The Atlantic Coast's 8 Best Retirement Towns Ranked
Between spectacular scenery, a wide range of recreational activities, and close proximity to some of the most popular destinations in North America, the Atlantic Coast is a wonderful region to call home. From Ocean City to Madison, spend your golden years surrounded by beauty, where the amenities are plentiful, the communities are close-knit, and quality healthcare is easily accessible. Discover the Atlantic Coast’s eight best retirement towns ranked to start planning your future today!
Ocean City, Maryland
Surround yourself with gorgeous golden beaches, diverse restaurants and entertainment options, and friendly neighbors in Ocean City.
Experience small-town charm as you meander down Ocean City Boardwalk, trying seafood steam pots, scrumptious burgers, and refreshing cocktails in spots like Hammerheads on the Beach. The grandkids will be extra excited to visit when they find out Jolly Roger Amusement Park is in town, with its exhilarating racetracks, rides, circus, water park, and mini golf courses. Regarding healthcare, Atlantic General Hospital is only a short drive away; you can visit the website to see the current wait times.
Aside from Emergency, they also offer Orthopedics, Primary Care, Oncology, and many other services.
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Discover a piece of paradise on Hilton Head Island; one of the Atlantic Coast’s 8 best retirement towns for lovers of the outdoors.
Enjoy lovely morning strolls by the coast in Coligny Beach Park, feeling the soft sand beneath your feet and the refreshing ocean breeze ease your mind. See the legendary Harbour Town Lighthouse with its iconic red and white stripes, and explore the picturesque Sea Pines Forest Preserve featuring bridges, fishing docks, bridle paths, and wetland boardwalks.
Hilton Head Island has everything you need, from the 24/7 Hilton Head Regional Medical Center (granted the Surgical Care Excellence Award™ among others by Healthgrades in 2023), to several retirement communities including Seabrook, Bayshore, and The Cypress. However, if you want to be close to a major city, you will be happy to know that Savannah, Georgia, is just over 30 miles away.
Lunenburg, Nova Scotia
Situated on the beautiful Lunenburg Bay, an inlet of the Atlantic Ocean, Lunenburg is an excellent town to call home.
This Canadian wonder, established in 1753, is teeming with history. Wander through the Old Town, seeing the well-preserved 18th-century houses and buildings as you explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Practice your aim in a scenic setting on the 18-hole Bluenose Golf Club, and find fresh produce, crafts, jams, baked goods, and more in Lunenburg Farmer's Market. Fishermen's Memorial Hospital offers long-term care, physiotherapy, emergency care, and other services in town. Halifax is also only one hour and 10 minutes away, which means capital city amenities are within reach.
Queen Elizabeth II Health Sciences Centre, one of the top 20 Best Hospitals in Canada according to Newsweek and Statista in 2025, is also accessible.
Narragansett, Rhode Island
Bring your beach dreams to life all year round in Narragansett, one of the Atlantic Coast’s 8 best retirement towns.
Located under 40 minutes from Providence, you can access major amenities in the state capital, while experiencing the perks of living in a serene oceanside town. From several beautiful beaches such as Narragansett Town and Scarborough State to fairytale-esque landmarks like The Towers (dating back to the 19th century), Narragansett is an intriguing town to call home.
If you are concerned about health issues, you will be happy to hear that Rhode Island Hospital and The Miriam Hospital, two of the best hospitals in the state according to Newsweek and Statista in 2025, are accessible from here.
Saint John, New Brunswick
Located on the Bay of Fundy, an inlet of the Atlantic Ocean home to the highest tides in the world, Saint John is another Canadian gem to consider.
Discover exquisite views of the Fundy Coast as you stroll through the 600-acre Irving Nature Park. Head on a fascinating journey into the past as you encompass the Carleton Martello Tower National Historic Site, constructed to defend the city during the War of 1812. Explore the vibrant AREA 506 Waterfront Container Village with its diverse artwork, retail shops, food trucks, and pop-up activities by the waterfront in the summer. You can feel secure knowing Saint John Regional Hospital - Horizon Health Network, one of the top 40 hospitals in Canada as per Newsweek and Statista in 2025, is in town.
Finally, Saint John was named one of the Safest Places to Own a Home in Canada in 2025 by Zoocasa, standing out on the list for its affordability.
Nantucket, Massachusetts
Escape to a peaceful island community in Nantucket, one of the Atlantic Coast’s 8 best retirement towns. Between breathtaking beaches, a strong tight-knit community, and incredible outdoor recreational opportunities (such as golfing, fishing, sailing, and kayaking), if you are flexible with your budget; Nantucket is the perfect place to call home.
Unravel mesmerizing ocean views from Brant Point Lighthouse, an iconic landmark listed on The National Register of Historic Places over 110 years old. Enjoy trivia events and live music nights with craft beer in Cisco Brewers, and go swimming or walk along the scenic sand bars at Jettie Beach. Nantucket Cottage Hospital provides medical services in town; its Emergency department is open 24/7.
If you wish to access the mainland, multiple flight and ferry options make transportation quick and convenient.
Vero Beach, Florida
Welcome to Vero Beach, a stunning city in the Sunshine State.
Besides its natural beauty, Vero Beach is also one of the more affordable cities to live in the region. According to realtor.com, the median sold home price was $397,000 USD in March 2025. Surround yourself with fragrant florals as you meander through the paths of McKee Botanical Garden, and see the spectacular sunset from South Beach Park. For art enthusiasts, the Vero Beach Museum of Art features extraordinary exhibitions, collections, and programs; while Riverside Theatre hosts compelling concerts, dance classes, comedy shows, and plays.
Regarding healthcare, Indian River Hospital has a 24/7 Emergency Department. A comprehensive list of medical services is offered, from Geriatrics to Hospice Care, Cardiology, and more.
Madison, Connecticut
Experience the charming New England-style atmosphere of Madison, a captivating coastal town with a laid-back pace of life.
Set along Long Island Sound, which directly connects to the ocean, Madison is one of the Atlantic Coast’s 8 best retirement towns. Bask in the beauty of Hammonasset Beach State Park, the largest shoreline park in the state. Search for treasures in RJ Julia Booksellers, recognized for their diverse book collection and relaxing environment. Enjoy fresh seafood at Lenny & Joe's; try their delicious Lobster Roll and Clam Strips. If you have chronic health conditions, Madison is an excellent destination to call home.
Yale New Haven Hospital, named the best hospital in Connecticut by Newsweek and Statista in 2025, is under 25 minutes away.
Takeaways
Your golden years are a time to invest in yourself; living somewhere beautiful is a wonderful way to achieve that. Breathe in the fresh ocean air as you relocate to a place with access to quality healthcare facilities, plenty of options for recreation, and a strong sense of community. From the entertainment options of Ocean City, to the historical treasures of Lunenburg, and the beachside parks of Madison, take your pick from the Atlantic Coast’s 8 best retirement towns ranked.
