Retirement is an exciting time. This is the point in people's lives when they can do all the things they've dreamed of doing. It is a time to enjoy family and take a break from many years of hard work. In order to truly enjoy all the wonderful aspects of retirement, one must first find their ideal location to call home.

Here is a list of some of the top cities in America, using a variety of criteria including affordable housing, safety, activities, schools and jobs. Not only is this city comparison suitable for retirees, but also for families and single homeowners.

Cape Coral, Florida

Surrounded by a beautiful water landscape, along with a year round mild climate, this southern city ranks high for retirees. The average home mortgage for the region is $95,000. Although the population is near 154,000, Cape Coral is known for being a quiet and safe community. Amenities range from golf courses, shopping malls, water sports, to live music. Children are offered top notch education and three universities for higher learning. Families can also benefit from the continual growth of the job market in Cape Coral.

Boise, Idaho

For those who enjoy the performing arts and symphony performances, Boise may be the ideal home. The city offers ongoing contemporary art exhibitions, a philharmonic orchestra, Broadway shows and the Shakespeare Festival which draws large crowds each year. The average price for a home is near $120,000. For a city with a population of 205,000 residents, the cost of living is rather reasonable and the crime rate is substantially low. While enjoying the year round comfortable climate, there is also an abundance of activities to partake in outdoors in the scenic mountains and rivers nearby.

Papillion, Nebraska

Small town lovers can find everything they need in Papillion. The approximate 19,000 residents experience a safe environment with the low crime rate. Along with safety, the city also has a low unemployment rate of 4.2% and a rapidly growing job market. Agriculture is flourishing; giving strength to the economy and the housing industry, where home mortgages average near $145,000. Families can find an excellent curriculum for their children through a variety of schools and colleges. With two golf courses, a variety of restaurants, libraries and a museum, this city has much to offer.

Huntsville, Alabama

Incorporated into this beautiful city is more than 3,200 acres of parks, six golf courses, public swimming pools and a number of recreation facilities. For bicycle enthusiasts there are nearly 175 miles of bike paths. Homes cost a reasonable $152,000 on average. Families can benefit from the increasing job market and children of all ages are offered a number of schools, both private and public to further their education. 

Liberty, Missouri

For retirees and families who are seeking a peaceful and quite environment, Liberty may be just the right fit. The small population of 29,000 residents adds to the charm of this safe and historical city. The city offers many activities for all ages including museums, theaters, restaurants and golf courses, among a variety of other outdoor recreational activities. Children here are offered an unsurpassed education through the highly ranked Liberty school district. The low median price of $138,000 for housing benefits home buyers as well. With the job market in Liberty growing, the city also maintains a low unemployment rate.

Deciding where to retire or where to start your family is a big decision that must be carefully thought out. Whether it be a small town or a large city, your ideal home is just around the corner.