Three St. Charles County Cities Ranked Among U.S. News & World Report’s Best Places to Retire in 2025–2026

ST. CHARLES COUNTY, Mo. – The St. Charles Regional Chamber is proud to announce that O’Fallon, St. Charles, and St. Peters have all been named to U.S. News & World Report’s “Best Places to Retire” list for 2025–2026. This triple recognition highlights St. Charles County as one of the most attractive retirement regions in the United States.

U.S. News’ annual ranking evaluates communities across the country based on factors critical to retirees, including housing affordability, healthcare quality, tax implications, desirability, retiree migration, and overall quality of life.

St. Charles County Cities' U.S. News Rankings

“Having three St. Charles County cities ranked among the nation’s best places to retire reinforces what we already know—our region offers an unmatched quality of life,” said Scott Tate, President & CEO of the St. Charles Regional Chamber. “From affordability and healthcare access to vibrant downtowns, community events, and outdoor recreation, O’Fallon, St. Charles, and St. Peters provide retirees with the perfect balance of comfort, connection, and opportunity. We’re proud to see our communities recognized on a national stage.”

Additional Accolades Strengthen the Region’s Reputation

Beyond retirement rankings, each of the three cities has earned additional national and regional recognitions that demonstrate strong livability, safety, affordability, and community amenities.

• O’Fallon, Missouri
  • Ranked #6 in the “Top 25 Best Places to Live in the Midwest” (Livability, 2024).
  • Named one of the Best Places to Live for Families in Missouri (Fortune Magazine, 2024).
  • Consistently ranked among Missouri’s Safest Cities (SafeWise).
  • Noteworthy: O’Fallon's strong economy, extensive parks and recreation system, and stable housing market continue to make it one of the region’s most desirable communities for all ages.
• St. Charles, Missouri
  • Featured on TIME Magazine’s “Best Places to Live in America” list, holding the highest ranking city in Missouri when named.
  • Celebrated for its historic downtown, walkable riverfront, and award-winning community events.
  • Recognized by MoneyGeek as one of the Midwest’s most up-and-coming communities for financial growth.
  • Noteworthy: St. Charles’ blend of historic charm, modern amenities, and high-performing schools contributes to its reputation as one of Missouri’s most livable communities.
• St. Peters, Missouri
  • Ranked #22 nationally and #1 in Missouri in Money Magazine’s “Best Places to Live in America” (2021).
  • Known for its world-class Rec-Plex, extensive trails and parks, and consistent ratings for safety and affordability.
  • Honored with multiple awards for municipal excellence and a longstanding Tree City USA designation.
  • Noteworthy: St. Peters’ community amenities, low cost of living, and outstanding city services make it a top choice for retirees and families alike.

The presence of three nationally ranked retirement destinations within a single county demonstrates the region’s strong fundamentals, including affordable housing, high-quality healthcare access, low crime rates, and robust economic growth. These strengths continue to make St. Charles County one of the best places in the Midwest to live, work, raise a family, and retire.

About the St. Charles Regional Chamber

The St. Charles Regional Chamber is the leading business organization supporting economic vitality and community development throughout St. Charles County. The Chamber connects businesses, strengthens the regional economy, and promotes St. Charles County as a premier place to live, work, and retire.