People who enjoy an urban retirement cite the advantages of ample public transportation, well-maintained green spaces, choices in health care, options for continuing education and recreation, and access to airports. Every retiree has his own criteria for determining the best retirement city-- and the experts do, too. Things to consider include climate, cost, convenience, diversity and culture. This article examines several perspectives on some of the most popular cities for retirement.
Significance
College towns such as Chapel Hill, N.C., and Austin, Texas, are popular draws because they offer cultural stimulation and an aesthetically pleasing environment. Chapel Hill has a mild climate and several types of retirement communities, from continuing care (Carol Woods) to apartment communities (Chapel View) to active adult communities (Brier Creek County Club). Recreation, particularly golf, swimming and tennis, is another draw, making Phoenix, Ariz., (home to more than 400 public and private golf courses) and Long Beach, Calif., other havens for retirees. Those concerned with access to health care, easy navigation, outdoor beauty and relatively affordable housing have migrated to such places as Asheville, N.C.; budget-minded San Antonio, Texas; artsy Santa Fe, N.M.; collegiate Iowa City, Iowa; verdant Portsmouth, N.H.; and theater-filled Ashland, Ore.
Benefits
Some big cities that get rave reviews from retirees are Chicago for its urban infrastructure and stimulating downtown; Atlanta for its climate; Alexandria, Va., for its access to historical sites and urban centers; Boston for its cultural attractions and universities; Denver for its access to recreation; Portland, Ore., for its community vibe; Portland, Maine, for its natural beauty; and Seattle for its international offerings.
Geography
International cities are a popular choice for adventurous retirees and those on a fixed budget. Guadalajara and Mexico City have the amenities and cultural activities common in major cities, while Puerto Vallarta is a relative bargain for beachfront properties. San Miguel de Allende is known as the San Francisco of Mexico, and is filled with art galleries and services geared toward English speakers. Decidedly smaller is Lake Chapala, popular for its infrastructure and that it is within a day's drive of Texas. Outside of Mexico, other popular foreign cities for retirement are Paris, Rome, London, Berlin, Prague and Barcelona, all culturally rich but also demanding a more generous budget for basic life expenses.
Considerations
Some retirees seek out cities in states that have no income taxes. These are Wyoming, Alaska, Nevada, Florida, South Dakota, Washington and Texas. Tennessee and New Hampshire only tax interest income and capital gains from dividends. Shoppers appreciate places with no sales tax, such as Oregon, Alaska, Delaware, Montana and New Hampshire. However, what people save on taxes is often compensated through higher property tax rates. Also, some places with low or no taxes also suffer from inferior infrastructure and services.
Expert Insight
The reigning expert on best retirement cities is Money Magazine (see Resources below). Each year, editors conduct research and interviews and cover the best options for retirees. They consider aesthetic benefits, coastal advantages, affordability of property and, most interestingly, places where people have the most longevity. If you ever needed an excuse to move to Hawaii, this is it: Honolulu County is among the top 10 locales for longevity.
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