The Cheapest Places to Live

Saturday, November 19, 2011

What are the Best States for Retirement?

After exploring the Best States to Live in America we unveiled some really interesting stats and information. One of the things we looked briefly at was the Best States for Retirement in each part of the country. What we discovered, thanks to your feedback, is that a lot of our followers are very interested in learning more about good places to live in retirement. So, while over the years we have touched here and there on the best places for retirees, from various sources, we thought it was time to bring it home and have an updated look at spending your golden years right here in in the good old USA!

Retirement is a time to explore hobbies, pursue passions and live life to its fullest. Researching the best places to retire does not have to be complicated. By narrowing down choices based on interests and financial considerations, the dilemma effectively resolves itself. In an attempt to help make the choice even easier, we have broken down the best places to retire in the United States by region.

The Best State to Retire in the Northeast

If rest and relaxation is your ultimate goal, Maine is the state for you. Voted “Most Relaxing Place to Live”, Maine has plenty of opportunities for recreation. The statewide median home price is listed at $200,000, but bargains can be found in rural areas. Maine also offers a retirement tax break, allowing residents to deduct the first $6000 of pension income on their income taxes.

The Best State to Retire in the Northwest

Known for its outdoor recreation, Pacific coast beaches and wild west atmosphere, the northwest offers many retirement opportunities. Oregon is a sure bet for those who love the outdoors. Oregon’s mild climate means it is possible to enjoy nature almost year-round, while the low cost of living allows for more luxuries. Oregon does not have a sales tax and Social Security and VA benefits are not subject to tax liability.

The Best States to Retire in the Central US

Everything is bigger in Texas, including the bank accounts of retirees. Not only one of the best places to retire, Texas is also one of the cheapest. There is plenty of room to roam and the climate is pleasant. The state is represented by nearly every professional sport and is a frequent tour stop for many popular entertainers. Whether lured in by the big lights of San Antonio or the porch lights of tiny Bailey’s Prairie, Texas is great for retirees.

The Best States to Retire in the Southeast

Florida is one of the most popular retirement destinations in the entire country. With plenty of sand and sun, a median home price of $129,000 (nearly $50,000 below the national average) and hundreds of active senior communities, Florida is naturally associated with retirement. Florida does not have an estate or inheritance tax and its local/state tax burden is one of the lowest in the nation.

The Best States to Retire in the Southwest
California takes the top honors here. Although statistically the most expensive state in the region, California is also the most popular, owing largely to its warm climate and entertainment opportunities. From the sunny beaches of San Diego to the foggy San Francisco Bay, thousands of recent retirees flock to California each year in search of their own American dream.

Choosing the best place to retire isn’t as hard as it seems. With a bit of research and personal exploration, everyone can find their own paradise. From the tiny towns of northern Maine to the sunny beaches of southern California, finding the best place to live is as simple as knowing exactly what you want.

The Best State to Retire in the Northeast

With amazing natural beauty and plenty of recreational opportunities, Maine is among the best places to retire in the United States. A relatively low cost of living, several senior tax breaks and many 55 and over communities makes this a popular retirement destination for the financially conscious retiree. When compared to popular retirement states like California and Florida, Maine is a different breed. The winters here are sometimes harsh with frequent snowstorms and occasional blizzards. Big cities are few and far between, and much of Maine is incredibly rural. However, for the outdoor enthusiast, Maine is a northeastern paradise. Hunting and fishing opportunities abound, making this one of the best states to retire in for the hardy and hale retiree.

Best City to Retire in Main

Maine’s largest city, Portland, is an amazing place to retire. Although small by west coast standards, Portland’s population is approximately 62,000 and growing at a rate of nearly 1.5% per year. Housing an incredible Arts District, Portland is also home to several other named neighborhoods, each with their own culture and entertainment. In 2009, Forbes rated Portland #1 on its list of “America‘s Most Livable Cities” and Bon Apatite Magazine called it “America’s Foodiest Small Town”. Portland is home to several food festivals which pay homage to food and drink from many different cultures. The city also has the largest shopping mall in Maine, as well as the largest hospital. A 30-mile network of biking and walking trails was recently renovated within the city, making it a great place for exercise enthusiasts. A relaxed city atmosphere, plenty to see and do and an active network of seniors with a variety of interests make Portland one of the best cities to retire in Main.

