Help Me Scout Retirement Locations…. (2 Viewers)

[Zow]

Flagstaff is at the top of my list if I do decide to leave NJ but I wouldn't consider it affordable. Love the idea that you get mild summers and phoenix is just 3 hours away to get away during the winter.

Our housing costs have really spiked in the last five years I've been in Flagstaff. Other costs are pretty reasonable though.

FWIW my wife and I love it and don't plan on ever leaving.

 

[Phil Elliott]

FWIW - may help with the interest to stay away from hot weather...

x.com

x.com

 

[Kanil]

Looking for the wisdom of the FFA. About 5 years out, so this may be a tad early, but would actually like to start visiting recommended areas based on some criteria listed. I haven’t traveled the states much, so looking for input from people who have. Have lived in MA and currently NC. After making a list of things we’d ideally like, wondering if such a place exists that could scratch most everything off our list. So, here goes..

Tax friendly to SS, pensions and 401k
Lowerish COL
Low crime
Mild summers. We hate heat and humidity
Not violent winters. Prefer no minus 20’s but like snow
4 seasons
Close to lakes and fairly close to mountains. Closer the better. Both would be great
Close to hiking/state/national parks and possible 4 wheeling/snow mobile access
Close to good medical facilities
Close to airport
Close to Costco/dining
Water abundance and good drinking quality. No worries about shortage/restriction/drought/tainted
Housing less than ours
Fair car/house insurance rates
Fair utility rates
Not impossible to own a gun

So, if any of you are in such a place, I’d love to hear about it.

Are you a veteran? That can affect taxes is certain locations.

 

[Uruk-Hai]

I think you need two places, then you can jump with the weather.

 

[3C's]

I do not know about tax ramifications, but otherwise, Colorado.

The climate and terrain specs simply don't exist on the East coast. Anywhere that has the mild winters is going to be too hot in the summer. Too humid in the summer and winter. And the places that do fit the bill will be too expensive.

I say Colorado because I know it better than other states out there, but I am sure neighboring states fit the bill.

Colorado Springs is too expensive? Well, good news, the rest of CO has CO weather. Grand Junction has a lot of retirees, pretty much the high desert without pits of hell Arizona summer weather. Winters in CO are much easier than people think, if you aren't right in the mountains, it's almost never bitter cold.

If you haven't been out to that area of the country, you have no idea how nice the weather is out there year round.

Actually the summer weather in the East coast mountain towns like Asheville and Boone is cooler than Denver.

Next 10 days

Boone - 81, 84, 82, 80, 73, 69, 69, 71, 73, 74
Denver - 101, 100, 95, 88, 84, 88, 86, 86, 88, 91

Current Asheville humidity: 84%
Current Denver humidity: 29%

That is crazy hot for Denver tho

Likely due to rain.

 

[BassNBrew]

I do not know about tax ramifications, but otherwise, Colorado.

The climate and terrain specs simply don't exist on the East coast. Anywhere that has the mild winters is going to be too hot in the summer. Too humid in the summer and winter. And the places that do fit the bill will be too expensive.

I say Colorado because I know it better than other states out there, but I am sure neighboring states fit the bill.

Colorado Springs is too expensive? Well, good news, the rest of CO has CO weather. Grand Junction has a lot of retirees, pretty much the high desert without pits of hell Arizona summer weather. Winters in CO are much easier than people think, if you aren't right in the mountains, it's almost never bitter cold.

If you haven't been out to that area of the country, you have no idea how nice the weather is out there year round.

Actually the summer weather in the East coast mountain towns like Asheville and Boone is cooler than Denver.

Next 10 days

Boone - 81, 84, 82, 80, 73, 69, 69, 71, 73, 74
Denver - 101, 100, 95, 88, 84, 88, 86, 86, 88, 91

Current Asheville humidity: 84%
Current Denver humidity: 29%

That is crazy hot for Denver tho

That's why the mountains here are green.

We have kids in Denver and the Springs. I love it, but all of us were shocked how hot CO is. Most of us know Denver from the snow at NFL games. I went to the first Broncos games last year and might as well watched it from inside my oven at home. CO would be a strong retirement consideration, but I would miss the green mountains.

 

[massraider]

CO would be a strong retirement consideration, but I would miss the green mountains.

I have some shocking new developments about CO terrain that may interest you......

 

[massraider]

Likely due to rain.

Check Humidity in Asheville (NC) by Month | Accurate Insights

Get updates on average humidity in Asheville (NC) by month. From the most humid month, September, to the least humid month, April, know everything

weather-and-climate.com

 

[jwb]

What about NC doesn’t check your boxes?

Summer I would think. It's hot/humid. Mid-June to mid-Sept is awful. The rest of the year is fantastic though. Well worth it to me.

 

[3C's]

Likely due to rain.

Check Humidity in Asheville (NC) by Month | Accurate Insights

Get updates on average humidity in Asheville (NC) by month. From the most humid month, September, to the least humid month, April, know everything

weather-and-climate.com

Yes, it's apparently rain forest like (or nearby it) making morning and evening dew points higher, but it seems not (as) hot and humid like other places (here). 80% humidity when it's 75 degrees isn't unbearable. The temp and the "feels like" are usually about the same there according to that site. Taking Monday morning as an example, Asheville is 84 with 88 feels like, here is 90 with 99 feels like. Depends on perspective I guess.

 

[steelerfan1]

I originally thought with your list that you'd already found you perfect spot in NC. But the GPT list has me thinking you should check out Flagstaff. Or Prescott.

Yeah, Flagstaff looked interesting.

And, I'm wondering why Boise isn't on the list. I'm curious which box it doesn't check.

