ChatGPT Unveils: 10 Worst Cities To Retire in 2024

Retirement planning is a complex puzzle, involving not just when to retire, but critically, where. Many future or current retirees are eyeing the map, seeking that perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and cost of living for our golden years.

Yet, for every idyllic retirement spot, there are places that, despite their charms, might not be the best fit for retirees. Leveraging the analytical prowess of ChatGPT, we’ve dived deep into data, trends, and forecasts to bring you the 10 worst cities to retire in the U.S. in 2024.

(Then, check out ChatGPT’s 15 best cities to retire for 2024.)

The Big Apple, with its unparalleled vibrancy, culture, and diversity, is a magnet for many. However, ChatGPT flags it as a tough spot for retirees, primarily due to its sky-high cost of living. Housing, healthcare, and daily expenses far exceed the national average, making it a financial tightrope for those on a fixed income. While the city’s energy and amenities are enticing, they come with a price tag that’s hard to justify in retirement.

San Francisco’s beauty, tech scene, and cultural tapestry are undeniable. Yet, ChatGPT underscores the city’s exorbitant living costs, particularly in housing, as a major deterrent for retirees. Despite California dreaming, the reality of living in this tech hub on a retirement budget can quickly become a nightmare, with some of the highest property prices and living expenses in the country.

Detroit’s story of resilience and revival is inspiring, yet ChatGPT suggests retirees might want to wait and see. The city’s efforts to bounce back from economic decline are still in progress, with challenges such as high crime rates and uneven healthcare quality. While the cost of living is more affordable than many other cities on this list, the uncertainties surrounding its recovery make it a less-than-ideal choice for retirement.

Miami’s allure is undeniable, with its warm climate, beautiful beaches, and vibrant culture. However, ChatGPT highlights significant downsides, such as the threat of hurricanes, rising sea levels due to climate change, and a cost of living that’s creeping ever higher. For retirees, the balance between enjoying the sun and managing the impact of natural and economic forces may tilt towards the latter.

Los Angeles offers sunshine, entertainment, and a melting pot of cultures. Yet, ChatGPT points to its notorious traffic, high pollution levels, and the steep cost of living as major drawbacks for retirees. The city’s sprawling nature means reliance on car travel, and when combined with California’s high cost of living, it can strain retirement budgets.

The Big Easy’s charm, with its jazz, history, and cuisine, is intoxicating. However, ChatGPT advises caution, citing the city’s vulnerability to flooding and hurricanes, alongside high crime rates in certain areas. For those seeking a worry-free retirement, the environmental and safety risks of New Orleans may outweigh its cultural rewards.

Chicago is celebrated for its vibrant arts scene, diverse neighborhoods, and culinary delights. However, ChatGPT warns of its harsh winters, high cost of living, and the fiscal instability of Illinois, which could affect property taxes and public services. For retirees, the city’s climate and economic challenges present significant downsides.

Philadelphia’s rich historical legacy and cultural vibrancy are appealing, but ChatGPT flags concerns over healthcare accessibility and quality, alongside urban challenges such as crime rates and living costs. For retirees, the city’s merits must be weighed against these realities, particularly when considering healthcare needs.

Baltimore offers historical sights and a thriving arts scene but faces significant urban challenges. ChatGPT highlights high crime rates and economic disparities as potential deterrents for retirees. While there are areas of revitalization and community strength, the broader challenges may impact the quality of retirement life.

Las Vegas is synonymous with entertainment, dining, and nightlife. However, ChatGPT notes the city’s extreme summer temperatures and water scarcity issues as significant concerns, especially as climate change progresses.

Additionally, the city’s economy, heavily reliant on tourism and entertainment, can be susceptible to fluctuations, which might affect the stability and cost of living for retirees. While the absence of state income tax in Nevada is a plus, retirees must consider whether the environmental and economic factors align with their vision for a comfortable and sustainable retirement.

Editor's note: This article was produced via automated technology and then fine-tuned and verified for accuracy by a member of GOBankingRates' editorial team.