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Florida Cities Dominate Travel + Leisure's Best Retirement Destinations

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Wednesday, January 7th 2026 at 13:49 GMT by Sarasota Herald-Tribune

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Florida Dominates Retirement Hotlist: Sarasota, Lake Nona & The Villages Top Travel + Leisure Rankings

A recent Travel + Leisure report has cemented Florida’s position as the premier destination for retirees, with three of its cities landing in the top five of the publication’s “Best Places to Retire in the U.S.” list. Sarasota topped the charts, followed closely by Lake Nona in fourth place, and The Villages securing the fifth spot. The rankings, published January 7th by the Herald-Tribune, considered factors beyond just sunshine and warm weather, focusing on affordability, healthcare access, community, and lifestyle amenities. This isn’t just about escaping snowbirds; it’s a calculated choice based on a growing demand for active, engaging retirement lives.

Sarasota: A Consistent Winner

Sarasota’s reign at the top isn't new. The city has consistently been recognized as a desirable retirement location for years, and Travel + Leisure highlights several key factors contributing to its continued success. A thriving arts and culture scene is a major draw, boasting world-class institutions like the Ringling Museum of Art, the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, and numerous galleries and theaters. This provides retirees with ample opportunities for intellectual stimulation and social engagement.

But Sarasota offers more than just culture. The city features stunning natural beauty, including Siesta Key Beach – frequently ranked among the nation's best – and numerous parks and nature preserves. Opportunities for outdoor recreation, such as boating, fishing, golfing, and kayaking, are plentiful. The article points to a walkable downtown area with diverse dining options and a strong sense of community, making it easy for retirees to connect with others.

However, Sarasota isn't without its challenges. The increasing popularity has led to a rising cost of living, particularly in real estate. As detailed in a separate Herald-Tribune article from 2023 linked within the Travel + Leisure piece, housing affordability is a growing concern, and competition for rentals is fierce. Despite this, the benefits continue to outweigh the drawbacks for many, particularly those with established financial resources.

Lake Nona: The Tech-Driven Retirement of the Future

Lake Nona, a master-planned community in Orlando, represents a different approach to retirement living. It’s a relatively newer development, deliberately designed to attract a younger, more active retiree demographic. The Travel + Leisure report emphasizes Lake Nona's focus on wellness, innovation, and technology.

The community is anchored by the University of Central Florida’s medical campus and the Orlando VA Medical Center, providing access to cutting-edge healthcare and research. This connection to the medical community isn’t incidental; Lake Nona aims to be a “health and life sciences innovation district," attracting health-focused businesses and fostering a culture of preventative wellness.

Beyond healthcare, Lake Nona offers a variety of amenities geared towards an active lifestyle, including championship golf courses, a water park, and numerous walking and biking trails. The community is also home to a growing number of restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. Lake Nona’s appeal lies in its modernity and its promise of a future-focused retirement, catering to those who want to stay engaged and connected. While still developing, it offers a distinctly different vibe than the more established, traditional retirement communities.

The Villages: Still a Powerhouse

The Villages, arguably the most well-known retirement community in the U.S., continues to hold its own, ranking fifth on the Travel + Leisure list. This massive, age-restricted community, located in central Florida, is essentially a self-contained city, offering a vast array of amenities and activities designed specifically for retirees.

The Villages is famous for its active social scene, with hundreds of clubs and activities catering to every interest imaginable – from pickleball and golf to pottery and performing arts. Residents can participate in a variety of social events, concerts, and workshops. The article highlights the community's extensive network of town squares, which serve as hubs for social activity.

However, The Villages has also faced scrutiny. It’s been criticized for its homogeneity and perceived lack of diversity, and has recently been the subject of national news following alleged criminal activity within the community. Despite this, it continues to attract retirees seeking a highly social and structured lifestyle, and its sheer size and scope remain unparalleled.

Florida’s Dominance & The Future of Retirement

The Travel + Leisure rankings underscore Florida’s enduring appeal as a retirement destination. The state’s warm climate, lack of state income tax, and abundance of recreational opportunities continue to be major draws. However, the report shows that retirees are no longer solely motivated by sun and sand. They are looking for communities that offer a well-rounded lifestyle, with access to healthcare, cultural amenities, and opportunities for social engagement.

The success of cities like Sarasota, Lake Nona, and The Villages suggests a shift in the paradigm of retirement. It’s no longer about simply “aging in place”; it’s about “thriving in place.” These communities are actively catering to the desires of a new generation of retirees who are seeking to remain active, engaged, and connected well into their golden years. The rankings also hint at a competitive landscape, where communities are increasingly having to innovate and differentiate themselves to attract the growing population of retiring baby boomers. As the population ages, expect Florida to continue to refine its offerings and reinforce its position as the nation’s top retirement haven.