Cost of living.

Interestingly, I found a couple links that say a little different.

Link #1

Link #2

Will read these later today. Thanks!

 

[steelerfan1]

Lake Tahoe area is another spot to consider. It’s been more popular since Covid so it’s a little more crowded now but fits many of your requests.

Have briefly looked at this area too. Believe it out priced us and I can’t remember if heat was an issue or if that was Reno…

 

[steelerfan1]

Live in PA and hated it getting dark at 4:30 in the winter. Also seemed to be cloudy from January until June. The heat in the south sucks, but it's better than wishing away half the year for winter to end.

What part of PA?

 

[steelerfan1]

I do not know about tax ramifications, but otherwise, Colorado.

The climate and terrain specs simply don't exist on the East coast. Anywhere that has the mild winters is going to be too hot in the summer. Too humid in the summer and winter. And the places that do fit the bill will be too expensive.

I say Colorado because I know it better than other states out there, but I am sure neighboring states fit the bill.

Colorado Springs is too expensive? Well, good news, the rest of CO has CO weather. Grand Junction has a lot of retirees, pretty much the high desert without pits of hell Arizona summer weather. Winters in CO are much easier than people think, if you aren't right in the mountains, it's almost never bitter cold.

If you haven't been out to that area of the country, you have no idea how nice the weather is out there year round.

I will research grand junction area more, thanks. CO is one of the states I see that could have a potential water crisis however. Not sure if it click bait or not…

 

[BassNBrew]

Live in PA and hated it getting dark at 4:30 in the winter. Also seemed to be cloudy from January until June. The heat in the south sucks, but it's better than wishing away half the year for winter to end.

What part of PA?

Harrisburg suburb. Boiling Springs right off the Appalachian trail. Once football and hunting season were over it was a long wait until the fish started biting.

 

[HellToupee]

Live in PA and hated it getting dark at 4:30 in the winter. Also seemed to be cloudy from January until June. The heat in the south sucks, but it's better than wishing away half the year for winter to end.

This describes Massachusetts and one of the reasons I’m in Florida now. So far the hot summer isn’t as bad as winters in Mass

 

[steelerfan1]

From ChatGPT

1. Duluth, Minnesota​

• Taxes: Tax-friendly for Social Security and pensions.
• Cost of Living: Affordable housing options.
• Crime Rate: Generally low crime rates.
• Weather: Mild summers; winters are cold but manageable.
• Nature: Close to Lake Superior, hiking trails, and state parks.
• Healthcare: Good medical facilities available.
• Airport: Regional airport with connections.
• Amenities: Costco and dining options nearby.

2. Burlington, Vermont​

• Taxes: Favorable tax treatment for retirement income.
• Cost of Living: Moderate housing costs.
• Crime Rate: Low crime rates in the area.
• Weather: Four seasons with mild summers.
• Nature: Close to Lake Champlain and the Green Mountains.
• Healthcare: Access to quality medical facilities.
• Airport: Burlington International Airport nearby.
• Amenities: Costco and dining options available.

3. Traverse City, Michigan​

• Taxes: Friendly tax policies for retirees.
• Cost of Living: Reasonable housing prices.
• Crime Rate: Low crime rates.
• Weather: Moderate summers; snowy winters.
• Nature: Near Lake Michigan, with access to parks and trails.
• Healthcare: Good local hospitals and clinics.
• Airport: Traverse City Airport for travel.
• Amenities: Costco and local dining options.

4. Coeur d'Alene, Idaho​

• Taxes: Social Security not taxed; favorable for retirees.
• Cost of Living: Relatively low housing costs.
• Crime Rate: Low crime rates overall.
• Weather: Mild summers; winters can be snowy but not extreme.
• Nature: Close to lakes and mountains, excellent hiking.
• Healthcare: Quality medical facilities available.
• Airport: Nearby airport for travel needs.
• Amenities: Costco and various dining options.

5. Flagstaff, Arizona​

• Taxes: Friendly tax environment for retirees.
• Cost of Living: Slightly higher but manageable compared to major cities.
• Crime Rate: Generally low crime rates.
• Weather: Cooler summers; snowy winters.
• Nature: Close to national parks and hiking opportunities.
• Healthcare: Access to good medical facilities.
• Airport: Regional airport nearby.
• Amenities: Costco and various restaurants.

6. Harrisonburg, Virginia​

• Taxes: Favorable tax policies for retirement income.
• Cost of Living: Affordable housing market.
• Crime Rate: Low crime rates.
• Weather: Mild summers; winters are typically moderate.
• Nature: Close to the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah National Park.
• Healthcare: Good access to healthcare facilities.
• Airport: Regional airport within reach.
• Amenities: Costco and dining options available.

Summary​

These locations offer a blend of mild weather, outdoor activities, affordability, and access to amenities. Each has its own unique charm, so consider visiting to see which feels like the best fit for your retirement lifestyle!

My niece is a doctor and was sent to Duluth. Did not want to go there but likes it now. Low crime, Plenty of water, eateries and breweries and a Costco. Long cold winters, they still had snow on the ground late April. Pretty much zero diversity, good or bad that is up to you.

Traverse City is really nice and has all the same as Duluth and more. Lots of wineries. But pretty much the same weather patterns. Also the housing has become very expensive. Water property, or near water property has become almost untouchable last 10 years or so. Then you get away from the lakes and it is basic northern Michigan living..very rural.

Thanks DG. Was toying around looking at areas in western MI last night. Looks like from St. Joseph area up prior to Traverse City have really reasonable pricing but didn’t really research areas thoroughly yet.

