6 US Cities With Surprising Retiree Benefits
Written by
Kerra Bolton
Edited by
Zuri Anderson
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When most people picture retirement, they imagine sunshine and low taxes, but some U.S. cities quietly offer extra perks that make life easier and more affordable for older adults.
From property-tax breaks and free public transit to tuition-free college courses, these programs can help retirees stretch their savings without sacrificing comfort.
Here are six U.S. cities with surprising retiree benefits that prove a smart move can do more than change your view — it can boost your bottom line.
Atlanta, Georgia — Strong Property-Tax Relief
Retirees in Atlanta can trim hundreds of dollars off their annual property-tax bills through Fulton County’s senior exemptions.
Homeowners age 65 and older qualify for a $50,000 exemption on the county portion of property taxes and an additional $10,000 exemption on Fulton County school taxes if they’ve held a homestead exemption for at least five years.
There are no income requirements, making this one of the state’s most accessible senior tax breaks. For retirees on fixed incomes, that kind of break can make it easier to keep a paid-off home and still cover rising insurance, utilities and maintenance.
Chicago, Illinois — Free Public Transit
Chicago makes it easier for older adults to stay connected without relying on a car.
Through the Regional Transportation Authority’s Ride Free Program, residents 65 and older who qualify for the Illinois Department on Aging’s Benefit Access Program can ride CTA buses, Metra commuter rail and Pace suburban busses at no cost.
The program helps retirees maintain independence and enjoy the city’s cultural life while keeping transportation costs off their monthly budget. For many retirees who no longer want to drive year-round, reliable, no-cost transit can feel as valuable as a car payment they no longer have to make.
Denver, Colorado — Free Recreation Passes
Denver invests in active aging through a citywide recreation program that keeps fitness accessible.
Residents 60 and older qualify for a free MyDenver PRIME membership, which includes unlimited access to public recreation centers, drop-in fitness classes and public pools across the city.
The program encourages older adults to stay healthy, social and engaged, without adding to monthly expenses. Because memberships are free, retirees can experiment with different classes and activities without worrying about whether they’ll “get their money’s worth.”
New York, New York — Tuition-Free College Courses
New York City gives lifelong learners a reason to head back to class. Through the City University of New York’s (CUNY) Senior Citizen Auditor Program, residents 60 and older can attend college courses tuition-free on a space-available basis.
Participants can audit classes at any of CUNY’s 20 colleges, from art history to accounting, paying only a modest registration fee. It’s a great way to tap into the city’s intellectual and cultural life without taking on the cost of another degree.
Seattle, Washington — Citywide Discounts
Seattle’s Age-Friendly Discount Program turns the city’s reputation for innovation toward something refreshingly practical: Helping older residents save money on everyday purchases.
Adults 60 and older can apply for a Gold Card, which provides discounts at local restaurants, fitness centers, retail shops, and cultural venues.
The city estimates that participants save an average of $240 a year, a small but meaningful boost in one of the nation’s pricier metros. For retirees watching everyday expenses, a few dollars saved on meals, tickets and services each week can quickly add up during the year.
Rochester, Minnesota — Access to Top-Tier Healthcare
Rochester’s world-class medical system doubles as a hidden financial perk for retirees.
Home to the Mayo Clinic, the city gives residents access to the nation’s top-ranked hospital without the high living costs of major metros. The cost of living is about 2% below the national average, and housing prices are typically lower than those in other medical hubs.
For retirees managing chronic conditions, having that level of care close to home can also reduce the travel costs and stress that come with seeking treatment in bigger cities.
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