There are many opportunities throughout life to go somewhere exceptional but often times jobs, family responsibilities, and community obligations keep you anchored to one place. The beauty of entering into retirement age is that you finally have the ability to live out your dreams.
What should you consider in choosing a new place to live? Luckily, Money Magazine broke their selections down based on climate, transportation, sports, cost of living, beaches, health care, low taxes, cultural events, winter and summer activities and more. Here are their Top Ten choices for 2013:
Raleigh, North Carolina
Why Retire Here? “This state capital's thriving economy and proximity to top universities have long made it a prime relocation destination. And recently more of those new faces have had a few wrinkles: From 2000 to 2010 the city's population of 55- to 64-year-olds shot up by 97%, according to the Brookings Institution.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Why Retire Here? “The once-dwindling population is also bouncing back; the city took the top spot in U-Haul's 2012 relocation survey, with a 9% jump in transplants. For retirees, Pittsburgh offers a true urban experience, including good public transportation, pro sports, and a host of top universities, all at a bargain price.”
Lexington, Kentucky
Why Retire Here? “Retirees looking to mix city activities with country charm will find a lot to love here. Lexington's historic downtown is packed with galleries, restaurants, and boutiques. But drive just a few minutes and you're in the rolling hills of Bluegrass Country.”
St. Petersburg, Florida
Why Retire Here? “In St. Pete you can dip your toes in the Gulf of Mexico or Tampa Bay -- plus play a round of golf, eat virtually any type of cuisine, and see famous art, all in a single day.”
Boise, Idaho
Why Retire Here? “Locals here can ski at Bogus Basin 16 miles from downtown, stroll or bike 85 miles of trails, and paddle or fish on the Boise River, which runs through town. But they'll also find low taxes and affordable homes.”
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Why Retire Here? “Though often thought of as a vacation destination, Fort Lauderdale has plenty to offer residents: no state income tax, amazing weather, abundant health care, and a bustling city center, for starters.”
Salt Lake City, Utah
Why Retire Here? “The city has all the best urban amenities including two dozen museums, world-class health care, and direct flights to Paris. Still, locals also love SLC for its proximity to the Wasatch Mountains.”
Colorado Springs, Colorado
Why Retire Here? “Colorado Springs pairs a bustling downtown with access to parks, trails, and the Rocky Mountains. The city, which was spared the worst of the recent flooding in the area, is also less congested and expensive than nearby Denver.”
Spokane, Washington
Why Retire Here? “[Spokane has] a downtown that's become a destination for retirees looking to trade high maintenance homes for condos that are walking distance from restaurants, art galleries, and theaters.”
Norfolk, Virginia
Why Retire Here? “Water lovers can't go wrong settling in Norfolk, a prime jumping off point for sailing or kayaking the Chesapeake Bay, the Atlantic, and several nearby rivers.”
Where Will Retirement Take You?
There are endless cities to spend the best years of your life in, but why not target a city that has everything you could want? With a little research you can find your dream city to retire in that you may have never even considered before. Embrace your golden years in your own golden city.