 

[steelerfan1]

I do not know about tax ramifications, but otherwise, Colorado.

The climate and terrain specs simply don't exist on the East coast. Anywhere that has the mild winters is going to be too hot in the summer. Too humid in the summer and winter. And the places that do fit the bill will be too expensive.

I say Colorado because I know it better than other states out there, but I am sure neighboring states fit the bill.

Colorado Springs is too expensive? Well, good news, the rest of CO has CO weather. Grand Junction has a lot of retirees, pretty much the high desert without pits of hell Arizona summer weather. Winters in CO are much easier than people think, if you aren't right in the mountains, it's almost never bitter cold.

If you haven't been out to that area of the country, you have no idea how nice the weather is out there year round.

Actually the summer weather in the East coast mountain towns like Asheville and Boone is cooler than Denver.

Next 10 days

Boone - 81, 84, 82, 80, 73, 69, 69, 71, 73, 74
Denver - 101, 100, 95, 88, 84, 88, 86, 86, 88, 91

Yes and Banner Elk usually runs cooler than Boone by a handful of degrees too.

 

[steelerfan1]

From ChatGPT

1. Duluth, Minnesota​

• Taxes: Tax-friendly for Social Security and pensions.
• Cost of Living: Affordable housing options.
• Crime Rate: Generally low crime rates.
• Weather: Mild summers; winters are cold but manageable.
• Nature: Close to Lake Superior, hiking trails, and state parks.
• Healthcare: Good medical facilities available.
• Airport: Regional airport with connections.
• Amenities: Costco and dining options nearby.

2. Burlington, Vermont​

• Taxes: Favorable tax treatment for retirement income.
• Cost of Living: Moderate housing costs.
• Crime Rate: Low crime rates in the area.
• Weather: Four seasons with mild summers.
• Nature: Close to Lake Champlain and the Green Mountains.
• Healthcare: Access to quality medical facilities.
• Airport: Burlington International Airport nearby.
• Amenities: Costco and dining options available.

3. Traverse City, Michigan​

• Taxes: Friendly tax policies for retirees.
• Cost of Living: Reasonable housing prices.
• Crime Rate: Low crime rates.
• Weather: Moderate summers; snowy winters.
• Nature: Near Lake Michigan, with access to parks and trails.
• Healthcare: Good local hospitals and clinics.
• Airport: Traverse City Airport for travel.
• Amenities: Costco and local dining options.

4. Coeur d'Alene, Idaho​

• Taxes: Social Security not taxed; favorable for retirees.
• Cost of Living: Relatively low housing costs.
• Crime Rate: Low crime rates overall.
• Weather: Mild summers; winters can be snowy but not extreme.
• Nature: Close to lakes and mountains, excellent hiking.
• Healthcare: Quality medical facilities available.
• Airport: Nearby airport for travel needs.
• Amenities: Costco and various dining options.

5. Flagstaff, Arizona​

• Taxes: Friendly tax environment for retirees.
• Cost of Living: Slightly higher but manageable compared to major cities.
• Crime Rate: Generally low crime rates.
• Weather: Cooler summers; snowy winters.
• Nature: Close to national parks and hiking opportunities.
• Healthcare: Access to good medical facilities.
• Airport: Regional airport nearby.
• Amenities: Costco and various restaurants.

6. Harrisonburg, Virginia​

• Taxes: Favorable tax policies for retirement income.
• Cost of Living: Affordable housing market.
• Crime Rate: Low crime rates.
• Weather: Mild summers; winters are typically moderate.
• Nature: Close to the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah National Park.
• Healthcare: Good access to healthcare facilities.
• Airport: Regional airport within reach.
• Amenities: Costco and dining options available.

Summary​

These locations offer a blend of mild weather, outdoor activities, affordability, and access to amenities. Each has its own unique charm, so consider visiting to see which feels like the best fit for your retirement lifestyle!

ChatGPT just got fired

Seems like somewhere in the suburbs of Colorado or Idaho would work. Affordability is relative.

Honestly Flagstaff makes sense as a suggestion. Duluth is way too cold in the winter. Coer d'Alene also popped into my head when I read the OP. So, not an entire ChatGPT fail.

I don’t make Woz money. Tons of recommendations for flagstaff. Maybe I’ll have to check more into the COL there. Know I was provided with some links up thread too. Was talking to someone at my chiropractor office and she said that Coer d'Alene was the most beautiful place she’d ever been, but again I believe us to be priced out of there.

 

[steelerfan1]

Looking for the wisdom of the FFA. About 5 years out, so this may be a tad early, but would actually like to start visiting recommended areas based on some criteria listed. I haven’t traveled the states much, so looking for input from people who have. Have lived in MA and currently NC. After making a list of things we’d ideally like, wondering if such a place exists that could scratch most everything off our list. So, here goes..

Tax friendly to SS, pensions and 401k
Lowerish COL
Low crime
Mild summers. We hate heat and humidity
Not violent winters. Prefer no minus 20’s but like snow
4 seasons
Close to lakes and fairly close to mountains. Closer the better. Both would be great
Close to hiking/state/national parks and possible 4 wheeling/snow mobile access
Close to good medical facilities
Close to airport
Close to Costco/dining
Water abundance and good drinking quality. No worries about shortage/restriction/drought/tainted
Housing less than ours
Fair car/house insurance rates
Fair utility rates
Not impossible to own a gun

So, if any of you are in such a place, I’d love to hear about it.

Are you a veteran? That can affect taxes is certain locations.

I am not sir.

 

[The Dreaded Marco]

Ogden, UT checks most of your boxes pretty well.

I live in Layton, UT which is just a few miles south of Ogden so it also fits a lot of what you’re looking for. But Ogden is a cooler city.