Cheapest Place to Retire in Main

Bangor Maine takes the top honors when considering the financial ramifications of Maine retirement. The small city of 32,000 offers a lot for retirees. With 33% of the population aged 55 or older, Bangor caters to the retirement community. An average three bedroom house costs $165,000, nearly $15,000 less than the national average. With a rich arts community, Bangor is home to several annual art festivals including the American Folk Festival. There are nearly thirty parks within the Bangor city limits, and Arcadia National Park is only a 90-minute drive away. Groceries are 3% lower than the national average and gasoline averages $3.65 per gallon. Healthcare costs are in line with national expenditures. With so much to see and do, it would be easy to mistake Bangor for a larger city; however, the entire area has a small-town feel. Bangor is also close to the beautiful Atlantic coast, allowing for day trips filled with beach combing.

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The state of Maine is a great retirement destination for those who wish to get away from the daily trappings of big city life. Arguably the northeast’s best place to retire, Maine has something for everyone. For those looking for relaxation and beauty, Maine is the best place to live.

Friday, November 18, 2011

The Best State to Retire in the Northwest

Retirement is a time of simplicity, an escape from the rat race of the nine to five world. Finding the best places to retire in the United States is a matter of choosing a location best suited to personal interests and financial considerations. Some of the best states to retire in can be found in the northwest. With a mild climate, plenty of recreational opportunities and several big cities, this region is perfectly suited for any retiree. Our pick for the top spot when it comes to the best place for retirement in the Northwest is Oregon.

Best City to Retire in Oregon

With a small-town feel and plenty of entertainment, Ashland is one of the best cities to retire in Oregon. Home to the world famous Oregon Shakespeare Festival, this city offers plenty of arts and cultural activities, as well as some of the best fine dining restaurants in the state. Ashland is also home to Southern Oregon University and the Osher Learning Institute, a place where retirees can take as many classes as they wish for $100 a semester. In addition, Ashland has many active senior groups who take an interest in everything from politics to art. Although small, with a population of only 20,000, many compare the culture of Ashland to that of San Francisco. Homes here are large and the median home price is just under $300,000. Median family income is upwards of $63,000 a year. Located in the beautiful Rogue Valley, Ashland enjoys very warm summers and beautiful fall colors.

Cheapest Place to Retire in Oregon

Salem is the state capital and Oregon’s second biggest city. Sixty miles from Portland, Salem is clean, safe and inexpensive. With a median home price of $179,000, an average property tax bill of $2400 and a median family income of $58,496, Salem is one of the cheapest places to retire in Oregon. Situated in a lush agricultural area, Salem is home to several farmer’s markets and places a great emphasis on fresh and healthy ingredients. This is reflected in the menus of the city’s many fabulous restaurants. Outdoor recreation includes many opportunities for golfing, biking and hiking. Salem is also home to the Oregon State Fair, and the beautiful Oregon coast is only a 90 minute drive away. Inexpensive and great for seniors, Salem is a wonderful place to experience a relaxing retirement.

The northwest is filled with small towns, big cities and everything in between. Deciding on the best place to retire is a highly personal choice. Those who want peace and quiet in their golden years would do well to stay away from the big cities, while those looking for entertainment and stimulation would be bored to tears in a small town. Finding the best place to live after retirement can be a time consuming process, but the hard work will pay off in the end.

Best State to Retire in the Central US

When considering a retirement destination in the US, Texas may not be on the top of everyone’s list. Surely, Florida and California get the most press. However, Texas is an incredible place to spend the golden years of retirement. With a huge land area, plenty of big cities, small towns and an honest, “down home” feel, Texas is now considered one of the best places to retire in the United States. From the hustle and bustle of San Antonio and Dallas to the peace and quiet of a Texas cattle ranch, there is truly something for everyone here, making Texas one of the best states to retire in.

