Thank you to Scott Page for contributing to our Best Cities to Retire Study.
(1) What factors should be considered when determining the best cities for retirees?
Healthcare, as we age we require more frequent visits to the doctor. Make sure that you target places with the quality health care that you will need, and be sure it is easily accessible. Having to travel long distances to the doctor’s office is not a good idea.
Consider cost of living: Search for Cities that are located in tax-friendly states. The last thing you need is the IRS asking for part of your Social Security check.
Then there’s climate: Never underestimate the power of mother nature. Unless you are going to pay someone to shovel snow or transport you in a four-wheel drive, set your sights on a place you can enjoy a breath of fresh air without freezing to death in the process.
(2) How is a city affected both positively and negatively by the number of retirement age people?
There is strength in numbers. Look for cities with a large population of folks your own age. This will naturally bring more business and services focused on the population and make life much easier.Also, while a large senior population will require the proper infrastructure to accommodate them, it comes with the benefits of more tax revenue, lower crime and a vast wealth of experience and wisdom.
(3) How has retirement lifestyle changed in the last 10, 20, 30 years?
The good news is, people are living longer. The bad news is, how are you going to pay for it? Longevity has increased over the years and so have advances in health care. Seventy is the new 60! Stay active and focus on activities that engage your mind and body since studies reflect doing so will help you live a longer and happier life.
(4) How do retirees affect the job market? Is the retirement age going up a good or bad thing?
This is a great thing. We all know that the younger generation is not interested in actually working for a living, so employers are focusing on hiring active seniors. Not only because they will take the position, but they are more responsible, have great experience, have life-long skills and they are not focused on playing with their phones all day.