This Small Town Is One of the Most Affordable Places to Retire in the U.S. — and It Has Mountain Vistas, Excellent Health Care, and Low Taxes

While Florida may be the preferred retirement destination for seniors who prefer warm temperatures year-round and access to beaches, others enjoy the mountains' cool breezes and snow-capped peaks. According to WalletHub's latest ranking of the best places to retire in the U.S., Wyoming's second-largest city is an excellent option, especially for those prioritizing affordability.

The company compared 182 American cities using 45 metrics to determine the most retirement-friendly communities nationwide. Casper landed in ninth place, the second highest among Western cities on the list.

It ranked the third best for affordability (behind Brownsville, Texas, and Cheyenne, Wyoming), which includes indicators like cost of living, tax friendliness, cost of in-home services, and cost of adult health care.

Oil City, as it is known, has 59,000 full-time residents, 17 percent of whom are aged 65 and over . The city's cost of living is lower compared to both the state and the nation, and the median home value is $291,000 , almost $70,000 lower than the nation's average. What's more, Wyoming is one of the top five states with the lowest property taxes, which reduces the financial burden associated with post-retirement living. The Equality State also doesn't tax personal income, letting seniors keep more of their earnings.

Residents also have access to quality health care thanks to Banner Wyoming Medical Center, which has two campuses in town and is the largest hospital in Wyoming.

But Casper's main draw is its outdoor recreation potential. The city is dotted with beautiful parks on both banks of the North Platte River and surrounded by stunning landscapes that keep its residents active year-round. Casper Mountain is intersected by over 50 miles worth of trails, and visitors can also enjoy camping facilities and an archery range. Hogadon Ski Area, located a short ride from downtown, is a family-friendly resort with multiple trails and a lodge where skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels can practice their favorite winter sports.

Another Wyoming city, Cheyenne, came in 23rd on WalletHub's list but had the fifth lowest rates for in-home services. Orlando, Miami, and Minneapolis top the ranking, while Scottsdale (6th) and Casper are the only Western communities in the top 10.