A house at The Great Outdoors Resort Titusville fl (for Rvers.) Like FL’s no tax, lower cost of living, winter weather, resorts location & amenities.

February 22nd, 2012 | #

We would like to retire in a active community somwhere in Tennessee or N. Carolina that is close to shopping and restaurants. We are not golfers and hate the humidity. Love 4 seasons and hubby would like to work part time.

February 22nd, 2012 | #

Fort Myers, FL – weather, beaches, amenities in area and price of homes. We will be there in March to buy. Looking at 55+ and regular gated communities. Like what we see!

February 22nd, 2012 | #

I am looking for low cost of living with a warm climite. Looking at Belize because of the use of the English language. Also Panama and Nicaragua because of the cost of living.

February 22nd, 2012 | #

We’re spoiled rotten living in MD, with mountains, ocean, the Bay, Washington, DC, Baltimore, Annapolis, and much more all within easy reach. It’s hard to imagine living anywhere else. Now if we can just figure out how to afford it!

February 22nd, 2012 | #

I’m closing on a house in The Villages, Florida in two weeks. Why – No tax on my Army pension, lower cost of living, weather, and especially the very active lifestyle.

February 22nd, 2012 | #

I’m struggling between being close to family which would be somewhere between NC and Texas panhandle and FL which has been home for several years, but I will locate from far south farther north at least for distance sake.

February 22nd, 2012 | #

We are looking at the western NC area. Asheville would be great, but it looks like Hendersonville area is cheaper.

February 22nd, 2012 | #

We were originally looking to move to the Prescott area, but recently we visited San Luis Obispo and fell i love with a small community in Atascadero just north of SLO. lovely old oaks, views, climate and close to lots of outdoor activities.

February 22nd, 2012 | #

I’m longing for the mountains, and Wyoming is the primary focus for me at the moment. Having lived in hot climates the majority of my life I’m ready for a huge switch. The humidity is my deal breaker, and the current NC summers are too draining for me.

February 22nd, 2012 | #

I would like to retire to Florida because of the warm weather and beaches. Golf is alright to play but I’d rather be fishing or swimming or learn pickleball.

February 22nd, 2012 | #

Like AZ,GA,FL,or TN; biggest concern is visiting grandchildren in Chicago and Portland; looks like Mesa, Knoxville, Atlanta,or Orlando would work;love water, golf,university facilities, and lots of activities; we’re the new 60′s.

February 22nd, 2012 | #

We plan to settle in a warm-weather college town – lots of activities at affordable prices, good health care options … and college kids to keep us thinking young!

February 22nd, 2012 | #

Dover, DE area. Low housing cost and cost of living – no sales tax, no income tax on SS and government pensions, low property tax. 4 season climate, close to airports, hospitals and 2 hour drive to DC, Baltimore or Philadelphia.

February 22nd, 2012 | #

Just started looking but we like The Villages, FL. because of the weather, no income tax, over 55 restriction, active lifestyle and convenient shopping. We hope to visit there soon.

February 22nd, 2012 | #

Still prefer Phoenix area. Hot dry days in Summer. Rest of the year is magnificient. Close to Sand Diego, Las Vegas, & mountians. East Valley rocks.

February 22nd, 2012 | #

Looking at the Carolinas or Florida (maybe Mt. Dora). Need lower cost of living, less taxes, warmer climate than CT.

February 22nd, 2012 | #

Carlisle, PA – Because of 1) very tax friendly for retirees, 2) four seasons, 3) as a military retiree, access to military health care and other benefits at Carlisle Barracks, 4) low cost of living, 5) proxomity to DC, Philly, Baltimore, and 6) when the weather gets cold, we’ll escape to the SW in the motorhome!

February 22nd, 2012 | #

Staying put! We love DC’s age and ethnic diversity. It’s an entertainment bonanza, it’s rich in history, culture, and hiking trails, and our friends are here!

February 22nd, 2012 | #

Williamson/Rutherford County TN, near offspring and thier families. Lots of activities, convenient for auto travel ie shore, DC, etc. Taxes, growth,climate a plus. Not into an over 55 community.

February 22nd, 2012 | #

We will retire to the southeast from N.E. 3 of our 4 children & 2 of our 3 grandchildren live there. Will save at least $1500 per month by moving.

February 22nd, 2012 | #

Heh everyone – these are great comments. Please keep it up and we will have some very helpful survey information!

Here are some more comments that came in from other sources, including Facebook (note, we have occasionally made some minor edits to keep the comments brief):

Robert: I’m looking for a retirement community that is very, very affordable. After saving for over 25 years, I thought my $525,000 nest egg, along with social security, would allow me to retire satisfactorly. Alas, I didn’t figure on my company going bankrupt. Now I subside on social security and a small annuity. I research every day for an affordable locale.

Holly: Fairfield Glade TN Great views & nature Many choices of home types and styles Low cost of living Low taxes 4 seasons Close to 2 major cities

Sandie: A college town with intellectual amenities and excellent health care
nearby in a moderate climate. Any suggestions?

Linda: On the road!!!  My husband will be retiring in 2013, if all goes well and we will be selling the house and going full-time in our motor home and seeing the USA.

Cassin: My wife and I are very interested in Prescott, AZ.  The area has 4 seasons and there are at least 3 eco-systems within 20min drive.  The town is great and the people very friendly.  Lots of outdoor activities

Jane:  New Bern, NC    It’s on the water,near the ocean, lots of sunshine, friendly people, fascinating town with lots of history, affordable.

Sebastian: North Myrtle Beach, North Carolina. It is at least 20% cheaper to live there than in CT. My Financial Planner (FP) said that I will have enough money to retire to North Carolina as opposed to retiring in Rhode Island. I love the beach area and that it doesn’t get as hot as Florida which is why I pick North Myrtle Beach.

Sharon: We are going to retire in Venice, Florida. We currently living in Wisconsin—-need I say more?

Susan: Lodi CA from Alaska 2014 – beaches on one side, mountains on the other, good friends, easy travel.

Ida: If I ever retire, I want to stay as close as possible to New York – always something new to see or do; great diversity; great medical; how folks n NE pick up and move to places on the list is beyond my comprehension.

Carol: My best place to retire is Lawrence, Kansas.
The reasons include the following: College town – University of Kansas. One hour, at most, from Kansas City. Current events climate with the Lied Center and the Dole Institute. My encore job is a sorority house director

Ramad: Retirement place (Philadelphia Suburb) within where we live now. Great overall tax benefits in PA on our retirement income. We will rent a place out in sunny states during the winter months.

Ella: I have many friends who have moved to Florida retirement villages and just love it.  I am most interested in Clearwater and Palm Beach areas.  I would love to live close to the water, but have some fear of hurricanes. I’m looking for a place where it is warmer, no state taxes and hopefully my social security won’t be taxed.  I know that there are some areas that don’t tax pensions and social security.  I don’t want a large place.  It is too much to take care of.  I’m interested in a reasonable insurance rate area, low crime, and low tax area.  I’m also going to compare Home Owners Association fees.  I have a couple of years before I plan to move, but am actively looking now so that I will know what is out there.

Peter: 7-Oaks Rancho Bernaedo, CA 92128 55+ community (1750 Homes)Activities, Major Shopping Mall, Major Restaurants, Major Groceries, Hospital and Doctors, all within a 10 mile radius.

Margaret: Lititz/Lancaster County PA for the unusually high quality of care at most assisted living facilities due the fact that a majority of the employees are from the surrounding Mennonite communities. Also, for the four-season year and being close to where I was raised (Berks County) and close to the magical hamlet of Mount Gretna with its outstanding cultural resources. PA is tax friendly for retirees (my pension won’t be taxed and I have no heirs to be concerned about the inheritance tax) and relatively safe from huricanes and earthquakes.

Ken: Retired Americans with incomes over $26,600 yr. could enjoy the highest level of life retiring in Bangkok Thailand from 1971 when I arrived there up until 2010 when I left. That is the amount of income required in order to obtain a retirement visa and stay in Thailand un-interrupted. I think Oceanside CA offers the best year round weather, beaches, available for me even though I am struggling and living month to month.

LaNell: We really like the Asheville, NC area and it seems to be asthma friendly. I have asthma and really suffer in extreme cold and heat. Of course we want to live someplace that has a low cost of living index. From all the research I have done Asheville seems to be a good choice for us. We also liked the mountains, the art community and educational opportunities for seniors.

Deborah and Dave: My best place to retire is Port St. Lucie, Florida. This area offers a large selection of homes, stores and medical facilities. This is a regular working of city and not a touristy city. Everything is only minutes from your home. Cost of living, weather, and things to do where our factors. Dog friendly too.
A great article on pet friendly areas would be very helpful to those who must consider a good new home for their pets…not all towns are dog friendly.

Jeanne: We are looking to retire to the suburbs of Philadelphia, preferably north, to be near our children/grandchildren. Would like to find a nice small town and will probably rent. Any suggestions?

Larry: The wife loves the Colorado mountains. Me, I’m done with snow and cold. I think our solution will have to be a summer home and a winter home.

GlennP: Puerto Rico is the place to be.The most wonderful people you’d ever meet (and) almost all the things on the list of retired people. Will spend summers in NY where our kids are and where we own a small house and pay cheap re taxes and little income taxes on our soc sec and none on our federal and union pensions. NY has every kind of activity, all accessible by cheap transportation.

Mike: Going to retire in New Smyrna Beach Fl. Good year round temps, variety of housing, protected inland water way and harbor. Nice coastal environment.

RW: Plan to retire in SE VA. Has everything a retiree needs. Convenient to shopping and travel.

jc: Delaware A house that has low taxes. Great Fishing and Hunting. Great Tax breaks for Seniors. Close to family and we like 4 seasons, but mild winters. Many cultural amenities.

Jude: I will likely retire to Minnesota; returning to my “home state”. Why? Because I have family and friends there. I plan to “snowbird” to various sites in Florida, Texas and Arizona for the winters. Currently planning to rent in those winter sites.

Alaskajack: We have lived in Alaska for the past 15 years. We need WARM weather, but if you LOVE
winter, Alaska could be for you. Living n Anchorage, there is no Sales tax, and no state tax anywhere. Every October, every Alaskan citizen receives the “Permanent Fund” distribution from the state. Last year, each man woman and child in the state, (over 600,000) received a check from the State of Alaska for approx. $1200. It varies a little each year.Housing is on the high end and Alyeska ski resort is a mere 35 miles away from Anchorage. So if you like winter, Alaska beckons!

Carol: I always preferred cold to hot (so Florida is out for me). Nothing so far south! the farthest would be parts of Va where my grandson is and several daughters!

Jody: We are considering Charleston, SC — we love our accessibility to NY but cost of living is killing us (especially
property taxes) Can’t leave a semi-sophisticated lifestyle though and hope Charleston can offer some of this — along with its gorgeous beaches. We still have to try it a little more first — and will rent in the beginning. Pluses and minuses in all areas. Not sure I can take the summers but hopefully will travel then.

Regina: Researching areas in NC — active adult communities. Want 4 seasons, culture and activities with possibility of non-stress P/T employement available. Really like Asheville area.

Beverly: I just bought a Class B Motor Home and intend to take a tour of the USA with my 3 yo golden and 16 year old cat–any tips appreciated.

Richard: As a resident of New Smyrna Beach, FL, an idyllic, ocean-side, quiet little town we find Prince Edward Island, CAN, the land of Anne of Green Gables, an optimum Summer retreat where Celtic entertainment, great golf, lobsters, sunshine and warm ocean water prevail.

Linda: We want to retire to an active community in a resort type atmosphere. Like being on a cruise ship or living your vacation everyday!! We’re looking at Florida or Maryland.

Dan: Delaware is the little known “gem” of the east coast for reetirement. Delaware offers all the seasons yet, they are not
harsh. The State beaches are well maintained and as nice as other beaches along the east coast. Taxes and the lack there of is a big plus. We found our retirement home in the Longneck area. It is Delaware’s best kept
secret.

Pat: I live in a Dallas suburb and am paying on a home that is worth less than what I bought it for 10 years ago. I’m 61 and when the current well-paying job I have ends in a couple of years I will be forced to try to sell or just walk away from a home that doesn’t have enough equity to do a reverse mortgage…for many of us single, senior women, I fear retirement will not be a pretty thing. I have several single women friends my age and we joke about starting our own trailer park commune – maybe it’s no laughing matter any more.

Donna: I hope to retire in Wilmington NC. It is beautiful, friendly, close to beaches and has something for everyone. You can buy a house for $1M or rent an apt for $600 per month. Did I mention it can boast of public transportation and close proximity to an airport?

Lareen and Craig: We have chosen Savannah TN due to the small town with everything and Pickwick lake 20 minutes away. Three international airports two hours awway.

Greg: My wife and I are going to take a second look at Lake Providence in Mt. Juliet, TN. It’s a gated Del Webb community and
offers many amenities. About 10 miles or so east of Nashville. Many of the residents are from Illinois, where I live now.

February 22nd, 2012 | #

After 20+ years restoring a Victorian house in a SE PA town with more than 50% rentals, we bought several acres in WV so we can enjoy the quiet and nature. Definitely not for everyone but it will work for us as long as we are healthy.

February 22nd, 2012 | #

Looked in all over -settled in Leland NC. Beaches, great medical, reasonable real estate,close to Wilmington with all it has to offer!

February 22nd, 2012 | #

Hi We have looked at the southwest and Florida as future homes and Florida comes out on top. We like central Florida. We plan on looking more in the year ahead. I have asked for input from others about this area. If you live in one of the 55 active areas in central Florida, Ocala. Thank you for you ideas and help. Brad

February 22nd, 2012 | #

Will retire in Reno. Friendly people, diversification, volunteer oppertunities for the active, lots of sun and four seasons. Have taken time to really decide what’s important to me and I was in for an education.

