic Peninsula in northwestern Washington, Port Angeles is a gateway to Olympic National Park.

Stuart, Florida

Peaceful Stuart sits on southeastern Florida's famed Treasure Coast and is known as the "Sailfish Capital of the World."

Thayne, Wyoming

Thayne, once called "Little Switzerland," is on the northern edge of Wyoming's Star Valley, a scenic area within 100 miles of Yellowstone National Park.

McKinney, Texas

Outside of Dallas, McKinney is a growing, leafy town with a lovely, historic town core, nearby lake recreation and replica European fishing village.

Bella Vista, Arkansas

Peaceful Bella Vista is nestled in northwestern Arkansas' lush Ozark Mountain foothills and appeals to people seeking beautiful mountain scenery, abundant lake recreation, tons of amenities and reasonably priced housing.

Ruskin, Florida

Nestled along inlets, islets and the Little Manatee River, Ruskin has a "country" way of life and is a quiet, mellow town.

Merritt Island, Florida

On the southern end of a peninsula of the same name, Merritt Island is near 140,000-acre Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge and the stunning Canaveral National Seashore.

Matlacha, Florida

On Florida's southwestern coast, mellow Matlacha (Mat-la-shay) sits on and completely covers a little island that is situated between Pine Island, which is Florida's largest island, and the mainland where Fort Myers is located.  Quaint and cute, it is an old fishing village.

Latest Town Snapshots:

Kapaa, Hawaii

Kapaa is a charming beach town on the eastern shore of Kauai and was for much of its history an agricultural hub.

Old Saybrook, Connecticut

Beautiful Old Saybrook oozes weathered New England character and dates from the early-1600s. For many years, it was Katherine Hepburn's home.

Venice, Florida

Once a sleepy fishing village and citrus farming community, Venice is nestled along the southwestern Florida coast. It has an excellent hospital, clean beaches, a strong arts culture and an unassuming vibe. Is it a great place to retire?

Indian Harbour Beach, Florida

Indian Harbour Beach sits on a barrier island and is known for its stretch of white powdery sand mixed with coarse red seashell sand.

College Station, Texas   

College Station, deep in the beautiful Brazos Valley in the heart of Texas, is home to sprawling Texas A&M University and is a classic college town.

Pinehurst, North Carolina

Charming Pinehurst was originally designed to resemble a New England village and today is a golf destination with a cute downtown.

Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina

Kill Devil Hills, a place where pirates once drank rum so vile it could kill the Devil himself, is today one of the Outer Banks' most visited vacation destinations.

Waynesville, North Carolina

Nestled between the Great Smoky Mountains and the Blue Ridge Mountains in lush western North Carolina, sleepy Waynesville appeals to people who love the outdoors.

Brooksville, Florida

Reminiscent of Old Florida and slightly overgrown, friendly Brooksville boasts a cute downtown, canopy lanes and a nearby state forest perfect for biking, fishing and picnicing.

Gull Harbor is a 55+ condo community with water views.

Coupeville, Washington

Rural Whidbey Island is home to Coupeville, a weathered waterfront village that began in 1852 and in many ways feels as though it never left the mid-19th century.

Hawi, Hawaii

Tucked in the verdant, sparsely populated North Kohala district on Hawaii's Big Island, cozy Hawi has a cute downtown with colorful, renovated plantation buildings.

Richmond Hill, Georgia

Once home to industrialist Henry Ford, attractive Richmond Hill sits along the Ogeechee River outside of Savannah and has leafy neighborhoods, a nice downtown and more.

Hudson, Florida

On the coast, Hudson was once a fishing and shrimping community but these days is popular with bargain-seeking "snowbirds," sun-worshipping vacationers, and yes, nudists.

Pflugerville, Texas

On the edge of the temperate Blackland Prairies in central Texas, Pflugerville was settled by a German immigrant and today is a comfortable, wholesome bedroom community.

Monument, Colorado

Monument sits at the base of the Rocky Mountains in central Colorado, boasting beautiful homes and sweeping mountain and plains views.

Oxford, Mississippi

Home to the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss), Oxford boasts a literary vibe, intellectual stimulation, a historic downtown and an intense football culture.

Charlotte, North Carolina

Charlotte is in southwestern North Carolina and boasts nearly 200 neighborhoods, a symphony, an opera company, a dance company, two professional theater companies and more.

Colorado Springs, Colorado

At the base of Pike's Peak, pretty Colorado Springs boasts blue skies, an eclectic population, an excellent hospital, an award-winning senior center and plenty of ways to stay busy. It is a great retirement spot!

Town Snapshot:

Oak Harbor, Washington

Tucked on the northern end of northwestern Washington's scenic Whidbey Island, Oak Harbor boasts pretty views, a nice downtown, an often empty beach and more.

Town Snapshot:

Southern Pines, North Carolina

Soothing Southern Pines started out as a resort and today boasts a rich golfing tradition, a strong equestrian heritage, a cute downtown and wooded neighborhoods.

Bandon, Oregon

Bandon is a cute town on the rugged southern Oregon coast and is a place where water views invigorate the soul.

Culpeper, Virginia

Outside of Washington, D.C., Culperer is a cute little place with a historic, well-kept downtown, some wineries and leafy neighborhoods.

Captain Cook, Hawaii

Captain Cook is a peaceful spot next to Kealakekua Bay, a calm, shallow body of water with a large coral reef and diverse underwater life.

Fairhope, Alabama

A friendly, pretty place, Fairhope boasts a waterfront locale, safe neighborhoods and a gentle spirit. It is a great retirement spot!

Smithfield, Virginia

Incorporated in 1752, Smithfield is a quaint town known for its beautiful 18th-century Colonial, Federal, Georgian and Victorian architecture.

Coconut Creek, Florida

Near the southeastern Florida coast and named after its many coconut palms, Coconut Creek has an abundance of parks, gardens, canals and lushly landscaped avenues, not to mention the world's largest butterfly aviary.

Jerome, Arizona

A quirky old copper mining town and National Historic District, Jerome is a tourist destination and home to an eclectic mix of people, including artists, writers, craftsmen, ghost tour guides and even a few hermits.

Golden, Colorado

An amiable town with a casual Old West flavor and some beautiful homes, Golden is tucked between two table mountains and a canyon just west of Denver.

Clemson, South Carolina

An engaging atmosphere, Southern hospitality, good senior services and a reasonable cost of living are Clemson highlights.

Madison, Mississippi

Madison, a pretty city on the banks of Ross R. Barnett Reservoir, has shaded neighborhoods and plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure.

Fairfield, California

Outside of San Francisco and the Napa Valley in northern California, Fairfield is a comfortable city and home to the famous Jelly Belly jellybean factory.

Clermont, Florida

A peaceful, comfortable place, Clermont is snuggled in slightly rolling terrain around a chain of lakes and has homes with boat docks.

