Retirement Rankings: Austin ranks 14th in U.S. News 2027 list

U.S. News and World Report released its 2027 Best Places to Retire list today, placing Austin at number 14 among large U.S. cities. The publication evaluated more than 850 cities using six specific livability metrics. These factors include quality of life, affordability, health care, retiree taxes, the job market, and population migration patterns. Only the top 250 finalists received national rankings.

Affordability served as the primary driver for these rankings. Megan Wood, assistant managing editor of home services and real estate at U.S. News, stated that affordability is the most considered factor for Americans planning a low-stress retirement. She noted that the 2027 rankings updated weighting criteria to better align with current retiree priorities. Wood said affordable cities provide a sense of security and comfort for those living out their golden years.

The data presents a mixed financial picture for Austin. While the city offers a lower cost of living compared to similarly sized cities, its housing costs remain high. The U.S. News profile reports that the national average home value stands at $359,870. In contrast, the median home value in Austin reaches $581,402. This difference of more than $221,000 highlights the tension between general affordability and specific housing costs in the capital.

Surrounding communities also performed well on the list. Round Rock, a neighboring city, ranked 19th among the smallest U.S. cities and 60th overall. Six other Central Texas municipalities made the top 250 list. Leander placed 59th, followed by Pflugerville at 64th. Cedar Park ranked 113th, Georgetown 118th, New Braunfels 193rd, and Temple 214th.

Texas cities dominated the upper tiers of the rankings. The Woodlands and Spring, both near Houston, held the No. 4 and No. 5 overall positions for the second consecutive year. The Woodlands also topped the separate list for best midsized cities, while Spring ranked fifth among the smallest cities. Midland, Michigan, claimed the No. 1 spot overall for the second year in a row.

The full top 10 list for 2027 includes Midland, Michigan, Homosassa Springs, Florida, Weirton, West Virginia, The Woodlands, Texas, Spring, Texas, Rio Rancho, New Mexico, Altoona, Pennsylvania, Paducah, Kentucky, Lynchburg, Virginia, and Palm Coast, Florida.