February 22nd, 2012 | #

Would love to hear from anyone who has retired to the Ft.Myers, FL area and what they like/do not like about the area. Also looking for comments on the various communities, particularly Pelican Preserve and Botanica Lakes, both of which we are considering buying in….

February 23rd, 2012 | #

We are sticking with our choice of Winter Haven FL, a city with 36,000 between Tampa/Orlando and an hour from coastal beaches on either side. Beautiful places with lake views under $75,000 in a city with lots to do and it is clearly on the upswing. You can’t beat this city for convenience and inespensive flights to everywhere!

February 23rd, 2012 | #

After deciding we wanted to buy in Arizona, we looked at all the 55 & older that were still selling new homes only. We felt we just wanted to be with people our own age 62 & 60. We spent 3 weeks in the phoenix area in 2011 and found the perfect place on our 3rd trip.
We bought at Robson Ranch in Eloy, AZ. Besides the normal stuff all of them had, We had a feeling of warmth and belonging there.
It’s going to be a hard move from the east coast, but we are looking forward to it.

February 23rd, 2012 | #

AT AGE 65 IT IS TIME TO MOVE ON WITH LIFE!
GOING TO SOUTH CAROLINA TO BE NEAR THE BEACH FULL TIME,
HAVE A MODERATE CLIMATE AND GET A NEW HOME THAT IS A ONE STORY RANCH!

February 23rd, 2012 | #

We have narrowed our location to SW Florida between Venice and Naples. Looking for input from others regarding good retirement location. Big question in the down housing market, have the municipal governments been able to maintain their infrastructure ?

February 23rd, 2012 | #

I am going somewhere that all the cops, robbers, jersey girls, New yorkers and public pensioned people don’t go.

February 23rd, 2012 | #

Hopefully Delaware if I can get more information on living in the state. EG: Lewes, Smyrna, Georgetown. Rental apt, moderate weather. Would like a:library,veterinarian, basic grocery store.

February 23rd, 2012 | #

DC area/Marin Co if could afford; NO golf courses but bike/walk trails; no kids or pets; small apt or manufactured home; no income tax. So, somewhere in WA, TX, FL, DE, WY, etc. (not AK) – not sure yet. May do extensive traveling first.

February 23rd, 2012 | #

Don
Wife is from Panama , would like to rent in Panama for 6 months and then decide weather to stay. Be hard to leave family in the states. Plan on leaving Ohio for warmer weather.

February 23rd, 2012 | #

6 mos: FL-Safety Harbor, Dunedin, DeLand, Vero Beach, or elsewhere – who knows? 6 mos: Staying put at our cottage in Sylvan Beach, NY.

February 23rd, 2012 | #

Trilogy at Vistancia, Peoria (NW Phoenix), AZ. Friendly, active adult, lots of community service, resort-feel. Phoenix has great baseball, concerts, warm weather, and excellent air service.

February 23rd, 2012 | #

I am a divorced female, age 61 who is athletic, well-educated who does not want to live in a community setting. I am afraid that I will not fit in because I am single. However, I have to get out of Michigan and move to a warm climate before I go crazy. Are there any other singles out there who are struggling with this same problem??? Where to live – and fit in?

February 24th, 2012 | #

Deborah and Dave: We too are looking at Port St. Lucie, Fl. The homes are quite affordable and it is a nice area. The only question I have is about the home owners insurance. They had direct hits from 4 hurricanes so isn’t it high? Thanks for your input.

February 24th, 2012 | #

We have narrowed our search down to the Branson, MO area and Pensacola, FL.
Any input from anyone on these particular areas? Thanks.

February 24th, 2012 | #

Already tried Tuscon, AZ – too hot,dry and brown. Tried Columbia, SC (Lake Murray) too hot and humid. LOL Now building a house in the mountains of NC (Jefferson) at 4,000 ft up. Out initial home before moving was in Northern NJ.

February 24th, 2012 | #

Donna, I am in the same boat, but living in Nebraska. I’m still searching.

February 24th, 2012 | #

Donna, yes I feel your frustration. Living in NC currently, and not coping well with the sweltering summers here-I am focusing on WY or perhaps WA. Still need to visit some areas to decide which will feel best.

February 24th, 2012 | #

Donna – We share the situation. I live where there is way too much snow (most years, but not now) near the Aidrondacks. I lived in South Central Pennsylvania for many years and loved it there. Yes, it gets hot and humid, but there is so much sun and all I get now is clouds and some kind of precipitation. Being alone makes everything that much more difficult. I’m doing my homework and trying to figure out how far I want to be from family. Wouldn’t be so tough if we weren’t alone.

February 24th, 2012 | #

Our last military assignment was in Cheyenne,WY. On the way there, my wife and I discussed seriously about staying after I retired. We eventually decided against it. One because of the biting cold during the winters and two, the wind blows incessantly. Can’t speak for other areas of this state.

February 24th, 2012 | #

Three towns I’m seriously considering right now. Twin Falls, ID; Roseburg, OR; and Prescott, Ar. These are the best year round climates I’ve seen. Prescott leads.

February 24th, 2012 | #

Those worried about homeowners insurance in Florida – we are moving to FL from Texas and even tho we do not get hurricanes in the Dallas-Ft. Worth area, our homeowners insurance is about as high as anywhere in Florida. We expect to have to get our homeowners insurance thru the State of Florida Citizens Insurance as virtually no one is writing new policies in Florida. So far estimates show both states about the same on insurance.

February 24th, 2012 | #

We live directly on the ocean in NE Florida, and pay $3200/year for Homeowner’s insurance, which includes wind damage. Flood coverage is an additional $500/year. If you look at the stats for NE Florida through NOAA, you’ll see very little damage from hurricanes in this part of Florida over the past 20 years.

Jan Cullinane, The New Retirement: The Ultimate Guide to the Rest of Your Life (Rodale)

February 25th, 2012 | #

To Donna, Mollie, Victoria and Joann,
Ladies, you might consider sharing resources and a home(s). A communal type living arrangement might fill a void and be financially beneficial.

February 25th, 2012 | #

I’m really enjoying the dialogue amongst everyone! It’s educational in itself. I know I’m repeating myself but there is truly no perfect climate, for weather, taxes, insurance, etc. I’ve made a list of the states that do not tax social security -27 in all. There are 7 states with no personal income tax but none really interest me for a variety of reasons. I had an interest in TN but discovered they only tax dividends & interest – not good for seniors. I guess doing your homework and setting your priorities is the best bet which means our choices will be very individual indeed. Trying each out for a year of full seasons is a great idea even if you feel like the 3 bears – too hot, too cold, too humid, too dry – at least you know what they each offer. BTW, Jan Collinane’s book about retirement is very good and worth reading through. Nice to have Jan on the blog!
Also a note to Bubba: communal living appealed to me in the 60′s but not in my 60′s!! Good neighbors are lovely but after a certain age, most women don’t want a roommate again!
Personally my partner and I have narrowed our choices to NC, KY, VA (close to NJ family) and NM/AZ high desert, just for sheer beauty, pie in the sky reasons!

Editor’s note: Thanks for the great post, Cherie. And also for mentioning Jan’s very useful book (she is just about to publish another on “retirement and the single woman”). Support your authors and local bookstores – go buy the book!

February 25th, 2012 | #

Thanks so much for the endorsement, Cherie. And, I just want to reassure everyone that Cherie and I don’t know one another!

This is a terrific site, full of valuable information and honest discussion.

Jan

February 25th, 2012 | #

We are going to retire to Texas half the year and Wisconsin the other half. Texas is less expensive than Florida and Arizona where everyone we know goes. We travel a lot (went to Peru, Chile, Antartica, Argentina in Jan.) so by retiring to Texas we can still afford to do our traveling. Getting ready to go on a safari in Botswana, Zambia and Zimbobwa (which I guess I better learn how to spell).

February 25th, 2012 | #

Have just put Jan’s book on hold at the library. Can’t wait to read it! So glad to hear about a good book on retirement. Thank you!

February 25th, 2012 | #

Prescott, AZ vs. Denver, CO for a retirement city. Due the other advantages of Denver overcome the colder weather in winter? Anyone lived in both and have a preference?

February 25th, 2012 | #

Would like to retire south to pensacola, Good or Bad ?

February 25th, 2012 | #

Boise Id. overall climate, culture, downtown dining,clean air

February 25th, 2012 | #

I really like the the Tucson area and will be renting first to check out different locations there.

February 25th, 2012 | #

I’ll stay in Reston, VA if I can afford it. Everything is close…shops, restaurants, churches, culture, loads to do, pretty, and great health care.

February 26th, 2012 | #

I, too, am a single, athletic, well-educated financially secure 61 year old looking for an attractive area to move where I would fit in. Donna, I feel your frustration. Please post any advice or insights you have as a result of your search.

February 26th, 2012 | #

I’m considering New Bern, NC but would like to be closer to the ocean. Also, southern Delaware. Any comments appreciated. Will rent before I buy.

February 26th, 2012 | #

Bubba – Thanks for the advice – not a bad idea. With all the singles out there a communal type living arrangement sounds like a good idea.

February 26th, 2012 | #

Staying in Calif. Likely moving from SF Bay Area to Shasta County. Love Calif climate (no humidity) and enjoy year round outdoor activities. Affordability is the downside to CA, so working hard…

February 26th, 2012 | #

Going to go Panama (David,Panama)to visit wife’s family and search for retirement rental or home. Would like to be closer to the water, if anyone knows anything about Panama I would appreciate the help Most of the rental information I get on line they want 1500 a month or more for rent.

February 26th, 2012 | #

Another acitve “not-so-old” single here. From where I stand, I think those in a good paired relationship could retire most places and enjoy a good life–having company and someone to defuse the nerves of relocating and starting over is golden! I’ve lived in the San Francisco Bay Area most of my life, and have come to the conclusion that this could be a great place to grow older. Close to beaches, mountains, good hiking, museums, live music, medical care, universities, and our community of active online seniors posting social opportunities is small but growing (90% women). I’d love to stay on here post-retirement but it’s sooooo expensive! Single retirees, if you are well heeled consider the SF Bay Area! Meanwhile, I’ll keep looking!

February 26th, 2012 | #

Singles, consider co-housing communities. I lived in Lyons CO in a co-housing community in my early 50s. You have your own complete home without anyone living in your own 4 walls, but live close to each other and intentionally form a strong community. Read about it before you say no. Google co-housing and visit some of the web sites for communities. They are in many states. Some allow you to rent a room in the community building to see if it is for you. Some are intergenerational and some are age restricted, but where I lived there were many singles who no longer felt alone, but could be if that was their choice. Co-housing is a Danish lifestyle transplanted to the US. Best of luck!

February 27th, 2012 | #

Can I change my answer? Have decided against The Villages, FL after reading how crowded it gets in the winter. Now seriously considering Fairfield Glade, TN.

February 27th, 2012 | #

Don,
Try a trial subscription to International Living, great articles on living in Panama. Maybe online, I subscribe as I plan to move in a year if things go well.There is a seminar about to happen in Panama and it covers everything you would ever want to know. Covers lectures from lawyers, real estate, insurance etc. in April around the 12th if I remember correctly.

February 27th, 2012 | #

Karen,
What do you like about Fairfield Glade, TN? As a single female, do you think it is wiser to retire near friends or family?

February 27th, 2012 | #

No place hot and humid. No place frozen half the year. No place with pickleball and golf. A place with all ages and interests, but most of all a place close to my kids!

February 27th, 2012 | #

We are thinking about the Austin Texas area. We are planning on looking into Georgetown, TX.

February 27th, 2012 | #

Sun Lakes in Banning CA, Really like all that is available and we will finally be close to our daughter, son and the grandchildren. A daunting move from Maryland but ready for the next phase of our life.

February 27th, 2012 | #

Ladies – I will be in Fairfield TN mid March for a week. Before buying the house we rented condos through VRBO, or Gwyn Realty. I suggest you try out the exercise classes in the community building and the health center. They are next door to each other, but different memberships. Both have day passes. I met many nice ladies before the classes and most stayed after for a cup of coffee or water. There are two newspapers that list single group activities as well as other group activities; The Vista and Glade Sun. The coummunity website is http://www.Fairfieldglade.cc and gives you tons of information. If you play tennis or pickle ball check out the tennis club – again many friendly people there. The pools won’t be open yet, but the golf courses are open except for one that you can’t play on the grass during winter. If you’d like contacts I’d by happy to connect you with some of the most welcoming people I have met – just let me know.

February 28th, 2012 | #

We have been full time RV ers for 12 years. Have saved many dollars with no income tax, Texas residency, thru Escapees organization. No property taxes and live where we chose in nice Rv resorts. Now in the thinking process to have a home. Love Austin area but far from family. Maybe Delaware which would be hour from family in Md. Ashville, Nc is nice too. Have lived in many retirement areas in the motorhome in 12 years . A great way to decide.

February 28th, 2012 | #

Donna, we found out about Fairfield Glades from friends. They will be moving there in a year or so. We are unfortunately farther out than that. We like the fact winters are mild, real estate taxes are low and you can get so much house for your money. Moving near family or friends was not a consideration as we really have no family – I am an only child married with no kids. My husband has one brother who does not live close. Hope this helps.

February 28th, 2012 | #

Holly, not sure this is the forum to be asking you this but do you know where I can get a complete list of clubs availabe at The Glades? Have other questions as well. Is there a way to do private messages on this board?

