An Underrated Postcard-Worthy Southern Town Is The Best Place To Retire In 2025 With Little To No Savings

No work, a comfortable lifestyle, and absolute serenity — these are aspirations that come to mind when thinking about retirement, and finding that trifecta to exist in harmony might be like searching for a needle in a haystack, especially if you're not financially prepared. However, some states are better to retire in than others in the U.S. Experts in a GoBankingRates study found that Hot Springs Village, Arkansas, is the best place to retire if you don't have savings. This retirement haven is just an hour west of Little Rock or a 20-minute drive from Hot Springs National Park, located in one of America's most unique and popular cities.

Most Americans save less than $300 for retirement, meaning they will have to rely on social security checks. The GoBankingRates study shows that Hot Springs Village checks the boxes for affordable living while also providing a fulfilling last quarter of "the game," from the amount of money you need for essentials to the number of residents over the age of 60. So, enjoy the money you're making now (responsibly, of course) because when it's finally time to hang up the jersey on your career, you'll have options.

Picture this: You're sipping on an iced tea while sitting on your lawn chair before a tranquil lakefront view with hues of pink and orange skies painting the background...oh yeah, and you're not working! It almost sounds like a dream, and for many retirees in Hot Springs Village, it's a reality. To rank the best, most affordable places to retire, the GoBankingRate study looked at information from the U.S. Census Bureau, the Tax Foundation, Zillow, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics Consumer Expenditure, analyzing 100 towns or cities that had a high population of people 65 years old and up.

According to the findings, 61% of residents in Hot Springs Village are 65 years old or older, their social security benefits are not taxed, and annual necessities cost around $21,114. This is less than triple what the average American household spends a year, which is $77,280 per the Motley Fool Money. Furthermore, the average median sold home price in the adorable city is $290,000 (via Realtor), so your lakeview real estate dreams are not only possible but also affordable.

Similar to the overlooked city of Jacksonville, with scenic trails and local eats outside Little Rock, Hot Springs Village offers a unique experience that some might say is a cut above the rest. Of course, being close to the Ouachita Mountains, there are breathtaking hiking and biking trails to clear your mind. You can find hiking trails all across America, but what sets Hot Springs Village apart is its namesake hot springs. The city is lined with bathhouses where you can experience thermal pools, massages, and even beauty bars. Many of these luxurious services cost less than $100, so you might as well add "spa day" to the list of essential items you'll need during retirement.

For leisurely activities, there are plenty of golf courses around town, as well as local event venues that host productions. To make friends, you can also join a slew of clubs, including groups for arts and crafts, cards, and dancing. Hot Springs Village might just be the hidden gem you've been trying to discover if your retirement savings are virtually non-existent.