3. Augusta, Georgia

With its low living costs and tax breaks for retirees, Georgia ranks high on many lists for the best southern retirement spots. What’s interesting about Augusta is that it’s ripening into a particularly peachy city.

Revitalization measures have been implemented over the past few years, looking to expand the city’s appeal beyond the annual Masters golf tournament and its accompanying tourism revenue and celebrations. In a walkable downtown, seniors can enjoy new museums, restaurants, galleries, and even nightlife venues.

And even more efforts are on the way, with a $93 million plan under way to restore a historic train depot property located on the riverfront into a modern mixed-use complex of apartments, offices, restaurants, and retailers.

Augusta also boasts a top-notch healthcare network, which includes three hospitals and several specialists focused on geriatrics, oncology, and senior health.