For millions of Americans eyeing retirement, the question of where to settle down is as pressing as how much to save. With inflation and housing prices continuing to challenge fixed incomes, the Midwest’s reputation for affordability has never looked more appealing. According to a comprehensive August 2025 analysis by GOBankingRates, a host of large Midwestern cities are emerging as top choices for retirees seeking both comfort and cost savings.
The study, which drew on data from the U.S. Census American Community Survey, Sperling’s BestPlaces, the Bureau of Labor Statistics Consumer Expenditure Survey for retired households, AreaVibes, and the Zillow Home Value Index, examined cities with populations over 150,000 and at least 10% of residents aged 65 and older. The goal? To pinpoint the 20 cheapest big cities in the Midwest for retirees in 2025, weighing factors like cost of living, housing affordability, and the vibrancy of each city’s retirement community.
Leading the list is Cleveland, Ohio, where retirees will find the lowest monthly cost of living among all surveyed metros—just $2,355 with a mortgage. Cleveland also boasts a livability score of 72 and, as Cleveland.com reports, the most affordable homes by square foot in America. Even in the already budget-friendly Midwest, Cleveland stands out for its housing bargains, making it a magnet for those hoping to stretch their retirement dollars.
Toledo, Ohio, claims the second spot, with a monthly cost of living of $2,442 and a livability score of 66. Realtor.com highlights that the typical house in Toledo lists for a staggering $200,000 less than the national median home value. With 15.5% of its population aged 65 and older, Toledo is clearly a popular choice for retirees looking for both affordability and community.
Detroit, Michigan, lands at number three. Despite being Michigan’s largest city, Detroit’s housing values are about four times lower than the national median—an astonishing statistic that reflects years of economic shifts and recent revitalization efforts. With a 14.8% senior population and a monthly cost of living of $2,449, Detroit is becoming an increasingly attractive option for those seeking a fresh start in their golden years.
Akron, Ohio, takes the fourth place, with a monthly cost of living of $2,452 and a livability score of 81. According to the National Association of Realtors, Akron (along with Youngstown, Ohio) is one of the last two cities in America where households of any income level can afford to buy a home. For retirees who want to own rather than rent, Akron presents a rare opportunity.
St. Louis, Missouri, rounds out the top five with a cost of living of $2,843 and a livability score of 74. St. Louis is celebrated for its vibrant food and arts scenes, and it boasts the lowest cost of living among America’s 25 most-populated metros. For active seniors, the city offers a lively cultural life paired with financial peace of mind.
Other standout cities include Kansas City, Kansas, with a monthly cost of living of $2,959 and a lively music and museum scene; Des Moines, Iowa, where the cost of living is $2,975 and the city is experiencing rapid growth and new housing development; and Wichita, Kansas, with a cost of living 11% below the national average, even after factoring in the state’s high tax rates.
Fort Wayne, Indiana, is another notable mention. With a monthly cost of living of $3,095 and a livability score of 84, U.S. News & World Report has called Fort Wayne one of the most affordable cities in America, citing its low housing demand and ample supply. The city’s smaller population means that retirees aren’t competing for scarce homes, keeping prices in check.
Grand Rapids, Michigan, offers homes that cost about $100,000 less than the national median, while its general expenses are 6% below the national average and healthcare costs are 10% lower. With a monthly cost of living of $3,339 and a livability score of 83, Grand Rapids is a solid choice for retirees prioritizing both health and savings.
Columbus, Ohio, with its monthly cost of living of $3,337 and a livability score of 81, is also recommended for budget-conscious retirees. Payscale notes that Columbus’s cost of living is 5% below the national average, and the city offers a dynamic mix of amenities and a growing retirement community.
For those drawn to the arts, Saint Paul, Minnesota, combines a low cost of living ($3,517 monthly) with a vibrant arts and sports scene. Its housing market remains affordable, and the city’s bustling economy ensures retirees won’t lack for activities or services.
Kansas City, Missouri, stands out for its housing market, where the median home value is nearly $120,000 less than the national average, according to U.S. News & World Report. With a 14.1% population aged 65 and older and a monthly cost of living of $3,263, it offers retirees both affordability and a lively urban environment.
Springfield, Missouri, deserves mention for its 12% lower cost of living compared to the national average and housing prices that are 23% below the national norm. The city’s 15.8% senior population reflects its popularity among retirees looking for a comfortable, low-cost lifestyle.
Indianapolis, Indiana, with a monthly cost of living of $3,163 and a livability score of 76, offers affordable housing, low transportation costs, and a respected art scene anchored by the Indianapolis Museum of Art. The city’s healthcare costs are also attractive for older residents.
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, while known for somewhat pricey healthcare, compensates with extremely affordable housing. Its monthly cost of living stands at $3,065, and its arts and cultural offerings continue to draw retirees seeking both value and vibrancy.
Omaha and Lincoln, Nebraska, both offer monthly costs of living below $3,700, with Omaha being 8% cheaper than the U.S. average and Lincoln’s cost of living 5% below the national average (and housing 22% lower). These cities’ sizable retirement populations and high livability scores make them smart bets for those seeking a balance between affordability and quality of life.
Finally, Aurora, Illinois, near Chicago, is praised by Redfin for its exceptionally affordable housing market and abundance of parks, nature trails, and golf courses. With a monthly cost of living of $3,612 and a livability score of 71, it’s a haven for active seniors who want proximity to a major city without the hefty price tag.
As the cost of retirement continues to rise nationwide, the Midwest’s big cities are proving that affordability and livability don’t have to be mutually exclusive. For retirees willing to look beyond the coasts, these cities offer a compelling mix of low costs, vibrant communities, and the chance to make those hard-earned savings last.