Retirement includes more than leaving your job, it’s about finding somewhere you are valued, secure, connected with people, and feel at ease. Sometimes, Black retirees are also looking for locations that offer spaces, businesses, and places where they can be themselves. Choosing from Forbes’ list of best places to retire and looking at cultural factors, here are ten cities in the United States that offer great living conditions for retirees.
1. Greenville, South Carolina
You can find a warm Southern with new and exciting growth in Greenville. Because the Black population is growing steadily, they can attend cultural events, join Black churches, and go to nearby HBCUs like South Carolina State. Median home prices in the state come to $317,000, or $22% below the countrywide average, while living costs are also 9% less than elsewhere in America. Here, Black retirees can find mountain views, nearby parks to stroll in, and exciting arts festivals at attractive prices for families.
2. San Antonio, Texas
There is no income tax in the state and the African American community is thriving, San Antonio is perfect for retirees who wish to save money. It only costs around $252,000 to get a house in Nevada. Visitors will find soul food eateries, celebrate Juneteenth, and use some of the best healthcare services in the area. Even though Madras isn’t very easy to navigate on foot, the city’s weather and culture are truly great.
3. Athens, Georgia
Home to the University of Georgia and a progressive vibe, Athens has long been known for its arts and music scene. For Black retirees, the city offers community-oriented events, Black-owned businesses, and a median home price of $333,000. Georgia’s tax exemptions on Social Security and retirement income add financial comfort.
4. Columbia, Missouri
While it might not be the first place you think of, Columbia offers surprisingly progressive values, a growing Black population, and access to high-quality healthcare thanks to the University of Missouri system. The median home price is about $306,000, and it features a well-balanced cost of living, good air quality, and a strong cultural scene, including Black History Month celebrations and community festivals.
5. Virginia Beach, Virginia
If you’re looking for coastal beauty without the Florida crowd, Virginia Beach is a fantastic pick. It offers a sizable Black community (about 20% of the population), a historically significant African American presence, and a median home price at the national average of $404,000. The city is known for being safe and clean, and it offers state tax exemptions for Social Security.
6. Lexington, Kentucky
Known as the “Horse Capital of the World,” Lexington might surprise you. It offers a thriving Black cultural scene with events like the Roots and Heritage Festival. The median home price is $316,000, and the low crime rate makes it ideal for retirees seeking peace of mind. The city also provides generous tax breaks for retirees and a walkable downtown area with Black-owned cafes, boutiques, and art spaces.
7. Raleigh, North Carolina
Raleigh blends big-city energy with suburban peace. With multiple universities nearby—including the historically Black Shaw University—the city has a well-established Black middle and upper class. Though the median home price is higher at $440,000, Raleigh boasts a strong healthcare network and favorable tax conditions. Retirees can enjoy local gospel festivals, Black art exhibitions, and a thriving restaurant scene.
8. Savannah, Georgia
Savannah is steeped in African American history and Southern grace. A Black population near 55% ensures strong cultural representation, from historic churches to food and music. The median home price is a manageable $322,000. Retirees can enjoy a coastal climate, walkable streets, and rich history, all while benefiting from Georgia’s favorable retirement tax laws.
9. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Pittsburgh is a Northeastern gem often overlooked by Southern retirees. Yet with a very affordable median home price of $231,000 and a vibrant Black arts and jazz scene, it’s ideal for budget-conscious retirees. Though winters can be tough, the city has an exceptional ratio of doctors and hospitals, along with walkable neighborhoods and a strong sense of community. Pittsburgh also boasts historic Black neighborhoods like the Hill District, with roots in activism and music.
10. Newark, Delaware
Small, accessible, and surprisingly diverse, Newark is home to the University of Delaware and is centrally located between Philadelphia and Baltimore. The city has a growing Black population and benefits from no state sales tax, no estate tax, and exemptions on Social Security income. The median home price sits around $351,000. Cultural institutions and Black community centers offer connection and engagement, ideal for retirees wanting a tight-knit but well-resourced place to live.
Final Thoughts
Choosing where to retire is deeply personal. For Black retirees, the decision may include more than the cost of living,it’s about thriving in a place where culture, care, and community intersect. These ten cities offer that blend of affordability, inclusion, and access to vital resources. Whether you’re drawn to the Southern charm of Savannah, the modern energy of Raleigh, or the history-rich streets of Pittsburgh, 2025 offers promising destinations for a peaceful and fulfilling retirement.
