8 Best Places to Retire in Florida

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Tampa

Set along Florida's Gulf Coast, Tampa offers retirees city life, beaches, and water sports. Enjoy Broadway shows at the Straz Center and explore museums like the Tampa Bay History Center.

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Sarasota

About 60 miles south of Tampa, Sarasota is a top retirement spot with gated communities, luxury shopping at St. Armands Circle, and cultural events at The Ringling and Van Wezel.

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Gainesville

Located inland, Gainesville features the University of Florida, cultural attractions like the Harn Museum of Art, and natural springs for outdoor activities, all with a lower cost of living.

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Fort Lauderdale

On Florida's southeast coast, Fort Lauderdale boasts marinas, white-sand beaches, and entertainment. Enjoy horse racing, casinos, and the arts in this high-cost yet desirable location.

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Fort Myers

Fort Myers offers a slightly lower cost of living, with beaches, the Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve, and spring training baseball. Visit the historic Edison and Ford estates.

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Orlando

Orlando, with its expanding housing and fun attractions like Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando, offers retirees a lively environment. Enjoy cultural events and natural springs nearby.

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Gulf Breeze

Across Pensacola Bay, Gulf Breeze offers small-town living with access to beaches, water sports, and the Gulf Islands National Seashore. Visit the local zoo and nearby Pensacola for more amenities.

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St. Petersburg

Near Tampa, St. Petersburg enjoys 361 days of sunshine a year. Boating, beaches, and museums like The Dalí Museum are highlights. Watch the Tampa Bay Rays and explore downtown.

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