Best and Worst Cities for Successful Aging
The Milken Institute’s rankings of localities is different from others directed at retirees. MI ranks areas based on successful aging. Unlike the others, it looks at a wide range of data that costs a lot to gather and process. It doesn’t focus on weather and activities, though those can be factors. A key distinction of the MI rankings is that it looks at results, such as the health and longevity of current older adults. The web page can lead you to the full report, an interactive map of the U.S., and slide shows of the top ranked big cities and small cities.
Our “Best Cities” index goes deeper than the manytop 10 retirement lists based on opinion surveys andrankings that often rely on just a few characteristics likeweather or living costs. These factors are only part ofthe complex infrastructure and social context that affecthealth, productivity, and purpose as people age. Indeed,“Best Cities for Successful Aging” is not about the bestplaces to retire. To the contrary, it offers a broad focuson livability across the life course.Our research staff, with the input of our Center for theFuture of Aging Board of Advisors, employs a weighted,
multidimensional methodology based on a range of
factors that influence aging. We use indicators frompublicly available data that reflect key characteristicscommonly cited by experts as important to age-friendlyenvironments.
