This California City Was Just Named One of the Best Places to Retire in the U.S. for Its Mediterranean-like Climate and Affordability

Choosing the right retirement destination is not a one-size-fits-all process. Seniors usually have to weigh in multiple factors such as relative affordability, entertainment and recreation options, weather, and access to quality health care. Although a place rarely performs well in all categories, Fortune’s new study of top retirement destinations names one California city that comes pretty close.

American Canyon, a city of about 21,000, located 40 miles north of San Francisco, ranked best for health care, wellness, livability, and financial health. Fortune analyzed over 2,000 communities nationwide for nearly 200 indicators across those four categories. 

Most notably, American Canyon is known for its wetlands and wilderness preserve, as well as for being the gateway to Napa Valley.

“With more affordable housing than its northern neighbor, the city is an attractive, budget-friendly spot for retirees who will find they are still close enough to Napa’s world-class wineries to enjoy its offerings every now and then,” Fortune reported. The median sale price in American Canyon is $735,000, the lowest of all four main cities in Napa Valley. 

The city is a 10-minute drive from Vallejo Ferry Terminal, offering daily service to downtown San Francisco and about an hour from its international airport. 

But one of the main draws for retirees is the city’s mild winter climate, which enables seniors to maintain an active lifestyle. And, as Fortune pointed out, there’s plenty to do here year-round. The city is home to the 620-acre Newell Open Space Preserve, where visitors can hike along two trails with panoramic views. Residents also enjoy access to the Napa River Bay Trail, which will extend to the city of Napa in the future.

But for now, hikers can relax among its expansive marshlands or kayak on the Napa River. Water sports enthusiasts can also drive to nearby Albany Beach, which is also popular with dog owners for its beautiful sandy beach. Those who prefer to work on their swing will find the scenic Chardonnay Golf Club particularly appealing, as it is nestled among acres of vineyards, lakes, and creeks.

Fortune pointed out that American Canyon residents benefit from quality health care and medical services in Napa, Vallejo, and Fairfield, including the Napa/Solano Area Agency on Aging, which “focuses on addressing issues for older adults and developing community-based systems of care, whether it’s in the form of meal deliveries to homebound seniors or rides to recreational activities and doctor’s appointments,” the publication highlighted.

Additionally, seniors in American Canyon have a low probability of social isolation, and nearly 60 percent of residents believe their city is “perfect.”

You can read Fortune’s full report and findings on fortune.com.