Magnolia Springs, Alabama

Known as one of the prettiest towns in Alabama, Magnolia Springs brims with wisteria, camellias, azaleas and has its mail delivered by boat.

Waynesville, North Carolina

Tucked between the Great Smoky Mountains and the Blue Ridge Mountains in lush western North Carolina, sleepy Waynesville appeals to people who love the outdoors.

Pretty Bayou, Florida

A quiet place along the North Bay and Grand Lagoon on Florida's central Panhandle, Pretty Bayou is rural, unincorporated and has waterfront homes. White sand beaches are eight miles away.

April 20, 2020

Winter Springs, Florida

Along Lake Jesup and the Spring Hammock Preserve, Winter Springs is a pleasant community with an attractive town center and pretty lake views.

Payson, Arizona

Surrounded by the sprawling Tonto National Forest at 5,000 feet above sea level in central Arizona, Payson is a jumping off point for outdoor adventure.

Corvallis, Oregon

Home to Oregon State University, Corvallis sits in a pretty valley surrounded by forests and hills and boasts a vibrant atmosphere with a "granola" vibe.

Town Snapshot:

Carrabelle, Florida

A working fishing village and deep water seaport on the Florida Panhandle, Carrabelle has an unspoiled beach, an Old Florida vibe and wilderness all around.

Isle of Palms, South Carolina

This affluent barrier island town is 15 miles east of Charleston on the mid-South Carolina coast and is known for its clean beaches, colorful, open-air eateries and beautiful homes.

Greenville, South Carolina

In South Carolina's Upcountry, Greenville boasts leafy neighborhoods, excellent restaurants, a lively cultural scene, an inviting, slightly European-feeling town core, reasonable prices and more. Is it a great place to retire?

Pflugervile, Texas

Settled in the 1850s by a German immigrant, Pflugerville is a comfortable, wholesome bedroom community and lands on "best places to live" lists.

Palm Shores, Florida

Next to the Indian River Lagoon on Florida's Space Coast, Palm Shores is a quiet, residential place where many people know one another.

McClellanville, South Carolina

Home to artists and writers, McClellanville is nestled against tidal creeks and saltwater marshes and is a beautiful, secluded place.

Athens, Ohio  

Attractive Athens sits in the Hocking River Valley in pretty southeastern Ohio and is surrounded by rolling hills. While coal companies were once the major employers here, now Ohio University (22,000 students) is the lifeblood of the city and has a lovely campus.

Short Review:

Colonial Beach, Virginia

Colonial Beach is a safe but slightly faded waterfront town with reasonable living costs and Virginia's second longest beachfront.

Monroe Point, Colonial Beach, Virginia

Monroe Point is a waterfront town home community with pretty views of Monroe Bay. Residents enjoy a marina and direct water access.

Town Snapshots:

Winter Springs, Florida

Along Lake Jesup and the Spring Hammock Preserve, Winter Springs is a pleasant community with an attractive town center and pretty lake views.

Hacienda Village, Winter Springs, Florida

This very casual, leafy 55+ co-op community is laid out along a meandering creek and has a recreation center, two swimming pools, RV storage, planned events and more.

Yuma, Arizona

Once a busy ferry stop on the Colorado River, today Yuma is a tourist and "snowbird" destination that comes alive during the winter months.

Mary Esther, Florida

This friendly coastal town is in on the Panhandle and just across the Sound from Santa Rosa Island and its sparkling white sand beaches.

Breckenridge, Colorado

Swaddled by mountain peaks and national forest in spectacular northwestern Colorado, Breckenridge is cute, trendy and touristy.

Missoula, Montana

At the foot of the Bitterroot Mountains, Missoula boasts beautiful scenery, a lively cultural scene, good hospitals and abundant outdoor recreation. It is a great retirement spot!

Morgantown, West Virginia

Tucked into beautiful rolling hills, rural but lively Morgantown is home to West Virginia University and often lands on "best places to live" lists.

Amherst, Massachusetts

In a region known as Happy Valley, stimulating Amherst is home to three colleges/universities and has a rich cultural ambiance.

Gloucester, Virginia

Steeped in history, pretty Gloucester is along Mobjack Bay on the southern Virginia coast and brims with stately homes.

Murrells Inlet, South Carolina

Once a pirates' lair, today Murrells Inlet is a little fishing village known as the "Seafood Capital of South Carolina." Although it is not far from lively Myrtle Beach, it is still a quiet place and a great retirement spot!

Oak Harbor, Washington

Tucked on the northern end of northwestern Washington's wild Whidbey Island, Oak Harbor boasts pretty views, a nice downtown, an often empty beach and more.

Southern Pines, North Carolina

Southern Pines started out as a resort but today boasts a rich golfing tradition, a strong equestrian heritage, a cute downtown and wooded neighborhoods.

Sanibel, Florida

Prosperous, "beachy" Sanibel sits on the barrier island of the same name and is renowned for its 15 miles of beautiful white crushed seashell beaches and wildlife refuges.

Coeur d'Alene, Idaho

Picturesque Coeur d'Alene sits along Lake Coeur d'Alene in rugged northern Idaho and has a trendy vibe, outstanding outdoor recreation, a symphony, a ballet, gorgeous scenery and more.

Payson, Arizona

Surrounded by the sprawling Tonto National Forest at 5,000 feet above sea level in central Arizona, Payson plays up its Western heritage and is a jumping off point for outdoor adventure.

Corvallis, Oregon

Home to Oregon State University, Corvallis sits in a pretty valley surrounded by forests and hills and boasts a vibrant atmosphere with a "granola" vibe.

New Bern, North Carolina

Historic New Bern is in North Carolina's Inner Banks region where the Neuse River and Trent River converge. Often overlooked by tourists as they hurry on their way to the Outer Banks, it has a charming downtown, beautiful homes and reasonable prices. It is a great retirement spot!

Columbus, North Carolina

Tucked in the Blue Ridge Mountain foothills of scenic western North Carolina, Columbus is nice little town in a growing wine and equestrian region.

Lewisville, Texas

Lewisville is a friendly city along the shores of 29,000-acre Lewisville Lake outside of Dallas and has an active Old Town, a large marina, numerous shopping centers and much more.

Murfreesboro, Tennessee   

Easygoing and affordable, Murfreesboro has been growing and exudes country charm.  It is a great retirement spot!

Carolina Shores, North Carolina

This Brunswick County town split from its nearest neighbor, Calabash, after battles over city services and ordinances.   Despite its name, it sits about 5 miles inland from the Atlantic Ocean and does not have a shore or beach.  It was incorporated in 1998.  

Colonial Beach, Virginia

Colonial Beach is a safe but slightly faded waterfront town with reasonable living costs and Virginia's second longest beachfront.

Monroe Point, Colonial Beach, Virginia

Monroe Point is a waterfront town home community with pretty views of Monroe Bay. Residents enjoy a marina and direct water access.

