The 10 Best Affordable Places to Retire

Even if you are just getting ready to head to college for the first time, it is never too early to start thinking about retirement. After all, for most of us, the goal is to have a career that provides us with personal satisfaction while also providing us with the financial security to ultimately enjoy a comfortable retirement. If you are already thinking ahead to retirement, U.S. News has released a list that will be interesting to you – America’s Best Affordable Places to Retire. Here’s a look at the locations that made the list.

Ann Arbor, Michigan

Ann Arbor, Michigan is lively college town that is bustling with art fairs, concerts, sporting events, lectures, museums, courses and other attractions, many of which can be accessed for free. So, if you are looking for a place to retire where you can remain active, this is the place to go. To make it even better, Seniors receive free bus service as well as discounted taxi rides. Despite the fact that it is located only 40 miles west of Detroit, the economy has held up much better in Ann Arbor. Yet, the amenities of the big city are still within easy reach, including the metro airport, which offers nonstop flights to most large cities. The one draw back to Ann Arbor? Winter. The winters in the city can be quite snowy and cold. For those who enjoy the changing seasons, however, this may be viewed as more of a perk than a downside.

Asheville, North Carolina

Located in amidst the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville, North Carolina is at least two hours away from any major city. Nonetheless, the city is filled with cultural activities, many of which are available for free or at low cost. The city is also home to some amazing architecture, including the Spanish Baroque Basilica of St. Lawrence, the Art Deco city hall and the neo-Gothic Jackson Building. Although real estate is a bit pricier in Asheville than in other cities of its size, the lifestyle is quite affordable and the scenery is magnificent.

Aurora, Colorado

Home to seven golf courses, nine colleges and universities and 10,000 acres of parks, Aurora is located right next to Denver, but doesn’t come at the same price. In fact, in 2008, the median home price in Aurora was $138,000 – a full $40,000 less than the much pricier Denver. The Aurora Center for Active Adults is one of the city’s best attractions for retirees, as it offers a variety of activities for free or at a nominal cost. The climate is another major draw, as the sun is shining 300 days out of the year in Aurora and the humidity is low. Despite its large size, Aurora also manages to maintain the “homey” feel that is commonly found in small towns. With its extensive transportation systems and well-maintained bike trails, it is also easy for residents to get around – even if they don’t have a car.

Columbia, South Carolina

Located less than two hours from Charleston and 1 ½ hours from Charlotte, North Carolina, there is no denying that the location of Columbia, South Carolina is one of its greatest draws. With a median home price of just $147,000 and with the average property taxes coming in at a little more than $1,000, Columbia is certainly an affordable place to purchase real estate. Thanks to the University of South Carolina being located in the city as well as several hospital systems and an active senior center, there are also plenty of activities available for residents to enjoy.

Columbus, Ohio

Columbus, Ohio offers abundant green spaces as well as numerous low-cost activities for its residents to enjoy. As the home of Ohio State University as well as the Ohio Theatre, which is the state’s businesses arts venue, retirees can easily keep their minds active and entertained. The Columbus Zoo, which is the top-ranked zoo in the nation, can also be found in the city, as well as numerous sporting venues, museums and more.

Eugene, Oregon

Filled with natural beauty, Eugene, Oregon has a laid-back atmosphere that is perfect for retirees. Recreational opportunities abound, as do opportunities for enjoying cultural attractions. Hiking clubs and other organizations for those who enjoy the outdoors are found in abundance, while summer brings forth a substantial amount of entertainment opportunities as well. Live theater performances, outdoor movies, concerts and marching band provide entertainment on a regular basis. Although the median home price of the area is a bit on the steep side, you can buy a nice two-story home near the RiverRidge Golf Course as well as the Willamette River at a reasonable price o $170,000.

Thanks to the extensive bike trail system, you can ride just about anywhere you want to go. Or, for those who are 65 and older, bus rides are free.

Fort Worth, Texas

The midsize city of Fort Worth, Texas offers the low-key atmosphere of a small town while offering the amenities of a large city. Originally founded as one of the stops along the Chisholm Trail cattle drives, Fort Worth is filled with history and culture. Numerous museums can be enjoyed within the city, such as the Kimbell Art Museum, the Modern Art Museum and even the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame. Locals also report that Fort Worth offers retirees ample opportunities to get involved with the community, largely due to the engaged local government.

Jacksonville, Florida

Old blends with the new in Jacksonville, Florida, where retirees can enjoy access to a whole host of affordable activities throughout the year. Despite the fact that Jacksonville is Florida’s fourth largest metro area, the city doesn’t have the feel of a big city. Compared with the rest of the state, Jacksonville is far less expensive. While the median home price of a home in Fort Lauderdale is $275,900, the median price of a home in Jacksonville is just $150,500. The lower cost is largely due to the fact that Jacksonville has never been a tourist destination, which is just fine by those who live there.

Kansas City, Missouri

Kansas City, Missouri features a lively music scene as well as a level of affordability that is hard to beat. In fact, the median home price is a reasonable $118,000, which is about 20% less than the national average. Free concerts are regularly held in the parks while numerous additional cultural opportunities abound throughout the rest of the city, particularly within the Crossroads Arts District.

Tucson, Arizona

The numerous outdoor offerings available throughout Tucson, Arizona are among the many reasons why many choose to retire in this scenic southern city. Although the temperatures can edge up toward 100 degrees, many of Tucson’s residents see the weather as one of the city’s biggest perks. Furthermore, purchasing a home is fairly inexpensive, particularly for those who are interested in purchasing a manufactured home within one of the city’s many over-55 communities. With most of the homes selling for $15,000 to $30,000, these homes can fit in nearly anybody’s budget.

source: topcolleges.com

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