When it comes to finding love in retirement, the playing field seems unevenly skewed towards the younger crowd, especially around Valentine’s Day. We see a barrage of marketing geared towards young love, leaving single retirees often on the sidelines of the romance game. Yet, love doesn’t retire, and neither do the desires and needs of single seniors seeking companionship.
But there’s a practical side to this quest for love that often goes overlooked: the cost. Dating isn’t cheap. According to a 2024 survey by Self Financial, the average person spends about $58.84 per date. For those embarking on several dates each month, these expenses quickly add up. Moreover, the setting for your romantic ventures matters immensely. If you’re retired and single, finding a city brimming with potential partners and affordable living can be a golden ticket.
Recent research by Asset Preservation Wealth & Tax has shed light on the best cities for single seniors to find both love and a manageable lifestyle. The study considered 14 factors, including proximity to cruise lines, the number of golf courses, sunny days, safety ratings, air quality, entertainment options like theaters and museums, and essential services like healthcare and senior centers.
Here are the five cities that stand out for single retirees. Can you envision yourself finding love and managing your finances comfortably in these locales?
5. Sarasota, Florida This retiree haven in Florida ranks fifth. Known for its vibrant senior community, which constitutes 29.3% of its population, Sarasota offers an array of activities from golf to social gatherings at local senior centers. However, it scores less favorably in terms of affordability. The overall cost of living here is 4% above the national average, with housing costs being particularly steep at 14% higher than average.
4. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania The City of Brotherly Love offers a robust blend of historical allure and modern convenience, making it a strong contender for retirees. With over 14% of its 1.5 million population being seniors, Philadelphia boasts excellent healthcare facilities and a bustling social scene for the older demographic. The cost of living is slightly above the national average by 3%, but housing is reasonably priced, even coming in 1% below the national average.
3. New Orleans, Louisiana The vibrant culture and festive spirit of New Orleans make it a surprisingly fitting choice for retirees seeking companionship. The city’s 16.5% senior population enjoys the benefits of supreme walkability and a plethora of engaging activities. While Louisiana is generally affordable, New Orleans itself presents a higher cost of living—12% above the national mean with housing prices particularly high at 49% above average.
2. Seattle, Washington The picturesque city of Seattle appeals to those who love nature and urban living. It’s home to a significant senior population, and its cultural and recreational offerings are second to none, including museums, parks, and an active community life. However, affordability is a concern; the cost of living here soars 46% above the national average, and housing costs are particularly exorbitant at 114% higher than average.
1. The Villages, Florida Topping the list is The Villages, where an astounding 85% of the population is retired, making it the quintessential senior dating hotspot. This city is tailored to the retiree lifestyle, with ample leisure and social activities. While specific cost of living data for The Villages is scarce, estimates suggest a monthly budget of around $4,000 is necessary to enjoy what this top-rated retiree city has to offer.
Choosing the right city as a single, retired individual looking for love is about balancing the heart’s desires with the wallet’s needs. These cities offer vibrant communities and varied opportunities for romance and social life, but they also remind us of the need to plan financially for a comfortable and fulfilling retirement. Whether you’re drawn to the sunny shores of Sarasota or the festive streets of New Orleans, consider how each city matches your lifestyle and budget to make the golden years truly golden.