Town Snapshot:

Martinsville, Virginia

With the Blue Ridge Mountains as a backdrop, Martinsville boasts a NASCAR racetrack, art galleries and studios, fun eateries, music events, nearby water recreation and very affordable housing.

Northfield, Minnesota

Northfield is a quintessential college town with a cute town center and a bounty of fairs and festivals.

Wanchese, North Carolina

In the middle of the Outer Banks, Wanchese, a rustic unincorporated town, occupies the southern edge of Roanoke Island. It was named after the last known indigenous ruler of the island and does not have the typical Outer Banks crowds or high costs.

Flagstaff, Arizona

This friendly, touristy mountain metropolis is nestled in beautiful scenery and boasts abundant outdoor recreation, a lively cultural scene, Old West character and more. Is it a great place to retire?

Kuna, Idaho

Outside of Boise in southwestern Idaho, Kuna is reasonably priced, safe, spacious and not far from outstanding outdoor recreation.

Kure Beach, North Carolina

Kure Beach is on the southern end of Pleasure Island and is a relaxed place, home to a nice boardwalk and miles of clean white beaches.

Gloucester, Virginia

Steeped in history, pretty Gloucester is along Mobjack Bay on the southern Virginia coast and brims with stately homes.

Ocean Shores, Washington

Spread across the Point Brown Peninsula on Washington's scenic mid-coast, salty Ocean Shores was once a Hollywood jetsetter hangout and today is a weekend tourist destination.

Henderson, Nevada

Outside of Las Vegas and not too far from the Hoover Dam and Lake Mead, Henderson has a newish feeling about it and brims with master planned communities, shopping, golf courses and eateries. Is it a great place to retire?

Short Review:

Naples, Florida

On Florida's southwestern coast, beautiful Naples is known for its "beachy" resort ambiance, high-end shopping venues, golf courses and sugar white beaches.

Matthews, North Carolina

Wooded and well manicured, Matthews has a cute, old fashioned downtown, a farmers' market and fun festivals.

Deerfield Beach, Florida

Named after the deer that once gazed here, Deerfield Beach sits on the southeastern Florida coast and boasts an award-winning, often uncrowded white sand beach and reasonable costs.

Blue Hill, Maine

Hugging the rugged outcroppings of the Blue Hill peninsula on Maine's central coast, this charming, weathered waterfront town has a history that reaches back to 1762.

Prospect, Kentucky

Outside of Louisville, Prospect boasts leisurely country lanes, elegant homes and horse pastures lined with white fences.

Murfreesboro, Tennessee

Outside of Nashville, amiable Murfreesboro exudes a quiet country charm. It is also a shopping hub, full of friendly folks and home to Middle Tennessee State University. It is, in fact, a great retirement spot!

Sneads Ferry, North Carolina

Sneads Ferry, relaxed but growing, sits along the New River on the southern North Carolina coast. It is home to military families and fishermen, and it started out as a ferry crossing dock in the early 1700s. Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune is just across the river.

Banner Elk, North Carolina

Banner Elk got its name from the man who founded the town, Martin Banner, in 1848. It is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of northwestern North Carolina and today is a popular tourist destination and home of Lees-McRae College (1,000 students), a private, four year college associated with the Presbyterian Church.

Louisville, Colorado

On a high grassy plain in north central Colorado, Louisville is an casual, affluent city that boasts sweeping views of the majestic Rocky Mountains.

Sebastian, Florida

Sleepy Sebastian sits along the Indian River Lagoon on southeastern Florida's Treasure Coast, an area so named because Spanish ships lost their treasure along the coast during the early 18th-century.

Steinhatchee, Florida

On the eastern Florida Panhandle, the marshy Big Bend Coast generally borders Apalachee Bay. In this very rural area, the little "Old Florida" fishing village of Steinhatchee makes its home. It sits at the mouth of the Steinhatchee River, which feeds into the Gulf, and is known for its scallops.

Steinhatchee Landing Resort: Charming Cottages in Steinhatchee, Florida   

Secluded under tall trees and nestled along the Steinhatchee River, Steinhatchee Landing Resort is an old fashioned, family-style resort. Romantic and tranquil, it sits on 35 acres and feels a world unto itself.

Ruskin, Florida

Unincorporated Ruskin is located in a rural part of southwestern Florida, along Tampa Bay and the Little Manatee River. It is about half way between Tampa and Bradenton and was an agricultural center for most of its 105 years.

Deerfield Beach, Florida

Deerfield Beach is situated along the congested southeastern Florida coast, about 15 miles north of Fort Lauderdale, and started out as an agricultural community. It was named Deerfield for the deer grazing in the fields and remained a farming hub until the 1940s when it changed its name to Deerfield Beach.

Brooksville, Florida

Reminiscent of Old Florida, Brooksville boasts a cute downtown, canopy lanes and a nearby state forest perfect for biking, fishing and picnicing.

Coconut Creek, Florida

Bozeman, Montana

Surrounded by mountains and once just a dusty cow town, Bozeman is home to Montana State University and is a gateway to stunning Yellowstone National Park.

Marco Island, Florida

This balmy, upscale town sits on a barrier island at the northern end of the Ten Thousand Islands and boasts sparkling white beaches and gorgeous blue-green waters.

Salem, Oregon

Just an hour from the coast, Salem is a quiet, mid-sized city in the lush Willamette Valley in northwestern Oregon and is surrounded by natural beauty.

Coconut Creek is an inland city about 15 miles north west of Fort Lauderdale in southwestern Florida. It is award-winning for its environmentalism and eco-conscious outlook and is home to the world's largest butterfly aviary, with more than 5,000 individual butterflies.

Newport, North Carolina

Peaceful Newport sits along the Newport River in a rural area about two miles inland from Bogue Sound on North Carolina's mid-coast. It has grown by 325% in the last decade and is primarily residential.

Centre, Alabama

Nestled along tranquil Lake Weiss, Centre is quiet, affordable and down to earth.  Is it a great retirement spot?

Town Snapshots:

Nags Head, North Carolina

An established, touristy beach resort, Nags Head boasts colorful eateries, art galleries and stilt homes.

Powell, Wyoming

Set amid gently rolling hills, yellow buttes and waving prairie grass in scenic northwestern Wyoming, Powell is the authentic American West.

Pooler, Georgia

Reasonably priced, quiet and safe, Pooler is not far from posh Hilton Head Island, sunny Florida beaches and bustling Atlanta.

San Marcos, Texas

Amiable and reasonably priced, San Marcos boasts a riverfront locale, friendly folks, a collegiate vibe and a diverse culture. It is a great retirement spot!

Gig Harbor, Washington

Picturesque Gig Harbor is on northwestern Washington's beautiful Puget Sound and is clean, green and quiet.