Editor’s Note: Karen, these Blog comments aren’t set up to be a message board with private messages. The best place for that is our Forum. You can always ask a question via the Comments in the hopes that someone will see it and respond though. Your question is a good one as is it quite specific. However maybe we have heard enough about Fairfield Glade for now, as this topic is really trying to elicit all of the places that people are considering for retirement! The types of questions that no one ever answers are the ones that go along the lines of “I am interested in such and such a community. Please tell me everything you know about it”. Those are asking for a little more than anyone is willing to give.

February 28th, 2012 | #

[...] you intend to retire and why. To keep all of those in one place, please post them to our “Tell Us Where Are You Going to Retire” article. Posted by John Brady on February 28th, 2012 Comments (0)  Email This Post [...]

February 28th, 2012 | #

Still looking, but The Villages is at the top of my list.
Great weather, lots of interesting people, and a ton of activities.

February 28th, 2012 | #

no mosquitos (i live in maryland now), no humidity (ditto), and no snow (well – if it’s gone the next day ). tucson is looking pretty good.

February 29th, 2012 | #

We currently live in Charlotte NC area and enjoy the weather and active cultural scene,but hate that we are 3-6 hours from coast. Retirement is about 2-3 yrs away. We may just stay put here, but have also been looking at Palm Coast, FL and North Myrtle Beach, SC thinking we might split our time between “home” and a coastal area – winter on the coast (possibly in an RV) and summer in Charlotte.

February 29th, 2012 | #

We are planning to retire in the Raleigh/Durham area in about 3 years. The cost of living, culture and climate are the main reasons.

February 29th, 2012 | #

haven’t seen las cruces new mexico mentioned. good? not so good? any opinions would be appreciated.

February 29th, 2012 | #

Southeastern coast of NC. The climate is much warmer than NJ, less crowded and a lot less expensive. We can drive back to visit family in a day.

February 29th, 2012 | #

Looking for an active equestrian town/city. Aiken, SC, seems to fit the bill. Been here since Nov., so need to see what summer will bring. Lots of friendly people and close enough to a good amount of diverse activities.

February 29th, 2012 | #

Love anywhere in Oregon’s Willamette Valley. Portland, Eugene, or Ashland offer cultural attractions with easy access to the coast and the mountains. Lots to do in a beautiful environment.

February 29th, 2012 | #

After looking at Utah, Nevada and Arizona, we decided on Granbury, TX (SW of DFW). Low taxes, low cost of living (literally 50% of what it was in Maryland), on a beautiful lake. And, we live in a gated community on a pecan plantation – how cool is that? Unlimited golf included in low HOA fee.

February 29th, 2012 | #

Moving near Milton, DE – low housing cost and cost of living, no sales tax, low property tax, has 4 seasons, close to beaches and shopping. Close to NJ and our family. Can’t wait!

February 29th, 2012 | #

close to family in Va or NH where we love to vacation. I don’t like hot weather and we love the lake in NH and our kids love to come up there. but grandsons are Va and LA for now…3 other daughters likely to have children before long too!
I heard Winchester Va is a nice place to retire

February 29th, 2012 | #

Morgantown, WV has mild winters, college town, top notch medical college. Moved from Albuquerque, NM. way too dry, severe drought issues, crime, high housing costs, Winters are cold! There may not be a lot of snow(drought) but the wind will get you! I will travel south a couple winter months to avoid what snow there is. Originally from MI, way to cold and humid there!

February 29th, 2012 | #

After much travel and research, we will be retiring in the Hill Country of Texas northwest of San Antonio. Great housing market, no state income tax, great climate, proximity to large, diverse city and good medical care.

February 29th, 2012 | #

I am going to retire in place (Houston). Why leave the city I was born in? It is where most of my family still lives, my significant other’s profession is in Houston [College Professor], my friends, my doctors, the resturants, the night life, Opera, Symphony, performing arts theaters, and the major league sports teams. Most imoportantly the World’s largest medical complex is in Houston [the Texas Medical Center]. You can fly directly or with one connection to most places easily from Intercontinental airport including overseas.

February 29th, 2012 | #

This is a difficult decision. Don’t want to be too far from the grandchildren in the NE but can’t take the cold snowy weather and gridlock traffic in Northern Virginia anymore. We are thinking South Carolina. Weather is warm, less expensive, lots of outside activities. Hoping to find a single family home with a nice community atmosphere, decent shopping and good medical facilities nearby if needed.

February 29th, 2012 | #

I don’t see anything about anyone moving to Las Vegas. Anyone have any comments out there?

February 29th, 2012 | #

Colorado plains an hour from Denver. We like small town quiet but like to travel, less than an hour from DIA. Others should not consider this location because we want to be away from crowds

February 29th, 2012 | #

Santa Fe, NM. Housing is still a little pricey, but I’m going for 1) sunny climate 2) mild summer 3) arts, food, books, classes, colleges, martial arts 4) natural beauty. Visited again last month and it felt right.

February 29th, 2012 | #

We’re retiring in Ft. Mill/Indian land, SC because it is close to Charlotte and the city’s benefits and offers a lower comfortable cost of living.

February 29th, 2012 | #

In the state of NM. I am still researching the best place for price and cost of living. Need 1) sunny climate 2) mild summer for my wife’s health. 3)arts, good food and 4) natural beauty to enjoy. Will start to visit in the next couple of years to find locations.

February 29th, 2012 | #

We would like to live somewhere in Florida but: we need an area where we can find GHI providers…low crime…lots of activities…near good beaches..great restaurants,we dont want to veg out! Don’t care about traffic or crowds.Being from NYC we’re sort of spoiled. Does a place like this even exist? HELP!!

February 29th, 2012 | #

Sandpoint Idaho – Nice town – close to Spokane. Great local skiing and easy access to many other resorts. Beautiful Lake surrounded by mountains. Great boating and fishing. Great hiking and biking. Easy access to Glacier NP, North Cascades NP, British Columbia, Alberta.

February 29th, 2012 | #

My husband and I (mid-50s) will be “semi-retiring” and moving from upstate NY to the Fort Myers, FL area next month. Biggest reason is because the kids/grandkids are there, but also attracted to the lower cost of living, warm weather, beaches, sunshine. No more shoveling snow (like today)!

February 29th, 2012 | #

Live in WI now but looking at Corpus Christi/Rockport, TX area. No income tax on my pension. Love fishing and want warmer weather. Bad thing is not close to kids/grandkids but hope to RV back to WI every year.

February 29th, 2012 | #

Glad you agree with me!!.. have been scoping out potential retirement towns for several years, and personally would be very happy in either place in Fla. or Beaufort/ the Low Country,South Carolina, and hope to make a decision soon!.. thanks for all the useful information..

February 29th, 2012 | #

We are retirees who currently live in Boise ID – what I call a very “user friendly” mid-sized city that has all the cultural activities we need. Enjoy the dry climate but can no longer take the (relatively mild) winters. Plus, all our family is on the East Coast and the grandkids are growing up! So, we are seriously considering relocating to the Beaufort/Bluffton SC area. My brother lives there and loves it – the weather, cost of living, and proximity to Savannah (beautiful city). And the plane trip to DC and Boston is much shorter and cheaper!

February 29th, 2012 | #

We live in the burbs on the East Coast and have gotten a great deal on a condo in New York City. We love it. Most transportation, museums, talks, have senior discounts. Medical care is excellent. There are other seniors in the building which supplies breakfast downstairs followed or preceded by a morning group walk (3 per morning). There are expeditions to Bear Mt, Catskills, leaf peeping in Vt.in the fall. It is never boring in NY.

February 29th, 2012 | #

Probably – greater Albany area – have worsening macular degeneration and feel living near relatives and adequate medical facilities is a good idea. Would really prefer the SW though, NM or AZ

February 29th, 2012 | #

I don’t have a clue! I have been reading and doing research for several mos. now and I am totally confused. Big step to make a wrong decision.

February 29th, 2012 | #

Does anyone have any comments or worthwhile information regarding Newport, WA? Was considering WY, but after recently reading on this site that WA is a retiree friendly state I’ll add it to the list of places to investigate.

February 29th, 2012 | #

We will probably stay here in Palm Coast, Fl. My husband is retired Navy and uses NAS Jacksonville for his medical. It works out great. Being able to shop at the Commissary for groceries is a life saver as the prices are so much lower. Palm Coast is really beautiful. Very low crime rate, great resturants. If you like the outdoors they have preserved areas to walk that have lots of trees, nature trails. Flagler Beach is right here, the weather is awesome. If you want to buy a home you have a variety, all price ranges. Housing is very affordable. From private homes to apartments the rentals are very affordable. Seafood festivals, rib cookoffs etc. Just a great place.I feel we have found the ideal place. They also have great medical services. Flagler hospital is one of the best. My doctors are here in Palm Coast only about 15 minutes from my home so this works out great for me due to the fact that I have some medical problems and to be able to have all of them close by without having to deal with a lot of traffic is just great. I truly feel we have found our ideal place.

February 29th, 2012 | #

Husband I have a dilemna – we are in the DC area and he refuses to go south and I prefer to not go north. Compromise may be Philly suburbs – we’re looking at Buck’s county and other suburbs within train-ride of the City. We want walkability, 4 seasons (we can escape winter to go to Puerto Rico), trees, old houses and neighborhoods, etc. And PA is tax friendly for folks who will live on a pension (us!). Might consider DE also… can’t wait to get out of the congestion here in DC…

February 29th, 2012 | #

Loved idea of Asheville NC or western SC but am leaning to Wilmington and Charleston areas for warmer climate or Ponte Vedra or Bradenton, Venice or other Florida like St. Augustine, Amelia Island. Where to go single and find community with year round swimming?

February 29th, 2012 | #

Atlanta, great place to travel from and grandkids

February 29th, 2012 | #

I am early in my due dilligence. I see either Florida (Southwest area Naples), SC area (HH area) or NC (around Outer banks). I think Florida and SC will be narrowed.
I also want to have my my cake and eat it. I want to live in south in winter but have main base of operations in Northern VA near DC corridor (grandkids are there).
I am about three years away from retirement and will look in VA when I sell in present NJ location.
Anyone else in similar situation?

February 29th, 2012 | #

My wife and I were first looking at overseas (primarily Central or South America) but now have changed our search to the states. We currently live in the suburbs of Chicago and are looking primarily to a warmer climate and cheaper cost of living. So we are interested in Central Florida and the southwestern states.

February 29th, 2012 | #

After much research, and 2 visits for in person research, we’ve picked the Smith County Texas area. Tyler, the county seat, has a population of about 100,000. The health care setup is incredible, an important feature, at least for us. A warmer winter climate than we are used to in Ohio. Yeah, the summers are hot, but the dry 100 is no worse than Ohio’s humid 85. No state taxes help significantly. Property taxes vary widely, so that will be a consideration.
Finally, it is only about a 2 hour drive to the Dallas/Fort Worth airport which has direct flights to many areas of the country.

March 1st, 2012 | #

My husband and I are retiring next year and cannot decide whether to move to the Myrtle Beach, SC are or Venice, FL. Has anyone looked in these areas. Would love to hear your views on these two areas. Thanks.

March 1st, 2012 | #

Family ties are becoming more important at this stage of life, so we need to head west. (45 mins further east from here and we’d go SPLASH in the great Atlantic…) Pretty TN seems to be a mid point for us to reach our scattered kin. We like the countryside, laid back attitude (New Englanders are so uptight!) and getting away from the astronomical taxes of the NorthEast!
Take us home, country roads!

March 1st, 2012 | #

I agree with Donna, I am also single, retired and looking to move to a warmer climate and from all the ads for the 55+ communities, they always show
couples. Where are the single communities?

March 1st, 2012 | #

To Don – Re: Panama, also check out the free publication “Overseas Opportunity Letter” from “Live and Invest Overseas” by Kathleen Peddicord. She is based in Panama, writes a lot about that area as well as other WW locations.

March 1st, 2012 | #

Austin, TX area. Lower COL than Calif. Great schools (have a 7yo and 3yo twins ; retiring in 1 yr or less). No snow, housing more affordable, taxes better than here; good medical for hubby; univ. nearby.

March 1st, 2012 | #

Everybody’s talking about FL, but not much about the Florida Panhandle, specifically the Panama City area. Any advise out there?

March 1st, 2012 | #

We chose Lake Weir Living for our retirement. My husband and I had researched many areas and developments in Central Florida. Lake Weir offered us the freedom to choose the features that we wanted for our home. It is this personalization that made us feel “special”. Adriana, (Marketing Head) and Neil Schuster (Co-Managing Partner) accompanied us on our visits for flooring, cabinetry,hardware, etc. We never felt like we were alone in a process that can at best be overwhelming. Their customer service doesn’t end when you purchase your home. We are very happy with our choice and would invite any questions you might have for us

March 1st, 2012 | #

It’s beautiful southern Utah for us. After traveling the Country for 20 years in the Air force and then another 20 in local government we have had a chance to see it all. We happened upon Ivins Utah by chance, and we were wowed. The blue skies, the town beneath the Red Mountains at the entrance to Snow Canyon State Park were enough to sell us but there is more. A thriving arts community at Kayenta and Tuachan and proximity to Las Vegas fro traveling and shopping puntuated our amazement with the area. The taxes are favorbale and housing is reasonable. And Im not a member of the prevailing religious denomination. Know from experience that culture is a plus not a minus. So when you think of the many Natioanl Parks (Bryce and Zion) within a few hours drive think Ivins Utah.

March 1st, 2012 | #

We are “young” retires (49 & 59) and are spending our second winter season in the PHX area. From NE Ohio, we are looking for somewhere with great weather (no humidity) where we can hike, bike, walk and easily get to other cities. PHX is looking good for us!