 

[steelerfan1]

I think you need two places, then you can jump with the weather.

I don’t make footballguy money, sadly it’s 1 place.

 

[steelerfan1]

What about NC doesn’t check your boxes?

Summer I would think. It's hot/humid. Mid-June to mid-Sept is awful. The rest of the year is fantastic though. Well worth it to me.

Yes, yes it is, but that’s enough for me to want to not deal with it. I’d rather deal with cold than heat any day.

 

[steelerfan1]

Likely due to rain.

Check Humidity in Asheville (NC) by Month | Accurate Insights

Get updates on average humidity in Asheville (NC) by month. From the most humid month, September, to the least humid month, April, know everything

weather-and-climate.com

Yes, it's apparently rain forest like (or nearby it) making morning and evening dew points higher, but it seems not (as) hot and humid like other places (here). 80% humidity when it's 75 degrees isn't unbearable. The temp and the "feels like" are usually about the same there according to that site. Taking Monday morning as an example, Asheville is 84 with 88 feels like, here is 90 with 99 feels like. Depends on perspective I guess.

Not really a big fan of Asheville either.

 

[steelerfan1]

Live in PA and hated it getting dark at 4:30 in the winter. Also seemed to be cloudy from January until June. The heat in the south sucks, but it's better than wishing away half the year for winter to end.

This describes Massachusetts and one of the reasons I’m in Florida now. So far the hot summer isn’t as bad as winters in Mass

Lived in mass and winters didn’t bother me other than the plows coming by and covering what you just shoveled….grrrrr…

 

[steelerfan1]

Ogden, UT checks most of your boxes pretty well.

I live in Layton, UT which is just a few miles south of Ogden so it also fits a lot of what you’re looking for. But Ogden is a cooler city.

Will add this to the list of areas too. Thanks!

 

[Don Quixote]

Maybe Bozeman, Montana? Mountain town. Puts you close to Yellowstone and Glacier National Park. Not sure if winters colder than looking for though.

 

[Desert_Power]

I do not know about tax ramifications, but otherwise, Colorado.

The climate and terrain specs simply don't exist on the East coast. Anywhere that has the mild winters is going to be too hot in the summer. Too humid in the summer and winter. And the places that do fit the bill will be too expensive.

I say Colorado because I know it better than other states out there, but I am sure neighboring states fit the bill.

Colorado Springs is too expensive? Well, good news, the rest of CO has CO weather. Grand Junction has a lot of retirees, pretty much the high desert without pits of hell Arizona summer weather. Winters in CO are much easier than people think, if you aren't right in the mountains, it's almost never bitter cold.

If you haven't been out to that area of the country, you have no idea how nice the weather is out there year round.

Actually the summer weather in the East coast mountain towns like Asheville and Boone is cooler than Denver.

Next 10 days

Boone - 81, 84, 82, 80, 73, 69, 69, 71, 73, 74
Denver - 101, 100, 95, 88, 84, 88, 86, 86, 88, 91

Yes and Banner Elk usually runs cooler than Boone by a handful of degrees too.

Love that part of the state. Assume there just isn't enough to do up there for you (in addition to higher taxes than some other states)?

Maybe something outside of Johnson City which is a good bit larger while getting lower taxes in TN, but still far from Costco.

 

[Desert_Power]

The climate aspect is a tough one to crack. Makes me think Appalachia is your best bet, but there really are not a lot big towns in there. West Virginia could fit a lot of the criteria but all of their cities are at lower elevations.

Easier out west, but pricier. This is an interesting one.

 

[HellToupee]

Live in PA and hated it getting dark at 4:30 in the winter. Also seemed to be cloudy from January until June. The heat in the south sucks, but it's better than wishing away half the year for winter to end.

This describes Massachusetts and one of the reasons I’m in Florida now. So far the hot summer isn’t as bad as winters in Mass

Lived in mass and winters didn’t bother me other than the plows coming by and covering what you just shoveled….grrrrr…

Have you considered NH . Financially it’s friendly towards retirees. We had a place on a small lake and loved . RE taxes is the only downside I can think of.

 

[Joe Bryant]

Looking for the wisdom of the FFA. About 5 years out, so this may be a tad early, but would actually like to start visiting recommended areas based on some criteria listed. I haven’t traveled the states much, so looking for input from people who have. Have lived in MA and currently NC. After making a list of things we’d ideally like, wondering if such a place exists that could scratch most everything off our list. So, here goes..

Tax friendly to SS, pensions and 401k
Lowerish COL
Low crime
Mild summers. We hate heat and humidity
Not violent winters. Prefer no minus 20’s but like snow
4 seasons
Close to lakes and fairly close to mountains. Closer the better. Both would be great
Close to hiking/state/national parks and possible 4 wheeling/snow mobile access
Close to good medical facilities
Close to airport
Close to Costco/dining
Water abundance and good drinking quality. No worries about shortage/restriction/drought/tainted
Housing less than ours
Fair car/house insurance rates
Fair utility rates
Not impossible to own a gun

So, if any of you are in such a place, I’d love to hear about it.

That's basically where I live, East Tennessee.

The only trouble is everyone else has figured that out too so prices aren't what they used to be. But still below lots of places.

Do you live in Pittsburgh now? I could easily live there. Love it.

Love east TN Joe. We frequent Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge frequently. Downside for me is it’s more expensive than where we are now and it’s still really hot and humid in the summer. It’s also a tad more country than the Mrs would like. Not sure about health care? I’m in NC just north of Charlotte.

This makes me a horrible Steeler fan but never been to western Pennsylvania. From me yelling at Alexa for temps in the area it seems like they have it really hot too.

