Best Cities to Retire in Illinois: Why Naperville Ranks Top Of The List in 2026

Naperville ranks among Illinois’ top 3 best cities to retire according to 2025-2026 rankings from World Atlas and U.S. News & World Report. The city earned recognition for its walkable downtown areas, Edward Hospital’s nationally-ranked healthcare, cultural venues like Naper Settlement and the Naperville Riverwalk, and a 5.6 overall quality-of-life score. Retirees choose Naperville for its combination of affordability, healthcare access, maintenance-free living options, and strong community engagement opportunities that make aging in place both practical and enjoyable.

If you live here, work here, or have spent any meaningful time in Naperville, this news will probably make you smile and nod your head, because you already knew it.

Naperville was just named one of the best cities to retire in Illinois by World Atlas, joining a short list that includes Chicago, Evanston, and a few other notable cities across the state. As someone who has lived, worked, raised a family, and helped hundreds of people buy and sell homes here over the past 30 years, I can confidently say: this recognition is well deserved.

If you’re considering retirement in Naperville or want to explore downsizing options, contact Dan Firks I’ve helped more than 1,500 families navigate their next chapter in the western suburbs.

Why Naperville Stands Out for Retirement

What World Atlas Looked For in Top Retirement Cities

According to World Atlas, the best cities to retire in Illinois were evaluated based on what truly matters in retirement:

• Reliable support for everyday life
• Access to advanced medical care
• Opportunities to stay socially, culturally, and intellectually engaged
• Minimal need for long drives or constant travel

That description fits Naperville almost perfectly.

In my experience helping clients transition into retirement, I hear the same priorities over and over:

“We want convenience, community, and quality of life, without giving anything up.”

Naperville delivers on all three. Whether you’re downsizing from a larger home in the suburbs or relocating to Illinois from another state, this city offers the infrastructure and lifestyle that make retirement both active and comfortable.

Walkability, Culture, and Community. Built Into Daily Life

Downtown Naperville’s Retirement-Friendly Features

World Atlas specifically called out Naperville’s walkability paired with cultural depth and community-driven spaces, and that’s a huge part of the appeal for anyone researching the best cities to retire in Illinois.

The Naperville Riverwalk Guide isn’t just a place you visit once, it becomes part of your routine. Morning walks. Coffee stops. Meeting friends. Quiet reflection by the water.

When I’ve worked with clients who are retiring or preparing to retire in Naperville, many of them mention the same thing: “I want to be able to walk to restaurants, walk to the library, walk to events, without getting in the car every single time.”

• Naper Settlement – Living history museum with year-round programs and special events
• Downtown Naperville Restaurants – More than 60 locally-owned businesses within walking distance
• North Central College – Performances, lectures, Wentz Concert Hall, and continuing education classes
• Nichols Library – Ranked among the top public libraries in Illinois, offering programs specifically designed for active adults and seniors

…and you have a town that makes it easy to stay active, social, and engaged, without ever feeling rushed.

This is a community where you can park your car and actually live your life. For retirees, that’s not just convenient, it’s transformative.

Healthcare Access That Brings Peace of Mind

Edward Hospital’s National Rankings

Healthcare is understandably one of the biggest factors retirees consider when choosing among the best cities to retire in Illinois, and Naperville shines here as well.

Endeavor Health Edward Hospital continues to earn top national ratings and is consistently mentioned as one of the strongest healthcare providers in the region. The hospital offers:

• Advanced cardiac care and surgical specialties
• Comprehensive cancer treatment through Edward-Elmhurst Health
• Senior health services and geriatric care specialists
• Quick access to emergency services with minimal wait times
• Integration with the Endeavor Health network across the western suburbs

Having high-quality medical care close to home isn’t just convenient, it’s comforting.

Last year I helped a couple relocate to Naperville from Arizona specifically because they wanted to be closer to family and closer to Edward Hospital after researching Illinois retirement cities. The husband had ongoing health needs, and they didn’t want to worry about traveling long distances for routine appointments or emergencies.

It’s one more reason so many people choose to stay in Naperville long-term and age in place rather than relocate again in their later years.

More Recognition – And a Clear Pattern

U.S. News Rankings for Naperville (2025)

This isn’t the first time Naperville has been recognized among the best cities to retire in Illinois.

In November 2025, U.S. News & World Report ranked Naperville:

• No. 1 Best Place to Retire in Illinois
• No. 207 nationally out of more than 850 cities evaluated

That ranking was based on factors like:

• Quality of life
• Affordability and cost of living
• Healthcare accessibility and hospital quality
• Retiree-friendly tax structure
• Job market for part-time or encore careers
• Migration trends for residents age 55 and older

A public survey of people nearing or at retirement age helped shape the results — meaning these rankings reflect real priorities from real people, not just abstract data points.

Naperville earned a 5.6 overall score, reinforcing what locals already feel every day.

What These Rankings Mean for Retirees

U.S. News has also ranked Naperville:

• No. 3 Best Places to Live in Illinois
• No. 21 Best Medium-Sized Cities to Live in the U.S.
• No. 76 Best Places to Live in the U.S. overall

That’s not luck. That’s consistency.

These rankings matter because they signal stability. When you’re making retirement decisions, you want to know that the community you’re investing in, financially, emotionally, socially, isn’t going to decline or change dramatically in the next 10 to 20 years.

Naperville’s repeated recognition as one of the best cities to retire in Illinois tells you that the infrastructure, leadership, and community values that make it desirable today are likely to remain strong tomorrow.