The Best City to Retire in Texas

Austin, Texas is one of the best cities to retire in Texas. With a population of nearly three quarters of a million people, one-seventh of which are 55 or older, Austin is located in central Texas. With sunshine 60% of the year, average temperature in the summer is 95 degrees, while winter lows range in the mid-50’s. Austin has a thriving music scene, and is known as the “Live Music Capital of the World”. Median income for those 55 and older exceeds $54,000 a year and the median home price is $222,000, although foreclosures in the city can be bought for much less. Austin is home to a thriving visual and performing arts scene. With three man made lakes inside the city limits and many more in the surrounding areas, fishing and water sports are also extremely popular in the area. The Texas hill country to the west of Austin offers even more outdoor recreation. Great for those who desire an urban environment with a rural feel, Austin is a first-class retirement destination.

Introducing Austin Texas

Cheapest Place to Retire in Texas

Lubbock or leave it, Lubbock is the cheapest place to retire in Texas. This northwestern Texas city of 230,000 people has a semi-arid climate with hot summer days, cool summer night and snow in the winter. Median family income here is approximately $42,000 and a typical three bedroom family home can be had for little more than twice that. The housing market in Lubbock is 20% less than the national average, while the total cost of living here is a full 11% below national expenditures. Everything here is cheaper, even utilities, which are 25% below average. Lubbock is the birthplace of musical legend Buddy Holly, Mac Davis and Natalie Maines, and the home of the National Cowboy Symposium. Old west culture is strong here, and the city pays tribute to it with many festivals and expositions. Financial considerations aside, Lubbock is a great place to call home.

When choosing the best place to retire, Texas may not be on your radar. However, with both rural and urban areas, an extremely low cost of living and tons of culture and entertainment, Texas should be high on your list of possible retirement destination candidates. Texas may well be the best place to live or retire in the central United States.

Thursday, November 17, 2011

The Best Places to Live in Georgia

Georgia as a state has a reputation for mixing big city sophistication with laid back southern charm, as characterized by its most well known city, Atlanta.

Georgia is the 24th largest state and the 9th most populous, with the recent trend being an increasing population growth thanks in large part to a favorable economic climate.

Most Livable US Cities

Factors that determine livability for a given geographic location are much like beauty: very much in the eye of the beholder. However, three major factors stand out in most surveys of the best places to live and these include:

Household income, adjusted for cost of living
Level of education achieved by residents (ranked by # of residents over 25 holding a Bachelors degree or higher)
Property crime rates per 1,000 residents (including burglary and auto theft).

A recent survey ranked several cities in Georgia as among the most livable in the US based on the criteria above.

Most Livable Cities In Georgia

Coming in at the top of the list is Berkley Lake in Gwinnett County. Home of one of the few earthen dams still in existence, Berkley Lake was founded in the 1940s. It is located 25 miles southwest of Atlanta, has a population of only 2,144 people; boasts a median income of $139,877: with 66.8 percent of its residents holding a B.A or above. Property crime rates for the city come in at a decent 5.87 percent, making this an ideal location to raise a family.

Ranking second best place to live in Georgia is Dunwoody in Dekalb County. Dunwoody is conveniently located 17 miles southwest from Atlanta making for an easy commute. Its population is 40,619 with a median income level of $82,399. Over 69% of its residents hold a Bachelor’s Degree or higher. The property crime rate is an enviable 3.42 per 1,000 residents. It is considered a safe, convenient bedroom community for those who work and play in Atlanta but don’t want the big city hassles.

Third on the list of best places to live in Georgia is Alpharetta, in Fulton County. With a population of 50,296 and located 28 miles southwest of Atlanta, Alpharetta has a reputation for luxurious living in an environment rich with history. Median income here is $102,617; 62% of the population holds a Bachelor’s Degree or higher and property crime per 1,000 residents is a respectable 5.95 percent.

Ranked fourth best place to live in Georgia is Peachtree City in Fayette County. Population in this city 32 miles northeast of Atlanta is 34,597. Peachtree City has a unique atmosphere, described as an extended golf course where residents choose golf carts for transportation over internal combustion engine cars. The median income in this laid back city is close to $95,000 and 52 percent of its residents hold a Bachelors Degree or better. Property crime here per 1000 population is a low 3.7%.

Fifth ranked is Avondale Estates in DeKalb County. Renowned for its pedestrian friendly atmosphere with small shops and beautiful architecture, the population of 2,815 makes this an ideal small town to raise a family in--and its location a mere 8 miles from Atlanta makes all the amenities of the big city readily available to residents. Median income here is $92,460, 59.7 percent of the populace holds a Bachelor's Degree or higher, and the property crime rates per 1000 is 9.7 percent.