You probably already know but Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge are the very worst parts of TN. Local people go there as often as Brooklyn people go to Times Square. Knoxville and Chattanooga are where it's at.

 

[Joe Bryant]

Likely due to rain.

Check Humidity in Asheville (NC) by Month | Accurate Insights

Get updates on average humidity in Asheville (NC) by month. From the most humid month, September, to the least humid month, April, know everything

weather-and-climate.com

Yes, it's apparently rain forest like (or nearby it) making morning and evening dew points higher, but it seems not (as) hot and humid like other places (here). 80% humidity when it's 75 degrees isn't unbearable. The temp and the "feels like" are usually about the same there according to that site. Taking Monday morning as an example, Asheville is 84 with 88 feels like, here is 90 with 99 feels like. Depends on perspective I guess.

Not really a big fan of Asheville either.

Really? Why not?

I love Asheville.

 

[dkp993]

I originally thought with your list that you'd already found you perfect spot in NC. But the GPT list has me thinking you should check out Flagstaff. Or Prescott.

Yeah, Flagstaff looked interesting.

And, I'm wondering why Boise isn't on the list. I'm curious which box it doesn't check.

Have friends that retired to Prescott. They absolutely love it.

 

[steelerfan1]

I do not know about tax ramifications, but otherwise, Colorado.

The climate and terrain specs simply don't exist on the East coast. Anywhere that has the mild winters is going to be too hot in the summer. Too humid in the summer and winter. And the places that do fit the bill will be too expensive.

I say Colorado because I know it better than other states out there, but I am sure neighboring states fit the bill.

Colorado Springs is too expensive? Well, good news, the rest of CO has CO weather. Grand Junction has a lot of retirees, pretty much the high desert without pits of hell Arizona summer weather. Winters in CO are much easier than people think, if you aren't right in the mountains, it's almost never bitter cold.

If you haven't been out to that area of the country, you have no idea how nice the weather is out there year round.

Actually the summer weather in the East coast mountain towns like Asheville and Boone is cooler than Denver.

Next 10 days

Boone - 81, 84, 82, 80, 73, 69, 69, 71, 73, 74
Denver - 101, 100, 95, 88, 84, 88, 86, 86, 88, 91

Yes and Banner Elk usually runs cooler than Boone by a handful of degrees too.

Love that part of the state. Assume there just isn't enough to do up there for you (in addition to higher taxes than some other states)?

Maybe something outside of Johnson City which is a good bit larger while getting lower taxes in TN, but still far from Costco.

I love Banner Elk, but yes, too far away from important things like good health care, airport. Not enough to do for wife and other than getting a condo which I really wouldn’t want, decent houses are expensive compared to where I am.

 

[steelerfan1]

Maybe Bozeman, Montana? Mountain town. Puts you close to Yellowstone and Glacier National Park. Not sure if winters colder than looking for though.

My unrealistic dream was always MT, but yes too brutal of winters and wind where the pricing has just hurt the locals trying to live there which has impacted medical and the like, at least from the bit I’ve read.

 

[steelerfan1]

The climate aspect is a tough one to crack. Makes me think Appalachia is your best bet, but there really are not a lot big towns in there. West Virginia could fit a lot of the criteria but all of their cities are at lower elevations.

Easier out west, but pricier. This is an interesting one.

Yes it is. It’s almost impossible to get everything. Pick your poison on what you want to sacrifice. That’s why I’ve turned to the endless good folks here to get the ball rolling.

 

[steelerfan1]

Al

Live in PA and hated it getting dark at 4:30 in the winter. Also seemed to be cloudy from January until June. The heat in the south sucks, but it's better than wishing away half the year for winter to end.

This describes Massachusetts and one of the reasons I’m in Florida now. So far the hot summer isn’t as bad as winters in Mass

Lived in mass and winters didn’t bother me other than the plows coming by and covering what you just shoveled….grrrrr…

Have you considered NH . Financially it’s friendly towards retirees. We had a place on a small lake and loved . RE taxes is the only downside I can think of.

Always Loved going to the North Conway area while I was in mass, but figured property taxes up that way would be asinine. No one here has mentioned Maine yet either so I’m assuming same issues?

 

[steelerfan1]

Looking for the wisdom of the FFA. About 5 years out, so this may be a tad early, but would actually like to start visiting recommended areas based on some criteria listed. I haven’t traveled the states much, so looking for input from people who have. Have lived in MA and currently NC. After making a list of things we’d ideally like, wondering if such a place exists that could scratch most everything off our list. So, here goes..

Tax friendly to SS, pensions and 401k
Lowerish COL
Low crime
Mild summers. We hate heat and humidity
Not violent winters. Prefer no minus 20’s but like snow
4 seasons
Close to lakes and fairly close to mountains. Closer the better. Both would be great
Close to hiking/state/national parks and possible 4 wheeling/snow mobile access
Close to good medical facilities
Close to airport
Close to Costco/dining
Water abundance and good drinking quality. No worries about shortage/restriction/drought/tainted
Housing less than ours
Fair car/house insurance rates
Fair utility rates
Not impossible to own a gun

So, if any of you are in such a place, I’d love to hear about it.

That's basically where I live, East Tennessee.

The only trouble is everyone else has figured that out too so prices aren't what they used to be. But still below lots of places.

Do you live in Pittsburgh now? I could easily live there. Love it.

Love east TN Joe. We frequent Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge frequently. Downside for me is it’s more expensive than where we are now and it’s still really hot and humid in the summer. It’s also a tad more country than the Mrs would like. Not sure about health care? I’m in NC just north of Charlotte.

