Help Me Scout Retirement Locations…. (1 Viewer)

[SFBayDuck]

Never heard this much emphasis on water for a retirement spot. Especially when not talking boating etc

Same - it's an interesting thought/discussion but was never something I was concerned about. Maybe I'm naive and should be.

Count me as another one that has no idea what this water concern is about. I am familiar with drought conditions in CA but didn't figure Colorado or Idaho or ???? had an issue.

The Colorado River largely provides the water for the American (desert) Southwest, and that part of the country has been in a "mega drought" for a few decades. Arizona, (Southern) California, Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, Wyoming and even Mexico all rely on it to varying degrees for their water. The amount of water in Lakes Mead and Powell are down to like 33% of capacity, the lowest ever. Meanwhile, places like Vegas, Phoenix, etc, are some of the faster growing parts of the country. The states are fighting over water rights, there are treaty agreements with Mexico involved, it's kind of a mess. So yes, it's pretty safe to say that part of the country is highly likely to experience water insecurity in the coming decades if something doesn't change.

Put another way - the river that once carved the Grand Canyon no longer even makes it to the Gulf of Mexico.

 

[kutta]

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?

Yes, I do live in Prescott. Well, I have a place there and a place in Phoenix.

I highly recommend looking into Prescott. I like it better than Flagstaff, but I get the allure of Flag too. The weather is a bit cooler in Flagstaff, but that means much colder winters and more snow.

The COL is high in certain areas of Prescott, but there is a lot of affordable housing around too. Low crime, great weather (it's at 5200 ft), clean air, hiking, lakes, mountains all nearby. And it's closer to Phoenix than Flagstaff is. I can get from my front door to my office in north Phoenix in 1 hour and 20 minutes.

The one downside/upside depending on your politics, is that it seems like there are more and more Trumpers there every day. I'm not trying to make this a political thread at all, but it's just something to be aware of.

 

[the moops]

Omaha

No thanks

 

[3C's]

Omaha

Peyton, is that you?

 

[beef]

Wisconsin. The northwoods.

Any particular town I could investigate further?

I live between Tomahawk and Rhinelander. Minocqua is a cool area, and Eagle River is nice too. It’s just soooooo nice up here. Now, I haven’t spent a winter here yet but that’s part of the reason we moved here.

We will see snow again and participate in winter hikes and ice fishing and such. Tons of hiking around here. No mountains per se, but there are a lot of hilly spots if you want to hike some elevation. And the UP of Michigan is very close, so there is that to explore.

And the fishing is world class here.

I absolutely love it here so far. Been here since April.

North of Tomahawk, from Three Lakes to Hayward, on up to Yooper and Superior, that entire area of WI is so beautiful. I've fished so many lakes all over up there. And there's tons of hidden lake fishing gems too.

 

[the moops]

Wisconsin. The northwoods.

Any particular town I could investigate further?

I live between Tomahawk and Rhinelander. Minocqua is a cool area, and Eagle River is nice too. It’s just soooooo nice up here. Now, I haven’t spent a winter here yet but that’s part of the reason we moved here.

We will see snow again and participate in winter hikes and ice fishing and such. Tons of hiking around here. No mountains per se, but there are a lot of hilly spots if you want to hike some elevation. And the UP of Michigan is very close, so there is that to explore.

And the fishing is world class here.

I absolutely love it here so far. Been here since April.

North of Tomahawk, from Three Lakes to Hayward, on up to Yooper and Superior, that entire area of WI is so beautiful. I've fished so many lakes all over up there. And there's tons of hidden lake fishing gems too.

Lovely place to visit, for sure

 

[belljr]

for @ChiefD WI winters suck thread..................

 

[beef]

for @ChiefD WI winters suck thread..................

I hope there's one. Last Winter was pretty much non-existent.

 

[ChiefD]

Wisconsin. The northwoods.

Any particular town I could investigate further?

I live between Tomahawk and Rhinelander. Minocqua is a cool area, and Eagle River is nice too. It’s just soooooo nice up here. Now, I haven’t spent a winter here yet but that’s part of the reason we moved here.

We will see snow again and participate in winter hikes and ice fishing and such. Tons of hiking around here. No mountains per se, but there are a lot of hilly spots if you want to hike some elevation. And the UP of Michigan is very close, so there is that to explore.

And the fishing is world class here.

I absolutely love it here so far. Been here since April.

North of Tomahawk, from Three Lakes to Hayward, on up to Yooper and Superior, that entire area of WI is so beautiful. I've fished so many lakes all over up there. And there's tons of hidden lake fishing gems too.

If you have a good, out of the way Musky or Walleye spot that is not crazy overwhelmed with people help a brother out.

 

[Kuz]

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.

Good call. My sister lives in Golden Colorado & I love going to see her. Great City/State

 

[Sand]

Good beefy thread over at ERN on this subject.

https://www.early-retirement.org/threads/where-to-retire-early.122305/

 

[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?

Yes, I do live in Prescott. Well, I have a place there and a place in Phoenix.

I highly recommend looking into Prescott. I like it better than Flagstaff, but I get the allure of Flag too. The weather is a bit cooler in Flagstaff, but that means much colder winters and more snow.

