Where to spend your golden years.
It’s all about lifes challenges and joys, and the need to learn from mistakes.
Its perfect for anyone pondering retirement, with the opportunities it presents, the many decisions it requires.
Look for a part-time job?
Stay in your home or downsize?
Move to a different city?
Retirement came to me suddenly five years ago.
My company offered a buyout so significant it was impossible to pass up.
Financially, I was comfortable, and freelancing allowed me to keep working at my own pace.
We traveledthe long-awaited cruise to Alaska, Maui as often as possible.
And there was more time to pursue passions.
I even joined a group for senior tap dancers.
But in the end, the biggest decisions revolved around where to liveand thats still a work in progress.
The area offers abundant outdoor recreation, including boating, fishing, and swimming on the Shenango River Lake.
Mercer Countys 11 hospitals and 276 health care establishments provide accessible medical care.
Founded in 1804, Johnstown is the largest city in Cambria County, with a population of 17,809.
It is situated about 80 miles from Pittsburgh International Airport.
The median home value in the county is $115,900.
Residents have access to six area hospitals and 266 health care establishments.
Withdrawals from pre-tax accounts are not taxable in Pennsylvania, potentially a significant saving for state residents.
Outdoor activities are plentiful, and Canoe Creek State Park provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and hiking.
Illustration by Bashel Lubarsky
Altoona is about a 2.5-hour drive from Pittsburgh International Airport.
Affordable real estate is available in the Blair County area, with a median home value of $156,700.
With 12 area hospitals and 293 health care establishments, residents have convenient access to medical care as well.
The Buhl Timblin Casino at Buhl Park Farm, located on Lake Julia in Hermitage, Pennsylvania.Courtesy of Visit PA
Like everywhere in Pennsylvania, withdrawals from pre-tax accounts are not subject to state tax.
Today, visitors can enjoy the canal for boating, kayaking, and scenic cruising.
A bike path, part of the 750-mile Empire State Trail, follows much of its route.
Johnstown, Pennsylvania, seen from above.William Sherman/iStockphoto/Getty Images
(Fun fact: New York Citys Madison Square Garden was modeled after the Auditorium.)
The median home value is $171,100.
Health care is provided through the countys 14 hospitals and 379 health care establishments.
A funicular car at the Horseshoe Curve National Historic Landmark in Altoona, Pennsylvania.John M. Chase/Getty Images
And while Social Security income is not taxable, withdrawals from pre-tax accounts are partially taxed.
The Endicott History and Heritage Center tells the stories of those companies with photos and artifacts.
Less than eight miles from Union, Binghamton University provides athletic and cultural events as well as continuing-education opportunities.
Utica, a city in New York state’s Mohawk Valley.iStockphoto/Getty Images
The Bundy Museum of History & Art and the Roberson Museum and Science Center are found in Binghamton.
Ross Park Zoo and Cider Mill Stage are both nearby.
For hiking, waterfalls, forests, and natural beauty, IBM Glen provides 200 acres of outdoor activities.
The city of Union, New York, offers easy access to outdoor activities, including hikes in nearby IBM Glen.Jonathan William Cohen/iStockphoto/Getty Images
Today, the city has a population of 53,821.
The median county home value is $145,100.
Billed as The City of Firsts, its the birthplace of basketball and of Theodor Geisel (a.k.a.
MGM Springfield in Springfield, Massachusetts.Courtesy of MGM Springfield Casino and Hotel
The state of Massachusetts does not tax Social Security income, but withdrawals from pre-tax accounts are taxable.
MGM Springfield has a casino, a cinema, concert venues, restaurants, and a hotel.
Recreational boating is available at Riverfront Park, too.
A covered bridge spans the Saco River in Conway, New Hampshire.Getty Images
The median home value in Carroll County is $348,900, the highest on this list.
The county has two hospitals and 82 health care establishments.
(The countys median home value is $205,600.)
Vineland, New Jerset at sunset.Nick Vendetta/Adobe Stock
Three hospitals and 248 health care organizations serve its residents.
In addition, parks and recreational areas offer golf courses, soccer fields, and walking paths.
Rowan College provides continuing-education opportunities as well as a performing-arts center.
The New Hampshire State House, in the city of Concord.iStockphoto/Getty Images
New Jersey taxes withdrawals from pre-tax accounts, but Social Security income is not taxable.
With a population of 44,769, Concord is a major city in Merrimack County.
Residents enjoy convenient access to health care with 40 hospitals and 252 medical establishments in the county.
Inside the Colonial Theatre, in Pittsfield, Massachusetts.Courtesy of Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism
The median home value in the county is $330,600.
New Hampshire does not tax Social Security income or withdrawals from pre-tax accounts.
Many of the citys homes and buildings are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Illustration by Bashel Lubarsky
Two lakesOnota and Pontoosucare also popular for outdoor activities.