This makes me a horrible Steeler fan but never been to western Pennsylvania. From me yelling at Alexa for temps in the area it seems like they have it really hot too.

You probably already know but Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge are the very worst parts of TN. Local people go there as often as Brooklyn people go to Times Square. Knoxville and Chattanooga are where it's at.

I have heard that it’s the Myrtle Beach of the mountains, but we normally only go into town briefly and have a cabin in the mountains. I will update my initial post adding Chattanooga and Knoxville. Thanks!

 

[steelerfan1]

Last couple time

Likely due to rain.

Check Humidity in Asheville (NC) by Month | Accurate Insights

Get updates on average humidity in Asheville (NC) by month. From the most humid month, September, to the least humid month, April, know everything

weather-and-climate.com

Yes, it's apparently rain forest like (or nearby it) making morning and evening dew points higher, but it seems not (as) hot and humid like other places (here). 80% humidity when it's 75 degrees isn't unbearable. The temp and the "feels like" are usually about the same there according to that site. Taking Monday morning as an example, Asheville is 84 with 88 feels like, here is 90 with 99 feels like. Depends on perspective I guess.

Not really a big fan of Asheville either.

Really? Why not?

I love Asheville.

Last couple times I went it was dirty, fair share of homeless and medical care isn’t too good there other than the VA hospital which wouldn’t apply to me.

 

[steelerfan1]

I

I originally thought with your list that you'd already found you perfect spot in NC. But the GPT list has me thinking you should check out Flagstaff. Or Prescott.

Yeah, Flagstaff looked interesting.

And, I'm wondering why Boise isn't on the list. I'm curious which box it doesn't check.

Have friends that retired to Prescott. They absolutely love it.

I believe @kutta lives there’s too, but believe it’s pretty pricey like flagstaff?

 

[The Dreaded Marco]

The climate aspect is a tough one to crack. Makes me think Appalachia is your best bet, but there really are not a lot big towns in there. West Virginia could fit a lot of the criteria but all of their cities are at lower elevations.

Easier out west, but pricier. This is an interesting one.

Yes it is. It’s almost impossible to get everything. Pick your poison on what you want to sacrifice. That’s why I’ve turned to the endless good folks here to get the ball rolling.

I think Ogden, UT comes kind of close.

Tax friendly to SS, pensions and 401k—Utah is moderately tax friendly There is a flat state income tax of 4.65% that is applied to SS and retirement account withdrawals.

Lowerish COL—Ogden has the 2nd lowest COL in Utah and Utah is above (below?) the national average in that category. On the good side of the average

Low crime— below the national crime rate for similarly sized cities. Not sure how good that is, though.

Mild summers. We hate heat and humidity—the average high temperature for the 3 summer months is 87F. But low humidity. Rarely an uncomfortable heat.

Not violent winters. Prefer no minus 20’s but like snow—the average low temperature for the 3 winter months is 23F. And lots of snow.

4 seasons—definitely

Close to lakes and fairly close to mountains. Closer the better. Both would be great— it’s a 25 minute drive, door to door, from Ogden to Snow Basin ski resort, various great hiking and snowmobiling spots. There’s that big lake just to the west of Ogden. But several reservoirs in the area for better swimming and boating.

Close to hiking/state/national parks and possible 4 wheeling/snow mobile access—see above. And Southern Utah has some of the greatest National parks in the country.

Close to good medical facilities—check. In both Ogden and just 30 minutes south in SLC.

Close to airport—30 minute drive to SLC International airport.

Close to Costco/dining—there’s a Costco in Ogden. Plenty of good dining in town and even more in SLC.

Water abundance and good drinking quality. No worries about shortage/restriction/drought/tainted—not currently an issue. Tough to predict the water issues city by city going forward anywhere in the country.

Housing less than ours. Our house estimate is $435k—-housing cost is 3% higher than the national average. Not knowing the specs of your house I can’t make a better comparison.

Fair car/house insurance rates—auto insurance average is $133/month. Average home insurance is $95/month.

Fair utility rates—6% lower than the national average. An average of $268/month.

Not impossible to own a gun—much to my chagrin, Utah is a permitless open-carry/concealed-carry state. It’s Utah. Not an issue at all.



So, depending on what your house/lot size requirements are, the “housing less than yours” might be the criteria furthest from your desired.



HTH. Good luck!

 

[NutterButter]

I think you need two places, then you can jump with the weather.

You can get away with 1 that has good weather 9 months of the year and then rent other places other 3 months.

 

[steelerfan1]

The climate aspect is a tough one to crack. Makes me think Appalachia is your best bet, but there really are not a lot big towns in there. West Virginia could fit a lot of the criteria but all of their cities are at lower elevations.

Easier out west, but pricier. This is an interesting one.

Yes it is. It’s almost impossible to get everything. Pick your poison on what you want to sacrifice. That’s why I’ve turned to the endless good folks here to get the ball rolling.

I think Ogden, UT comes kind of close.

Tax friendly to SS, pensions and 401k—Utah is moderately tax friendly There is a flat state income tax of 4.65% that is applied to SS and retirement account withdrawals.

Lowerish COL—Ogden has the 2nd lowest COL in Utah and Utah is above (below?) the national average in that category. On the good side of the average

Low crime— below the national crime rate for similarly sized cities. Not sure how good that is, though.

Mild summers. We hate heat and humidity—the average high temperature for the 3 summer months is 87F. But low humidity. Rarely an uncomfortable heat.

Not violent winters. Prefer no minus 20’s but like snow—the average low temperature for the 3 winter months is 23F. And lots of snow.

