The 10 Fastest Growing Cities for Retirees

10. Charlotte, NC

Senior population growth (2000 to 2010): 36 percent
This is another city where it’s easy to get to outdoor recreation spots, with the Catawba River, Lake Norman, and Lake Wylie all close by. There are at least 15 retirement communities, and the city has a thriving cultural life, with its own symphony and philharmonic orchestra and at least four museums, including the NASCAR Hall of Fame. It also has seven highly rated hospitals, a bus system with at least 40 routes, and a light rail system. Its weather is mostly pleasant: July’s high/low is 89/71 degrees, while January’s is 50/32.