Retirement is an exciting time for every retiree, but it also looks totally different to each one. Whether it’s taking your boat out on the Atlantic, hiking scenic mountain trails every morning, or attending all the home games of your favorite sports teams, the first step to starting the next chapter of your life is deciding where you want to live! While every city offers its own unique characteristics and opportunity, only a select few cities have earned the title of “the best.” As you put together your new home wish-list, consider some of the country’s best cities to move for retirement as an option for you.
Lancaster, Pennsylvania
You may be surprised to see this city take the top spot of most retiree destination lists, but its housing affordability and access to healthcare are hard to beat. The overall happiness of its residents steadily increases each year as these two factors continue to improve (median home price for retirees is just $198,500 as of this year). Its rich history, unique culture, and beautiful farmlands are just an added bonus as you can explore several museums and one of the country’s oldest farmers markets right in your backyard.
Sarasota, Florida
While losing its top spot from last year, Sarasota is still one of the top 3 best places to retire due to its many interesting neighborhoods, all of which offer affordable living opportunities to residents 60 and over. Its awesome beaches and thriving downtown areas keep residents busy with endless recreational activities, while Sarasota Memorial Health Care System and Doctors of Sarasota both offer great healthcare to the community. Plus, there’s no income tax which is an added bonus.
Austin, Texas
This college town invites retirees to explore the option of going back to school or take advantage of the different amenities offered on campus. In fact, University of Austin allows seniors 65+ to take up to six credit hours tuition-free. As a central hub for IT and tech, Austin is home to major companies like Apple, Samsung, IBM and Dell, as well as high-quality healthcare providers, like Seton Medical Center Austin and St. David’s Medical Center. And in their free time, residents enjoy all the live music and uniquely quirky culture that Austin is so well known for.
Charleston, South Carolina
As the oldest city in South Carolina, Charleston attracts visitors and retirees from all over the country with its cobblestone streets, classic architecture, pastel-colored homes, and horse-drawn carriages. Its unique charm also includes one of the nation’s oldest public markets filled with cafes, galleries, and shops, showcasing the creations of over 100 talented craftspeople, while its seaside location means retirees can enjoy days of water sports and boating, capped off with incredibly fresh seafood dinners any time of year.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Boasting a low cost of living and the scenic allure of two major rivers against a backdrop of steep hills, Pittsburgh is the second Pennsylvania town to make the list. Sports fan can fill their retirement years rooting for a variety of professional teams, and while they’re not cheering for the Penguins, Steelers or Pirates, they can enjoy events hosted by the local colleges (Carnegie Mellon, University of Pittsburgh, Duquesne); plus, healthcare from the 15th best hospital in the country and free public transportation if you’re 65 or older.
Grand Rapids, Michigan
Retirees with an interest in the arts are right at home in Grand Rapids. The entire city turns into an art gallery each fall with the works of talented artists displayed all throughout downtown and over $500,000 allotted to artist recognition. There are numerous opportunities to volunteer at local museums, and even more choices for medical care with a variety of incredible facilities right in town. And with a median home price for 60-year-olds at just $171,100, it’s extremely affordable to pursue a retirement spent enjoying the arts.
Washington, DC
While not a cheap place to live, the nation’s capital is worth every penny to retirees who can afford it. From its high-performing healthcare facilities to some of the most well-known attractions in the country, including the Smithsonian Museum, the National Zoo, and National Mall, both retirees and their visiting families have so much to explore. And with its great public transportation system, you can easily navigate the city to enjoy it all.
No matter where your retirement may take you, getting there shouldn’t be a hassle. You’ve already done the hard work, so let us make the transition as easy as possible. As the best interstate movers in the area, you can eliminate the stress and worry of a long distance move and simply look forward to what’s ahead. Contact us today to discuss all the details of your big retirement move!