4 seasons—definitely

Close to lakes and fairly close to mountains. Closer the better. Both would be great— it’s a 25 minute drive, door to door, from Ogden to Snow Basin ski resort, various great hiking and snowmobiling spots. There’s that big lake just to the west of Ogden. But several reservoirs in the area for better swimming and boating.

Close to hiking/state/national parks and possible 4 wheeling/snow mobile access—see above. And Southern Utah has some of the greatest National parks in the country.

Close to good medical facilities—check. In both Ogden and just 30 minutes south in SLC.

Close to airport—30 minute drive to SLC International airport.

Close to Costco/dining—there’s a Costco in Ogden. Plenty of good dining in town and even more in SLC.

Water abundance and good drinking quality. No worries about shortage/restriction/drought/tainted—not currently an issue. Tough to predict the water issues city by city going forward anywhere in the country.

Housing less than ours. Our house estimate is $435k—-housing cost is 3% higher than the national average. Not knowing the specs of your house I can’t make a better comparison.

Fair car/house insurance rates—auto insurance average is $133/month. Average home insurance is $95/month.

Fair utility rates—6% lower than the national average. An average of $268/month.

Not impossible to own a gun—much to my chagrin, Utah is a permitless open-carry/concealed-carry state. It’s Utah. Not an issue at all.



So, depending on what your house/lot size requirements are, the “housing less than yours” might be the criteria furthest from your desired.



HTH. Good luck!

Wow! Thanks Marco! Super helpful. So, we have a 2000 sq foot 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath on .67 acre lot in a great area, minus living down the street from DaBaby

Utilities for us here on a bad month is about 225, so a tad higher where you are, but we are on a well so don’t pay water fees.

What are your property taxes if you don’t mind me asking? We are low at about 2k.

Thanks again! Googling some photos it looks like a beautiful area.

 

[steelerfan1]

I think you need two places, then you can jump with the weather.

You can get away with 1 that has good weather 9 months of the year and then rent other places other 3 months.

Makes sense too and a lot more doable.

 

[Terminalxylem]

From ChatGPT

1. Duluth, Minnesota​

• Taxes: Tax-friendly for Social Security and pensions.
• Cost of Living: Affordable housing options.
• Crime Rate: Generally low crime rates.
• Weather: Mild summers; winters are cold but manageable.
• Nature: Close to Lake Superior, hiking trails, and state parks.
• Healthcare: Good medical facilities available.
• Airport: Regional airport with connections.
• Amenities: Costco and dining options nearby.

2. Burlington, Vermont​

• Taxes: Favorable tax treatment for retirement income.
• Cost of Living: Moderate housing costs.
• Crime Rate: Low crime rates in the area.
• Weather: Four seasons with mild summers.
• Nature: Close to Lake Champlain and the Green Mountains.
• Healthcare: Access to quality medical facilities.
• Airport: Burlington International Airport nearby.
• Amenities: Costco and dining options available.

3. Traverse City, Michigan​

• Taxes: Friendly tax policies for retirees.
• Cost of Living: Reasonable housing prices.
• Crime Rate: Low crime rates.
• Weather: Moderate summers; snowy winters.
• Nature: Near Lake Michigan, with access to parks and trails.
• Healthcare: Good local hospitals and clinics.
• Airport: Traverse City Airport for travel.
• Amenities: Costco and local dining options.

4. Coeur d'Alene, Idaho​

• Taxes: Social Security not taxed; favorable for retirees.
• Cost of Living: Relatively low housing costs.
• Crime Rate: Low crime rates overall.
• Weather: Mild summers; winters can be snowy but not extreme.
• Nature: Close to lakes and mountains, excellent hiking.
• Healthcare: Quality medical facilities available.
• Airport: Nearby airport for travel needs.
• Amenities: Costco and various dining options.

5. Flagstaff, Arizona​

• Taxes: Friendly tax environment for retirees.
• Cost of Living: Slightly higher but manageable compared to major cities.
• Crime Rate: Generally low crime rates.
• Weather: Cooler summers; snowy winters.
• Nature: Close to national parks and hiking opportunities.
• Healthcare: Access to good medical facilities.
• Airport: Regional airport nearby.
• Amenities: Costco and various restaurants.

6. Harrisonburg, Virginia​

• Taxes: Favorable tax policies for retirement income.
• Cost of Living: Affordable housing market.
• Crime Rate: Low crime rates.
• Weather: Mild summers; winters are typically moderate.
• Nature: Close to the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah National Park.
• Healthcare: Good access to healthcare facilities.
• Airport: Regional airport within reach.
• Amenities: Costco and dining options available.

Summary​

These locations offer a blend of mild weather, outdoor activities, affordability, and access to amenities. Each has its own unique charm, so consider visiting to see which feels like the best fit for your retirement lifestyle!

Holy carp, climate change must've really impacted weather for the first three to be considered mild climates.

 

[Terminalxylem]

I originally thought with your list that you'd already found you perfect spot in NC. But the GPT list has me thinking you should check out Flagstaff. Or Prescott.

Granted I only spent a day there, but I don’t think there is a Costco in Flagstaff, but it seemed to tick a lot of the boxes.

Out west I’d also look at the suburbs of Salt Lake. I think most of CO, Boise, Jackson, and Bozeman are priced out now for this sort of thing. Other place may be Taos/Sante Fe, but I think there are probably better choices. There aren’t a lot of cheap places out west with seasons.

I was also thinking Salt Lake.

ETA Ogden good, too.

 

[Terminalxylem]

I do not know about tax ramifications, but otherwise, Colorado.

