Top 20 West Coast Retirement Destinations Where You Can Skip Car Ownership

The Financial Case for Going Carless in Retirement

Ditching car ownership during retirement isn’t just about lifestyle—it’s a smart financial move. The average retiree spends approximately $3,989 annually on vehicle-related expenses, encompassing insurance premiums, financing costs, maintenance, and fuel. Eliminating this burden translates to nearly $4,000 in recaptured annual savings that can enhance your golden years.

The key? Choosing a genuinely walkable community that doesn’t demand vehicular dependency. To identify such places, researchers analyzed American cities where at least 20% of residents are retirement-age, cross-referencing them against EPA National Walkability Index scores. Cities scoring between 10.51-15.25 demonstrate above-average walkability, while those between 15.26-20 rank among the most pedestrian-friendly. From 50 qualifying locations nationwide, 20 West Coast communities emerged as standouts.

California’s Most Walkable Retirement Communities

Mill Valley leads with exceptional metrics: a livability score of 87, walkability index of 14.2, and an annual cost of living at $162,474. The transportation index sits at 122.4, reflecting moderate commuting expenses. Those interested in houses for sale in Mill Valley should note the region combines natural beauty with pedestrian accessibility, making it ideal for active retirees who value outdoor living without car dependence.

Lafayette offers a compelling alternative with a livability rating of 84, walkability of 15.8, and a notably lower cost of living at $153,026 annually. The transportation index of 123.8 remains reasonable for the region.

Los Altos attracts affluent retirees with a livability score of 83 and walkability of 15.0, though its annual cost of living reaches $314,851—among the highest listed. Transportation costs index at 139.7.

La Palma presents a middle-ground option: livability of 76, strong walkability at 17.7, annual costs of $102,637, and a transportation index of 120.8. Laguna Woods similarly appeals to budget-conscious retirees with a 73 livability score, 17.2 walkability, just $61,431 annual costs, and a 112.5 transportation index.

Newport Beach caters to luxury-seeking retirees with a 76 livability score, 15.3 walkability, and $291,896 annual living costs. Los Gatos ranks among the pricier options at $201,843 annually, though its 84 livability and 14.0 walkability scores justify the investment for some.

Additional California standouts include Millbrae (livability 83, walkability 16.5, $164,761 costs), Piedmont (79 livability, 15.3 walkability, $172,762 costs), Larkspur (86 livability, 13.0 walkability, $180,789 costs), La Verne (76 livability, 15.0 walkability, $90,762 costs), Petaluma (76 livability, 15.0 walkability, $87,684 costs), Sonoma (73 livability, 15.8 walkability, $93,286 costs), Sierra Madre (75 livability, 15.0 walkability, $122,892 costs), and Dana Point (65 livability, 18.2 walkability—the highest walkability score—at $148,807 costs).

Oregon and Washington’s Underrated Retirement Gems

Oregon delivers exceptional value for carless retirees. Gladstone boasts the highest livability score of 89, though its walkability of 12.5 is lower. Annual costs are remarkably affordable at $60,080, with a transportation index of 128.9.

Ashland matches Gladstone’s affordability ($60,139 annually) while offering better walkability at 14.5 and identical livability scores. The transportation index is notably lower at 84.0, indicating reduced commuting expenses.

Lake Oswego provides mid-range pricing at $88,982 annually, livability of 83, and walkability of 14.5, with transportation costs indexing at 124.0.

Washington state contributes two compelling options. Anacortes stands out for budget-conscious retirees with the lowest annual cost of living at $71,255, livability of 80, walkability of 16.5, and transportation costs at 89.5. Bainbridge Island offers Pacific Northwest charm with 78 livability, 13.7 walkability, $109,310 annual costs, and 126.5 transportation index.

Making Your Carless Retirement Decision

The choice between these 20 West Coast communities depends on your priorities. Seeking maximum affordability? Oregon’s Gladstone and Ashland excel. Prioritizing walkability above all? Dana Point’s 18.2 index ranks highest. Wanting the best livability score? Gladstone’s 89 takes the crown. Craving prestigious California locales? Mill Valley, Mill Valley, and Los Altos deliver prestige alongside accessibility.

All data reflects October 2025 metrics, incorporating Sperling’s BestPlaces data, Bureau of Labor Statistics consumer expenditure surveys, Zillow valuations, Federal Reserve economic analysis, AreaVibes livability indices, and EPA walkability assessments.