Retirement can be an incredible time as a federal employee. You worked hard for many long years and now it is time for you to enjoy the rewards. But the place that you choose to retire can have a huge impact on your financial situation. The things to consider are housing costs, taxes, weather, and the desirability of the location. Every year the U.S. News & World Report produces a report about the top places to retire in the United States. We will review some of the top 2020 locations here:
Florida
Florida showed up numerous times throughout the rankings. It even has the two top spots with Fort Myers and Sarasota. Florida can be an incredible place to retire because of the warm weather and great scenery. These cities also have lower housing costs than the average American city. Not to mention. Florida does not have state income taxes which can be a big deal in stretching out retirement savings.
Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Lancaster Pennsylvania has ranked very high on the “places to retire” list for many years. Many people enjoy it because it is a good mixture between nature and the city. Many of the farms are located right next to large commercial areas. People are able to enjoy the outdoors while still having access to all the amenities that come with a metro area.
Asheville, North Carolina
Because of its proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this location enjoys tourism as well as an outdoor-friendly culture. With more than 25 museums, art galleries, and studios in the downtown area, this town is a great place for creative types. Despite being a strong tourist attraction, Asheville continues to have a down-to-earth feel. Although the cost of housing is slightly higher than the national average, this may be worth it to you if you love the arts and the hustle and bustle of a touristy town.
Austin, Texas
This location not only showed up as one of the best places to retire but also comes in as number one on the “best places to live” rankings for 2020. Austin offers rich cultural and modern entertainment at all times of the year. With moderate temperatures and a growing metro area, Austin is proving to be a very popular choice for retirees and non-retirees alike. This added demand is pushing home prices upward, but your pocketbook still benefits from no personal or corporate income tax, as well as a low state and local tax rate.
Conclusion:
There is no perfect place to retire for everyone. Every location has its pros and cons and its own personality. It often comes down to what you prefer and what you can afford. If you have a hefty retirement account, you often have more choices and options when choosing a place to retire. Retirement can be an incredible time especially if you have taken the time to plan out your decisions and what makes sense for you.