Town Snapshot:

Pell City, Alabama

Sleepy Pell City sits next to 7,000-acre Logan Martin Lake in northeastern Alabama, boasting water recreation and reasonable living costs.

Summerville, South Carolina

Known for its abundant flowers, peaceful Summerville charms with its leisurely pace and elegant homes. It is a great retirement spot!

Lake Lure, North Carolina

The resort town of Lake Lure is located in western North Carolina's beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains and is nestled around 718-acre Lake Lure, a popular water recreation area. With a mature demographic, this rural oasis has been a favorite retirement spot for years.

Rumbling Bald: Mountain Homes in Lake Lure, North Carolina

On the north shore of sparkling Lake Lure in western North Carolina, Rumbling Bald is a year-round resort. It spreads across 3,000 acres of forested land and sits in the shadow of Rumbling Bald Mountain.

Ormond by the Sea, Florida

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Next to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in the scenic rolling hills of eastern Tennessee, lively Gatlinburg is a tourist magnet with a never-ending list of fun things to do.

Apache Junction, Arizona

Tucked into a corner of the Superstition Mountains outside of Phoenix, sun-soaked Apache Junction is a gateway to the massive Tonto National Forest, within easy reach of Lost Dutchman State Park and a "snowbird" magnet.

Seabrook, Texas

Along Galveston Bay on Texas' Gulf Coast, Seabrook is a bird sanctuary with a suburban quality and a large boating community.

Flagstaff, Arizona

This mountain metropolis is nestled in beautiful scenery and boasts Old West character. Is it a great place to retire?

This quiet barrier island community is located on the northeastern Florida coast, about an hour from Orlando. It is bounded by the Atlantic Ocean on the east, the Halifax River on the west, the city of Ormond Beach to the south, and the Volusia County border to the north.

Isle of Palms, South Carolina

This affluent barrier island community is just 15 miles east of Charleston on the mid-South Carolina coast.  It may be best known for its clean beaches, weathered boardwalks and colorful eateries.

Ahwatukee, Arizona

In southern Arizona, suburban Ahwatukee is technically a Phoenix urban village and hemmed in by Interstate 10, the Gila River Indian Community and several cities.  Thanks to these geographic barriers, it has a distinct personality and has been called the "World's Largest Cul de Sac."   

Smithfield, Virginia  

Incorporated in 1752, charming Smithfield is in the Hampton Roads region of southeastern Virginia. It is on the Pagan River and is known for its beautiful 18th-century Colonial, Federal, Georgian and Victorian architecture.

Church Square: a Cozy 55+ Community in Smithfield, Virginia  

Smithfield is on the southeastern coast and is home to Church Square, a 55+ attached home community with just 118 duplexes, quad groupings and town houses. Construction started by Atlantic Homes in 2007 and continues today.

Leesburg, Virginia

Steeped in history, charming Leesburg makes its home in a beautiful landscape of rolling hills, horse farms and low slung stone walls.

Angel Fire, New Mexico

A little village at 8,553 feet above sea level, Angel Fire sits in a beautiful valley in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and is a peaceful, outdoor-oriented place.

Branson, Missouri

In the Ozark Mountains of southeastern Missouri, touristy Branson is a hugely popular entertainment hub with museums, outdoor shows, gospel groups, music acts, light shows, shopping venues, eateries and more.

Bellingham, Washington

Not far from the Canadian border, Bellingham sits on a beautiful bay in the shadow of Mt. Baker and is home to outdoor oriented people.

Debary, Florida

Bordered by Lake Monroe, the St. John's River and the Lower Wekiva River Preserve State Park, DeBary is dotted with thousands of live oaks, cypress trees and southern magnolias.

Brookings, Oregon

On Oregon's stunning southern coast, Brookings is surrounded by pristine mountains and thick forests. It has quiet beaches, an attractive downtown, a farmers' market, art galleries and the ever popular Winter Art and Chocolate Festival. Is it also a great place to retire?

Safety Harbor, Florida

Sleepy Safety Harbor is on Florida's Gulf Coast and is known for its quaint downtown, safe neighborhoods, pretty waterfront setting and friendly neighbors. It is a great retirement spot!

Morgantown, West Virginia   

Tucked into beautiful rolling hills, secluded but lively Morgantown is home to West Virginia University and often lands on "best places to live" lists.

Coral Springs, Florida

Bordered by Everglades National Park, Coral Springs started out as a master planned development and today is known for its well managed government and rich quality of life.

Heron Bay: a Master Planned Community in Coral Springs, Florida

Laced with canals and dotted with manicured grounds, Heron Bay has single family homes, condos, town homes and a TPC golf course.

Rockport, Texas

On Aransas Bay on the Texas Gulf Coast, Rockport is a funky, low key tourist destination known for its clean beaches and outstanding fishing waters. Is it a great place to retire?

Georgetown, Texas

Along the San Gabriel River in lush central Texas, friendly Georgetown boasts a beautifully restored downtown, a colorful flower festival, safe neighborhoods and a casual way of life.

Cortez, Florida

A working fishing village, Cortez has an Old Florida feeling and a mellow, Margaritaville attitude.

Edisto Beach, South Carolina

Tiny Edisto Beach is at the mouth of the Edisto River on the southern South Carolina coast and is a quiet seaside community with four miles of pristine beach.

Sunny Isles Beach, Florida

A cosmopolitan resort community on a barrier island east of North Miami Beach, Sunny Isles Beach beckons with a gorgeous beach, sparkling waters, gleaming buildings and tropical vegetation.

Kihei, Hawaii

Nestled along beautiful Maalaea Bay on Maui's dry southwestern coast, Kihei is a mellow resort city with a rugged tan sand beach and mountains in the distance.

Banner Elk, North Carolina

In the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains of northwestern North Carolina, Banner Elk is a vacation destination with a cute downtown.

Yellow Springs, Ohio

Outside of Dayton, Yellow Springs is a charming, offbeat village with colorful shops, art galleries, eateries, studio tours and more.

Oriental, North Carolina

A quaint harbor town on the Neuse River, Oriental is the self-proclaimed "Sailing Capital of North Carolina," and its picturesque marina is stocked with tall masted sloops, schooners and powerboats.

Laramie, Wyoming

East of the Snowy Mountains in southwestern Wyoming, Laramie sits under a looming sky on a grassy, windswept plain and is home to the University of Wyoming.

Spring Creek, Nevada

About half way between Reno, Nevada and Salt Lake City, Utah, Spring Creek is a friendly, comfortable town in a scenic valley.

Panama City Beach, Florida

On the Florida Panhandle's Emerald Coast, Panama City Beach is famous for its 27 miles of mezmurizing white powdery beaches and sparkling green waters.

Nacogdoches, Texas

Originally the gateway between the U.S. and the Texas frontier, Nacogdoches is in leafy East Texas and is the state's oldest town.

