Forget Florida, This New Orleans Suburb Is A Southern Retirement Gem With Lake Views, Shops, And Eats

084KristajW/Tripadvisor (84KristajW/Tripadvisor)Although Florida has long reigned as the top retirement state in the nation, rising costs of living and overpopulation have retirees looking elsewhere to settle down in their golden years. Louisiana is an attractive choice for those seeking a lower cost of living, and the state is full of areas that are bursting with charm. According to U.S. News & World Report, one of the best places to retire in the Pelican State is Metairie, a city with a vibrant community and oodles of natural beauty.

Technically, Metairie isn't a city; it's a suburb of New Orleans — in fact, it's the city's first suburb. It is repeatedly listed as one of the best cities in Louisiana thanks to its distinct character, even though New Orleans is less than 7 miles away. With a population of about 139,000 residents, the area is "a comfortable middle ground between big-city buzz and quiet suburb life," as one resident wrote on Niche. Residents enjoy Louisiana's muggy summers and short, mild winters, making this a great choice for seniors who love the outdoors.

Nestled along the shores of Lake Pontchartrain, there is no shortage of things to do in Metairie, whether you want to peruse the bustling shops, relax in nature at the park, or explore the local food scene. Plus, it's easy for retirees to get involved with the local community. Not only are there plenty of spirited festivals throughout the year, but the Metairie Senior Center has a packed schedule of events that are perfect for new residents.

Read more: Forget Florida, Retire To This East Coast Escape With Wetland Trails, A Scenic Lake State Park, And Ocean Views

Louisiana is a Gulf Coast beauty with several vibrant, colorful cities to retire in, yet Metairie stands out for plenty of reasons, one being the amenities. Retirees who choose to settle down here will find a wide range of locally-owned shops that cater to a variety of interests. A local staple is MJ's, a beloved Louisiana-themed gift shop run by a mother-and-daughter team. Many of the designs featured on their clothing, jewelry, home decor, and more are designed by them, and since their inventory changes frequently, each visit will feel like the very first time.

For antique lovers, Corner House Collection is a 3,600-square-foot family-owned vintage store where you can explore thousands of one-of-a-kind finds. Whether you're looking for furniture, home decor, or art, this shop is bursting with unique pieces. While there are plenty of other fun local shops to discover, Metairie also has Lakeside Shopping Center featuring more than 100 name-brand stores and dining options.

Speaking of dining options, Metairie is also home to a bustling local food scene. One classic option is Drago's Seafood Restaurant, which has been hailed as the birthplace of chargrilled oysters. While there is a popular Drago's location in New Orleans, the original Drago's was founded in Metairie in 1969. While the oysters are considered a must-try, the menu is full of Louisiana-inspired dishes such as fleur de lis shrimp and fried gator bites. According to locals on Reddit, another beloved option is Station 6, a casual seafood restaurant near Lake Pontchartrain. Noted for the cozy atmosphere and friendly staff, one Tripadvisor review described it as "local perfection off the beaten path."

One of the most appealing qualities about retiring in Metairie is the abundance of natural beauty and outdoor recreation. The city sits along Lake Pontchartrain, a breezy Louisiana escape and America's second-largest estuary. Spanning 630 square miles, this massive lake is a popular spot for boating and fishing; however, if you prefer to stay on land, there are paths along the lake that provide excellent views. One of the scenic trails is the Bucktown Marsh Boardwalk in Bucktown Harbor, a 1,000-foot stretch that's perfect for birdwatching or catching a breathtaking sunset. Nature-loving retirees will appreciate the boardwalk's stunning coastal marsh habitat. Another picturesque area is Marsh Island, a bird sanctuary. "The different species of birds are out of this world," wrote a visitor on Google Maps. "I even saw a couple of black swans."

But the lake and boardwalk aren't the only natural areas in Metairie. The suburb houses several stunning parks such as the popular Lafreniere Park. Spanning 155 acres, this enchanting park is a community hub with a peaceful atmosphere. Take part in one of the fun community events held here, such as the weekly Farmers & Art Market that happens each Wednesday, or the seasonal holiday celebrations.

A bit further south is La Salle Park, a green escape that features a nearly 2-mile loop trail through a charming forested area, as well as plenty of picnic tables for you to enjoy a lunch surrounded by nature. For seniors looking for an even bigger escape into nature, Metairie is less than 10 miles away from Bayou Segnette State Park, a nature retreat with a wetland trail, wave pool, and fishing.