The 10 Best Places to Retire in Minnesota

Retiring in the Land of 1000 Lakes means surrounding yourself with amazing natural beauty during all four seasons. Minnesota has striking scenery for active adults who want to reconnect with nature and exciting urban hubs for more cosmopolitan-minded folks.

NewHomeSource has named the top 10 cities for retirees in Minnesota. If you are ready to retire in Minnesota we make it easy to find the perfect new retirement community in a city where you can engage in a lifestyle you love. If you’re buying your first Minnesota home, check out the first-time homebuyer programs available. Want to see how safe your new city is? Looking to retire but want to be near the Twin Cities? Check out our list of best Minneapolis suburbs (and our guide to relocating to Minneapolis, too).

Top 10 Cities to Retire in Minnesota

1. Albert Lea

Percentage of the Population Over 65: 25.0%

Median Home Value: $150,400

Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 45

Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 380

Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 1

Albert Lea is a beautiful community on the shores of the Albert Lea Lake. Retirees looking to enjoy affordable lakefront living can make their dream retirement a reality in Albert Lea. Known as "The Land Between the Lakes," this city is surrounded by Fountain Lake, Pickerel Lake, and Albert Lea Lake, providing picturesque waterfronts and a serene atmosphere. Located near the intersection of Interstates 90 and 35, Albert Lea is approximately 90 miles south of Minneapolis and about 70 miles west of Rochester, offering convenient access to larger urban centers.

Plan to spend your carefree days exploring some of the most amazing scenery the Land of 1000 Lakes has to offer at the Myre-Big Island State Park, encompassing over 1,500 acres of diverse landscapes. The park features eight miles of hiking trails, opportunities for fishing, and abundant wildlife, making it a haven for outdoor activities. Additionally, the Blazing Star State Trail offers a 6.5-mile paved path ideal for walking and biking.

The Freeborn County Fair brings the community together with live entertainment, antique tractor shows, draft horse exhibitions, and a bustling midway. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a round at the Green Lea Golf Course, known for its well-maintained greens and welcoming atmosphere.

Albert Lea is attentive to the needs of its senior residents. The Albert Lea Senior Citizens Center, managed by the local YMCA, offers programs and services designed to enrich the lives and health of seniors through educational, social, and recreational activities. The Edgewater Park provides playgrounds and picnic areas, ideal for family outings. The nearby Albert Lea Aquatic Center offers swimming pools and water slides, ensuring fun-filled days for all ages.

Albert Lea is an ideal Minnesota setting for retirement!

2. Hibbing

Percentage of the Population Over 65: 22.7%

Median Home Value: $123,900

Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 0

Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 101

Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 2

Hibbing is a beautiful town in Minnesota’s Iron Range, perfect for active adults who want to enjoy a serene rural retirement. Sitting about 75 miles northwest of Duluth and just over 200 miles north of Minneapolis, they call it the “Town That Moved” because, back in the early 1900s, the entire city was physically relocated to accommodate the expanding iron mines.

Hibbing offers something different—a slower pace, but not a sleepy one. The Hibbing Historical Society Museum lays out the town’s story. There’s the Hull-Rust-Mahoning Mine View, where you can look out over what was once the largest open-pit iron mine on the planet.

Hibbing has well-maintained parks, a welcoming senior center, and plenty of opportunities for social engagement. Bennett Park is a local favorite for a morning walk, while Carey Lake Recreation Area offers fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching in the summer, plus cross-country skiing in winter. McCarthy Beach State Park, a short drive away, provides even more in the way of outdoor recreation. For the active retiree, the Mesaba Country Club provides a well-kept golf course.

The Hibbing Community College Theatre puts on regular productions, and the Paulucci Space Theatre, a hidden gem, offers planetarium shows. Dining ranges from small-town diners to locally owned supper clubs. Healthcare is another box Hibbing checks with confidence. Fairview Range Medical Center provides full-service care. Several senior living communities and assisted living facilities offer additional options for those seeking a more supported lifestyle.

So why Hibbing? It’s not just the affordability, the healthcare, or the easy access to nature—it’s a retirement spot that might just be the place to settle in and stay awhile.