Chapel Hill, North Carolina

Home to the University of North Carolina, lively, progressive Chapel Hill is known for its funky academic vibe, leafy neighhorhoods, rich foodie culture, excellent medical facilities and more. It is a great retirement spot!

Wimberley, Texas

Amid bluebonnet fields and carpets of colorful Indian paintbrush in lush central Texas, sleepy Wimberley beckons with its gentle charm, artsy sensibility and easy pace. It is a great retirement spot!

Mexico Beach, Florida

With sugar white sand and turquoise waters, idyllic Mexico Beach sits along the Florida panhandle and is known as "Mayberry on the Water."

Tubac, Arizona

Artsy, dusty and understated, Tubac boasts art galleries, good restaurants, cobbled streets, interesting home styles and an unhurried pace. It is a great retirement spot!

Altamonte Springs, Florida

Altamonte Springs is outside of Orlando and boasts reasonably priced living, with the white sands of New Smyrna Beach, Port Orange and Daytona Beach just an hour away.

March 2, 2020

Town Snapshots:

Longmont, Colorado

In the shadow of the majestic Rocky Mountains and surrounded by open space, Longmont is home to the county fair and known for its pretty views and bicycle friendliness.

Cape Carteret, North Carolina

Along Bogue Sound on North Carolina's Inner Banks, Cape Carteret is a sleepy hamlet with an easygoing way of life.

March 1, 2020

Town Snapshots:

Mount Joy, Pennsylvania

Tucked amid rolling farmland in southeastern Pennsylvania's Dutch Country, Mount Joy was founded by Scots-Irish immigrants and boasts a rich agricultural history.

Sioux Falls, South Dakota

On the Great Plains of southeastern South Dakota, Sioux Falls is well-managed, clean and safe with a nice downtown and plenty of amenities.

Cumming, Georgia

Outside of bustling Atlanta and along the shores of beautiful Lake Lanier in northern Georgia, up and coming Cumming is leafy, suburban and growing.

Eustis, Florida

In pretty north central Florida, Eustis is a charming lakeside town with a lovely downtown, red brick sidewalks and plenty of places to watch the sunset over the water.

Town Snapshots:

Kennesaw, Georgia

Outside of Atlanta in northern Georgia, Kennesaw is comfortable, suburban and home to Kennesaw State University.

Sierra Vista, Arizona

Once a trail stop for Mexican conquistadors, Sierra Vista is in the southeastern corner of Arizona and is surrounded by rugged mountains. It is also the Hummingbird Capital of the World.

Beverly Beach, Florida

A little more than a mile long, laid back Beverly Beach sits on a barrier island between the Matanzas River and the Atlantic Ocean and has a beautiful strip of sand.

Slidell, Louisiana

Nearby big city amenities, a reasonable cost of living, a cute "old town" and fun festivals draw people to Slidell. Is it a great place to retire?

Buffalo, Wyoming

Buffalo, often called "Mayberry of the West," is at the foot of the rugged Big Horn Mountains in north central Wyoming and is a quaint, authentic Western town. Is it a great place to retire?

Town Snapshot:

Altamonte Springs, Florida

Altamonte Springs is outside of Orlando and boasts reasonably priced living, with the white sands of New Smyrna Beach, Port Orange and Daytona Beach just an hour away.

Town Snapshot:

Cape Carteret, North Carolina

Along Bogue Sound on North Carolina's Inner Banks, Cape Carteret is a sleepy hamlet with an easygoing way of life.

Signal Mountain, Tennessee

Signal Mountain sits on a ridge at the end of the Cumberland Plateau overlooking the Tennessee River and has a suburban, country vibe.

Estero, Florida

Originally started as a religious colony, today Estero is a mellow place with abundant wildlife, plenty of recreational opportunities and pretty beaches close at hand.

Fallbrook, California

Sleepy Fallbrook is nestled in rolling hills and orchards and is known for its avocados. In fact, it is known as the "Avocado Capital of the World."

North Port, Florida

Straddling the Myakka River and adjacent to the Myakka State Forest in southwestern Florida, North Port is leafy, residential and reasonably priced.

Carmel, California

With a history dating back to Spanish missionaries, a stunning setting and a rich artistic tradition, beautiful Carmel is hard to resist.

Alachua, Florida

A quiet country community with deep agricultural roots, Alachua boasts a cute downtown lined with Bradford pear trees.

Key West, Florida

Originally a Spanish fishing village, today Key West's tropical vibe, famous Duval Street and unique architecture draw tourists from around the world.

Watkinsville, Georgia

Quiet, comfortable and leafy, Watkinsville is close to the University of Georgia, has a nice downtown and is reaonably priced.

Callawassie Island, South Carolina

Callawassie Island is a beautiful barrier island off of the southern South Carolina coast and is surrounded by tidal creeks and salt marshes.

Port St. Lucie, Florida

Tucked between the St. Lucie River and the Indian River Lagoon on the southeastern Florida coast, Port St. Lucie is a mellow city with safe neighborhoods, a fun botanic garden, a world class resort, plenty of golf opportunities and an abundance of water recreation. Is it a great place to retire?

Jensen Beach, Florida

Unassuming Jensen Beach, once the "Pineapple Capital of the World," is today known for its peaceful way of life, sea turtles and excellent fishing.

Lanai City, Hawaii

In the central highlands of Lanai, Lanai City is a charming old plantation town with many of its 1920s building still standing.

Lawrence, Kansas

Leafy Lawrence is a quintessential college town and often lands on "best places to live" lists.

Olympia, Washington

Nestled in heart-stopping scenery at the southern end of beautiful Puget Sound, laid back Olympia is Washington's capital city and about an hour south of Seattle.

Waynesville, North Carolina

Tucked between the Great Smoky Mountains and the Blue Ridge Mountains in lush western North Carolina, sleepy Waynesville appeals to people who love the outdoors.

Pretty Bayou, Florida

A quiet place along the North Bay and Grand Lagoon on Florida's central Panhandle, Pretty Bayou is rural, unincorporated and has waterfront homes. White sand beaches are eight miles away.

Melbourne Beach, Florida

Unhurried and glistening, Melbourne Beach sits on a barrier island and is known for its beautiful stretches of white sand beaches.

Boca Raton, Florida

Sometimes called the Sixth Borough, stylish Boca Raton is known for its shopping venues, gated neighborhoods, pastel-colored buildings and verdant parks.

Abingdon, Virginia

Surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains in lush western Virginia, attractive Abingdon dates from the mid-1700s and has an active arts scene.

Bluffton, South Carolina

Bluffton sits on a bluff overlooking the May River and was built by wealthy plantation owners seeking a place to escape the summer heat.

Pass Christian, Mississippi

Bordered by water on three sides, the friendly, quaint little town of Pass Christian was the site of the South's first yacht club and is known for its oyster reefs.

