California, known for its high cost of living and taxes, did not feature any towns in a new report identifying the 50 best places for Americans approaching retirement age. The study, conducted by MoneyLion, focused on municipalities with populations between 1,000 and 10,000.

East Coast Dominance

Affordable locations with lower tax burdens, predominantly on the East Coast, dominated the rankings. Camp Hill, Pennsylvania, was named the top destination. This suburb of Harrisburg, with just over 8,000 residents, boasts an average home price of $337,890 and an annual cost of living around $43,794. Pennsylvania as a whole performed strongly, with 15 of its cities making the top 50, including Jenkintown and Aspinwall.

Overall, more than 20 of the 50 towns listed are situated on the East Coast, with many others located in the Midwest. The criteria for inclusion in the study involved evaluating factors such as average home value, cost of living, and crime rates, which were then used to calculate a livability index score. Towns scoring 80 or higher qualified for the final list.

West Coast Picks

While the West Coast was largely absent, College Place, Washington, near Walla Walla, was the highest-ranking West Coast selection, placing ninth. It has an average home value of $410,675 and an annual cost of living of $38,068. This town is situated in an area known for its wine production.

Other West Coast towns that made the list include Steilacoom, Washington, near Tacoma, which ranked 20th with an annual cost of living of $47,767. Prosser, Washington, near the Tri-Cities area, was also included. In Oregon, Philomath, near Corvallis, secured the 21st spot, and King City, in Washington County outside of Portland, was also recognized.

Most Affordable Locations

The study identified Davison, Michigan, as the most affordable town with an annual cost of living of $35,245. Decorah, Iowa, followed closely with an annual cost of living of $35,467.

Separate reports have highlighted other California locations for retirees. Mendocino County was recently named one of the best places in the Western U.S. to retire due to its scenic coastal environment and small towns. Additionally, Laguna Woods in Orange County was identified in a July study as the best retirement location within California, largely due to its significant age-restricted communities.