With a population of 42,771, Pittsfield is the largest city in Berkshire County.
Health care is available through five hospitals and 231 medical establishments.
Waycross, a city in Ware County, Georgia.iStockphoto/Getty Images
The median home value in the county is $283,800.
The state of Massachusetts does not tax Social Security income, but withdrawals from pre-tax accounts are taxable.
Theyre also within driving distance of a major airport, across the state border in Jacksonville, Florida.
The seven jets of the JTI fountain in downtown Danville, Virginia reference the city’s Tobacco Warehouse Distirct, which spans seven blocks.iStockphoto/Getty Images
Danvilleshighly anticipated casinoopened at the end of 2024, but it’s still a place with small-town charm.
Litchfield Beach might just be the perfect place to retire.
Another green flag for Litchfield?
Litchfield Beach, in South Carolina.Courtesy of Visit Myrtle Beach
The number of hospitals and health care facilities in the surrounding area27 and 185, respectively.
What else makes Wheeling such a great place to retire?
Its hard to grow bored in a place as multidimensional as the Friendly City.
Homes in a Wheeling, West Virginia neighborhood.Stan Rohrer/Getty Images
As far as affordability goes, lets look at the hard numbers.
Alexandria, Louisiana
Alexandria bills itself as a small Southern city with big-city amenities.
Canoeing, kayaking, and birding are also popular activities.
A crepe myrtle tree in bloom in Natchez, Mississippi.G. Douglass Adams Photography/Courtesy of Visit Natchez
Of course, theSunshine State as a whole is a popular choice for retirees.
Curious as to how youll stay busy in Sebring?
Paducah, Kentucky
Courtesy of Kentucky Department of Tourism
Paducahs biggest claim to fame is its creativity.
Morris the horse, on a street corner in downtown Tryon, North Carolina, references the town’s equestrian roots.Courtesy of VisitNC
In 2013, it was designated aUNESCO Creative Cityfor its rich history of quilt-making.
Its cost of living is also an important factor.
For starters, its a favorite among outdoorsy types.
The city of Alexandria, Louisiana.Getty Images
As far as affordability and other financial implications, Paris has a few things going for it.
Health care is available through 17 hospitals and 416 medical establishments in Bannock County.
Salt Lake City International Airport is about two hours away.
The Sebring International Raceway hosts racing events each year in Florida.Philippe Nanchino/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images
Two hospitals and 24 health care establishments are available to serve county residents.
Downtown has historic buildings, including Victorian homes, as well as restaurants and hiking trails.
With a median home value in the county of $292,700, housing is generally affordable.
Quilts on display at the National Quilt Museum in Paducah, Kentucky.Courtesy of Kentucky Department of Tourism
Social Security is not taxable in Idaho, but the state taxes withdrawals from pre-tax accounts.
Ten hospitals and 462 medical establishments provide health care in the county.
Water sports at Centennial Waterfront Park and Dierkes Lake attract residents and visitors alike.
Paris, Tennessee’s historic downtown area.Getty Images
Residents health care needs are served by six hospitals and 64 medical establishments.
The closest international airports are in Spokane and Kelowna134 and 132 miles away, respectively.
Housing is affordable, with the median home value in Okanogan County at $282,200.
Illustration by Bashel Lubarsky
Plus, the state of Washington does not tax Social Security income or withdrawals from pre-tax accounts.
The agricultural area offers plenty of outdoor activities and a lively calendar of cultural events.
Nearby Conconully State Park and Bridgeport State Park have camping, hiking, boating, and wildlife spotting opportunities.
The L.E. and Thelma E. Stephens Performing Arts Center, on the campus of Idaho State University, in Pocatello.Courtesy of Idaho State University
Snowfall in winter brings skiing and snow sports.
Downtown, theres public art, restaurants, shops, and a lively schedule of events.
Social Security income is partially taxable, and Montana taxes withdrawals from pre-tax accounts.
The Montana Folk Festival, held each summer in Butte, features performances and demonstrations by musicians, dancers, and craftspeople.Courtesy of Montana Office of Tourism and Business Development
Russell Museum of Western art.
The city is just east of Lake Tahoe along the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
The historic downtown features shops, restaurants, breweries, museums, and more.
The Perrine Bridge spans the Snake River just north of Twin Falls, Idaho.Getty Images
Two hospitals and 57 medical establishments provide health care for the countys residents.
Salt Lake City International Airport is a little over 80 miles from Evanston.
Withdrawals from pre-tax accounts are taxable.
The Garfield County Courthouse, on Pomeroy, Washington’s Main Street, was built in 1901.Getty Images
Two hospitals and 58 medical establishments provide health care in the county.
The international airport in Boise is roughly 60 miles away.
Denver International Airport is 120 miles away.
The town on Omak, in eastern Washington state.iStockphoto/Getty Images
Health care is provided through four hospitals and 368 medical establishments in the county.