Queen Creek, Arizona

Outside of Phoenix in southcentral Arizona, Queen Creek is dotted with planned communities and has a newish, manufactured ambiance.

Pullman, Washington

Situated on the Palouse, a stunning agricultural region in southeastern Washington, Pullman is home to Washington State University.

Houston, Texas

Bustling and diverse, Houston sits near the Gulf of Mexico in southeastern Texas and boasts reasonable living costs, eclectic neighborhoods, amenities galore, fun eateries, outstanding medical facilities and more. Is it a great place to retire?

Ellijay, Georgia

In the lush Appalachian foothills of northern Georgia, Ellijay is a growing country town known as the "Apple Capital of Georgia." (Number of Covid-19 Cases: 0)

Corpus Christi, Texas

A laid back coastal city, Corpus Christi has an eclectic population, a pretty skyline, a nice bayfront, plenty of nice beaches and more.

Holly Springs, North Carolina

Not far from the largest research park in the country, Holly Springs is a comfortable, growing town with an educated population.

Salado, Texas

The charming village of Salado started out as a college town but today is a hip artists' colony and thrives as a weekend getaway for people from Waco, Temple and Austin.

Laguna Beach, Florida

Laguna Beach is a low key community on Florida's Panhandle and boasts a long, wide stretch of sugar white sand tucked against emerald waters.

Grapevine, Texas

A comfortable city outside of Dallas-Fort Worth, Grapevine gets its name from the wild grapes that once carpeted the land.

Corpus Christi, Texas

A laid back coastal city, Corpus Christi has a pretty skyline, a nice bayfront, plenty of beaches, an eclectic population and more.

Auburn, California

Tucked in the western foothills of the Sierra Nevadas, Auburn dates back to the California Gold Rush and is listed as a California Historic Landmark.

Clermont, Florida

A peaceful, comfortable place, Clermont is snuggled in slightly rolling terrain around a chain of lakes and has homes with boat docks.

Mt. Juliet, Tennessee

The leafy, comfortable town of Mt. Juliet is just outside of Nashville in north central Tennessee and is well managed and well kept.

St. Pete Beach, Florida

Touristy, laid back St. Pete Beach is known for its beautiful beaches, unspoiled sand dunes and resort hotels.

Hot Springs, South Dakota

On the southern edge of the Black Hills National Forest, the pretty, unassuming hamlet of Hot Springs is known for its healing mineral waters.

Rock Hall, Maryland

A quaint fishing village on the Chesapeake Bay, Rock Hall dates from 1701 and has more than a dozen marinas with boats of all shapes and sizes.

Sonoma, California

Beautiful, upscale Sonoma is in the heart of California's wine country and is tucked in a landscape of rolling farmland and fertile vineyards.

Doctor Phillips, Florida

Nestled amid lakes and named after an early citrus titan, Doctor Phillips is a comfortable town with a good reputation.

Sunny Isles Beach, Florida

A cosmopolitan resort community on a barrier island east of North Miami Beach, Sunny Isles Beach beckons with a gorgeous beach, blue green waters, sparkling buildings and tropical vegetation.

Missoula, Montana

At the foot of the Bitterroot Mountains, Missoula boasts beautiful scenery, a lively cultural scene, good hospitals and abundant outdoor recreation. It is a great retirement spot!

Morgantown, West Virginia

Tucked into beautiful rolling hills, secluded but lively Morgantown is home to West Virginia University and often lands on "best places to live" lists.

Dawsonville, Georgia

Welcoming Dawsonville is outside of Atlanta, not far from the North Georgia mountains, and is the site of the annual Mountain Moonshine Festival.

Longwood, Florida

Outside of Orlando in northeastern Florida, Longwood is quiet, leafy and suburban.

Yellow Springs, Ohio

Outside of Dayton, Yellow Springs is a charming, offbeat village with colorful shops, art galleries, eateries, studio tours and more.

Conroe, Texas

Conroe sits along the shores of Lake Conroe outside of Houston and has wooded neighborhoods, a nice downtown and a country feeling.

Palisade, Colorado

Tucked along the Colorado River in rugged western Colorado, Palisade is surrounded by peach orchards, truck farms and a growing number of vineyards.

Loveland, Colorado

Nestled along the Rocky Mountain foothills in pretty northern Colorado, Loveland is the "Sweetheart City" and boasts safe neighborhoods, good medical facilities, blue skies and plenty of outdoor recreation. Is it a great place to retire?

Miramar Beach, Florida

A classic beach town, Miramar is known for its mesmerizing turquoise waters and miles of sugar white sand.

Lake Lure, North Carolina

A popular resort town, Lake Lure is in western North Carolina's scenic Blue Ridge Mountains and nestled around sparkling Lake Lure.

Floral City, Florida

Old fashioned Floral City is a quiet, country place at the edge of the Tsala Apopka Chain of Lakes and has a nice reputation.

San Luis Obispo, California

Posh and prosperous, San Luis Obispo is not far from the coast and known for its beautiful climate, charming town center and lack of fast food drive-thru restaurants.

Debary, Florida

Bordered by Lake Monroe, the St. John's River and the Lower Wekiva River Preserve State Park, DeBary is dotted with thousands of live oaks, cypress trees and southern magnolias.

Billings, Montana

Billings, once an actual Wild West town, sits in a rimrock canyon carved by the Yellowstone River and boasts leafy neighborhoods.

South Padre Island, Texas

This lively Gulf Coast resort town is on a long barrier island and famous for its miles of beaches, abundant water activities and party atmosphere.

Juno Beach, Florida

Tucked on a barrier island and known for its white/gray sand beach, Juno Beach is tranquil, casual and well-to-do.

Dillard, Georgia

The little town of Dillard is buried in northern Georgia's Blue Ridge Mountains and is popular with tourists and "weekenders" from Atlanta.

Swansboro, North Carolina

Homey, laid back Swansboro sits between the Intracoastal Waterway and the White Oak River on the North Carolina mid-coast. Its clean beaches, unspoiled boating areas, cute downtown and more make it a great retirement spot!

p align="center">Alva, Florida

At the western edge of the Okeechobee Waterway, Alva has a landscape of grazing cattle, citrus groves and large oak trees with hanging moss, evoking Old Florida.

Cascades at River Hall: a Peaceful 55+ Community in Alva, Florida

Single family homes are for sale in this quiet, gated 55+ neighborhood, and many of them have water views.

Bandon, Oregon

This cute, tranquil Coos County town is tucked along the rugged southern Oregon coast. It is burrowed near the south side of the Coquille River's mouth, a place where water views invigorate the soul.

Satellite Beach, Florida

A quiet coastal town, Satellite Beach has eight miles of sugar white sand, waterfront parks and a wildlife habitat only accessible by boat.

Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania

Jim Thorpe is a beautiful, touristy town known as the "Switzerland of America" and is nestled along the Lehigh River in rolling eastern Pennsylvania.