The climate and terrain specs simply don't exist on the East coast. Anywhere that has the mild winters is going to be too hot in the summer. Too humid in the summer and winter. And the places that do fit the bill will be too expensive.

I say Colorado because I know it better than other states out there, but I am sure neighboring states fit the bill.

Colorado Springs is too expensive? Well, good news, the rest of CO has CO weather. Grand Junction has a lot of retirees, pretty much the high desert without pits of hell Arizona summer weather. Winters in CO are much easier than people think, if you aren't right in the mountains, it's almost never bitter cold.

If you haven't been out to that area of the country, you have no idea how nice the weather is out there year round.

I'll second most of this, but eastern CO is pretty rough. I can't say that everything east of I-25 is a wasteland, but it does kind of feel that way.

Eastern CO is basically a Great Plains state.

 

[The Dreaded Marco]

The climate aspect is a tough one to crack. Makes me think Appalachia is your best bet, but there really are not a lot big towns in there. West Virginia could fit a lot of the criteria but all of their cities are at lower elevations.

Easier out west, but pricier. This is an interesting one.

Yes it is. It’s almost impossible to get everything. Pick your poison on what you want to sacrifice. That’s why I’ve turned to the endless good folks here to get the ball rolling.

I think Ogden, UT comes kind of close.

Tax friendly to SS, pensions and 401k—Utah is moderately tax friendly There is a flat state income tax of 4.65% that is applied to SS and retirement account withdrawals.

Lowerish COL—Ogden has the 2nd lowest COL in Utah and Utah is above (below?) the national average in that category. On the good side of the average

Low crime— below the national crime rate for similarly sized cities. Not sure how good that is, though.

Mild summers. We hate heat and humidity—the average high temperature for the 3 summer months is 87F. But low humidity. Rarely an uncomfortable heat.

Not violent winters. Prefer no minus 20’s but like snow—the average low temperature for the 3 winter months is 23F. And lots of snow.

4 seasons—definitely

Close to lakes and fairly close to mountains. Closer the better. Both would be great— it’s a 25 minute drive, door to door, from Ogden to Snow Basin ski resort, various great hiking and snowmobiling spots. There’s that big lake just to the west of Ogden. But several reservoirs in the area for better swimming and boating.

Close to hiking/state/national parks and possible 4 wheeling/snow mobile access—see above. And Southern Utah has some of the greatest National parks in the country.

Close to good medical facilities—check. In both Ogden and just 30 minutes south in SLC.

Close to airport—30 minute drive to SLC International airport.

Close to Costco/dining—there’s a Costco in Ogden. Plenty of good dining in town and even more in SLC.

Water abundance and good drinking quality. No worries about shortage/restriction/drought/tainted—not currently an issue. Tough to predict the water issues city by city going forward anywhere in the country.

Housing less than ours. Our house estimate is $435k—-housing cost is 3% higher than the national average. Not knowing the specs of your house I can’t make a better comparison.

Fair car/house insurance rates—auto insurance average is $133/month. Average home insurance is $95/month.

Fair utility rates—6% lower than the national average. An average of $268/month.

Not impossible to own a gun—much to my chagrin, Utah is a permitless open-carry/concealed-carry state. It’s Utah. Not an issue at all.



So, depending on what your house/lot size requirements are, the “housing less than yours” might be the criteria furthest from your desired.



HTH. Good luck!

Wow! Thanks Marco! Super helpful. So, we have a 2000 sq foot 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath on .67 acre lot in a great area, minus living down the street from DaBaby

Utilities for us here on a bad month is about 225, so a tad higher where you are, but we are on a well so don’t pay water fees.

What are your property taxes if you don’t mind me asking? We are low at about 2k.

Thanks again! Googling some photos it looks like a beautiful area.

My BIL has a house in east Ogden that is about the same size as yours but on a much smaller lot—-0.2 acres. It’s currently valued at $390,000. 4br, 2 ba. It’s in a great neighborhood abutting the mountains.

His property tax is the same as yours.

 

[NutterButter]

I think you need two places, then you can jump with the weather.

You can get away with 1 that has good weather 9 months of the year and then rent other places other 3 months.

Makes sense too and a lot more doable.

So much easier these days as well with airbnb when you can rent a place for a month at a time for a reasonable price. Ideally youd be within driving distance but you can always use turo to rent a car at a reasonable price as well or just stay in a beach location where everything is walkable

 

[BassNBrew]

I do not know about tax ramifications, but otherwise, Colorado.

The climate and terrain specs simply don't exist on the East coast. Anywhere that has the mild winters is going to be too hot in the summer. Too humid in the summer and winter. And the places that do fit the bill will be too expensive.

I say Colorado because I know it better than other states out there, but I am sure neighboring states fit the bill.

Colorado Springs is too expensive? Well, good news, the rest of CO has CO weather. Grand Junction has a lot of retirees, pretty much the high desert without pits of hell Arizona summer weather. Winters in CO are much easier than people think, if you aren't right in the mountains, it's almost never bitter cold.

If you haven't been out to that area of the country, you have no idea how nice the weather is out there year round.

I'll second most of this, but eastern CO is pretty rough. I can't say that everything east of I-25 is a wasteland, but it does kind of feel that way.

Eastern CO is basically a Great Plains state.

Amazing how you can drive from eastern Kansas to Colorado and gain so much elevation without any major climbs. It's like the whole state of Kansas is tilted to the right.

Kansas topographic map, elevation, terrain

Average elevation: 601 m • Kansas, United States • The western two-thirds of the state, lying in the great central plain of the United States, has a generally flat or undulating surface, while the eastern third has many hills and forests. The land gradually rises from east to west; its altitude...

en-ca.topographic-map.com