3. Austin

Percentage of the Population Over 65: 17.3%

Median Home Value: $155,100

Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 59

Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 444

Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 1

If you’re looking for a retirement destination with small-town charm, affordability, and just enough quirk to keep things interesting, Austin, Minnesota, makes a strong case. Nestled in southeastern Minnesota, about 100 miles south of the Twin Cities and just 40 minutes from Rochester, Austin has the nickname “Spam Town, USA,” thanks to its long-standing relationship with the Hormel Foods Corporation. The Spam Museum is a must-visit for canned meat aficionados.

Austin provides an ideal blend of affordability and accessibility. The cost of living is lower than both state and national averages, and with a strong healthcare network, including the Mayo Clinic Health System Austin, medical care is top-tier and close at hand. The Mower County Senior Center serves as a hub for active older residents with events, fitness classes, and lifelong learning opportunities.

Get out to the city’s well-maintained parks and natural areas. The Jay C. Hormel Nature Center offers 500 acres of scenic trails, wildlife observation, and seasonal events like maple syrup tapping demonstrations. East Side Lake provides a peaceful setting for fishing or a leisurely lakeside stroll, while Todd Park’s walking paths and pickleball courts are perfect for staying active. Golfers will find their fix at the Austin Country Club.

Entertainment in Austin is anything but dull. The Paramount Theatre, a beautifully restored 1929 venue, hosts live music, theatrical performances, and classic film screenings. The Austin ArtWorks Center showcases local talent and offers art classes. There’s also the Rydjor Bike Museum for cycling enthusiasts, plus several parks with playgrounds and splash pads for visiting grandkids. The city’s aquatic center is a summer favorite, offering water slides and a lazy river for family-friendly fun.

Austin stands out as a retirement destination because it delivers on quality of life without the hassle of big-city congestion. Austin is a city that welcomes retirees with open arms.

4. Brainerd

Percentage of the Population Over 65: 18.3%

Median Home Value: $178,600

Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 84

Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 325

Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 3

Small town charm and outdoor adventure put Brainerd on the list. This top contender is in the heart of the state about two hours north of the Twin Cities. Year-round recreation awaits you at pristine lakes and forests.

If you like the idea of spending your free time hiking, boating, swimming, snowmobiling, and ice fishing, then you’ll love retired life in Brainerd. The cost of living is reasonable, and the city provides excellent healthcare services, including Essentia Health-St. Joseph’s Medical Center. The Brainerd Senior Center keeps residents active and connected.

Let your explorations begin! The Paul Bunyan State Trail, stretching over 100 miles, is perfect for biking, walking, or cross-country skiing, offering breathtaking views of Minnesota’s natural beauty. The Crow Wing State Park, just a short drive away, provides opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking along the Mississippi River. Golfers will enjoy the many excellent courses in the area, including the renowned Cragun’s Resort and Madden’s on Gull Lake.

You will be a big hit with the grandchildren. Take them to Paul Bunyan Land, a nostalgic amusement park. The Safari North Wildlife Park gives an up-close look at exotic animals, and numerous water parks and mini-golf courses add to the fun.

Fall in love with Minnesota in your golden years in Brainerd!

5. Fairmont

Percentage of the Population Over 65: 24.3%

Median Home Value: $168,800

Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 21

Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 174

Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 4

Fairmont is the perfect community for retirees who want to reconnect with Mother Nature during their golden years. With numerous local lakes you can enjoy boating and swimming. With trails that wind through some of the most colorful fall foliage in the country, you can stay healthy and enjoy amazing scenery. This hidden gem located in southern Minnesota, about 150 miles southwest of the Twin Cities and near the Iowa border, is known as the "City of Lakes" due to its five interconnected lakes.

It's easy to stay active. Gomsrud Park, located on Budd Lake, is a favorite spot for walking, picnicking, and fishing. Cedar Creek Park offers scenic hiking trails and birdwatching opportunities, while the Chain of Lakes is perfect for boating and kayaking. Golfers can enjoy a round at Interlaken Golf Club, a well-maintained course with picturesque views.

The Fairmont Opera House, a historic venue, hosts concerts, theater productions, and community events throughout the year. The Red Rock Center for the Arts provides rotating art exhibits and cultural programming. Dining in Fairmont ranges from family-owned cafes to classic Midwestern supper clubs, offering everything from comfort food to fresh-caught walleye.