March 1st, 2012 | #

Best time to take advantage of this unfortunate economy and retire to Florida, with an all time low in the housing market. As far as seeing family and grandchildren, dont worry they will be coming down there to visit often, for the fun and great weather

March 2nd, 2012 | #

I agree with you, Howard. I’ve been looking at housing prices in Florida and they are somewhere now where my husband and I could actually think about being able to purchase a home and retire there. My husband believes they are going to fall even further. What do you think?

March 2nd, 2012 | #

To partially answer Kathy’s query on Venice, FL. We researched this area last year and liked the town very much but we want to be near public access beaches and we found Venice lacking in that area. Downtown area is nice. We checked out communities from just outside Tampa all the way to Naples. Have decided on Ft.Myers due to beautiful beaches, an abundance of things to do, and the good availability of new/resale homes for reasonable prices.

March 2nd, 2012 | #

For Toni – we had originally thought about the Ft. Myers area but several people said that there were so many businesses closed down in that area and kind of depressing. Up to that point we had really wanted to move there. We will be visting Venice in May to look around. Are there no publc beaches around and do you find better deals on homes in Ft. Myers vs. Venice? Thanks for your help.

March 2nd, 2012 | #

We would like to retire in Pensacola Any opinions thanks

March 2nd, 2012 | #

Karen,
I live in St. Petersburg and housing prices seem to be continuing to fall throughout the area, although not as much as in the past. Also, there are a lot of foreclosure and short sales.

March 3rd, 2012 | #

Kathy-we are seriously looking at Myrtle Beach for retirement. It seems perfect for us all around. Now, it does get crowded in the summer, but Florida gets crowded in the winter. I have not heard any other negatives about MB. How far have you gotten with your research? I am curious. We moved to Texas-and had done little research. This is not a good place for us.

March 3rd, 2012 | #

For Kathy…we were just in Ft.Myers in Oct. looking around and honestly all we saw was construction – shopping centers, homes, roads. Ft.Myers has been thru the recession just like the rest of FL but believe it is recovering. We are planning another trip this month to look more seriously. We really loved Venice and we have a Realtor there sending us alerts on homes but are finding them quite a bit more expensive and a lot less to chose from than Ft.Myers. Venice does have public access to beaches but very limited parking for residents and the beaches just are not as beautiful or expansive as the Ft.Myers/Sanibel area. Found the people in Ft.Myers very friendly and helpful to fellow retirees. Hope this helps!

March 3rd, 2012 | #

For Toni – thanks for all your information. I guess we wii be making up our minds in a couple of months when we visit both areas. Both Venice and Ft. Myers sound wonderful. Best of luck with your venture and if you come up with any suggestions let me know.

March 3rd, 2012 | #

For diandto – we have a realtor that is sending us information on homes. I have not heard anything negative about the area. We will be going down in a couple of months to look around so I will keep you updated. I always vacationed there as a child and have relatives close by to there so that is a plus. Also have a daughter in Texas but wow the heat in the summer is brutal.

March 3rd, 2012 | #

Moving from VA to Lakeland/Plant City area. Would like a senior community or community mostly seniors with residents run activities. Have been looking around but not finding anything yet.

March 3rd, 2012 | #

We are 10+ years away from retirement and are looking at moving/retiring on Gulf coast Florida, due to the weather (golf), cost of living and low taxes.

March 3rd, 2012 | #

We live in Venice full time and I can tell you, there is plenty of parking at the beaches. The South Jetties become crowded for parking, but this isn’t the place to enjoy the sand and the gulf waters. Venice Beach Pavilion is the place for one to enjoy the full scope of the beach lifestyle.
Want to enjoy concerts, art shows, and theater? Venice has it all as well as nearby Sarasota just a few minutes north. This is the Sun Coast for a good reason!

March 4th, 2012 | #

Connie, my sister-in-law and husband live in a senior community in Davenport, very close to Lakeland/Plant City. It is called High Vista at Ridgewood Lakes. We have visited and found it to be very nice.

March 4th, 2012 | #

Kathy-we too are working wit a very nice realtor in the Myrtle Beach area; she send us listings-it is so fun to look. We would like to ideally check it out in a couple of months as well-funny. Where does your daughter live in Texas? We are outside of San Antonio; you are right -it is HOT in the summer-a different, unbearable kind of hot.

March 4th, 2012 | #

I’m researching the perfect home and land in beautiful TN. Have lived all over the country and now in WV. TN and WV are very similar culturally and geographically, but TN doesn’t have income taxes. TN property valuves are a little bit lower than where I am in WV but of course, they do have high sales taxes. I plan to have a farmette so shopping won’t be on the schedule.

March 4th, 2012 | #

My husband and I spent two weeks at Venice looking for a place. I will be retiring in September. it was beautiful, but expensive. Beaches were great, no cost to park like at Ft Myers. Still looking for a place. we want to rent next year my be at the villages just to see what they are like. Any help everyone could give us would be nice.

March 4th, 2012 | #

I keep looking at Florida to retire in.
Venice, Sarasota, Naples. Does anyone
have any comments on the humid summers.
Reluctant to have too much humidity. Is there
another city in Florida where the weather
is not so extreme?

March 4th, 2012 | #

Linda, I think Florida has the most temperate weather than any other state in the union. One look at weather.com and you see there’s only a 20 degree temperature change all year round. The west coast in particular always has a nice breeze off the gulf.

http://www.weather.com/weather/wxclimatology/monthly/graph/USFL0338

If you want spring and summer weather all year long Florida is the state for you. Hope this helps. Doug

March 5th, 2012 | #

Since Florida weather is being discussed, I like the state but I’m kind of put off by hurricanes. Do some areas in the state get them more often than others?

March 5th, 2012 | #

To – Lynn- Venice is sounding better and better to us. Can hadly wait to look at homes. Any pointers you can give us about housing areas or the area would be great. I feel a whole lot better after hearing your experience in Venice, Thanks.

March 5th, 2012 | #

To diandto – my daughter lives right outside Dallas but raised on the east coast -she misses it here so much. Good luck with you venture – we will have to compare notes.

March 5th, 2012 | #

We love the change of seasons, especially enjoy autumn and would miss this if we moved to Florida, Arizona, etc. Does anyone have any comments about retiring in the state of Maine?

March 5th, 2012 | #

Does anyone have a favorite place in Delaware where they are retired?

March 5th, 2012 | #

To Lynn & Kathy…thank you Lynn on the Venice beach info – we didn’t have that much time there last visit so guess we missed the Venice Beach Pavilion to get a better perspective on the beaches. As soon as we sell our darn house in Texas we will be on our way and will definitely be checking out Venice again as well as Sarasota and Ft. Myers. It’s so difficult to chose. Lynn, since you already live there in Venice can you recommend some communities by name so I can check out houses for sale on line? Any more info you would like to share on pros/cons of Venice would be much appreciated.

March 5th, 2012 | #

what about renting in retirement – does everyone always buy?

Editors note. Plenty of people rent – either at first or for the long term. It has many advantages, with one of the best of those being flexibility. You don’t like it or something changes – you’re gone!

March 6th, 2012 | #

To AJWhite and others investigating TN for retirement: while there is no state income tax, I believe there is a state tax on income from dividends, interest and captital gains. If seniors like my husband and I will be deriving a sizeable portion of our living expenses from that source, TN could be less than ideal. And regarding renting in retirement – it’s not an unreasonable idea in this down housing market where a home make take some time to sell. But in our area in PA, there was a large article in today’s paper about how with foreclosures & short sales, the demand for rental housing is sharply up, along with the prices and supply is down. No easy answers.

March 6th, 2012 | #

Veronica, renting seems to make a lot of sense, until you are certain that you want to stay in that area/town. It also allows you to determine which part of a town or area you want to buy in…and watch for the perfect house at a good price

March 6th, 2012 | #

I would like to have one of these beautiful little houses built somewhere in Florida on the Atlantic Coast, not the mobile ones, for retirement, but I need help putting thought into this, you need land to do this. Does anyone have a suggestion? This is how I would like to retire, I love the ocean and listening to the surf, it is my thing and the ocean air and breeze, I know that that is romantic and there are hurricanes. I would not want to stop working, I am single and a widow looking for someone, am full of life and vigor and talent and am not a couch potato……..Pamela

March 7th, 2012 | #

My wife and I are considering retiring to PA, since it does not tax federal annuities, IRAs or Social Security, although property taxes can be high, depending on loaction. We would certainly appreciate feedback from anyone who has retired to PA or is contemplating retirement. Thanks, Al

March 7th, 2012 | #

My partner and I live in South Mississippi, 50 miles North of New Orleans. The winters are lovely and mild here, but the summers are hot and humid. We don’t want to move away and leave friends and family behind. So, we will be spending august through mid-september in Blowing Rock, NC. Asheville is nearby. There is lots to do and we can bring our pups. Vacation rentals are steep but it’s worth it to escape the peek hurricane season and the heat.

March 7th, 2012 | #

There is an adorable town near Destin, Fla. called Seaside. It was planned to represent a Victorian seaside community, very picturesque. I’m sure you could look it up on your computer to learn more about it.

Editor’s Note: It is adorable, although perhaps more of a vacation spot than retirement destination (although some live there for that). To find out more look at the review on Topretirements! http://www.topretirements.com/reviews/Florida/Seaside.html

March 7th, 2012 | #

Linda and Fla. humidity.
Linda, if you want to be comfortable in the Fla. summers you need to be near the beach. If you live inland, like Orlando, you’ll melt.

March 7th, 2012 | #

We’ve been in SE Tennessee for 5 years now and cannot wait to go back to New England. Its too hot and too southern here! Love Maine but thinking the Albany, NY area would be perfect – easy to get in and out, a few hours drive, or train from the coast, mountains or city. In case we cannot afford NY, second choice is Wilmington, NC. We have time (10 yrs) yet to go look it over. Pays to plan ahead though.

March 7th, 2012 | #

My husband and I live in Sierra Vista, AZ, because of work, but we’re planning on retiring in NC because that’s where our grandchildren will be. I want them to grow up with grandparents a big part of their lives. Probably around Concord, where my son lives.

March 7th, 2012 | #

I think I want to go back home to Lake County FL (I’m a native Floridian). The Villages is one choice but I don’t want to buy a house at me age (mid 60′s), maybe rent or share one w/another lady since I am single. It’s just me and my cat on a limited income. I’m not ready to move in with the kids yet!

March 7th, 2012 | #

We are from Ontario Canada and have been looking in the Phoeniz area to buy a retirement home in the next few years. Financing for Canadians is just about impossible. We really like the Canta Mia Estrella area just west of Phoenix but are really interested in finding that “hidden gem” that might be just around the corner. Any and all comments are appreciated.

March 8th, 2012 | #

This is a work in progress. I would like to be near my Daughter and her family in NC, but I am looking at many factors. Cost of living is the priority – this includes tax friendliness toward seniors – due to our modest savings. We prefer a moderate climate, leaning toward warmer rather that colder; Florida is not out of the question. Another factor is a laid-back culture. After a career in the NE US, which, to me, is an uptight pressure cooker, I’m eager to get away from that. NC tends to fit many of those requirements, as well as northern SC.

Thanks!

March 8th, 2012 | #

Holly: Be aware that NYS taxes are very high. Property taxes are outrageous. The Albany area is very cold and snowy in the winter(except this winter) and very humid in the summer. In town traffic is horrendous. Come up and stay for a while before you make the change.

March 8th, 2012 | #

1. Must be affordable based on income. 2. Limited inclement weather. 3. Near family. 4. Activities.

March 8th, 2012 | #

Retirement? thinking about South Euclid (Cleveland), OH. Active Orthodox Jewish community, Russian community, people seem friendly, housing prices low; the colder the winter the better.

March 8th, 2012 | #

Pueblo West, Co. is where we’re looking. Four seasons, does get cold and a little snow, however the golf course is open year around. Very affordable housing, and the lots are 1 acre +. May spend a couple winter months in near by Tucson, AZ.

March 8th, 2012 | #

My partner and I currently live in the Pocono Mountain area of PA and while we’re not fully retired, I collect social security and he works part time. Yes, the state doesn’t tax SS and IRA’s but depending on where you live, local municipalities have taxes that are rising, school taxes are through the roof and property taxes are about average. The roads, by the way, are horrible. It can be very rural so look around carefully and know what lifestyle you prefer. Winters can be rough further north but on the positive side, NYC is only 2 hours away from the this section of the state and Philadelphia even closer. Sales tax is currently low but we all anticipate that will increase very soon.

March 8th, 2012 | #

We will be retiring in Prescott, AZ. The summer weather is great, not real hot and low humidity, the winters are not colder than Northern VA, and it is sunny year round. Also, people are very friendly.

March 8th, 2012 | #

We currently live in CT – yes..the ‘worst state to retire in”, and are thinking about heading South. I’ve spent a great deal of time in NC, and while I understand SC has a few more tax advantages, our thought process is..we have positioned ourselves to be able to stay in CT if we so decide – we love the area we live in (just not the winters, but you don’t have to go out during this time once retired), so we have a lot of research left to do – ie we are established here…know the area/friends/close to family. We plan to investigate NC and possibly bordering SC towns. I’ve been talking with all the folks I know in NC who are trying hard to convince us to go down. One thing we’ve thought about is just about any place down South will be less expensive than CT, so it’s really now a matter of determining ..will we be happy down there, and like the home we choose. We have positioned ourselves to have no debt, so we are at an advantage to be more flexible and have no plans to make a firm decision until we are positive about where we want to be. We do not want to live within an Association, want a basement, and want to be close to wildlife, while also within 10 miles of all the conveniences – shopping/restaurants/things to do.

