To that end, Stacker compiled a list of the best places to retire on the East Coast using Niche’s 2025 Best Places to Retire in America ranking. South Palm Beach, Florida– National rank: #25– Population: 1,667Located on a small barrier island off Florida’s east coast, South Palm Beach is only five-eighths of a mile long. St. Pete Beach, Florida– National rank: #12– Population: 8,832In 2021, St. Pete Beach was named the best beach in the United States by Tripadvisor. Pelican Bay, Florida– National rank: #7– Population: 6,575Pelican Bay, a luxury community in Naples, is the ultimate spot to retire. Highland Beach, Florida– National rank: #2– Population: 4,264Retirees comprise much of the population at the 1-square-mile Highland Beach, with a median age of 70.1.