Retirement is nothing new. For decades, seniors have been pouring into sunny climates, affordable towns and scenic neighborhoods. But in 2025, not every destination is launching a “Welcome Mat”. In fact, some popular local retirees are quietly pushing back. The rising housing costs, tight infrastructure and frustrated locals are creating tensions between long-term residents and upcoming retirees. Here are nine places where retirees are moving and don’t necessarily want them there.
1. Austin, Texas
Austin has long been one of the fastest growing cities in the United States, but locals are increasingly vocal about rising costs and congestion. The Texas Tribune reports that house prices have exceeded the prices many young residents can afford. Retirees seeking culture and music may be upset by driving prices. Austin is one of the challenges that retirees are moving into their own communities.
2. Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville’s mountain views and artistic atmosphere attract retirees from all over the country. Locals are worried that retirees are pricing for working families. Medical services and housing have been extended. When Asheville remains charming, it’s one of the places where retirees move to a place where residents say balanced dumping.
3. Phoenix, Arizona
Arizona’s low taxes and sunshine continues to attract retirees, especially Phoenix. However, frustration over water shortages and infrastructure pressures is growing. Locals believe that retirees who move in are exacerbating housing shortages. Phoenix is still thriving, but this is one of the places where retirees are turning to testing local resources.
4. Miami, Florida
Florida has been a poster for retirees’ relocation. But in Miami, the cost of living soared. Residents are getting more and more expensive. Tensions between locals and retirees are high, making Miami a place that doesn’t seem as enthusiastic as before.
5. Denver, Colorado
Denver’s outdoor lifestyle and strong healthcare system make it attractive to retirees. Locals are driving housing costs soaring and overcrowded. The influx of retirees and other new immigrants are reshaping the community. Denver is now one of the places where retirees are building in resistance.
6. Portland, Maine
This coastal city is a hot spot for the rise of retirees, especially in the Northeast. But locals feel depressed by rising rents and limited housing stocks. Retirees often compete directly with young families for housing. Portland has charm, but it’s one of the places where retirees move to, which has caused dissatisfaction.
7. Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe’s art, culture and mild climate attract retirees across the country. However, locals are frustrated by gentrification and rising costs. Many believe retirees are turning cities into something that is not very livable to working residents. Now, Santa Fe is one of the places where retirees are moving, attracting a different feeling.
8. Boise, Idaho
Boise used to be a hidden gem, but retirees discovered it and locals noticed it. Housing costs have risen sharply, and retirees are driving forces. Young locals complain that they can no longer afford their city homes. Boise is firmly included in the place where retirees are relocating.
9. Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston’s charm, coastal beauty and tax benefits make it popular among retirees. The resentment of the locals is priced in the historic community. Rising flood insurance costs have also increased tensions. Charleston is attractive, but it’s another place where retirees are moving and welcome without open arms.
This is important for retirees
For retirees, moving to NSW and cities seems like the ideal way to extend savings or enjoy your dream lifestyle. But where retirees are moving today are struggling with affordability, housing shortages and tight services. This creates friction with the locals who feel left behind. Retirees need homework, not taxes and health care, but community sentiment. After all, if your new neighbor is upset about your arrival, financial security won’t make a big difference.
Even if locals don’t want new immigrants, would you still consider moving to one of the places where retirees are moving? Share your thoughts in the comments.
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Teri Monroe is engaged in a communications career working in local governments and nonprofits. Today, she is a freelance financial and lifestyle writer and small business owner. In her spare time, she likes to play golf with her husband, take long walks with her dog Milo, and play pickled vegetables with her friends.