March 8th, 2012 | #

Would like more info about retirees renting instead of always buying home/apartment.

March 8th, 2012 | #

specifically considering NH for retirement….renting, not buying.

March 8th, 2012 | #

Staying in the real world in CT near family and all-ages community. No special “retirement community” for us..

March 8th, 2012 | #

I’m considering returning to Washington State. I worked there for a number of years so I know the area, have friends there and can pursue my love of the outdoors.

March 8th, 2012 | #

Cheri: I’m originally from Carbon County and focusing on southeast PA, but far enough from Philadelphia where taxes “should” be somewhat lower. We’re even contemplating renting, but this too requires quite a bit of research, etc. Our hunt continues… al

March 9th, 2012 | #

We are taking a scouting trip the end of April from Ohio to Palm City, FL for retirement places in a couple years. Any great suggestions for someone just starting to look?

March 9th, 2012 | #

We actually retired in 08 in Castle Rock, Co. Loved it, but had to leave for personal reasons. Am currently in Upstate NY, but would prefer some place in the south. Lived in Tampa, FL for 30 years, but humidity not good for health reasons. Thinking now of TN, KY or SC. Here’s hoping…

March 9th, 2012 | #

I’m originally from NJ and am thinking moving to Mass near the coast or Portland, Maine.

March 9th, 2012 | #

Would love to hear more comments on the Venice FL area. I think we have ruled out N Myrtle Beach and will most likely settle in Venice FL. We would like more of a “beachy” kind of town and love the Medterean look of this area. Everything we have read about this area sounds perfect for us. Any comments? Thanks.

March 10th, 2012 | #

Everybody is talking about Fl. … I lived there for 8 years. (Tampa Bay)… It is not as cheap as everyone thinks …. housing is the only thing that is cheap. Everything else is the same or more than where I live now (Northern NJ).
summers are brutal …landscape is as flat as a pancake … property tax, water and electric bills are high .. so you don’t pay state income tax but you pay tangible tax (whatever that is) …small compromise … you pay for everything else … We moved back to NJ..

Editor’s Note: Florida discontinued the state tax on intangible assets several years ago. FL ranks 47th highest for total state/local tax burden and 16th highest for per-capita property tax. One expense that can be high in Florida is property insurance, particularly in hurricane-prone areas.

March 10th, 2012 | #

Traditions of America Silver Spring near Mechanicsburg, PA. Recently visited; houses beautiful, residents (really) friendly, great amenities, PA tax burden for military/Federal/Social Security non-existent.

March 10th, 2012 | #

North Carolina. I’m only 55 and unable to get individual health insurance due to a pre existing condition. Nc has a state run high risk pool that is reasonably affordable and requires only a 30 day residency for eligibility. So we are leaving our fully paid for, much loved home in Mesa, AZ. Not exactly what we planned, but we are thankful we have the freedom, flexibility and resources to make this choice. And thankful to the state of NC for giving us a viable option!

March 11th, 2012 | #

We are looking for a place in Co. for the 5 mo. in the summer as we live in Fl. and its just to hot. Any sugestions?
John

March 11th, 2012 | #

Jeanette-Please tell me more about the insurance that is reasonable, but for high risk people that NC offers. I am 61 and am ready to retire in a couple of months. We are having a problem deciding between NC and SC. I don’t know much about any kind of health plan in SC either or if there is one. I know I have three plus years before able to get Medicare, so I need something to bridge the gap. Thanks

March 11th, 2012 | #

For Leslie Cooper We are also considering Portland, Maine or somewhere in Maine. We agree with dudu that Florida it too flat but has warm weather year-round. One person we know was considering Florida but moved to Bella Vista, Arkansas. Nice town with lovely affordable homes, many golf courses, lakes, a lot of retirees and the scenery is beautiful.

March 11th, 2012 | #

My husband and I have lived in Bella Vista, AR for 10 years now and our families have lived in the area since the mid ’60′s. Bella Vista is a fairly new incorporated town. Please check out the website for more information. beautifulbellavista.org for a lot more information.

March 11th, 2012 | #

John Look at Campground of the Rockies in Hartzel, Co.for your 5 month summer stays. You buy your own lot, very reasonable, place a park model, there are several for sale right now or have an RV. Reasonable HOA Clubhouse, Indoor Pool, tennis, bocci, activities. We have two lots, one with a Park Model. Have neighbors who are buying a house hear by and have two properties for sale right now, with housing. Excellent hospital 40 miles away in Salida, Co. Views and wild life. Hundreds of elk comes thru the park in the spring heading for higher elevations for the summer.

March 12th, 2012 | #

PAYSON, AZ. World class golf, fishing, hiking, rodeo town with 4 mild seasons and a stones throw from Scottsdale. At 5,000 ft elev. Payson is GREAT. A new campus of AZ state will be built soon bringing all kinds of energy to the town.

March 14th, 2012 | #

I am considering the Tucszon, Arizona area or Asheville, N.C. Wyoming is too much cowboy country for me – not a culture with which I can identify. My choices will boil down to cost of living, tax benefits, warm climate and lots of activities around.

March 14th, 2012 | #

[...] March 27, 2012 — Last month we asked our members to briefly share with us where they are thinking about retiring, and why. The results are in, and they are fascinating – the diversity and common sense approaches to decision making are guaranteed to get you thinking. We are grateful to the more than 220 people who took the time to tell us about their retirement destination plans. One side benefit was finding about several active adult communities not on our radar. We especially enjoyed hearing from the folks who haven’t yet decided on a place, but nevertheless let us in on their their often conflicted thought process. And to those of you who didn’t respond – you owe your fellow members a big favor! The thoughtful inputs they so graciously provided below is going to be very useful to you. You can see the actual responses in the Comments section of “Tell Us Where You Are Going to Retire – and Why“. [...]

March 27th, 2012 | #

My husband and I have decided to stay in North Jersey, because that’s where our kids and grandkids are. We did consider South Jersey and took a trip to see some communities. While the living space would be bigger in the South as opposed to an active adult community in North Jersey, the taxes are about the same. So we will be relocating to a adult community, but staying up North.

March 28th, 2012 | #

I was thinking about Sun City Center on the Gulf side of Floida because I want budget housing that is not a manufactured home (lot rents are too expensive), and I want a house (nothing with adjoining walls). Sun City looked like an affordable place to me, but with the recent predictions that Florida and other coastal states are likely to be under water by 2010 or at the least dealing with flooding, I have lost my way and now don’t know where to retire. I scour your lists of active adult communities across the country, and am dismayed so many of them are intermediate or luxury which I cannot afford. And when I do find ones that say budget they’re condos, or townhomes or duplexes, or manufactured housing, which I don’t want. So I have no clue at the moment where to retire.

March 28th, 2012 | #

I’m looking at the Myrtle Beach area. Washington, D.C. area is getting too congested, taxes keep going up, and frankly, I’m tired of getting up at 5am to go to work.

March 28th, 2012 | #

Not sure where it is but it sure would like it to be close to Trout Streams (me) and the beach (my wife). Sure love to find this place !!!

March 28th, 2012 | #

We are considering 4 places at the moment. We currently live in North Texas and would be considering a smaller town in Central Texas. The second spot, because we like living near the ocean would be either Pensacola, Florida or near Mobile, AL. The third and fourth spots are international. Costa Rica and Belize. Because we have saved little for retirement and will be relying on Social Security, we can live a better lifestyle in those countries.

March 28th, 2012 | #

Huntsville, AL. Mild winter and summers are not ungodly hot and humid (like further South). Low cost of living. High quality of life. Great place to retire!

March 28th, 2012 | #

We are looking at NC, in Raleigh/Durham area. We like Fearrington Village due to a sense of community, lovely single story low-maintenance options, nice village center, walking trails as well as nearby fitness center and Duke-run medical center. We live in DC suburb (MD) but cost of living and traffic are moving factors. NC cost of living/housing is much better. Other factors on our spreadsheet – close to Southwest Air, easy drive to family in VA & TN and four seasons. We are 4-5 years away until retirement benefits kick in.

March 29th, 2012 | #

Bruce T-We live in New Braunfels, if Central Texas is your desire…Cedar alleries are terrible through the winter-be prepared. The real estate taxes are quite high, so being on a fixed income will be tough. Our allergies are terrible!
Mark B-Check out North or South Carolina shore areas-best of both worlds-beach and streams in some areas!

March 29th, 2012 | #

We are trying to find out if living in coastal Florida (gulf coast) makes your insurance sky high. We would not be directly on the waterfront. Any comments would be welcomed. Thanks.

March 29th, 2012 | #

Were thinking about 20 miles north of Pensacola?Is the Ins high?

March 29th, 2012 | #

Tim – I, too, live in a DC suburb (VA) and am thinking of Fearrington Village south of Chapel Hill, NC. It appears very retiree friendly. In addition to the factors you mention, there are lots of clubs and an organization called “Fearrington Cares”, a volunteer group for in-home help, errands, etc. My one pause is Fearrington’s somewhat rural setting and distance from retail choices. There is a Harris-Teeter nearby, but I would miss what is available within two miles of my current home…Harris-Teeter, Giant Foods, Safeway, Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s, Home Depot, Target, Best Buy, etc. In Fearrington, I feel like I might be spending a lot of time in my car. Nonetheless, it still is at the top of my list should I decide to re-locate.

March 30th, 2012 | #

Funny how sometimes the Universe seems to speak but you have to listen to hear the voice! I stumbled upon the Villages at Fearrington quite by accident and not being inclined to explore “communities,” I really didn’t pay attention. But after reading several posts about Fearrington, I went back and looked in more detail. I find it very interesting and a definite possibility. So much so that in May, we plan to visit and check it out along with Asheville and Charlotte. I love the idea of building a development around open space and a working farm!

March 31st, 2012 | #

MKB;
My son lives in Fl. (Brooksville, about 45mins NW of Tampa). In his area insurance for hurricanes are lower,because they usually don’t come in on that area. He also says the futher south you go the high housing is, and insurance is different in all areas. My husband and I were thinking of retiring in his area, but we would like a small town to live in where you could walk to things. If anyone one knows of a small town area that is not abandon, I would love to know of it. We want to move south of the Michigan winters.

March 31st, 2012 | #

My daughter lived close to Fearrington Village so I visited. I was not impressed.

April 1st, 2012 | #

Dick, please expand your review of Fearrington. What about it did not impress you? More info please for us inquiring minds!

April 1st, 2012 | #

The part I saw seemed older and was not bike friendly.

April 2nd, 2012 | #

Cherie – A tip for a preview tour of Fearrington neighborhoods. Go to any of the real estate search sites like realtor.com, trulia, etc and find Fearrington listings of interest. Then go to Google maps with that address and, more often than not, there will be a street tour of the house and neighborhood. The Google camera cars seem to have driven a lot around there.

April 3rd, 2012 | #

To Jill – thank you for your response. We are looking in Venice which seems to have what you are looking for. Have you looked into that area of FL?

April 3rd, 2012 | #

HELP PLEASE! I have been so confused where to live and move to… Lived in upstate NY 41 years and the snow and cold was enough for us. Now lived in Fl. 14 years and the heat and humidity are awful 7 months a year. My husband loves the heat I hate it. My husband would like to stay but I want to leave. One of the problems is I feel so guilty because my husband has a cancer that is not curable and he has to be on chemo drugs all the time and he wants to be near a great cancer center like he is now at Moffitt in Tampa. We can’t afford to live in 2 places and it would be too hard for us to go back and forth every year as I don’t know when he will get sick and he needs to be at a Dr. once a week for treatments. I am thinking were ever it is it needs to have a good cancer center not to far away so my husband and I feel better.
Any ideas out there? Sure could use some HELP!

April 5th, 2012 | #

We are looking to retire next year and will most likely move to the eastern seaboard – we are in CA now and due to the outrageous politics and expenses will not retire here. We have a summer camp in Maine and will most likely pick South Carolina or the Florida gulf coast to live the rest of the year. It will be a lot less expensive and the warm winters are definitely attractive. We are looking for an over 55 gated community so we won’t feel apprehensive about leaving our home for months at a time.

April 7th, 2012 | #

To Kathy-
The answer is obvious- Given your husbands situation, and the fact that he likes it where you are, you need to stay put. He needs to keep his current DRs etc, not be subjected to starting over again with new Drs and Hopsitals etc just so you can be cooler for half the year. You can stay inside in the airconditioning when its hot. You have been there for 14 years, a few more wont hurt.

April 8th, 2012 | #

Hi Alan, Thanks for the reply. I would have to agree with that except. I said once a week and I meant once a month. I also left out my husband can live on the drugs he is on for 10 years. It seems a lot of people live on these drugs very good for up to 10 years. WE ARE HOPING he lives for 20 and they find a cure before that time is up. So with this being said I have sat inside for 14 years 7 months a year all ready and IT IS TAKEN A TOLL ON ME AND MY HEALTH. So if he is willing to move I need to find some where that there is little snow or icy roads to drive on but warm most of the year just not steamy hot. I wish we could afford CA as they have the weather and great cancer hospitals but we can’t. So I am hoping people can tell me where they have lived and if the weather would be good for both of us. We drive 2 hours to his Dr. every month so a 2-3 hour drive to a good cancer hospital would be close enough. But Alan, your right I should be stronger as I do have guilt feelings but if I could here from people and know some places to research we could go there on a vacation and see if we both like it. SO IF ANYONE IS READING THIS…Please let me know. THANKS!

