Are you approaching retirement and considering where to enjoy your next chapter? Texas may be the ideal choice. Known for its diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and relatively low cost of living, the Lone Star State continues to attract retirees from across the country. In fact, the Austin American-Statesman recently ranked Texas as the top state for retirees in 2025, and SmartAsset recognized it as a tax-friendly destination—highlighting the absence of a state income tax, which means Social Security benefits are not taxed at the state level.
So, where are the best places to retire in Texas? The state offers a wide range of options, from bustling metropolitan areas to some of the best small towns for retirement—each catering to different budgets, lifestyles, and healthcare needs. Whether you’re seeking top-tier medical services, affordable housing, or access to outdoor recreation and cultural amenities, Texas has something to suit every retirement vision.
To make the transition even easier, many of these desirable cities are home to Five Star Senior Living communities. With personalized support, wellness programs, and stress-free living, Five Star communities offer comfort, convenience, and peace of mind—helping you make the most of your retirement years.
Best Places in Texas for Retirees
According to the U.S. News, these cities consistently rank as top retirement spots.
Dallas
Dallas stands out as one of the best places to retire in Texas, offering retirees a winning combination of affordability, healthcare access, mild climate, and lifestyle perks. Top-rated medical centers like Baylor University Medical Center and UT Southwestern provide peace of mind, while the city’s rich cultural scene, professional sports teams, and abundant volunteer opportunities keep retirees active and engaged.
Five Star Premier Residences of Dallas is an independent living community in the Vickery Meadow neighborhood of Northeast Dallas. With thoughtfully designed residences, beautiful common areas, a busy social calendar, and delicious dining options, it’s easy to feel right at home. And with community-provided transportation, it’s even easier to explore the city.
The Forum at Park Lane is just west of the Central Expressway in North Dallas and offers independent living and assisted living options. Residents can enjoy delicious meals served in the dining room and immerse themselves in a full calendar of activities and events. They can also utilize community transportation to explore nearby attractions such as the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, local shops and restaurants, and the Dallas Museum of Art.
San Antonio
San Antonio is considered one of the best cities to retire in Texas—and for good reason. It offers retirees a welcoming and growing community with a warm climate and access to quality health care at facilities like Methodist Hospital-San Antonio. The city is rich in history and culture, home to the Alamo and the San Antonio Missions, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2015. Retirees can also enjoy the scenic beauty of the nearby Texas Hill Country, along with a variety of cultural attractions and a friendly atmosphere.
The Forum at Lincoln Heights offers the perfect blend of suburban charm and urban convenience just north of downtown San Antonio. With independent living, assisted living, and memory care options residents at every care level can unwind and leave the details to our dedicated team.
Houston
As the fourth largest city in the U.S., Houston delivers big-city amenities with a surprisingly affordable cost of living compared to similarly sized cities across the country. Retirees can immerse themselves in the city’s renowned Museum District and vibrant Theater District, both offering endless recreation and volunteer possibilities. Health care is a major strength, with Houston Methodist Hospital ranked among the top in the nation. For those eager to keep learning, institutions like Rice University and the University of Houston welcome seniors aged 65 and older to audit courses for free. With its rich cultural scene, top-tier medical care, and senior-friendly perks, Houston truly stands out as a smart and fulfilling place to retire.
The Forum at Memorial Woods offers independent living, assisted living, and memory care, all set to the stunning backdrop of the Houston skyline. With newly renovated common spaces, engaging weekly events, and restaurant-style dining, it’s more than just senior living—it’s an enriching lifestyle where comfort, connection, and peace of mind come together.
Best Small Towns in Texas to Retire
Discover the hidden gems of the Lone Star State—these small Texas towns combine scenic beauty, friendly communities, and a laid-back lifestyle ideal for retirement.
Boerne
Boerne stands out as one of the best small towns in Texas to retire, offering a unique blend of historic charm, modern comfort, and a welcoming community. Just 31 miles from San Antonio, Boerne provides easy access to big-city amenities while maintaining the peaceful atmosphere of a close-knit town. With a crime rate estimated to be 42% lower than the national average, safety adds to its appeal.
Heritage Place of Boerne is not just an assisted living community, it is a lifestyle that allows you to celebrate life to the fullest. Perched on a scenic hilltop with sweeping views of the countryside, it offers the perfect setting for relaxation and connection. Whether enjoying peaceful moments on the back patio, spending time with four-legged friends in the designated pet area, or joining in on community events and outings, residents find comfort, companionship, and joy in every day.
Fredericksburg
Fredericksburg, Texas, is a top choice for retirees seeking a peaceful, scenic lifestyle with easy access to city amenities. Located less than two hours from both Austin and San Antonio, this charming town offers a blend of natural beauty and small-town charm while providing quality healthcare through facilities. Its crime rate is estimated to be 56% lower than the national average, making it a safe and inviting place to enjoy retirement.
Heritage Place of Fredericksburg is an assisted living community nestled in the heart of Texas. With elegant living and community spaces, residents can receive the support they need in a place they love. Take a stroll around the garden, play a round of Bingo, join an exercise class, or take an organized trip to the local shopping center.
Discover Five Star Senior Living
Whether you’re drawn to the wide-open beauty of the Texas Hill Country, the charm of a peaceful small town, or the energy of a thriving city like Dallas, Five Star Senior Living has a senior living community in Texas to match your ideal lifestyle. With 10 locations across the state, each one is thoughtfully designed to offer the care you need and the retirement you’ve earned.
Ready to find your perfect fit? Visit a Five Star Senior Living community in Texas, meet our welcoming residents, and experience the lifestyle that could soon be yours. Because when it comes to retirement, you deserve to feel right at home—wherever you are.
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