Florida has long been known as the place to retire.
And millions of retirees from around the country have flocked to the Sunshine State over the years.
That is why Ron DeSantis was all smiles when this small Florida beach town was just named the Best Place to Retire in 2025.
Governor Ron DeSantis has yet another feather to put in his cap.
A booming economy, low crime rate, and relaxed atmosphere
Florida has long been known as a top destination for retirees.
Many Americans nearing retirement are actively seeking an area where they can enjoy a higher quality of life, preferably with a warm climate.
They also are seeking an endless number of outdoor activities, a plethora of shopping and dining options, and entertainment.
Of course, low taxes, a booming economy, and access to quality health care are of the utmost importance.
Enter Ron DeSantis’ Florida paradise.
While Florida has long been known as a tourist and retiree destination, the policies of Governor DeSantis have made it even more desirable.
And now, Naples, Florida has been named the best place to retire by U.S. News and World Report.
PJ Smith, the 2024 Naples Area Board of Realtors president and owner of Naples Golf to Gulf Real Estate, is originally from Minnesota.
He was a snowbird for about 20 years before becoming a full-time Naples resident.
Snowbird is the term given to those who winter in Florida and then return home to northern states in the summer.
“First impressions were: fantastic beaches, easy access to the beach, and many options for golf memberships,” Smith says. “Old Naples Fifth Avenue and Third Street areas are lovely. You meander through shops and restaurants while enjoying the beautiful weather, people-watching and, in my case, walking my Frenchie puppy. It’s very dog-friendly!”
An extremely high quality of life
U.S. News and World Report has given Naples its due.
According to the magazine, Naples ranks as the number one Best Place to Retire in the U.S. in 2025.
The U.S. News Best Places to Retire analysis includes such data as affordability and cost of living, desirability, happiness, retiree taxes, the local job market, and access to quality health care.
These metrics contribute to a high quality of life, and Naples fits the bill.
The comprehensive ranking compared 150 top cities in the U.S.
According to U.S. News, Naples ranks third for overall desirability.
This alone accounts for Americans’ interest in retiring in Naples, according to a SurveyMonkey survey of more than 3,500 people.
As a bonus, Naples is full of entertainment and attraction establishments even with its relatively small population size.
Naples is not the most affordable place to live as the median home price tops $577,000.
This is more than twice the national average home value of $281,000.
But Naples has a robust job market for retirees who are still in the workforce and the median household income is $98,120, well above the national median of $75,149.
Another plus is that retirees will find themselves part of a like-minded group since 36% of the residents are 65 and older.
And of course, Florida is one of the most tax-friendly states in the country for retirees.
There is no state income tax, no inheritance tax, no estate tax, and no taxes on retirement income.
“Naples, Florida, has no state income tax, and retirement income, like Social Security and pensions, is generally not taxed, making it financially attractive for retirees,” says Lane Martinsen, founder and CEO at Martinsen Wealth Management in Tempe, Arizona. “Property taxes in Naples are relatively moderate, especially compared to other parts of the country.”
Naples is also a safe place to live.
According to the Collier County Sheriff’s Office, Naples and its surrounding county have the lowest crime rate of any metropolitan county in Florida.
“I have been a resident of Naples for over 25 years and have raised a family here,” Price says. “While we may have a bit more hustle and bustle today, Naples continues to keep that safe, small-town feel where everyone looks out for one another.”
All of that, added to the great weather, pristine beaches, and entertainment options make Naples a wonderful place to live and retire.
DeSantis Daily will keep you up-to-date on any new developments in this story.