Pueblo Zoo is home to about 400 animals representing 140 species.
Instead of casinos and five-star hotels, this Vegas offers an incredible culture centered around history and outdoor recreation.
Downtown Great Falls, Montana.Janie Osborne/Travel + Leisure
They may also enjoy seeing Fort Duncan Museum, located inside Fort Duncan Park.
(Note Texas does not impose a state income tax.)
Take the Great Texas Balloon Race, for example.
The Nevada State Museum, in Carson City.Courtesy of Travel Nevada
As far as financial considerations go, the median home value in Gregg County is $185,800.
Texas does not tax Social Security benefits or IRA, 401(k), or pension income.
If youre someone who plans to road-trip through your golden years, though, youre in luck.
A display in the visitor center at Bear River State Park, in Evanston, Wyoming.Courtesy of Wyoming Office of Tourism
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Retiring doesnt have to mean living in a small community or coastal town.
You may also need to factor health care facilities into your moving decision.
Another reason to consider settling down there is affordability.
Signage along the road exiting Ontario, Oregon, a city on the state’s eastern border with Idaho.Joseph Haeberle for The Washington Post via Getty Images
Relocating to Poplar Bluff, which is home to about 16,000 full-time residents, is also fairly affordable.
Within Butler County, the median home value is $138,800, and the monthly taxes are $587.
Missouri doesnt tax Social Security income, but other forms of retirement income are at least partially taxed.
The Pueblo, Colorado Riverwalk, along the Arkansas River.Paul Brady/Getty Images
The village now acts as a museum with artifacts in restored buildings.
Theres also a country club with a golf course.
Adams County has the cheapest real estate on our list; the median home value is $116,900.
Illustration by Bashel Lubarsky
However, it also has the second-highest monthly transportation costs, at $1,455.
Fortunately, Iowa is tax-friendly, since it exempts all types of retirement income, including Social Security.
Two wineries in the city are stops on the scenic Route du Vin wine trail.
The Montezuma Castle building in Las Vegas, New Mexico.Courtesy of New Mexico Tourism Department
Retirees should account for about $577 in monthly food expenses and $1,239 in transportation costs.
There are even more options in Cleveland and Pittsburghabout 75 and 67 miles from Youngstown, respectively.
Seniors can also look forward to an active lifestyle there.
The Route 66 Auto museum in Santa Rosa, New Mexico, houses vintage cars, gas pumps, and other Route 66 memorabilia.Courtesy of New Mexico Tourism Department
Mill Creek MetroParks, which total 5,000 acres, feature hiking trails, golf courses, and multiple lakes.
Its set toundergo major renovationsto enhance its facilities and add a new events pavilion.
And that’s just the beginning when it comes to the town’s cultural offerings.
Hugo Lake, just east of Hugo, Oklahoma.iStockphoto/Getty Images
With eight hospitals and more than 400 health care establishments, Saginaw County also considers senior well-being.
Estimated monthly food costs are $588, and transportation expenses are $1,211.
Homes on Sabine Lake, in Port Arthur, Texas.iStockphoto/Getty Images
A spring day in Eagle Pass, Texas, near the US-Mexico border.iStockphoto/Getty Images
A garden path in Longview, Texas, near the Gregg County Courthouse.Getty Images
Boaters on the Colorado River at Parker, Arizona.David McNew/Getty Images
Taking in a gallery at the Albuquerque Museum.Courtesy of New Mexico Tourism Department
Muskogee, Oklahoma is home to the Five Civilized Tribes Museum, which showcases art from the Cherokee, Chickasaw, Choctaw, Muscogee, and Seminole tribes.Lori Duckworth/Courtesy of Oklahoma Tourism
Lake Havasu City, in Mohave County, Arizona.iStockphoto/Getty Images
Illustration by Bashel Lubarsky
Boating on Lake Francis Case, in Gregory County, South Dakota.Jim West/Alamy
The Toledo, Ohio skyline reflected in the Maumee River.iStockphoto/Getty Images
The Margaret Harwell Art Museum, in Poplar Bluff, Missouri, displays works by local and state talent.Courtesy of Margaret Harwell Art Museum
Reflections of buildings in a window in Corning, Iowa.Michael S. Williamson/The Washington Post via Getty Images
Downtown Farmington, Missiouri.Courtesy of Discover Farmington
A gazebo at Fellows Riverside Gardens, part of Youngstown, Ohio’s Mill Creek MetroParks complex.iStockphoto/Getty Images
Summer fireworks over the Saginaw River in Bay City, Michigan.Craig Sterken/500px/Getty Images
The Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Historic Park Inn Hotel in Mason City, Iowa.,.Josh Noel/Chicago Tribune/Tribune News Service via Getty Images
The Castle Museum in Saginaw, a mid-sized town in Michigan.Getty Images
A view of downtown Muncie, Indiana, which is home to Ball State University.Nicholas J. Klein/Getty Images