These are but a few of the highest ranked places to live in Georgia offering a diversity of population, great employment opportunities, manageable commutes and spacious housing. Whether you are looking for a new home in a small town or mid-sized city, these locations in Georgia offer gracious living in a scenic state rich in history.

Best State to Retire in the Southeast

When discussing the best places to retire in the United States, Florida is generally the first state that comes to mind. With its great climate, senior tax breaks and low cost of living, Florida is an immensely popular retirement destination. Florida has no state income tax, making it a great place for those on a pension to retire. The high concentration of senior communities coupled with amazing opportunities for entertainment and recreation make Florida one of the best states to retire in the country.

Best City to Retire in Florida

Port Charlotte, Florida was voted CNN Money’s “Best Place to Retire”. The relatively small community of 48,000 boasts an astounding 44% concentration of 55 and older citizens. Average price for a three bedroom, two bath house is under $170,000 and home prices are down nearly 63% in the past five years. Forty percent of Port Charlotte homes are situated on the water, making this an amazing place for those who seek a home with a view. Medical facilities in Port Charlotte are second to none, with a concentration of specialists that would be at home in a city ten times this size. Known for its bird watching, Port Charlotte’s Harbor Preserve State Park is home to hundreds of species of feathered friends, as well as kayaking and hiking. Average low in the winter is 52 degrees and summers are long and warm with temperatures rarely reaching 100. Median family income is $38,406, more than adequate given the retirement tax breaks and lack of state income tax. Port Charlotte, filled with natural beauty and manmade convenience, is one of the best cities to retire in Florida.

The Cheapest Place to Retire in Florida

Bartow, Florida, 40 miles east of Tampa, is one of the cheapest places to retire in the state. As of mid-2009, the median home price stood at just over $100,000, a bargain in any market. Median income for a family is $38,568 a year and about 35% of the population is 55 or older. With just over 17,000 residents, Bartow is a mid-sized town surrounded by big cities. The area prides itself on its distinctive small town feel. The annual 4th of July celebration is a matter of great importance, as is the Cricket Club Halloween Parade and Carnival, a tradition in Bartow since 1942. Less than an hour’s drive from the big city of Tampa, Bartow is content to remain small. Overall, Bartow falls 4% below the national cost of living index. Polk County, in which Bartow resides, has over 550 lakes, making for amazing outdoor recreational activities. For inexpensive living and a great small town environment, Bartow, Florida is a wonderful retirement destination.

Florida is the quintessential retirement location. Its sunny, warm weather, inexpensive cost of living and beautiful panhandle setting make Florida the best place to retire. While everyone is responsible for choosing their own Best Place to Live, Florida has a long and storied candidacy. Its popularity and history only serve to further nominate Florida for the honor.

Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Best State to Retire in the Southwest

California is a land of sea, surf and sun. Second only to Florida in retirement destinations, California has literally hundreds of retirement communities and 55 and older housing developments. From the rural areas of northern California to the popular southern California beach districts, the entire state caters to retirees, making it one of the best places to retire in the United States. A word of caution about California: it is not a cheap place to live. The state is filled with luxury, and this luxury comes at a premium. However, with a bit of research, good financial planning and a willingness to downsize, even this paradise of extravagance can be affordable, making it one of the best states to retire in the country.

The Best City to Retire in California

Nearly half of the population of Palm Springs California is 55 or older, making it an ideal place to retire. At the peak of the housing boom, median home price stood at nearly half a million dollars, but with the decline of the market, a three bedroom, two bath home can now be had for $250,000. Number two on CNN Money’s “Best Places to Retire”, Palm Springs is approximately 100 miles east of Los Angeles and has a total population of 45,000. Its main forms of recreation include horseback riding, golf, tennis and hiking. Median family income is upwards of $43,000.Home to the Palm Springs International Film Festival, Palm Springs also hosts the Palm Springs Follies, in which all performers are over the age of 55. Five-star restaurants, spas and boutiques cater to the very wealthy. Palm Springs is one of the best cities to retire in California for those who desire pampering and relaxation.

