The 10 best communities for aging gracefully in America, according to AARP
These communities offer retired Americans better access to healthcare, walkable neighborhoods, social engagement, and safety
Alpay Tonga / Unsplash
Choosing the right community can make a meaningful difference in how well people age. Access to healthcare, walkable neighborhoods, social engagement opportunities, and safety all influence quality of life for older adults.
Some communities provide supportive infrastructure that allows residents to remain active, independent, and connected well into their later years.
AARP evaluates communities across multiple factors that affect livability for older adults, including housing options, transportation, health services, social opportunities, and neighborhood safety. Using these measures, AARP identifies places where aging gracefully in the U.S. is more feasible.
Here are the ten communities that scored the highest on AARP's list.
San Francisco tops the very-large community category
Jared Lisack / Unsplash
San Francisco leads for very large communities, offering dense access to healthcare, public transit, and social opportunities that help older residents remain engaged, according to AARP.
Montgomery County, Maryland combines access and amenities
Andra C Taylor / Unsplash
Montgomery County earns a top spot due to its walkable neighborhoods, strong healthcare options, and abundant community engagement programs, as AARP notes.
Seattle supports aging with mobility and activity
Teeny Tina / Unsplash
The evaluation shows that Seattle provides excellent public transportation and healthcare access, helping older adults maintain independence and connection.
Ramsey County, Minnesota emphasizes community and health
Josh Hild / Unsplash
Ramsey County scores highly for neighborhood safety and social engagement, supporting quality of life for older adults, says AARP.
Fairfax County, Virginia offers safety and social infrastructure
Cristina Gottardi / Unsplash
According to this evaluation’s findings, Fairfax County ranks among the top communities for integrated services, walkable neighborhoods, and healthcare access.
New York, New York pairs resources with opportunity
Philippe Leone / Unsplash
New York City’s extensive healthcare and cultural offerings provide older residents with access to services and engagement opportunities, says AARP.
Boston blends historic charm with health access
Julia Vivcharyk / Unsplash
Boston’s strong medical infrastructure and walkable neighborhoods contribute to high livability for older adults, according to the findings.
Nassau County, New York supports multigenerational living
Vitaly Gariev / Unsplash
AARP notes Nassau County’s accessibility, social programs, and neighborhood safety help older adults remain connected and active.
Portland, Oregon fosters wellness and connectivity
Mark Timberlake / Unsplash
Portland combines strong transit options, healthcare access, and diverse neighborhoods that support healthy aging, according to AARP.
Bergen County, New Jersey blends convenience with community
Age Cymru / Unsplash
Bergen County offers high-quality healthcare, neighborhood safety, and vibrant community engagement opportunities, helping residents age well, AARP notes.