A Realtor’s Perspective – And a Neighbor’s

From a real estate standpoint, I see this trend play out constantly.

Many longtime Naperville homeowners choose to downsize within the community rather than leave it. They sell their 4-bedroom single-family home in Ashbury or White Eagle and move into a maintenance-free townhome or condo near downtown.

Others relocate here specifically for retirement because they want:

• A vibrant downtown with year-round activities
• Low-stress daily living without long commutes
• Strong healthcare infrastructure
• Community involvement through volunteer opportunities, clubs, and local events
• Homes that fit both today and the years ahead

In my experience, clients who choose Naperville for retirement aren’t just buying a house, they’re buying into a lifestyle. They’re choosing walkability over isolation. They’re choosing engagement over boredom. They’re choosing a community that supports aging in place.

From a personal standpoint, I’m proud to call Naperville home.

This city continues to evolve while staying true to its roots, and that balance is rare. Whether it’s new developments that incorporate green space and pedestrian access, or ongoing investments in the Riverwalk and downtown infrastructure, Naperville is planning for the long term.

Planning Your Retirement in Naperville

Retirement Housing Options in Naperville

One of the advantages of retiring in one of the best cities to retire in Illinois is the variety of housing options designed specifically for this life stage.

Maintenance-Free Living:

• Townhomes and condos in downtown Naperville with HOA-managed exteriors
• Active adult communities (55+) in surrounding areas like Aurora and Plainfield
• Single-level ranch homes in established neighborhoods like Hobson West
• Luxury condos with concierge services and walkable amenities

Aging in Place Considerations:

When I help clients plan for retirement, we talk about more than just price and location. We consider:

• Single-level living or first-floor master suites
• Proximity to healthcare and essential services
• Walkability to restaurants, libraries, and social venues
• Property tax considerations and long-term affordability
• Resale value and market stability

Naperville offers all of these in abundance, which is why so many retirees choose to make their move here rather than to other Illinois retirement cities.

Cost of Living and Property Taxes

One question I hear often: “Is Naperville affordable for retirement?”

The honest answer is that Naperville’s property taxes are higher than some Illinois communities, but they’re offset by:

• No state tax on retirement income in Illinois (Social Security, pensions, and retirement account withdrawals are not taxed)
• Strong property values that hold or appreciate, protecting your investment
• Lower overall cost of living compared to Chicago or other major metro areas
• Access to amenities without needing a second home or frequent travel

When you factor in walkability, healthcare access, and quality of life, many retirees find Naperville to be a better value than communities with lower taxes but fewer services.

Frequently Asked Questions About Retiring in Naperville

What makes Naperville one of the best cities to retire in Illinois?

Naperville combines walkable downtown areas, nationally-ranked healthcare at Edward Hospital, cultural engagement opportunities at venues like Naper Settlement and North Central College, and a strong sense of community. U.S. News ranked it #1 for retirement in Illinois with a 5.6 quality-of-life score based on affordability, healthcare, and retiree migration trends.

How does Naperville compare to other Illinois retirement cities?

In 2025-2026 rankings, Naperville outperformed Chicago and Evanston for retiree-specific factors including walkability paired with cultural depth, healthcare access, and maintenance-free living options. Unlike larger cities, Naperville offers suburban comfort with urban-level amenities, making it ideal for active adults and retirees.

What are the healthcare options for retirees in Naperville?

Endeavor Health Edward Hospital provides nationally-ranked medical care right in Naperville, along with numerous specialist clinics, urgent care centers, and senior health services. The hospital is part of the larger Endeavor Health network, giving residents access to comprehensive care across the western suburbs.

Can I age in place in Naperville?

Yes. Many Naperville retirees choose to downsize within the community to maintenance-free condos or townhomes near downtown, allowing them to stay connected to the walkable lifestyle and community they love. Single-level homes, accessible public spaces, and strong healthcare infrastructure make aging in place practical and appealing.

Are there active adult communities in Naperville?

While Naperville proper has limited 55+ communities, the surrounding areas (Aurora, Plainfield, Bolingbrook) offer several active adult neighborhoods within 10-15 minutes. Many retirees also choose traditional Naperville neighborhoods with single-level homes and strong walkability rather than age-restricted developments.

What is the best neighborhood to retire in Naperville?

Popular retirement neighborhoods include downtown Naperville parking for maximum walkability, Hobson West for ranch-style homes, and areas near the Riverwalk for easy access to parks and cultural venues. The best neighborhood depends on your priorities, I’m happy to walk you through options based on your specific needs.

Thinking About Your Next Chapter?

Whether retirement is right around the corner or still a few years out, planning early makes all the difference. Housing options, walkable neighborhoods, maintenance-free living, and long-term value all matter when choosing among the best cities to retire in Illinois.

If you’re considering downsizing, relocating, or simply want to understand your options here in Naperville, I’m always happy to be a resource.

Call or text Dan at 630.637.9009
Email Dan@Naperville.com
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Written by Dan Firks

I’m Dan Firks, Listing Specialist, Luxury Home Specialist, Realtor®, Broker, and Founder & CEO of the Dan Firks Team at Coldwell Banker Real Estate Group in Naperville. Over the course of my career I’ve sold more than 1,500 homes and led one of the top-producing real estate teams in Illinois, grounded in my core values of infinite worth, integrity, and excellence.

My work and market insights have been featured in Chicago Magazine, Zillow, Realtor.com, Top Agent Magazine, Naperville Magazine, and Glancer Magazine.

To talk about your move in the Naperville area, call or text me at 630.637.9009 or email Dan@Naperville.com

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