April 8th, 2012 | #

Kathy Check out the Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas area especially all the small towns in the area. Great hospitals and healthcare, affordable housing, no state income tax, hot summers but rest of the year the weather is pretty good. Don’t feel guilty, anyone who has dealt with a serious illness which involves daily alteration of what was once a normal life will tell you not to feel guilty. We have visited Dallas often, once in January and saw flowers blooming while we were walking outside.

April 8th, 2012 | #

Kathy-

check out areas near the best cancer hospitals in the link below.
http://health.usnews.com/best-hospitals/rankings/cancer
Good Luck in finding a place that works for both of you.

April 9th, 2012 | #

To Kathy-I am not a big fan of Texas, besides Dallas is considered Tornado Alley, plus the real estate taxes are HIGH. However, I have heard WONDERFUL things about the Chapel Hill-Raleigh-urham area. It is called The Research Triangle and they are ahead of the curve with medical breakthroughs. My very good friend lives in Chapel Hill and loves it.If you like the beach, North Carolina beaches are a couple hour away; I am not sure it may be a three-hour trip to Myrtle Beach, SC. Good luck in your search. We are looking at South Carolina, so I have been checking out the area.

April 9th, 2012 | #

Hi Kathy- We lived in Florida for 5 years and absolutely could not stand the heat and humidiy. We live in Chattanooga, TN and love it! Great weather, close to excellent healthcare, restaurants and shopping.

April 9th, 2012 | #

Kathy, I agree with diandto. The Chapel Hill, Raleigh, Durham area is a good area to consider.

April 9th, 2012 | #

Thank you all! My husband wants us to check out the 2 areas mentioned. The Chapel Hill area and the Chattanooga, TN area. I have mixed feelings about NC & TN areas because from what I have read it is just as hot and muggy as Fl. Only not as long. Anyone know of an area in NC or TN that is not as muggy? I was thinking out west but we have never lived out west so we are very apprehensive. If anyone thinks of anything else please let me know. Thanks for the support!

April 9th, 2012 | #

Hi LisaJ…What areas around Chattanooga are the nicest? Someone told us about a place called Soddy-Daisy. What do you think? Thanks!

April 9th, 2012 | #

Hi Kathy – I hope you find a wonderful place to share your time together. I just did a google search on “cancer center TN” and found a number of responses. I would thaink that you could do similar research for any state. We have purchased a home in TN at 2,000 feet elevation in the Cumberland Plateau (Fairfield Glade outside of Crossville). Although we have not spent much time there yet, everyone tells us that we will experience weather in the summer 10 degrees cooler than if we were nearer Knoxville (1 hr away) or Nashville (2 hours away), both at a lower elevation. Best of luck to you in your search for the best place.

April 9th, 2012 | #

I’m retiring in June 2013. My wife and I have vacationed on Sanibel Island for almost 25 years at different times of the year. Yes. Summers too! If we can’t live on Sanibel, would love to retire in the Ft. Myers area.

April 9th, 2012 | #

We also live in CA and know we can’t afford to retire here. Although I’ve never been to the Ft. Myers area, I’ve done some research and we hope to make our first visit there in June to look for homes. Any hints on best places to retire in Ft. Myers and Naples area. I’d LOVE to visit Sanibel Island too. Hope your responses will also help Karen find a good place to retire with her husband.

April 9th, 2012 | #

We live in MD – just outside of the Washington DC rat race. Looking forward to retiring at the end of the year and moving to DE in the Spring. Only 2 1/2 hrs from DC but milder climate, lower cost of living, and relaxed lifestyle! Many communities for active adults as well as those restricted to 55 and over. Beaches are always less than an hour away. Good bye 5 AM alarm clock!!

April 10th, 2012 | #

Hi Kathy- Soddy Daisy is beautiful however, it is a little remote. If you want to be closer to town the Harrison, Ooltewah and Hixson area are very nice. Yes, it does get humid in July and August (nothing compared to Florida)We dont have days where you open the door and the heat just “hits you.”

April 10th, 2012 | #

TN may be great; I cannot live there because it is so landlocked; I need to be near the salt air. However, I have heard so many good things about it. I have checked medical facilities in the Carolinas and have been pleased with what I have found. Also, an interesting note…many states have their own health care plans and some really take good care of their residents. You should research this-it is not easy to find info, but when you do it is interesting to compare the things that are offered from one state to the next.

April 10th, 2012 | #

Kathy – Is your spouse retired military (Miffitt seems to hint that)? If so, there are VA hospitals across the country that you could use as a basis. I think Tampa/St. Pete area has much to offer, but agree that summers are a “trial” … but, that “perfect spot” seems to elude us all … more a matter of what compromises one can live with. Besides that, I was trying to think of the site that provided the medical ratings, but Alan had provided the link to USNews. There may be other ratings groups. Also, consider that many major med centers now do “remote medicine” and have satellite centers. Doctors in Central America have access to the best research at JHU, etc. Speaking of Johns Hopkins (Baltimore area), they rountinely are at top of most/all ratings in all med disciplines. Their cancer center is actually north of Baltimore and easier to get to. UPMC in Pittsburgh is another fantastic facility (and Pittsburgh is usually ranked VERY high as a livable city … yeah, I know the OLD ways Pittsburgh was described … it’s improving a LOT!). Boston, truly great medical care, but cold and a young person’s heaven. Then you have Mayo in MN, the cancer center in Dallas-Ft. Worth area, also Seattle, Lots of major cities also have bennies for military (commisaries, PX/BX/etc). If you narrow down to a couple regions, you might ask current doctor(s) for recommendations in that area. I believe that you do have options. You have both spent many years together, thus you have both learned that being a couple, and staying that way, involves compromises reached by talking to each other … you are both doing GREAT! Best wishes to you both.

April 10th, 2012 | #

Mad Monk, Hi…I have a list of all the cancer centers in the country that have treatment for my husbands kind of cancer. There are 41 in the USA. Most states have at least 1 cancer center a couple of states have more some states HAVE none. So I do go by that list when I am looking. MD has 1 but that area is very congested and they get to much snow from what I have read. No, my husband was not in the military and Moffitt is not a VA hospital it is a cancer hospital. We lived in the Tampa area 12 years and that is were Moffitt is. We moved 2 hours north of Tampa just before my husband was diagnosed. Any where you live in Florida will be hot and muggy 6-7 months a year so I really don’t wish to live out the rest of my life in it. That’s why I would love to know where other people have lived and what they think about it. Have a GREAT day! Thanks, Kathy

April 11th, 2012 | #

LisaJ, Hi, if you mean remote like nothing is close by we do not want to live in a remote area as we would like everything to be close by like grocery stores drug stores Dr. office restaurants stuff like that. The closest cancer center to Soddy-Daisy is in Atlanta GA. 2 hours away. We don’t mind a 2 hour drive as long as the area we live in is safe nice has everything close by and not heat extreme and not a lot of snow. From what you are saying there are only 2 months July and Aug. that are really hot and humid? If that is the case I can handle that. Again, I get so confused because I look at web sites like City data and looking at there charts it shows a lot more long hot humid summers in this area of Tenn. Thank you for all and any info. Kathy

Also, Does anyone out there know if when you see the grafts and weather temps stuff and all other info on the, city data web site if it is all up to date and accurate? Here is an example I see that differs. I read in an article about Little Rock that said, WE DON’T GET TORNADOES…City data shows they do and have had them. Something else that differs, LisaJ says an area of TN. Is only really humid in July and Aug. City data shows it very humid like 5 months a year. DOES ANYONE know a good website for me to use that is like city data but better?

April 11th, 2012 | #

Florida weather. Often in July and August, the east coast of Florida is one of the cooler places compared to the east coast. I was often jealous of my parents less than 90 degree weather when the temp in my area was in the high 90s. Of course of you do not like humid, you may not like the rest of the southeast.

April 12th, 2012 | #

Kathy, I made the mistake of comparing weather between Menifee, California and the San Antonio area in Texas by looking at weather.com and speaking to people who live in the SA area. I thought that I would get a very accurate comparison-WRONG! People who live in this area, compare it to the Texas coast, so it isn’t humid in comparision and they still rave about how dry it is…I think it is humid and because we are not near the coast, I cannot stand it. Weather.com’s humidity must not have been accurate-because they seemed to match, but the humidity levels do not match in reality. AS for the weather-nothing is close to California-it is ideal, in my opinion. I would go for a week or so, when conditions are supposed to be the worst and see if you can deal with it. You really don’t know until YOU experience it if it will be good for you-I learned the hard way.

April 12th, 2012 | #

Kathy, try bestplaces.net and click on “Compare Climates.” An easy to use and accurate site.

Jan Cullinane, The New Retirement: The Ultimate Guide to the Rest of Your Life (Rodale)

April 12th, 2012 | #

Hi diandto, that is exactly what I am afraid of. We can’t afford to go to a bunch of places so I have to try really hard to get it down as close as possible before we make a trip to some where. Where do you live? I wish I could aford to live in CA as from what I here the weather is ideal. I am still trying to figure out how the middle class can aford to live any where in CA. Thanks!

April 12th, 2012 | #

Can anyone tell me about Loxahatchee, Florida? It looks like you can buy a home with small acreage for a reasonable price. Any information would be appreciated! Thanks

April 12th, 2012 | #

My husband and I are sick of being cold. We live in Northern California and I know most people think the weather is ideal, but personally I don’t like fall or winter. I don’t like temps below 60 degrees. Some people love the four seasons, but I only like spring and summer with warm temps. CA is not retirement friendly as we are taxed to the extremes out here. Anyone with suggested retirement locations? My husband says no to Arizona–he doesn’t like the desert landscape.

April 12th, 2012 | #

it amazes me that so many of us live in places we dont like (at least anymore) Guess thats one reaon we like our RV- we can just leave if we dont like the weather… the neightbors dog..the neighbor, or just to try someplace new.

April 13th, 2012 | #

Hi Kathy. We live abut 20 miles north of San Antonio. Our home is for sale; we have outgrown it; it is 3000 sqft, but there are only two of us nd it is too much space. We will be headed to Bluffton, SC. Southern California is wonderful, weather wise, but gasoline and groceries are high. Housing prices are not terrible in the Menifee area and real estate taxes are not terrible either, but everything else is pricey.If you can handle the craziness of government (although they ARE trying)-it is nice. Medical centers are great because you are not far from San Diego or even LA.

April 13th, 2012 | #

@Brenda: Although N.Cali has some lovely sites, I agree it can be cold and expensive. Have you ever considered Central Florida — such as just north of Orlando?.. It’s not as hot or congested Orlando or south Florida. There are a combination of Palm Trees and Oak Trees with Spanish Moss, and lots of back roads for beautiful rides in a classic car, motorcycle, or RV. Taxes are low and cost of living is incredibly affordable. Check out Marion County!

April 13th, 2012 | #

Kathy- I agree with Jan. You really need to experience the weather yourself. Many people used to tell me “You will get used to the heat in Florida.” My husband and I never did. Some would say Chattanooga is too cold in the winter. We love it. The weather is very subjective.

April 13th, 2012 | #

My friend and I, both divorced women with no kids except the furry variety, have decided to retire together. I live in NYC. She used to but has been living in the metro DC area for 20 years now. We have known each other for over 40 years. Due to financial considerations, we’re looking at FL. I am very attracted to Sarasota because of the cultural opportunities in the city itself. We’re going there for a week in December to check it out. Anyone have any suggestions? Are there other places that offer a bit of city life that they can recommend. We’re open to GA and NC/SC as well but it seems that housing is more expensive there. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Oh we have 4-5 years before we retire so we can fully explore our options. Thanks!

April 13th, 2012 | #

diandto, we are Probably going to end up in NC somewhere. I would still love to know more about Oregon as it seems the weather there is a lot like CA. but again I have never been there so I have no clue…THANKS!

Brenda, I live near Marion County as Neil pointed out. I have a beautiful home here for sale if you’re interested….Mid Fl. is very nice and it’s pretty. Not tropical looking like the coast. But really safe as we get very little bad weather here. We live on a channel that goes into a lake but with all the drought in Fl. the past couple years we don’t have water in the channel and like all of Fl. all lakes are way down and lots have no water. Homes are low now because of the real estate market and taxes and just about everything is cheap. So if you like hot humid weather 7 months a year and nice weather the other 5 months a year you will love it. At this time you can go all most any where you want to in the state of Fl. And find nice homes very cheap. So just pick out an area you think you would like and you can find lots of nice homes at great price as most are below average cost.

April 13th, 2012 | #

Hi just read the note from Neil S. about Central Florida. We have also been looking at this area and feel it might work for us in retirement. Niel do you live in this area? If so can you give me a bit more input about your likes about Marion County / Ocala. Your help would be great! Thanks Brad

April 13th, 2012 | #

After much consideration, we have moved from Texas to Fort Myers, FL and are purchasing a new, single family home in a 55+ community called Pelican Preserve. We looked extensively at 55+ communities throughout the west coast of FL and always came back to Pelican Preserve as offering the most for the cost. Also, long time residents here are selling their smaller condos/villas and purchasing larger homes here because they like the community, the residents and the amenities so much. There is much to offer in the Ft. Myers area – beaches, Sanibel, good hospitals, performing arts centers, etc. We feel we got all the amenities of where we came from (Dallas/Ft. Worth area) but in a much smaller environment. We are still getting used to the clean air and sea breeze vs the dirty air in the DFW area and allergens galore. Our allergies have completely cleared up after years of suffering so yes, we will have to put up with some warmer months, higher humidity in the summers but that is what we all have AC for…and, it appears our taxes, insurance and utilities will be lower than in Texas…not by much but that is ok as we budgeted the same for cost of living here vs Texas.

