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Are you retired or approaching the age of retirement? Then you probably already know what’s at stake. Retirement is a huge step in the lives of most Americans. It’s important to maximize your income’s value and make sure it stretches further, especially when you’re on a fixed income.
For some retirees, the promise of enjoying one’s hometown after nearly a lifetime of work seems the picture of bliss. In other pensioners, however, retirement stirs a desire to travel and experience living in new and exciting places.
Not only will your dollar travel a lot further, but all 9 of these places also provide comfortable accommodations as you age, as well as no shortage of exciting plans to keep you entertained. Regardless of where you decide to retire, these 9 places will make sure you get the most from it!
Consider Options For Your Living Accomodations
You should consider several different housing options as you approach retirement, before you decide where. Your needs will depend on your income and your health. Many seniors prefer living on their own or with their family in their home.
Senior communities, alternatively, offer residents both an independence they desire and support system they require. Here individuals typically either own or rent their homes. But if your health requires monitoring, you may want to consider a retirement or assisted living facility.
1. Athens, GA
Athens, Georgia was named one of the best places to retire in the U.S. by Forbes in 2017.1 In addition to mild climate and tax-friendly legislation, seniors may also expect beneficial property tax deductions should they decide to live in Athens. One important rule also saves you money: Georgia deems all Social Security income tax-exempt.
For seniors, traveling the downtown area is manageable by foot. This is enhanced by a rich heritage of Antebellum and Greek Revival buildings. Plus, there are plenty of restaurants, theaters, golf courses, and other events throughout the year.2
The cost of living is generally reasonable. The price of a three-bedroom apartment ranges anywhere from $1,175 to $1,375. An average night on the town, for two adults, costs on average less than $50.3
2. Boise, ID
Boise is the perfect city for retirees who love the outdoors as well as an urban landscape. Boise’s wide open spaces, as well as its plethora of retirement options and low cost of living, make it an ideal choice. Housing is extremely affordable, with a median home price of around $225,000.
If you’re looking to stay busy, The Parks and Recreation department hosts events for seniors, including computer and tax assistance classes. There’s also plenty of greenery to keep you active and your soul replenished! What’s more, Boise is only a 20-minute drive from the gorgeous Rocky Mountains.
Like Georgia, Idaho does not tax Social Security income, which ensures your fixed income will go further.4
3. Charlotte, NC
Seniors on a fixed income are being increasingly drawn to Charlotte, North Carolina. The amenities give it a feeling of big-city convenience with a small-town soul. Seniors experience financial freedom by avoiding big-city housing prices. Additionally, Charlotte also has over 20 adult living communities.
Studies show the cost of healthcare is also five percent lower than in the rest of the U.S.. There are also plenty of well-staffed, prestigious hospitals, should any health problems arise.5 Out of 377 cities, Charlotte ranked 39th for cost of living.6
4. Clearwater, FL
One of the best beach towns in the U.S., Clearwater is also a haven for snowbirds and other retired individuals. Its sun, sand and beaches make it a simple choice. With gorgeous natural amenities, and a growing, busy downtown area, Clearwater has only grown better with age.
There’s an annual Jazz Festival, as well as programs all-year-round at the Performing Arts Center.7 Still looking for another reason to choose Clearwater? The cost of living is relatively low for waterfront views. A large apartment rents for about $1,690/month in the city’s center.8
5. Fargo, ND
The movie and T.V. show both take their name from one of America’s biggest, little towns. One of the largest town in one of America’s least populated states, Fargo, ND draws in pensioners every year with its relaxed pace and minimal living expenses. On average, a home in Fargo costs just $206,000 with property taxes from $2,000 to $4,000 annually.
Seniors can access the town center by car or bike. It’s manageable by other means of transportation. There are plenty of theaters, restaurants, and parks. The celebrated Plains Art Museum is downtown. Plus, there are a few different medical clinics, as well as a VA hospital.
Heading out of town? Fargo is a good travel hub. The Amtrak station or Hector International Airport can take you anywhere.9
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6. Green Valley, AZ
Looking to live around other people your age? Then Green Valley, AZ might be the perfect choice for you. It holds one of the largest retirement communities in the United States.
Though a great place to retire, Green Valley is, at least technically, not a town or a city. 59 separate Homeowners Associations make up this unincorporated haven. Nearly 100% of residents are retired.
Residents keep an active lifestyle. The mild climate enables unique amenities, like swimming pools, golf courses, and exercise courses.
Just a short drive to Tucson or the University of Arizona campus, where there are more restaurants and shops. Green Valley also has affordable housing prices significantly below average, ranging between $100,000 and $200,000.10
7. The Algarve, Portugal
Have you ever thought about living outside of the U.S.? Adventuring and living in Europe is an eye-opener for most ex-patriots. And Portugal is a great place to put your foot in the door. With one of the most unique and proud cultures in Europe, Portugal is also one of the safest and most inexpensive countries in the E.U.
If you’re looking for a more quiet life, away from bustling cities like Porto or Lisbon, the Algarve region is full of beautiful beaches and incredible food. The southernmost region of the country, it’s also a major expat center. Pensioners can expect to comfortably retire on less than $3,000/month, including rent.
8. Cancun, Mexico
Looking for another international adventure? Stretch your pension further by transplanting to Cancun, Mexico. Don’t be fooled! Cancun offers more than cheap Spring Break thrills. A short flight from the mainland U.S., it combines great value and relaxed beach living.
Seniors can live off less than $2,000/ month in Cancun. Plus, the American dollar goes a long way in Mexico. There are plenty of options for homes and living facilities. Additionally, health care in Mexico is fantastic and nationalized.
9. Panama City, Panama
This last city may be the most surprising. Panama City has a growing expat population, many of whom are retirees. Many Americans retire here because of the low taxes and cost of living. One can actually live here lavishly on less than $3,000/month. That’s enough to rent a beautiful oceanfront condo.
Even if you’re not a Panamanian citizen, all pensioners can access Panama’s Pensionado program. This program discounts anything from health care to air travel. But if you’re worried about your Spanish skills, don’t be. Most people here speak English as much as they do Spanish.11
Conclusion
Many seniors see a fixed income as the end of their options. But don’t let your fixed income give you pause as you approach retirement. Retirement doesn’t have to be the end of your adventure. Plan carefully and also consider hiring local movers to make the shift to save money. For instance, if you are moving to or from Oakland, it makes sense to hire local Oakland movers and get the best rates.
There are plenty of incredible places to live, both in the U.S. and abroad, where seniors can get maximize their money’s value. Be sure to research health care options, entertainment and other amenities to ensure you’ll be comfortable well into old age. Find the right place for you.
Explore your options and let the adventure begin!
1 Forbes, 25 Best Places to Retire in 2017 2 The Georgia Club, Why Was Athens, Georgia Named #1 Best Place to Retire? 3 Numbeo, Cost of Living in Athens 4 Great Retirement Spots, Short Review of Boise, Idaho 5 Charlotte Sights, Why People are Retiring in Charlotte 6 Numbeo, Cost of Living in Charlotte 7 Movoto, 23 Things You Need To Know About Clearwater Before You Move There 8 Numbeo, Cost of Living in Clearwater 9 TopRetirements.com, Fargo : North dakota 10 TopRetirements.com, Green Valley : Arizona 11 International Living, The World’s Best Places to Retire in 2019
