10. Green Bay, Wisconsin

Green Bay is best known for football, but it deserves recognition for something else: it’s one of the most affordable and livable mid-size cities in the Midwest for retirees. Average 1-bedroom rents sit around $950 per month, and Wisconsin does not tax Social Security income. The city’s overall cost of living runs well below the national average, particularly for housing and groceries.

Beyond the Packers, Green Bay has an active arts and cultural scene, a revitalized downtown on the Fox River, and excellent public golf courses that give retirees affordable outdoor recreation from spring through fall. Healthcare is anchored by Bellin Health and Aurora BayCare Medical Center, both of which have strong programs for seniors.

Winters are cold — there’s no avoiding that — but the community warmth compensates. Green Bay consistently ranks as one of the friendliest cities in Wisconsin, with strong neighborhood associations and senior activity programs. For retirees willing to bundle up in winter in exchange for genuine affordability and community, Green Bay delivers exceptional retirement value in 2026.