April 14th, 2012 | #

Brad- I live 3 miles from SW Ocala. I live in Citrus County. What do you want to know? The area is very congested just like most of Fl. is unless you live way out in the country some where. If you do that you will drive at least 15 mins. to get to a grocery store. Half a year it is worse because the folks from the north come down. Out of the 14 years I have lived here we have had no weather problems with bad storms. But then this area of Fl. has been so dry and in a drought for years so you get very little rain at any time through the year. It is steamy hot 6-7 months a year and is nice most all winter. You just need to wear a sweater most of the time during winter. There is not much to do socially. You can get to Disney in about 1 hour and the ocean is about 2 hours. If you are healthy and don’t need a lot of different kinds of Drs. that’s good as I have not been able to find good Drs. I have had to drive about 1 hour to try and get a good Dr. Most of the time I end up 2 hours away going to Tampa. My neighbor found a Dr. in Gainesville he goes to and that is 1 hour away. I really don’t know what the problem is with finding a good Dr. in this area. From what I here Fl. is not the only state that is so congested. I have read NC SC GA & MD are just as bad. We are trying to find a all around great place to retire also and have had a hard time.

April 14th, 2012 | #

To Kathy: If you’re still considering the Chapel Hill area, I’ll be putting my 1500 sq. ft. townhome on the market this summer in Apex. It’s 20-30 minutes from Chapel Hill and just a bit further to Duke in Durham. Although, summers do get pretty warm and humid here.

April 14th, 2012 | #

I’m looking to retire in Albuquerque,New Mexico. Has anyone one lived there or in northern New Mexico?

April 14th, 2012 | #

So many write to say they hate heat and humidity, traffic congestion, etc. I think we will stick with Maine, lots to do, university towns offer cultural events, beautiful country, not flat and boring, a little more expensive but might be worth retiring in a place we enjoy. As far as the snow in winter, great for curling up with a blanket and a cup of cocoa or snow skiing. Not interested in chasing a little white ball the rest of life or sitting in the hot sun turning into a raisin.

April 14th, 2012 | #

Rory (et al), if one chose between Pacific Northwest & Northeast (mostly WA vs ME) what are your thoughts?

April 15th, 2012 | #

Seattle, Washington vs Maine — hmmmm. Seattle is beautiful, mountains and the ocean, lots of cultural events, great healthcare options, acutally has less rain per year than many parts of midwest. Maine is a beautiful state as well, lots of options there with places like Acadia National Park, the ocean, good healthcare in some of its cities, snowy days with a good book (and warm blanket and cocoa or a little Irish coffee). But it is more expensive to live in these two states, not like Florida without a state income tax. I guess one truly has to decide on a place which is affordable, with good healthcare facilities, a retirement community (55+) vs just a neighborhood, a house vs a condo (what are the HOA fees in the area), churches to attend, family and old friends close to the area and I guess the list goes on. There are a lot of options/choices available but for most of us what is all comes down to is what we can afford, as we all know. We do not want to outlive our money. Speaking of money, almost April 17th!

April 15th, 2012 | #

My husband and I just returned from spending some time in central Florida checking out different locations. Sarasota appears to be ideal for us – its closeness to the beach and its urban setting. We would appreciate any advice or comments on this area, such as neighborhoods, access to activities and meeting people, etc. Thanks in advance for the input.

April 16th, 2012 | #

That’s the big question for us, we still don’t know and we are both 65! We live in New England and want to escape winter, but don’t want/can’t afford two homes, so we are trying to decide where to move to permanently. We’re going to Fl. in May to check it out, we’ve eliminated the SW.

April 16th, 2012 | #

Victoria- Thanks for asking but I have a 2300 sq ft. 4 bedroom home I have to sell here in SW Ocala area first. Anyone want to trade????:lol:

April 16th, 2012 | #

Kathy thanks for the input. We live in the Seattle area cool most of the year and things to do and see. We have good medical care in this area also. I enjoy the sun and living in an area where you could wake up most the time and have sunshine would be a joy to me, way too many gray and wet days here. The thought of exploring beaches and living in a active 55 development sound good to me. We have been to Orlando and done that and enjoyed it and would still be fun but a quite and relaxing living area is still #1 on the list. You said that you have to travel a ways for good medical care. Are the Hospitals and Doctors a problem in Ocala and or Marion County? We enjoy Baseball spring training for that would be great. Thanks again. If anone has more input about Mariom County / Ocala area I would like to hear. thanks Brad

April 16th, 2012 | #

Diane we have friends who live in Sarasota, Fl. They do like it there very much but are looking for a place to spend the summmers as they cannot stand the heat and high humidity in the summer months.

April 16th, 2012 | #

@Brad, Marion County is wonderful. It’s incredibly inexpensive! The medical in south Marion County is fantastic. We have several specialists and facilities in the tri-county area (4 hospitals), as well as a Moffitt Cancer Center and a brand new VA Facility. Marion County is park friendly! It has the most concentration of natural springs and park preserves in the State. Marion County is perfectly located — 55 miles to Daytona, 55 miles to Orlando, and 55 miles to the Gulf! It’s the smart boomers hot spot! Check out all the communities from gated-hoa to no hoa communities! Shop around & compare!

April 17th, 2012 | #

Brad, I see you live in the Seattle area but are bothered by the cool, wet and cloudy days. I had to move away from that area a couple of years ago but loved the outdoors activities that the area provides and thinking about moving back but, to a community on the eastern side of the mountains. Have you ever considered going over to the east side of the mountains, I understand that Walla Walla and Wenatchee, for example is very nice. Not as warm as Florida but I would expect that it is sunnier than Seattle and can provide the four seasons. I would appreciate your point of view about that area.

April 17th, 2012 | #

Thank you all for your help. First I have lived here in the Seattle area for over 25 years. Washington dosn’t have a state tax system. Homes in the Seattle area are more expensive than in Florida as we have found in our trips there. You can buy a much larger home with many up grades for less in Florida. Property tax is about the same. If you are looking for a active 55 area here or east of the Mountains there are a few but nothing like you will experience in Florida or other states in the South East. I do believe that the over all cost of day today living is higher in the Seattle area. I do enjoy being outside and yes you can enjoy the state of Washington it is very beautiful. Six months a year it is gray, cold and wet. If you own a home it can be a bit much,keeping things nice and for me the gray days get to be way too much. Neil thank you for the info. on the Medical in Ocala this is important to all. We are in good health but one never knows. My wife is a retired Veteran and I served in the Navy many years ago. So we plan on using Tri Care if we can in retirement. We have loked at a few 55 areas in Ocala and like “On Top Of The World”. Plan on looking again. Again thank you all for your help in providing information. Brad

April 17th, 2012 | #

Brad, as you see you will find lots of different oppions. We have found medical care here is not as easy to find as in say the Tampa area and not as good. As you have heard 55 miles from hot spots and that takes 1.5 -2 hours to get to each place depending on how close you live to the express way. This is a very busy area with lots of traffic. Butttt I have not found an area in Fl. that does not have a lot of traffic. UNLESS you live out in the country. But then you have to drive 15 minutes to get to a grocery store. If you like more of a country life Ocala is that. Kathy

April 17th, 2012 | #

Humidity question. I know how humid Florida gets as I just spent some time in Orlando in summer 2010. Is the humidity less the closer you get to the coast and is it less humid toward the Atlantic side as opposed to the gulf side? I live in So Cal but don’t plan to retire here (though that is a few years off) due to the high taxes, cost of living, crowds, traffic, etc. Thanks!

April 17th, 2012 | #

Hi Loni, I have made some excursions to Fla in the past 34 years. I have been to many towns, & never found one I wanted to live in due to the heat & humidity, until Nov of 2010. My brother in law had relocated from CT down to Cape Coral in Lee County on the gulf coast. We spent one week there that Nov & I really liked the weather there. Yes it can get humid, but very tolerable compared to the other towns I had been to around the state. We had occasion to spend 2 more weeks there in JULY of 2011 during the early part of the “hot” season. I have been “hooked” on that area of Fla ever since. I have been to Orlando, Ft. Lauderdale, and a few other cities over the years, & swore I would never live there, until discovering the Cape Coral area. I found that the proximity to the gulf waters made this part of FL very comfortable & tolerable compared to all the other areas I have been too. That is not to say that they do not get very hot there or have their share of sudden torrential down pours, but they end quite quickly and shortly afterwards, there is little to no sign that it ever rained. That coupled with the taxing structure of Fl, has me currently seeking a home there right now. I currently live in CT(21 years now), on a fixed income, where the taxes are the worst I have seen in the country, coupled with a very high cost of living in a town with NO SERVICES at all other than Police. Cape Coral doesn’t compare well with a lot of other towns in that area, depending on which web-sites you visit, but it has some of the BEST quality water in the state, most of the homes are well cared for in nice neighborhoods, the taxes are reasonable, and insurance is reasonably priced if you stay out of the flood zones. I am currently seeking a home in that area now, & will own my CT home free & clear in two years, so I will find a Fl home & become a legal resident there, ride out my 2 yrs of mortgage payments in CT, then sell the CT home and put every dollar from that sale into my pocket & either “buy up” in Fl, or “fix up” the home I do buy there to exactly how I like it. Right now in Cape Coral, home prices are very affordable but climbing due to the great prices & the town’s upswing, and are showing steady sales improvements. Good luck in your search, & I hope this info helps you.

April 18th, 2012 | #

Loni, great question I am wondering the exact same thing. We are looking on the Gulf coast but about 5 miles from the ocean. I wonder if you ever get any breezes that far away.

April 18th, 2012 | #

Loni & MKB, No it is not any cooler and the humidity is still the same any where you live in Florida. You may get a little bit of a breeze sometimes living by the ocean but it is still the same. Hot and humid 6-7 months a year. I lived 1/4 mile from the gulf for 10 years and it was never any different feeling than living 2 hours in land where I live now for the past 4 years. Good luck…I’m still trying to find a great 3-4 season place to live.

April 18th, 2012 | #

We are about 15 miles inland from Sanibel/Fort Myers beaches and are very pleasantly surprised at the daily breeze we are getting in our community. We chose not to buy closer to the beaches because of the higher prices of the homes and home insurance. In FL you will wind up in a “flood zone” if you are not careful closer to the beaches. There is traffic but we just went to Sanibel Island on Sunday and it only took us 20 minutes. Humidity can be higher here certain months but we are finding it is good for our skin. Doesn’t feel near as dry as it did in Texas. Using a lot less lotion!

April 18th, 2012 | #

Brad, Have you ever considered being a west coast “snowbird”? Spend late spring -> fall in CA (perhaps renting at different places throughout the state)? If you spend > 6 months in WA (the “nice” months?), you would retain residency for (no) taxes. Though CA is expensive for year-round residence, I would think that great rentals could be found throughout the state (beach, city, inland, mountains, north, south, central, etc. … it’s big enough with great variety). If leaving a home empty for such periods is a concern, there seem to be numerous retirement rental communities from Bellingham to Takoma and other areas). Selling the primary residence would then free up money for renting and travel. Just a question? You may have lived in WA long enough for personal prefereneces and wish to experience a change. Just wondering.

April 18th, 2012 | #

We are doing the same as Kathy. Would really like a great place with 4 seasons, good health care facilities, cultural events, friendly people and a decent cost of living. High heat and humidity are physically draining, heat stroke is no joke. Perhaps, Florida will not be THE place for younger boomers in their 50′s, early 60′s as it was for our parent’s generation. I’m glad it works for some, but just like any other place, it does not work for all. Also want to stay put in one place, not go back and forth seasonally.

April 18th, 2012 | #

M.Monk We plan on having one home and if it works will travel from there.California is too busy for me nice to see as most places.Not for living. Having a home vacant for a number of months any where would be a problem for me and a big job to deal with when you returned. If we owned a home in a gated community I’d feel a bit better and could get someone to care for our yard and home. Looking forward to making our plans and getting settled that should be fist part of 2013. I feel it will be Central Florida Thanks Brad

April 18th, 2012 | #

Toni- are you actually in Fort Myers? We have been looking in the Winter Haven area, but would love to be able to get the Gulf breezes without the high prices! Absolutely love Sanibel.

April 19th, 2012 | #

To JP. If you are going to find a home in Florida and become resident there, why don’t you sell your CT home at that time? No need to “ride out” the final 2 years of payments – you can sell it now. No more payments, or taxes, or utilities/upkeep etc. Doesn’t have to be paid off to sell it. Just a thought.

April 19th, 2012 | #

To Roxanne Allard…

Yes, we are in the Southeast section of Fort Myers – there are many communities around us between Daniels Parkway and Colonial Blvd. along Treeline if you want to look at a map of this area and see where we are in proximity to the beaches. We are at Pelican Preserve.

April 19th, 2012 | #

Cherie,
We lived in Charlotte for 46 years and recently moved to Central Florida for the weather. We are not happy with Central Florida and miss NC and are planning to move back. While Charlotte is a wonderful place it has become a large urban city that is more difficult for retirees. We are looking at the Cary area near the Triangle as well as Pinehurst a New England Village that is known for the Pinehurst Resort as well as many other qualities which is near the Raleigh/ Triangle area but with milder winters. Asheville is a lovely place but is very congested because it has become a retirement mecca and the winters are colder. We also plan to go to the NC area in May to investigate possibilities. Has anyone been to the Pinehurst/Southern Pines area and what do you think?
Linda L.

