Discover the Best Places to Live in Ohio for Retirement

The best places to live in Ohio for retirement offer an active, engaged, and connected lifestyle, where you can focus on what matters most as you embark on this new chapter in your life. Whether you're looking for a quiet, folksy community or a dynamic suburb with easy access to plenty of recreational activities, you can find a place in Ohio that feels like home. 

Let’s explore some of the best places to retire in Ohio and discover what makes each area unique so you can decide which spot might be perfect for your next life adventure.

Summary:

• Best Places to Live in Ohio for Retirement

• Active Adult Communities in Ohio

• Conclusion

Best Places to Live in Ohio for Retirement

Choosing the ideal place to retire involves considering key factors like affordability, access to healthcare, recreational opportunities, and community atmosphere. Ohio offers a diverse selection of cities and suburbs that cater to different lifestyles, from inviting towns with small-town charm to bustling areas with abundant entertainment and cultural attractions. 

Here are some of the best cities in Ohio to retire to, based on quality of life, amenities, and overall appeal.

Columbus

Columbus, Ohio’s capital, is home to some of the best places to live in Ohio for retirees, with beautiful suburbs that stand out for their charm and amenities: 

• Dublin: Known for picturesque parks, golf courses, and a thriving downtown area, Dublin is an ideal suburb for active retirees, with an engaging lifestyle and plenty to explore. It’s home to the renowned OhioHealth Dublin Methodist Hospital and offers over 60 parks, a thriving arts scene, and popular annual events like the Dublin Irish Festival.

• Westerville: This suburb offers a mix of historic charm and modern conveniences. With scenic trails, a vibrant cultural scene, and Otterbein University’s lifelong learning programs, it’s one of the best places to retire in Ohio. Abundant outdoor recreation options await at Inniswood Metro Gardens and Hoover Reservoir Park, while Uptown Westerville features boutique shopping and dining.

• New Albany: An upscale community located just outside Columbus, New Albany is a top choice as the best city to retire in Ohio for those who seek luxury living and modern conveniences. The area is known for its beautiful parks, well-maintained trails, and popular shopping and dining. Residents here benefit from a strong sense of community, easy access to top healthcare facilities, and a variety of cultural attractions. 

Browse Del Webb® active adult communities in Columbus, OH.  

Cincinnati 

Cincinnati is another of the best cities in Ohio to retire, offering easy access to cultural attractions, sports events, and healthcare facilities. Here are two of the top Cincinnati suburbs to explore:

• Mason: Ranked among the top 50 places for families to live by Fortune® in July 2024, Mason offers an excellent quality of life conveniently close to parks, golf courses, and the Kings Island® amusement park, offering fun for all ages. The Mason Community Center has fitness programs, aquatics, and other activities, while Atrium Medical Center and other local hospitals offer access to quality healthcare.

• Montgomery: This quiet, upscale suburb is known for its charming town square, fine dining, and extensive parks and trails. The area boasts several medical facilities like The Christ Hospital™, which ranked #1 in the Cincinnati region by U.S. News & World Report for 2024–2025. Montgomery also features a historic downtown area with unique shops and eateries, as well as a robust network of hiking and biking trails.

Cleveland

A blend of affordability, entertainment options, and quality amenities like healthcare helps make Cleveland a great addition to this list as the best place to live in Ohio for seniors. Here’s what a few of the popular Cleveland suburbs have to offer:

• Hudson: With a historic downtown, lots of community events, and a relaxed lifestyle, Hudson is a favorite among retirees. It offers quality healthcare options, including easy access to the renowned Cleveland Clinic. The First & Main district features great shopping, dining, and entertainment options, while the Hudson Springs Park offers a beautiful lake, trails, and picnic areas.

• Rocky River: Situated along Lake Erie, Rocky River is one of the best places to live in Ohio for retirees who enjoy scenic waterfront views, outdoor recreation, and proximity to Downtown Cleveland’s arts and entertainment scene. The Rocky River Reservation features breathtaking nature trails, while the Westgate Shopping Center and Linden Park offer convenient amenities and social opportunities.

• Columbia Station: Located just 30 minutes from Cleveland, Columbia Station promotes a peaceful rural setting while still offering access to big-city conveniences. This attractive area is ideal for those seeking a slower pace of life, larger home lots, and plenty of green space. Enjoy outdoor recreation at local Metroparks trails and golf courses, as well as proximity to Strongsville and Cleveland for an easy drive to shopping, dining, and medical care. Explore our new homes for sale in Columbia Station, OH. 

Dayton

Dayton is another attractive option among the best places to live in Ohio for retirement, thanks to its affordable lifestyle, lively cultural scene, and access to healthcare facilities, including Miami Valley Hospital and Kettering Health. The suburbs of Dayton have much to offer, too: 

• Oakwood: A charming neighborhood with tree-lined streets, Oakwood offers a small-town feel while being close to Dayton’s amenities. The Oakwood Community Center features social events, fitness programs, and senior activities, making it easy to stay engaged, while a visit to Smith Memorial Gardens makes for a lovely afternoon in nature any day of the year. 

• Beavercreek: One of the fastest-growing suburbs in Dayton, Beavercreek offers a myriad of shopping, dining, and recreation options. You’ll find several popular retailers at The Mall at Fairfield Commons, while Dominick Lofino Park offers a great way to enjoy the outdoors, with a seven-acre lake, trails to explore, and a summer concert series. The area is also home to the Soin Medical Center, offering access to quality healthcare.

Toledo

For those looking for a more relaxed and budget-friendly spot among the best places to live in Ohio for retirement, Toledo and its serene suburb of Sylvania offer a great mix of affordability and amenities:

• Sylvania: This picturesque community is home to excellent parks, golf courses, and a lively arts scene. Easy access to medical care and a strong sense of community help make it one of the best places to live in Ohio for retirees. The Olander Park System features miles of scenic trails, fishing spots, and a plethora of local events, while the Sylvania Senior Center offers classes, social clubs, and activities for active adults.

Active Adult Communities in Ohio

If you’re seeking 55+ communities in Ohio designed to cater to active and engaged lifestyles, Del Webb offers beautifully designed homes in areas where you can thrive in your golden years. Whether you're looking for resort-style amenities, golf courses, or social activities, our communities feature low-maintenance living, fitness centers, walking trails, and a calendar full of engaging events: 

• Del Webb Hickory Greens: Located about 17 miles from Downtown Cleveland, this 55+ community in Columbia Station features top-tier amenities, including a 14,300-square-foot clubhouse, indoor and outdoor pools, and a state-of-the-art racquet club with pickleball courts and a golf simulator. With easy access to I-71 for convenient access to shopping, dining, and attractions, residents can enjoy an active and fulfilling retirement in a prime location.

Looking for more options? Pulte® also offers a 55+ active adult community in New Albany, OH. 

Conclusion

Ohio continues to be a top destination for retirees, offering affordability, quality healthcare, and a strong sense of community. Whether you prefer the bustling suburbs of Columbus and Cincinnati or the scenic lakeside charm of Cleveland’s Rocky River, the Buckeye State has plenty to offer and enjoy.

Explore active adult communities in Ohio today or browse more Del Webb blogs. 

Written By: Jordan Thomson, Freelance Writer