Ten thousand baby boomers will reach the age of 65 and face retirement every day for the next 19 years, starting in January, 2011. Where will those boomers go for retirement? According to the ASRP, boomers are not moving to conventional retirement sites, such as Florida. In fact, many baby boomers plan to stay in their current homes. Those looking to move are choosing cities that are currently popular with younger generations as well.
Ann Arbor, Michigan
In spite of its cold winters, Ann Arbor is a popular choice for boomers and was called the “Healthiest Hometown” by AARP Magazine. The city has parks, a river shoreline, and a vibrant downtown with many mom-and-pop shops and restaurants. The University of Michigan allows seniors to take any class they wish and the neighborhoods are filled with retired professors. Ann Arbor has double the US average number of doctors per person – 580 per 100 thousand people. The town also sells the most books per capita, and has a wide variety of used bookstores.
Fort Collins
Fort Collins was rated #1 “place to reinvent your life” by the AARP Magazine. The small town is just outside Denver and has easy access to nature and culture. Baby boomers can ski or golf.
Las Cruces, New Mexico
Las Cruces is popular with boomers because the climate is mild and taxes are low. The town is located near the Organ Mountains providing many outdoor recreational opportunities. Symphony and art and sporting events round out the cultural calendar.
Rehoboth Beach, Delaware
Another popular retirement town is Rehoboth Beach. This Delaware shore town is half way from both Philadelphia and Washington, DC. Though cost of living is high here, the taxes are low.
Portland, Oregon
Portland is a popular destination for baby boomers in their retirement years because the outdoor opportunities about. The town is pedestrian and bike friendly, with a light rail system that is easy to navigate.
Greenville, South Carolina
Greenville’s low home prices and warm climate lures many retirees. The town is pedestrian friendly as well.
Sarasota, Florida
Sarasota has long been a popular retirement destination and continues to be so. There are 35 miles of beaches and a wide range of cultural activities, from opera to film.
Tucson, Arizona
Tucson has a dry desert climate and miles of mountain trails for hikers and bikers. The town also offers many bike lanes on thoroughfares. Home prices are below the national average and there is an active art community as well.
Atlanta
Atlanta has been a boom city recently, with many jobs and a thriving culture. The warm winters are a draw for baby boomers as well. Home prices are lower than the U.S. average, and the airport is a hub providing easy access for travel to visit grandchildren.
Montpelier, Vermont
Vermont’s state capital is populated 8,000 people, and provides boomers with a quiet town with a lively art and music community. Skiers enjoy near access to the slopes.
Honolulu, Hawaii
Though it has a high cost of living, the climate of Honolulu draws baby boomers. The city has a strong health care system and the highest life expectancy of any US city.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe’s climate features clean air, high altitude and low humidity. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy retirement here with easy access to hikes and biking. Culture also abounds in Santa Fe, which has an internationally renowned local opera. Company.
Las Vegas
Las Vegas is a popular destination because of its low house prices, low cost of living, and warm climate.
Northampton, Mass
Northampton is a college town that provides intellectual opportunities for baby boomers in their retirement years. The arts abound here, as do recreational activities and easy access to events in Boston.
San Diego, Calif
San Diego is popular with boomers because of its wonderful climate. The city also hosts 15 museums and a vibrant waterfront. Real estate is still high here, however.
International Sites for Retirement
Some boomers are looking for international sites for their retirement. Panama is one choice, because English is spoken frequently here and they have good health care. Costa Rica is an inexpensive choice for some and they also have a good national health care plan.