April 20th, 2012 | #

To Linda,

The Fla market in the Cape Coral area has bottomed out & is on the rebound. The market here in CORRUPTICUT, is going down now, & fast. My home has devalued from $475,000.00 to $300,000.00. So if I ride out the 2 years, hopefully the values will be back up a bit (the value on mine just went up $9,000.00 in 30 days), & every penny I get for it will go right into my pocket, then either “buy up” in Fl, or “fix up” the home I do buy there to exactly how I like it.. In the mean time I still have the property taxes from both CT & Fl as a deduction to offset my federal income taxes.

April 20th, 2012 | #

Thanks everyone. Good info about Florida. It’s still on my list but I’ll also consider coastal areas of GA & SC.

April 20th, 2012 | #

To Linda L – Pinehurst/Southern Pines has so much going for it…Many single-story homes on nice lots at amazing prices, super health care, low crime, and low taxes. A small disadvantage is the high cost of water and a big disadvantage is the limited choice of Medicare Supplement plans in Moore County. But if you can find a plan that suits you, Pinehurst is a great choice.

April 21st, 2012 | #

to Judy,
Please tell me what you know about Medicare Supplement plans or an info in the Pinehurst area. Thanks!
Linda L

April 25th, 2012 | #

To Linda L – Last I checked about a year ago, Moore County, NC had no HMOs or Medicare Advantage plans, but basic Supplement plans are available. A sample of the major carriers for the basic supplement includes Aetna, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Humana, and AARP/United Healthcare. Separate coverage would be needed for prescription drugs. It can get pretty pricey.

April 26th, 2012 | #

Toni, Enjoy your comments about Ft. Myers FL area. We live in CA and are coming down in June to check out the area. How do you like Pelican Preserve?

April 26th, 2012 | #

To JP – Thanks – I get it now. We’re in a similar situation in Western NY – it’s all about timing isn’t it. Best of luck to you.

April 26th, 2012 | #

For Joyce…we love Pelican Preserve. The grounds are so well kept and beautiful. We have been here almost a month now and have joined in a variety of activities, met a lot of nice neighbors, and are settling in awaiting the building of our new home. The staff at Pelican Preserve is outstanding – could not be more helpful. Be sure and tour the model homes and check out the Town Center. Ask for Terry Brown at the sales center when you arrive. She is a wealth of information. If you play golf, check out the Clubhouse. I believe Pelican Preserve offers a 2 night reasonable “get away” stay in one of their villas. You might check that out on their website. Still checking the Fort Myers area out – spent today at the Edison and Ford estates and gardens in the downtown area…been going to Sanibel once a week to spend a day at the beach – great island. Hope you enjoy your stay in June – it will be hotter here then but that is Florida…where are you coming from?

April 27th, 2012 | #

Toni, thanks for the info on Pelican Preserve. So are you renting there while your home is being being built? All the things you are doing sound great. We are coming from Orange Co. Calif.

April 27th, 2012 | #

Charleston has been a good fit. Not retired and still options open. San Luis O. a long shot with cost.
Charleston rocks due to the rich activites ; always so much happening each weekend; Picking is Hard.
Downside, find shade and breeze in July, Aug.; City is great, caution to suburbs only due to more
real slow down southern country fried attitude. Mt. Pleasant is fine. We live here now.

April 28th, 2012 | #

Joyce…yes, we are renting in Pelican Preserve which makes it nice to watch the house being built and also to get familiar with the community.I’m originally from San Diego…you will find the prices here reasonable compared to CA. Most of my family is still in San Diego and can’t believe the amount of house we get here compared to what they are dealing with even after the housing crisis. Look forward to hearing from you when you visit to see how you like the area….

April 28th, 2012 | #

Victoria,
We are looking in the Pinehurst area and will look at Cary and Apex as well. Can you give us info on Apex and Cary? Thanks so much.
Linda L

April 28th, 2012 | #

Still cannot decide between Venice, Englewood or Cape Coral Florida to retire.
Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

April 29th, 2012 | #

We are retiring at Wildflowers in Wallkill New York. It is centrally located, between New Jersey, Pennsylvania NYC and our children. If we want to take a vacation, we will go south for a couple of weeks. We looked in Florida over and over again over a period of 5 years (and we do have family and friends there) – but we did not like the humidity, mold issues, flat identical land all over the place. Wildflowers is a wonderful community in Wallkill – we wer so lucky to find it – …. 283 homes being built… it is more than half sold out – our house which is 1500 square feet started at $236,000.00 and there are homes that go up to 4,000 square feet. The taxes are very low, actually lower than the taxes we would have paid in Florida the Homeowners charges are half of what the HOA charges in Florida were. We have a large club house, indoor pool, tennis courts, etc. Great active community with a social director….The nicest people and we are looking forward to closing on our house this summer. Jackie

April 29th, 2012 | #

Linda L. Apex is a bit smaller than Cary, but both are growing equally. Apex, I don’t believe have any active subdivisions, but Cary Preserve is quite nice if that’s your budget. My previous career had me working quite a bit throughout the neighbor and it is lovely. A couple, that are acquaintances of mine, absolutely love living there, and they are very active in the community. The clubhouse is spectacular, with pool, shuffleboard, tennis and other activities. I wouldn’t say traffic is an issue, having lived previously in the Miami vicinity, although if you’re traveling westbound, towards RTP (Durham/Chapel Hill) during rush hours there is some traffic. The weather can get quite toasty here, which is why I’m preparing to move to the mountains, and the humidity is also a great factor here in the summertime. We’ve already been near 90 this spring, but have a little break currently. The area has a great big family of IBMers here & they seem to enjoy the climate, and that includes my next door neighbors. Cary has more living restrictions, ie number of pets you’re permitted, but again both areas have been enjoyable to live in coming from one that’s moved a bit in life. Great theatre, symphony, ballet, and other music venues here. Durham has the fabulous nearly new DPAC (performing arts center). Cary has great summertime symphony events and other concerts at the Koka Booth Amphitheatre, as does Pinehurst. Golf is plentiful in the area. There are a number of great neighborhood parks and the lakes are beautiful here. Cary even has a super dog park. Hope that helps.

April 29th, 2012 | #

Is anyone is lives in or is planning to move to the gulf region of Florida concerned about the damage to gulf and its inhabitants due to the BP oil disaster? I’ve been seeing some pretty frightening things (like mutant fish) coming out on the Internet. Yet tourism ads on TV gush about how clean the area is now. Hard to believe that the massive amount of oil dumped into the waters wouldn’t cause some long-lasting (or permanent) damage. What are your thoughts?

April 29th, 2012 | #

Victoria,
Thanks so much for the info on Cary. We are still favoring Pinehurst/Southern Pines. However, coming from Charlotte before Florida we really enjoyed the culture and thought Cary may offer that. Where are you going to the mountains? In NC? If you need any info we are very familiar with all of NC mountains and have a daughter there. Let me know if you need anything. We are planning our trip to your area and Pinehurst May 12th(after our grandson’s graduation at Carolina). Thanks again so much!
Linda L

April 29th, 2012 | #

Rented in Port Charlotte, Fl. Feb. & March 2012. First time in Fl. Had great warm weather with a nice breeze. Visited Del Webb’s Stone Creek in Ocala and really loved the community but afraid the winters will be too cool and the summers hotter than southwest Fl. Visited many other communities mostly in southwest Fl. but none were quite as impressive as Stone Creek in the beautiful amenities and development. Did visit his Ave Maria in Naples but that community had no clubhouse, fitness center, etc.., but had broken ground for one due in December 2012. Area seem too far removed from Naples and very few homes. Any suggestions? We want a golfing community that is afforable and my husband seems to like South West Fl. the best.

April 29th, 2012 | #

Linda-take a look at Lely Resort in Naples. They have very nice amenities as well as golf. We are looking at Asheville and would love some names of developments. We want something close to shopping, restaurants,somewhat walkable with a clubhouse/fitness center. Do you have any suggestions on any other areas we should look at in the mountains in NC?

April 30th, 2012 | #

Interested in moving to sc to retire i am a widow and from Long Island Ny are there
Any Long Islanders in SCCL 55+ dont want to make the same mistake i made in 1990 when We moved to CLT NC and we felt very unwelcome returned back to LI NY now a widow looking for a friendly 55 + community ..why SCCL becus my kids live in NC .. Thank you for reply

April 30th, 2012 | #

I’m currently living in No. VA, having moved there for family reasons. Lived in the Seattle area for 30 years and know I don’t want to deal with the cloudy weather there. I’m basically retired after being laid off (try to get a FT job when you’re 62!!). I know I do not want to continue living in VA because of weather (humid/hot in summer) and the horribly high cost of living/housing. I’ve thought of going back to Salt Lake City, where I moved after I was laid off, and loved. I’m now considering Las Vegas, NV because of weather, tax considerations, and the low cost of housing. I have ruled out FL and NC, as I have sisters who live in both places and I have visited extensively and know I can’t stand the summer humidity.

As someone else asked on here, has anyone considered LV? I’m considering it because of low housing, dry weather, and no income taxes, not because of the availability of gambling. As a single woman, making the right choice is important as I can’t financially keep moving around the country and I don’t want to move AGAIN!! Any input from those who have lived there or are considering it would be appreciated!

April 30th, 2012 | #

We visited Las Vegas for 5 nights in the middle of the month last September, 2011. It was 104 degrees and sweltering! Not fun!

April 30th, 2012 | #

Linda L. You’re welcome. No, I’m in search of colder weather, and considering WA or WY. I’ll probably visit during the summer to check out some areas I’m not familiar with.

April 30th, 2012 | #

Looking for suggestions. Need country living where it is animal friendly-would like a small farm. Have thought of FL and SC, but am really concerned about the heat/humidity. On the other hand-don’t want winters like here in VT? Anybody……

May 1st, 2012 | #

Roxanne, Marion County (Central Florida) has small farm properties for sale. The humidity in Marion County isn’t horrible like south of Orlando. Marion County resides in shortest distance to both coasts — it’s what I like to call — the neck-tie of the State. The Reason being is that it has the most hills and curvy backroads in the State, and is about 55 miles from each coasts. Marion County has a daily breeze because of Lake Weir and all the nearby lakes, and the Ocklawaha River, as well as over 35 natural artisan springs. Marion County is very outdoorsy, pet-friendly, and big toy-friendly because of the Ocala National Forest with over 60 miles of ATV terrain and lots of RV camping, and it’s inexpensive to buy a home or build new construction. Marion County is one of Florida’s best kept secrets for active adults! (In my opinion.)

May 1st, 2012 | #

Would like to rent somewhere close to my brother, who lives in Land O’Lakes, Florida. Not sure where to look.

Editors Note: Start by asking your brother for ideas. Then go online and search for “rentals in Land O’Lakes FL”

May 1st, 2012 | #

Betty T.: Yes, I know it’s hot there from May through September. I grew up in SoCal and it can be hot there during those months too, just not continuously. I guess I would be reversing seasons, i.e. in Salt Lake City I was inside during the winter, in LV I would be inside more in the summer. I plan on purchasing a home with a pool if I choose LV. Can’t imagine living there without one, just as I can’t imagine living in NC or FL without one!

May 1st, 2012 | #

Not even the snow will keep me from retiring back to my alma mater, town of Bloomington, IN. It’s one of the most beautiful campuses, and the people in that area are WONDERFUL! The community is exactly that — a community. They still care about each other. There’s plenty of culture thanks to the University; the I.U. sports teams are terrific; lots to do with Monroe Reservoir ten minutes away, and several major cities within driving distance (or flying). Costs are relatively good…

May 21st, 2012 | #

Victoria, You mentioned WY and thought I’d throw out a couple of areas of interest. Sundance is in the Black Hills and very pretty as is Hulett which is in the shadow of Devils Tower. Sheridan is beautiful and backs up to the Big Horn Mountains. Cody is on the east slope of the Rockies and on the eastern access to Yellowstone Park. There is always Jackson Hole but quite expensive and beautiful like no where else. Laramie is also a beautiful area and is the home to the University of Wyoming. Tax wise it’s hard to beat WY unless you go to AK.

May 22nd, 2012 | #

Larry P: Thanks for your input! Cody, Laramie and Sheridan were actually towns on my list to check out over the summer. Jackson would be at the top of my list, having been there before, but I know it would be out of reach cost wise. Sundance or Hulett are not areas I’ve heard of so I’ll check into them. It’s a shame to dedicate your life to a company only to find your income is reduced by half upon your departure, so a simpler lifestyle is in store.

May 22nd, 2012 | #

Victoria – Where in WA state are you considering or visited? Bellingham area is actually on our list to visit/consider. Years ago (30 yrs) we travelled through Wyoming (and OR, WA, ID, MT) and loved them all, but that was 30 years ago … and we were young and crazy in love … now, we are older … but still crazy in love! I am being forced to retire on June 15. We have intentions to travel to Denver to visit our grandson, then head either northwest to Coeur D’Alene, ID to check out the bike trails there, then due east to Glacier Natl. Park (make use of my forever Natl. Park pass!) or just north to Glacier and into Canada. Travelling as cheaply as possible and celebrating the new “feedom” … AND LACK OF SALARY!

May 22nd, 2012 | #

Mad Monk: Funny how being forced into retirement changes your life! How well I know. In WA I’ll be visiting the Newport area which is as close to Coeur D’Alene as I can get. I visited Sandpoint and Coeur D’Alene several years ago and found it to be quite lovely, and as you said quite close to Canada as well as being a nice easy drive. Enjoy your journey!

May 23rd, 2012 | #

If you enjoy Gray, Cool Weather! Western Washington is just your place. Summer and early fall is nice. If you enjoy sun shine not your place to live. The gray days might get to you. Washington is a very beautiful state. No state tax but the sales tax can be high almost 10% in some counties.

May 23rd, 2012 | #