This Gorgeous Florida City Less Than An Hour From West Palm Beach Is Great For Retiring

Daydreaming of a stress-free retirement spent basking on sandy shores? The perfect place could be Stuart, a charming coastal city tucked away along Florida's Treasure Coast. It is located just around 45 minutes north of West Palm Beach, and boasts a historic downtown district full of charm. Due to its laid-back nature and stunning location, it's no surprise that this small scenic city ranked #1 in the nation for retirement in 2024.

If you're planning a move from farther away, or expecting frequent visitors, Stuart is conveniently located less than an hour from Palm Beach International Airport. For those planning on arriving by public transport, both Amtrak and Greyhound have services to the nearby West Palm Beach for those who can't, or don't want to fly in. If you prefer to drive, the city is easily accessible via I-95.

Stuart is a great spot for retirees, so much so that nearly 30% of its population is made up of citizens of retirement age. Despite this demographic, it's a vibrant community with a walkable downtown area bustling with antique stores, boutique clothing shops, art galleries, and dog-friendly beaches. It's the perfect spot for anyone looking for a slower pace without sacrificing charming culture and fun things to do. It's also close to Hutchinson Island, an underrated relaxed destination with uncrowded beaches.

There's something truly timeless about the charm of Stuart. This quaint city is home to a beautiful historic downtown district, full of old architecture and boutique storefronts. It also boasts delicious seafood dining, scenic golf courses, and of course, plenty of Florida sunshine.

Whether you're planning on moving to Stuart for retirement, or simply looking for somewhere low-key to visit for a restful break, be sure to visit The Elliott Museum. Located on Ocean Boulevard, this local treasure exhibits vintage cars, maritime artifacts, and diverse art exhibits. It's open every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and costs only $20 for general admission, $18 for seniors, and $10 for children. This museum is well worth it for anyone curious about Florida's cultural roots.

There's plenty to do for outdoor lovers too, with Stuart Beach being a truly unmissable spot. This dog-friendly stretch of pristine shoreline is the perfect place for morning walks and soaking up the sun. Another great outdoor spot is the nearby St. Lucie Inlet Preserve State Park. This lush area boasts mangroves and a beach, and is only accessible by boat. There's plenty of beautiful areas here for snorkeling, birdwatching and enjoying a picnic, and boat rentals are readily available.

Whether you're visiting to scope out your future retirement spot, or simply enjoying a weekend escape, there are plenty of accommodations to choose from when staying in Stuart. From coastal inns, to boutique hotels, and plenty of well-known and reputable chains, there's something for everyone here. A typical stay can cost around $130 a night, depending on the season and how close you want to be to the beach.

There is plenty to enjoy in the area too, with nearby West Palm Beach being an under-the-radar palm tree-lined city on Florida's Atlantic coast that is a foodie paradise. Just further north is Jupiter, one of the 15 best beach towns to live in this year. With so many desirable cities close by, Stuart is the perfect jumping-off point for exploring the area.

If you're just coming for a visit, you'll want to make your trip sometime between November and April, when temperatures are comfortable and hurricane season has passed. During this period, you can expect bright skies, low humidity, and plenty of events to get you out and about with the locals. From free live music to farmers markets, and even art festivals, Stuart has more to offer than just its striking coastal views. For those planning on spending their time outdoors, be sure to pack swimwear, sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, comfortable shoes, and bug repellent so you can leisurely enjoy all that Stuart has to offer.