The Fairmont Aquatic Park is a summer favorite, featuring water slides and a lazy river, ideal for the grandkids. The Martin County Historical Society Museum offers a glimpse into the area's past, while the local lakes provide endless opportunities for fishing, swimming, and outdoor fun.

Fairmont stands out as a retirement destination because of its blend of affordability, natural beauty, and strong sense of community. It’s a place where retirees can enjoy lakeside serenity while still having access to quality healthcare, social opportunities, and cultural amenities.

6. Bemidji

Percentage of the Population Over 65: 16.8%

Median Home Value: $189,500

Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 78

Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 999

Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 1

If spending your retirement exploring the Headwaters sounds like a dream come true, then you’ll love retired life in Bemidji, MN. This beautiful community on the banks of the Mississippi River has something for active adults during all seasons. Spend the winter ice skating and skiing while you soak up the scenery. During the warmer months, hiking, biking, swimming, and boating are all a must.

Located in northern Minnesota, about 150 miles northwest of Duluth, Bemidji is known as the "First City on the Mississippi" and is famous for its rich Native American heritage, beautiful lakes, and the iconic statues of Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox.

Bemidji provides an affordable cost of living with excellent healthcare services, including Sanford Bemidji Medical Center. Lake Bemidji State Park features miles of hiking and biking trails, plus excellent fishing and boating on Lake Bemidji. The Paul Bunyan State Trail offers scenic paths for walking, biking, and cross-country skiing, making it a year-round favorite. Golfers can tee off at the Bemidji Town and Country Club, a picturesque course along the lakeshore.

Entertainment in Bemidji includes a thriving arts scene, with the Watermark Art Center showcasing local artists and the historic Chief Theater hosting concerts and performances. The city’s downtown features charming shops, restaurants, and breweries, offering everything from cozy cafés to fine dining. Local favorites include Minnesota specialties like fresh walleye and wild rice dishes.

For retirees with visiting grandchildren, Bemidji has plenty of family-friendly activities. Paul Bunyan Park is a must-see. The Headwaters Science Center offers interactive exhibits for curious young minds, while Itasca State Park, home to the headwaters of the Mississippi River, provides a fantastic day-trip destination with trails and wildlife.

If you are looking for small-town hospitality, natural beauty, and cultural attractions, Bemidji has you covered in your golden years!

7. Worthington

Percentage of the Population Over 65: 16.0%

Median Home Value: $184,200

Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 55

Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 148

Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 2

Who says retiring means slowing down? Not the residents of Worthington, MN! Located in the southwestern part of the state, Worthington is known for its welcoming community, scenic lakes, and vibrant cultural heritage.

This charming community on Lake Okabena has a vibrant windsurfing culture, so you’ll have an exciting new hobby to learn about during your retirement. If you aren’t in the mood to actually windsurf, you can still be a part of Worthington’s culture. The annual King Turkey Day Festival, which celebrates the town’s agricultural roots with a parade and the famous Great Gobbler Gallop. Take in a concert, play or cultural event at the Memorial Auditorium Performing Arts Center. Dining options in Worthington range from local cafés to international cuisine, reflecting the city’s diverse population.

For retirees with visiting grandchildren, Worthington has plenty to offer. Chautauqua Park features playgrounds and open spaces for family fun. The Worthington Aquatic Center is a great summer spot for kids to cool off and enjoy water activities.

Excellent healthcare services, including Sanford Worthington Medical Center, ensure quality medical care is always within reach. The Center for Active Living keeps seniors engaged with activities, exercise classes, educational programs, and social gatherings.

Whether you’re drawn by the lakefront beauty, the friendly atmosphere, or the small-town charm, Worthington offers a welcoming place to enjoy retirement.

8. Fergus Falls

Percentage of the Population Over 65: 23.8%

Median Home Value: $173,300

Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 37

Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 363

Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 4

Otto the Otter is just one of the funky aspects of Fergus Falls. This fun community welcomes retirees who want to enjoy a vibrant small town with a true neighborhood atmosphere. In addition to exploring the charming shops in Downtown Fergus Falls, you can enjoy the outdoors by either hiking or boating on numerous local lakes.

Found in west-central Minnesota, Fergus Falls is affordable and offers outstanding healthcare at Lake Region Healthcare. With a vibrant senior center, you will always find something to fill your social calendar.