Folly Beach, South Carolina

Once home to pirates and bounty hunters, well-to-do Folly Beach is on Folly Island just southeast of Charleston and is known to locals as the "Edge of America."

Oak Island, North Carolina

Oak Island is a classic, unhurried beach town that stretches along a barrier island on the southern North Carolina shore.

Starkville, Mississippi

Adjacent to Mississippi State University, reasonably priced Starkville has fun festivals, a New Urbanism neighborhood and a definite college vibe.

Irmo, South Carolina

Irmo is a nice little town in the heart of South Carolina's Midlands and is a gateway to nearby Lake Murray.

Virginia Beach, Virginia

Safe and suburban, Virginia Beach sits where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Chesapeake Bay and has miles of beaches, drawing thousands of sand, sun and surf lovers every year.

Swarthmore, Pennsylvania

Lovely Swarthmore, home to small, prestigious Swarthmore College, has a cute downtown and a low key collegiate vibe.

Palm Coast, Florida

A pleasant place along the northeastern Florida coast, Palm Coast started as a planned community. Many of its homes back to a canal.

Indialantic, Florida

Laid back and quiet, Indialantic sits on a barrier island on Florida's Space Coast and has a long stretch of beach with a fun boardwalk.

Hiawassee, Georgia

Nestled on the shores of pretty Lake Chatuge in northern Georgia, Hiawassee is a scenic place surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains and two national forests.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Popular with artists, writers and history buffs, beautiful, understated Santa Fe is is known for its unique architecture, rich heritage, top notch restaurants, eclectic galleries, fun boutiques, renowned opera and hint of mysticism. It is a great retirement spot!

Gold Beach, Oregon   

With an invigorating setting on southern Oregon's rugged southern coast, Gold Beach is popular with fishermen, outdoor lovers and retirees.

Belleair Bluffs, Florida

Compact, coastal Belleair Bluffs rests on one of Florida's highest coastline elevations and is a gateway to beautiful Gulf Coast beaches.

Snowflake, Arizona

A remote town at nearly 6,000 feet above sea level in eastern Arizona, Snowflake was named after two men, Mr. Snow and Mr. Flake.

St. Marys, Georgia

With its rich history, charming riverfront setting, easygoing way of life and reasonably priced housing, St. Marys beckons. It is a great retirement spot!

Northlake, South Carolina

A waterfront town popular with tourists, Northlake has well-tended, leafy neighborhoods and a reasonable cost of living.

Fairfield, California

About an hour northeast of San Francisco and 20 miles from the Napa Valley in northern California, Fairfield is a comfortable city and home to the famous Jelly Belly jellybean factory.

Azalea Gardens: a Quiet Neighborhood Popular with Retirees in Oxford, Mississippi   

Azalea Gardens is a suburban Oxford neighborhood with tidy red brick single family homes and well tended lawns. It started out as part of Brookdale, a company that builds 55+ communities, but is no longer associated with that entity. Properties do not come up for sale often, but when they do, prices start in the high-$100,000s.

Lake Mary, Florida

This pretty city of lakes started out as a citrus farming center and today is a semi-rural bedroom community known for its high quality of life.

Fletcher, North Carolina

Nestled in scenic western North Carolina, Fletcher sits in hilly terrain and has a suburban, country vibe.

Highland Beach, Florida

Highland Beach is a balmy, affluent coastal community along State Road A1A in southeastern Florida and is framed by lush vegetation, the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean.

Norman, Oklahoma

Home to the University of Oklahoma, Norman is a comfortable, leafy Midwestern city and has landed on numerous "best places to live" lists.

Hawaiian Ocean View Estates, Hawaii

Sprawling, rural Hawaiian Ocean View Estates is bordered by water, a forest preserve and boasts simply amazing ocean views. It also has reasonably priced homes.

Port St. Joe, Florida

Along the Florida Panhandle coast, Port St. Joe is a quiet, rural deep water port with two traffic lights and waterfront restaurants.

Gearhart, Oregon

Weathered and romantic, Gearhart is on the northern Oregon coast and has a long pristine beach with breathtaking ocean vistas.

Oro Valley, Arizona

Oro Valley is a bedroom community in a pretty setting north of Tucson in southern Arizona and is home to a number of high tech and biotech companies.

Holden Beach, North Carolina

Idyllic Holden Beach is tucked on an island on the southern North Carolina coast and is known for its oceanfront beaches and a dramatic bridge that rises over the Intracoastal Waterway.

Kitty Hawk, North Carolina

Kitty Hawk, a casual Outer Banks town, has a traditional, touristy village, a newer waterfront section and a long beach.

Fayetteville, Arkansas

Nestled in northwestern Arkansas' beautiful Ozark Mountains, Fayetteville is rural, friendly and home to the University of Arkansas.

Fallon, Nevada

Situated in a green landscape of cantaloupe fields and alfalfa crops, quiet Fallon is home to Naval Air Station Fallon, where elite fighter pilots ("top guns") are trained.

Riverview, Florida

Along the shores of the Alafia River on Florida's southwestern coast, comfortable Riverview is near state parks and world class beaches.

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

On a barrier island of the same name, wooded Hilton Head Island started out in the 1600s and today is a popular tourist destination.

Conway, Arkansas

One of Arkansas' largest cities, Conway has a collegiate vibe, reasonable prices and excellent nearby lake recreation.

Evans, Georgia

Just outside of Augusta in eastern Georgia, Evans sits in the middle of golf country and is quiet, safe and prosperous.

Lady Lake, Florida

Home to part of The Villages, the large, popular 55+ community, Lady Lake is a quiet place with lakes, safe neighborhoods and leafy lanes.

Jacksonville, Oregon

Jacksonville, a quirky little town stuck in time, is nestled amid lakes, rivers and forests between the Cascade Mountains and the Klamath Mountains in rugged southwestern Oregon.

Punta Gorda, Florida

Considered by many to be the prettiest small city in Florida, Punta Gorda charms with its coastal locale, inviting cityscape, safe, canal laced neighborhoods and abundant boat recreation. It is a great retirement spot!

Sequim, Washington

Tucked amid lavender farms, strawberry farms and raspberry farms on the scenic Olympic Peninsula in western Washington, cozy Sequim is quiet and relaxed. The downtown is cute; the scenery is beautiful, and outdoor recreation abounds. It is a great retirement spot!

Weeki Wachee, Florida

About an hour north of Tampa, the rural Weeki Wachee area grew up around the famous Weeki Wachee Springs tourist attraction.

Bay Harbor Islands, Florida

Bay Harbor Islands is a sun-soaked town that sits on two small islands along the southeastern Florida coast just east of North Miami.

Columbus, North Carolina

Tucked in the Blue Ridge Mountain foothills of scenic western North Carolina, Columbus is nice little town in a growing wine and equestrian region and started out in the mid-1800s.

