Retirement should be the most freeing time in your life. When you’re no longer restricted by a work schedule, you can enjoy yourself however you choose to, whether that means spending more time with family and friends or exploring the world. However, retirement can also be restrictive in some ways— especially if you have a tight budget and live in an area with a high cost of living. With this in mind, it’s essential to live your retirement in a place that fits your budget comfortably and meets your lifestyle wants and needs.

Here are five of the best places that seniors should consider for retirement, based on their affordability and quality of life. 

1. Boise, ID

The capital of Idaho, the city of Boise is located in South West Idaho, on the Boise River. A thriving cultural center with plenty to do, Boise offers both a metropolitan city feel, as well as having plenty of green spaces to enjoy. It’s also only a 20-minute drive from the beautiful Rocky Mountains and has no taxes on social security — making it a haven for seniors.

2. Charlotte, NC

Charlotte is the most populated city in the state of North Carolina, and boasts more than twenty senior living communities. Assisted living communities are an excellent choice for seniors who have additional needs, but also want to continue enjoying an active social life. Charlotte also has a higher number of physicians per person than the U.S. average, making it an excellent place to live if you have ongoing healthcare needs.

3. Clearwater, FL

Clearwater is frequently voted one of the best beach towns in Florida, with a beautiful coast, and plenty of walkable shopping and restaurant areas to enjoy. It’s also home to a bustling scene of arts and culture, with an annual Jazz Festival and frequent shows from the Performing Arts Center. Plus, according to Zillow, the median home value in Clearwater is $219,600, which is lower than the U.S. average of $231,700, making it affordable for seniors on a fixed income.

4. Athens, GA

Ranked by Forbes as one of the top retirement destinations in the United States, Athens, GA, offers seniors perks such as pleasant weather and a moderate climate, as well as a tax exemption on Social Security income. Homeowner seniors also qualify for additional tax benefits, such as property tax deductions, making Athens an affordable city for retirees.

There is also plenty to do if you want to stay active, from golfing, enjoying shows at the theater, and visiting local events downtown. In addition, the median home value in Athens is $187,300, which is significantly lower than the U.S. average.

5. Green Valley, AZ

Located along the west of the Santa Cruz River, Green Valley, Arizona, is one of the largest retirement communities in the U.S. and consists of over fifty independent Homeowners Associations. Each community offers different amenities, such as the use of recreational facilities like golf courses and social events.

With a pleasant year-round climate and mild warm winters, Green Valley is ideal for seniors who have arthritis and don’t enjoy cold weather. With an average home price of $200,400, Green Valley also offers a very affordable cost of living.

The Bottom Line

Whether you have dreams of retiring by the coast or taking hikes in the Rocky Mountains, there is an affordable city that can offer you all that you need and more — as long as you take time to conduct your research and be realistic with your needs.

_{Sources: https://www.forbes.com/pictures/58e7f6f0a7ea437ada260d5f/athens-georgia/#1174512b41c1, https://www.greatretirementspots.com/short-profiles-boise-idaho.htm, https://charlottesights.com/2019/choosing-to-retire-in-charlotte-nc/, https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/in/Clearwater, https://www.topretirements.com/reviews/Arizona/Green_Valley.html}