It's the outdoor recreation that will win you over. The Central Lakes Trail, which passes through the city, is perfect for walking, biking, and cross-country skiing. Pebble Lake offers fishing, boating, and lakeside relaxation, while Delagoon Park is a popular spot for picnicking and birdwatching. Grab your clubs and get in a round of golf at Pebble Lake Golf Course.

Other fun activities include the SummerFest celebration, which features live music, parades, and local food vendors. The Fergus Theatre hosts concerts, plays, and cultural events throughout the year. The Otter Tail County Historical Society Museum provides an engaging look into local history, while Grotto Park features playgrounds and open spaces for family fun. The Prairie Wetlands Learning Center is a great destination for nature lovers, offering trails and interactive exhibits.

Give Fergus Falls some serious consideration for a retirement locale.

9. Willmar

Percentage of the Population Over 65: 17.8%

Median Home Value: $186,000

Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 94

Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 348

Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 4

Willmar has a wide range of activities for retirees. This welcoming community has scenic lakes and rich cultural heritage. It offers a relaxed lifestyle with plenty of opportunities for recreation and social engagement.

The annual Sonshine Festival and the Kandiyohi County Fair, which showcase live music, local food, and family-friendly attractions are two popular events. Be sure to check out the offerings at The Barn Theatre. The Willmar Civic Center features ice skating and recreational programs, while the Kandiyohi County Historical Society Museum provides an engaging look into local history. Big Kahuna Fun Park and local splash pads ensure summer fun for the whole family. Willmar is also home to the Foxhole Brewery and the Glacial Ridge Winery.

Along with excellent healthcare and dining options, discover Robbins Island Regional Park for its walking trails, picnic areas, and access to Willmar Lake. Sibley State Park, just a short drive away, offers hiking, birdwatching, and stunning views from Mount Tom. Eagle Creek Golf Club will have you setting frequent tee times.

Find what speaks to you in this Minnesota city during your retirement!

10. New Ulm

Percentage of the Population Over 65: 20.6%

Median Home Value: $192,700

Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 4

Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 71

Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 5

New Ulm, the "City of Charm and Tradition" and boasts a strong German heritage, historic architecture, and vibrant community life. Whether you are spending your summers on the Cottonwood River, or your winters at snowy Flandrau State Park, New Ulm has everything you need to keep your retired life fun and active. This city has historical tours, festivals, and restaurants dedicated to New Ulm’s rich German history. The Glockenspiel, a 45-foot-tall clock tower, delights visitors with its rotating figurine performances throughout the day.

Flandrau State Park offers scenic hiking trails, a sand-bottom swimming pool, and excellent birdwatching. The city is also home to numerous parks, including German Park, known for its stunning gardens and summer concert series. Golfers can enjoy a round at the New Ulm Country Club, which provides a beautiful and challenging course.

Unique cultural experiences such as Oktoberfest, which celebrates the city’s German heritage with live music, authentic food, and plenty of festivities, bring life to this community. The Hermann Monument and the Brown County Historical Society Museum provide a glimpse into the city’s rich history. The State Street Theater hosts concerts, plays, and other cultural events throughout the year. Dining in New Ulm reflects its German influence, with local favorites like schnitzel, bratwurst, and craft beer from the renowned Schell’s Brewery, the second-oldest family-owned brewery in the U.S.

Rich traditions, charming atmosphere, and a strong sense of community put New Ulm on our retirement list for the North Star State.

Common Questions About Retiring in Minnesota

Is Minnesota a tax-friendly state for retirees?

Unfortunately, Minnesota is not tax friendly for retirees. Social Security income is partially taxed, and withdrawals from retirement accounts are fully taxed.

How much money do you need to retire comfortably in Minnesota?

Retirees need close to $55,000 monthly.

NewHomeSource pulled data from the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting Services, Medicare’s Hospital Compare and the U.S. Census Bureau. In the event exact crime data was unavailable, estimates were used. Median home price, number of hospitals, 65+ population, and crime rates were entered into an algorithm to calculate a score for each city whose population is at least 10,000.

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The 10 Best Places to Retire in Minnesota in 2021

First-Time Homebuyer Programs in Minnesota

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