Etowah, North Carolina

In a scenic valley on the edges of the Blue Ridge Mountains, little Etowah is popular with people who want to live in trendy, neighboring Asheville but cannot quite afford it.

Flagler Beach, Florida

Flagler Beach started out as a sleepy fishing village. Today, it has a funky, mellow vibe and is often overlooked by tourists and vacationers as they head to Daytona and points farther south. Is it a great place to retire?

Tallahassee, Florida

Pretty Tallahassee is perched in the middle of the Florida Panhandle and is known for its canopy roads, which are lined with moss-draped live oaks, sweet gums, hickory trees and tall pines.

Meggett, South Carolina

Surrounded by creeks and marshes, mellow Meggett sits along Wadmalaw Sound in southeastern South Carolina and has an "ends of the world" feeling about it.

Port Royal, South Carolina

Sleepy Port Royal sits next to Port Royal Sound and has had five countries, Spain, France, England, Scotland and the United States, as well as the Confederacy, hoist their flag over it.

Flat Rock, North Carolina

Charming Flat Rock started out in the early-1800s as a summer retreat for wealthy Charlestonians and today is known as "Little Charleston of the Mountains."

Petoskey, Michigan

Petoskey is a cute resort community on the banks of Lake Michigan's sparkling Little Traverse Bay and is bordered by deep forests and rushing rivers.

Carolina Beach, North Carolina

Pleasure Island sits along the southern North Carolina coast. On the island's northern end, the little town of Carolina Beach makes its home and boasts a low key, 1950s-ambiance with modest cottages in quiet neighborhoods.

Bar Harbor, Maine

Touristy Bar Harbor sits on a scenic, rock-bound coast and boasts breathtaking views, a darling downtown and a rich maritime culture.

Seattle, Washington

Seattle sits on the shores of Puget Sound in west central Washington and boasts a beautiful cityscape, a bounty of eateries and pubs, theaters and museums, parks and trails, an educated populace and more. Is it a great place to retire?

Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Florida

A laid back town on a barrier island, Lauderdale-by-the-Sea is popular with snorklers and divers and maintains a prosperous, bohemian vibe.

Benson, Arizona

Once just a dusty desert outpost home to cattlemen, shopkeepers and scallywags, today Benson is the touristy gateway to Kartchner Caverns State Park, a network of 50,000 year old underground passageways.

Lexington, Virginia

Lexington, a quaint little town deep in the fertile Shenandoah Valley, boasts historic architecture, a scenic setting, a collegiate vibe, reasonable costs, safe neighborhoods and more. It is a great retirement spot!

Jupiter, Florida

Known for its beautiful beaches and tantalizing blue-green waters, Jupiter boasts swaying palm trees, glistening pastel-colored buildings and an abundance of golf courses.

Twin Falls, Idaho

Nestled along the Snake River, Twin Falls is known for dramatic Shoshone Falls, a nearby series of waterfalls that are actually taller than Niagara Falls.

Boulder, Colorado

Tucked against the majestic Rocky Mountain foothills, beautiful Boulder is trendy, progressive, enviromentally aware, outdoor oriented and home to the lovely University of Colorado flagship campus. It is a great retirement spot!

Prescott, Arizona

Once a hardscrabble mining camp, today Prescott is a vacation getaway with historic neighborhoods, a fun downtown, a gentle climate, excellent outdoor recreation and frontier character and more.

La Quinta, California

Near the Santa Rosa Mountains, pretty La Quinta is home to the world-famous PGA West golf complex and popular with tourists and "snowbirds."

Gulf Shores, Alabama

People come to Gulf Shores, tucked along the central shore of Alabama, for its relaxing atmosphere, beautiful beaches, nine outstanding golf courses and deep sea fishing.

Clarkdale, Arizona

This high country hamlet was built as a company town and lives on today as a gateway to the Tuzigoot National Monument and the Sycamore Canyon Wilderness.

St. Cloud, Florida

A quiet town on the shores of East Lake Tohopekaliga, St. Cloud has nicely tended neighborhoods and a cute downtown with brick streets.

Wenatchee, Washington

East of the Cascades, picturesque Wenatchee is surrounded by mountains, rivers and apple orchards. While outdoor recreation abounds, cultural amenities are in good supply, too.

Jacksonville Beach, Florida

On the northeastern Florida coast, touristy Jacksonville Beach has classic white strips of sand and a fun boardwalk.

Mountain Home, Arkansas

Tucked amid rolling hills and close to two large lakes, Lake Norfork and Bull Shoals Lake, Mountain Home boasts outstanding water recreation, a slower pace and reasonably priced housing. Is it a great place to retire?

Ankeny, Iowa

Ankeny is a tidy, wholesome town in pastoral central Iowa and has landed on "best places to live" lists.

Englewood, Florida

Facing Lemon Bay on the southwestern Florida coast, mellow Englewood has an old fashioned Florida vibe, nearby barrier island beaches, a cute downtown, excellent fishing and more. Is it a great place to retire?

Traverse City, Michigan

A picturesque bayfront setting, a good hospital, leafy neighborhoods, a lively cultural community and abundant outdoor recreation are Traverse City highlights. It is a great retirement spot!

Hernando, Mississippi

Home to a sizeable musician population, Hernando has been landing on "best places to live" lists in the last few years.

Moab, Utah

In rugged southeastern Utah, Moab was once a bohemian outpost but today draws 1.5 million outdoor adventure seekers every year.

Solomons Island, Maryland

Picturesque Solomons Island is a historic waterfront resort with a mature demographic, a lovely boardwalk, the Calvert Maritime Museum and more.

Rio Rancho, New Mexico

On the high desert outside of Albuquerque, Rio Rancho is a comfortable suburb with safe neighborhoods and reasonable costs.

Nokomis, Florida

The unincorporated beach town of Nokomis is between Sarasota and Venice on Florida's southwestern coast. It reminds many people of what Florida used to be and has a relaxed Gulf Coast vibe.

Pinedale, Wyoming

In the shadow of the Wind River Mountain Range and 75 miles southeast of stunning Jackson Hole, Pinedale is popular with backcountry adventurers.

Pembroke Pines, Florida

A quiet suburban atmosphere, wide boulevards lined with palm trees and neighborhoods interwoven with canals are Pembroke Pines' highlights.

Waldport, Oregon

A rustic but comfortable waterfront village with an "old salt" ambiance, Waldport is just minutes from the 630,000-acre Siuslaw National Forest.

Sedona, Arizona

Known for its mystical red rock formations, seductive light and rejuvenative powers, Sedona is a spiritual vortex with beautiful homes. It is a great retirement spot!

Geneva, Florida

Not far from Orlando, Geneva is a peaceful place surrounded by water and wilderness and is sometimes called "the lost world" by locals.

Elizabethtown, Kentucky

A friendly, well-tended community, Elizabethtown is close to Fort Knox and popular with military families.

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