For the next decade and a half approximately 10,000 baby boomers will turn 65 every day.
This amazing statistic not only portends a dramatic change for the U.S. economy, as the children of America’s Greatest Generation wind down their work years, but it also signals opportunities for retirement destinations in the United States and around the world.
It used to be that retirement meant slowing down after your work life, and perhaps entering into an assisted living facility. But advances in healthcare have helped seniors stay healthier longer, raising the realistic possibility that those retiring at 65 will be able to enter a meaningful lifestyle in their later years.
Here we will take a look at some of the best retirement locations in the U.S. – locations which provide seniors opportunities to get out and enjoy themselves.
Close to Home
Photo courtesy of Shutterstock“Best places to retire” lists usually start with the idea that you should consider moving after retirement. While there are plenty of amazing locations you can choose between when retiring, the first option is always to stay close to home. If you live close to family, friends, and former co-workers, it may make sense to simply downsize your living quarters and stay close to those who mean the most to you.
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
The state of Florida is a traditional choice for retirement, and Fort Lauderdale is among the best locations that Florida has to offer. The state of Florida has no state tax, which will directly benefit retirees which continue to earn through part-time work, investments or other business ventures.
Fort Lauderdale’s year-round warm climate means that retirees will be able to spend more days outside enjoying themselves. Fort Lauderdale has a nice mix of people from all walks of life and all demographics, providing a variety of activity and networking options.
Real estate in the area is affordable for a large section of the retiring population, with a variety of relatively affordable waterfront properties being available.
Prescott, Arizona
Prescott, Arizona is a relatively small town in north-central Arizona which boasts a population of about 40,000 people.
Located at an elevation of 5,400 feet in the mountains of Arizona, retirees in the Prescott can expect to enjoy year round sunshine, a half dozen golf courses, and over 650 miles of nature trails in the nearby 1.25 million acre Prescott Nature Reserve.
Prescott is an ideal choice for retirees who want to get out and about, and who’d enjoy living in a small town-like ambiance.
Drawbacks of Prescott include Arizona state taxes and price of real estate. However, due to lingering effects of the real estate downturn, housing bargains can be found.
Beaufort, South Carolina
South Carolina is a big retirement destination due to its mild climate, down-home charm, and lack of sales tax. Though there are many locations in the state which would make worthy retirement destinations, Beaufort is among the most interesting.
Beaufort would be best for retirees who want to live the classic southern lifestyle, complete with southern charm. Beaufort would appeal mostly to retirees who’d like a laid-back lifestyle centered on golfing, fishing, boating, and socializing with neighbors.
Beaufort is does not offer a wide variety of healthcare options, so whose who need to go to the doctor frequently may want to consider other locations.
San Antonio, Texas
Located in the heart of the Lone Star State, San Antonio features relatively cheap real estate, a favorable climate, and plenty to do. The city boasts Sea World and Six Flags attractions, a major basketball team, and the River Walk outdoor area.
Additionally, U.S. military veteran retirees will appreciate the fact that the city is home to numerous military installations – allowing access to military commissary and BX (PX). Throughout the economic downturn the state of Texas continuously outperformed the country in terms of job production, meaning that working retirees should be able to find a suitable part-time employment.
Add to that the fact that Texas has no state income tax, and it is clear to see why San Antonio is a top retirement destination. Drawbacks for San Antonio include low “walkability” and above average crime.
Spokane, Washington
The state of Washington has the undeserved reputation as being rainy, largely due to the image many have of its most recognizable city Seattle. Spokane, however, is a largely sunny location.
Located in a region which features dozens of lakes, over 30 golf courses, and at least five ski resorts, Spokane is a nature-lovers dream. Other benefits of Spokane include the facts that it is located within driving distance to Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks, and that the city is a regional hub for healthcare facilities.
As a bonus, Washington State has no income tax.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.