Summary
- The best state to retire to is Texas, according to a recent study, due to its low cost of living, lack of state income tax, and abundance of recreational activities.
- Seabrook, Rockport, and San Angelo are some of the best beach towns in Texas to retire to, offering waterfront views and a variety of retirement communities.
- Other great options for retirement in Texas include Georgetown, Canyon Lake, Hudson Bend, Port Arthur, Baytown, Granbury, and Garland, each offering unique attractions and retirement communities.
The verdict is in: The best state to retire to isn’t Florida. At least, that’s according to a recent study by Bank Locations, which deemed the Lone Star State worthy of such a distinction. That’s right; apparently, everything’s bigger in Texas — even its retirement communities.
Of course, it’s not hard to see why the state is a good place to spend the golden years. It has no state income tax, offers a low cost of living, and has a plethora of recreation options, from birding and nature walks to even waterfront views. Whether a retiree opts for a Gulf Coast destination or a picturesque lakeside retreat, they can enjoy their peaceful golden years at any one of the most beautiful beach towns to retire to in Texas.
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Seabrook, Texas
Seabrook, Texas coastline
Located about 30 minutes south of downtown Houston, this waterfront town is a great retirement option, especially for those who like boating.
With access to Taylor Lake and Trinity Bay, Seabrook is one of the best towns to retire to in Texas with beaches – it’s a beach lover’s retirement dream.
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Rockport, Texas
A long stretch of beach in Rockport, Texas USA
Situated about an hour north of Corpus Christi, this charming coastal city has it all — beautiful bay views, several parks, and a laid-back atmosphere.
Plus, unlike other parts of Texas, Rockport also has mild winters, with daily average highs of around 67 °F and lows of 54 °F. This makes Rockport one of the best places to retire in Texas with beaches for those who can’t bear the bone-chilling winters in other parts of the country.
For those who do love an enchanted snowy spot to live in, however, there are many beautiful winter wonderland destinations in Texas.
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San Angelo, Texas
The Concho River in San Angelo, Texas, USA
Located in west-central Texas, San Angelo provides beautiful water views along Lake Nasworthy and O.C. Fisher Lake.
But its crown jewel is undoubtedly the Concho River, which retirees can enjoy with a walk along the Concho Riverwalk.
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Georgetown, Texas
Georgetown, Texas in the winter
Georgetown is the Texas heartland’s most underrated destination. But it’s certainly popular among retirees.
Located only about 30 miles north of Austin, the city features a distinct old-world charm, which can certainly be seen throughout its historic town square.
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Canyon Lake, Texas
The shore of Canyon Lake, Texas just outside of New Braunfels in the Hill Country taken from the Overlook Park
There are so many things to see and do in Canyon Lake, from lush parks and golf courses to the city’s namesake, Canyon Lake — making it one of the best places to retire in Texas for those who love the outdoors.
There are also lots of unique attractions here, too, from nature centers to golf clubs and superb parks.
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Hudson Bend, Texas
Aerial view of Lake Travis and the Colorado River west of Austin, Texas
Hudson Bend is definitely one of the most unique places in Texas to retire to. The small town is located about 21 miles outside of Austin and lies perched along Lake Travis and the Colorado River.
Thanks to its scenic location, there are plenty of attractions to keep retirees entertained while living in Hudson Bend, including Mansfield Dam Park.
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Port Author, Texas
Sabine Lake at Pleasure Island, Port Arthur, Texas
This bustling beach town lies about 90 miles east of Houston on Sabine Lake, which is one of the most beautiful lakes in Texas.
It offers retirees much to do, including exploring its many surrounding lush natural areas.
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Baytown, Texas
Aerial view of Fred Hartman Suspension Bridge in Baytown, Texas
Nestled at the mouth of the San Jacinto River on Galveston Bay, Baytown is the epitome of beauty and is among the most beautiful Texas towns to retire to with beaches nearby.
Baytown Parks and Recreation also offers a variety of activities for seniors, including self-defense classes, dances, and games like bingo.
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Granbury, Texas
Thanks to its Historic Granbury Square, this Texas Town is home to one of the best downtown areas in the state, at least for those who enjoy a peek back in history.
With plenty of historic sites and even the Granbury City Beach Park, Granbury is a fantastic option for people looking for beautiful beach towns in Texas for retirement.
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Garland, Texas
Aerial view of Lake Ray Hubbard, Garland, Texas, USA
Home to over 240,000 residents, Garland is quite a bustling city, which is great for retirees seeking a vibrant urban environment combined with a waterfront location.
As it’s a big city, that only means that there’s lots for retirees to do, including enjoying views of the shimmering Lake Ray Hubbard and its lovely lake beaches.
