Why Port St. Lucie Is The Ideal Place To Move To And Retire

Florida has long been one of the most popular states to retire. In fact, according to 2019 population estimates, 20.9% of the state's population is 65 and over.

This statistic shouldn't be surprising. After all, Florida boasts year-round warm and sunny weather — throw away those snow shovels — and is finance-friendly: There's no state income tax, and no inheritance or estate taxes. 

Although many places in Florida cater to people ready for the next adventure, Port St. Lucie is a particularly good place to move. Here are 4 reasons why this tranquil oceanside city is an ideal place for retirement.

Big-city amenities with a laid-back vibe.

Located on the Atlantic coastline, Port St. Lucie has a population of just over 200,000 people. This means the city has (or is near) a wide variety of retail and grocery shopping options, and has world-class entertainment venues such as the MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Event Center. The Port St. Lucie city government also offers the community an array of resident- and business-friendly services.

At the same time, however, the coastal location — and abundance of tranquil beaches — ensures the town has a laid-back atmosphere.

A food lover's paradise

Port St. Lucie has an eclectic dining scene that caters to food aficionados.

Unsurprisingly given its location, the city has an abundance of delicious seafood restaurants. In fact, some places also offer patrons the chance to purchase fresh fish. However, Port St. Lucie also boasts dynamic breakfast options, as well as steakhouses and Italian and Japanese restaurants.

Plus, foodies can also enjoy beachfront (and riverside) eateries with outdoor dining options and unbelievable views.

Nature lovers are in luck.

Florida is known for its gorgeous scenery, but Port St. Lucie especially has an abundance of tranquil options for those who love the outdoors.

The 20-acre Port St. Lucie Botanical Gardens boasts spaces dedicated to orchids, hibiscus and butterflies, as well as a whimsical Faerie Forrest for dreamers of all ages. Best of all, the gardens are free and open seven days of the week.

The Riverwalk Boardwalk, meanwhile, offers an ideal place to have a relaxing stroll on the St. Lucie River. The area also has two walking paths through mangroves and an observation deck, perfect for a leisurely afternoon of sitting and chatting.

And then there's North Fork, St. Lucie River Aquatic Preserve, the home of all kinds of wildlife, including birds such as storks, herons and pelicans, as well as alligators, manatees, and river otters.

Great communities, world-class amenities

For people who spent years tending to a house and yard, retirement is the perfect time to kick back in a place that makes life a breeze. In Port St. Lucie, Lake Park at Tradition offers a variety of homes from the mid $300s that fit this description to a tee.

The contemporary builds offer meticulous landscaping and spacious floor plans with a covered patio, gourmet kitchens and upscale bathrooms. Some plans also incorporate accessibility features such as shower seats.

Plus, these homes are wired with built-in smart technology (including security system capabilities) and modern amenities such as energy-efficient air conditioning.

The community itself — which is gated and accessed via a private road — has a dog park, pools and clubhouses for exercise, and on-site specialists to take care of lawn maintenance.

Port St. Lucie's many shopping, dining and entertainment options are close by as well. Residents looking for a quick getaway are also not far from popular beaches such as Fort Pierce, Jensen and Stuart; each are less than a half-hour away.

Retirement should be relaxing and stress-free. For those looking to embrace a slower-paced life while maintaining the convenience of big-city living, Port St. Lucie is the ideal place to move.