The Cheapest Place to Retire in California

As we mentioned before, California is not known as a “cheap” place to live. Popularity often comes with a hefty price tag. However, deals can be found. Lancaster, California, located 70 miles north of Los Angeles, is one of the cheapest places to live in the state. With an overall cost of living index only 4% above the national average, Lancaster is a steal indeed when compared to L.A., which is 38% above average, or San Diego, which is 33% above average. Median family income exceeds $48,000 and the median house price is a relatively low $133,000. Lancaster is home to the California Poppy Festival and is known as a dog-loving community, featuring an annual “Bark at the Park” event for dogs and their humans each October. Close enough to the culture and entertainment of Los Angeles, yet far enough away to avoid paying the high prices of the city, Lancaster is a quiet place, ideal for the retiree who needs to be close to the action without being in the thick of it.

Although priced higher than some of its competitors, California is still a high-ranking candidate for the honor of Best Place to Retire. With a large senior population and plenty of retirement communities, many people consider California to be the best place to live.

Monday, November 14, 2011

What Are the Best US States to Live In?

The best places to live in the United States is a highly subjective topic. It seems everyone has a different opinion, and the answer generally depends on what the individual is looking for. Not only that but when we do try and find objective data it changes so rapidly that the best state in 2010 could easily slip out of the top ten in a matter of a year do to the instability of the US economy these days. Based on a purely economic data, North Dakota and Nebraska appear to top the list. With unemployment rates well below the national average, it seems jobs are in great supply in these two states, leading to the affordability that comes with living in a prosperous place. These aren’t the only great places to live, however. Read on, as we outline the best US states by region.

The Best States to Live in the Northeast

Virginia and Maine are the forerunners in this category. Both of these states hold places in the top 20 list of highest wage earning states and have relatively low unemployment rates when compared to the national average. There is an abundance of beauty there, as well as history, culture and plenty of activities. Virginia is a consistent presence on the “Best Places to Raise Children” list, while Maine is a usual suspect on the “Most Relaxing Places to Live” register.

The Best States to Live in the Northwest

No list of great places to live would be complete without mentioning Oregon and Washington. The natural beauty of the rugged Pacific coastline coupled with the excitement of Portland and Seattle can make for a delicate combination of outdoor activity and big-city living. Portland, often voted one of the “Top 5 Places to Live” has plenty of entertainment, while Oregon as a whole is a leader in “green living.” Washington is typically a wealthy state, regularly falling within the top 10 on the list of “Richest States.”

The Best States to Live in the Central US

The central US is a big area comprised of many great states. Colorado is beautiful and mostly immune to much of the severe weather typical in the central US, while Iowa has low unemployment rates and great schools. Both states have a median income of approximately $50,000 a year. As noted in the beginning of this article, North Dakota and Nebraska are also wonderful places to live in this region.

The Best States to Live in the Southeast

Florida and North Carolina headline this category. Florida has been voted “Best Place to Retire” too many times to count. With a healthy housing market and many activities for seniors and families alike, Florida is an “everyone” state. North Carolina has a much lower tax liability than much of the nation, as well as plenty of outdoor activities and great schools, making this a wonderful place to raise children. Cary, North Carolina was voted the “Safest Place to Live” in the southeast.

The Best States to Live in the Southwest

Arizona and New Mexico are great choices in this region. The dry desert heat of these states makes them some of the healthiest places to live, while the history and culture of the region brings in many creative-minded people. New Mexico is a great place for artists, while Arizona’s housing market, cleanliness and relative safety bring in many families with children.

The best places to live will depend largely on what an individual likes or dislikes, as well as where they are in their lives. A family with children and a single retiree would most certainly disagree on this topic. The United States is so vast and diverse and filled with so many wonderful places to live that coming to an unequivocal and unanimous conclusion would be nearly impossible. It's just another example of why Freedom is the most cherished value of living in the US, everyone is welcome to choose their own “Best Place to Live.”

Editors note: This article is just an overview of what we have found to be acknowledged consistently year after year as the best states to live in. Over the coming weeks we will explore each region in great detail to give you a flavor of why and ow these states gain this recognition. As always we encourage you to leave your comments below - please share with us what you agree with and what you disagree with. Tell us what you believe represent the best states to live in and why.