Columbia, Maryland, has long been praised as one of the safest and most livable places to retire. It offers access to quality healthcare, walkable neighborhoods, and a strong sense of community. However, there’s another city that is quietly gaining attention for its safety, affordability, and appeal to retirees looking for peace of mind.
That city is Rexburg, Idaho. Known for its low crime rates, growing infrastructure, and access to nature, it has become one of the safest places to retire in the US. Here, we’ll go over what makes Rexburg stand out and explore a few other cities with similar benefits for older adults seeking a stable, comfortable place to live.
Rexburg, Idaho: a smart and safe city for retirees
Rexburg might not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about retirement, but that’s starting to change. Located in eastern Idaho, it’s a small city with a strong community atmosphere and consistently low crime. With a crime rate of around 4 every 1000 people annually, it ranks among the safest cities in the country.
Beyond safety, Rexburg offers a more affordable lifestyle than many high-profile retirement spots. While housing isn’t cheap by small-town standards, it’s still generally more budget-friendly than coastal cities or popular retirement hubs. Rent for a one-bedroom averages around $1,000, and while home prices can run slightly above the national average, other essentials like transportation and utilities often cost less.
Rexburg is also home to Brigham Young University-Idaho, which gives it a unique energy. Seniors benefit from being near an academic setting with frequent public lectures, cultural events, and volunteer opportunities. Healthcare is accessible and expanding, with facilities in town and nearby Idaho Falls.
Outdoor enthusiasts will also find no shortage of things to do. With Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks within driving distance, plus local hiking trails, rivers, and scenic drives, staying active is easy and enjoyable.
A few more cities worth considering for your retirement
If you’re exploring multiple retirement options, other cities also stand out in 2025 for their safety, affordability, and quality of life.
- Nashua, New Hampshire: Consistently ranked among the safest cities in America, it also offers a charming downtown, solid healthcare, and easy access to both mountains and coast.
- Franklin, Massachusetts: A small town feel with good healthcare access and a low crime rate. It also has an active senior community and a strong public library system.
- Surprise, Arizona: Warm weather, reasonable living costs, and good medical facilities make this desert city appealing, especially for those wanting to avoid cold winters.
- Carmel, Indiana: Known for its master-planned neighborhoods and walkability, Carmel offers high safety rankings and excellent parks, which are great for retirees who value outdoor activity.
Each of these cities brings something different to the table, but all are united by one thing: they make safety and livability a priority. Whether you want a slower pace or a vibrant community setting, the options in 2025 are more diverse than ever. For the right person, Rexburg might be exactly what retirement should look like—peaceful and safe.