The COL is high in certain areas of Prescott, but there is a lot of affordable housing around too. Low crime, great weather (it's at 5200 ft), clean air, hiking, lakes, mountains all nearby. And it's closer to Phoenix than Flagstaff is. I can get from my front door to my office in north Phoenix in 1 hour and 20 minutes.

The one downside/upside depending on your politics, is that it seems like there are more and more Trumpers there every day. I'm not trying to make this a political thread at all, but it's just something to be aware of.

Thanks kutta, not saying downside/upside either, just that I’m in that type of area now. Thanks for your insight.

 

[steelerfan1]

Wisconsin. The northwoods.

Any particular town I could investigate further?

I live between Tomahawk and Rhinelander. Minocqua is a cool area, and Eagle River is nice too. It’s just soooooo nice up here. Now, I haven’t spent a winter here yet but that’s part of the reason we moved here.

We will see snow again and participate in winter hikes and ice fishing and such. Tons of hiking around here. No mountains per se, but there are a lot of hilly spots if you want to hike some elevation. And the UP of Michigan is very close, so there is that to explore.

And the fishing is world class here.

I absolutely love it here so far. Been here since April.

North of Tomahawk, from Three Lakes to Hayward, on up to Yooper and Superior, that entire area of WI is so beautiful. I've fished so many lakes all over up there. And there's tons of hidden lake fishing gems too.

Unfortunately I think this area is going to be too far out for the wife. Photos do look nice though.

 

[steelerfan1]

Coeur d'Alene ID

Take a look at Hayden, ID. It's about 20 minutes away from Coeur d'Alene and is cheaper. We are on the same path at you (about 5 years away) and we just bought a 1.25 acre lot near Avondale Lake in Hayden. The historical weather info seems to match what you are looking for as well.

We weren't planning on buying land right now but an opportunity presented to us so we decided to take the chance. Worst case scenario we decide we want to go somewhere else we can sell the land later. But by doing this it cuts down on the back end costs as all we have to do is build now. The land is taken care of.

Gally, just curious, are you from around there now? How did you find it if not? How many times have you been there?

 

[dkp993]

The one downside/upside depending on your politics, is that it seems like there are more and more Trumpers there every day. I'm not trying to make this a political thread at all, but it's just something to be aware of.

Ironically (or maybe not so), my friends that moved there are staunch supporters.

 

[Gally]

Coeur d'Alene ID

Take a look at Hayden, ID. It's about 20 minutes away from Coeur d'Alene and is cheaper. We are on the same path at you (about 5 years away) and we just bought a 1.25 acre lot near Avondale Lake in Hayden. The historical weather info seems to match what you are looking for as well.

We weren't planning on buying land right now but an opportunity presented to us so we decided to take the chance. Worst case scenario we decide we want to go somewhere else we can sell the land later. But by doing this it cuts down on the back end costs as all we have to do is build now. The land is taken care of.

Gally, just curious, are you from around there now? How did you find it if not? How many times have you been there?

I am born and raised in CA. Never lived anywhere else. We have started to do the same plan as you where we are thinking about places we might want to retire to and we also hate the heat. We read about Idaho and it seemed to fit many of the things we are looking for. In addition we had a friend that retired to Hayden, ID which is how we became aware of the area.

Last November my son was recruited by a school in Spokane to play baseball (a D3 school - Whitworth University). We went on a recruitment trip to visit the school and realized that Hayden was about 45 minutes away so we made a plan to go visit our friend for the day. He had bought two lot's in the Avondale Lake area and had built a house on one of the lots. He planned to build a bigger house and shop on the other lot at some point. While we were in the area we looked at this lot and a few other houses for sale in the area.

A few months later we got a call from our friend asking if we were interested in buying the lot because we decided he didn't want to build another project. Since we had seen the lot and knew it was in good shape, had utilities available, and liked the area (for the day we spent there) we decided to pull the trigger and buy it. We figured the worst case scenario would be that we decide that area isn't for us and we just sell in a couple years and likely make some money in the deal. If we end up deciding that's where we want to be then we have the land and now only have the cost to build left. Helps to break up that hit to the bank account.

We liked the area a lot. Seems like a lot of fun areas for outdoor type activities. It doesn't get too hot or too cold for long periods but has all four seasons. It's 45 minutes from a decent airport. The town is about 15K people so not that big (a plus for us). It all seems good on paper. Our plan is to go there at different parts of the year for a couple weeks at a time to really get so see what the seasons are like and to start looking at builders and stuff needed for the house. We have time and at least now we have a bit of a direction to focus on at this time. The wife is already working on a floor plan...hahahah

 

[steelerfan1]

This area sounds just about perfect to me location wise. I like the feeling of being in the middle of nowhere, without being in the middle of nowhere. Will definitely be doing more research here. Thank you!

 

[Gally]

This area sounds just about perfect to me location wise. I like the feeling of being in the middle of nowhere, without being in the middle of nowhere. Will definitely be doing more research here. Thank you!

I think the lot next to us just went in the market....hahahhaha

 

[kutta]

The one downside/upside depending on your politics, is that it seems like there are more and more Trumpers there every day. I'm not trying to make this a political thread at all, but it's just something to be aware of.

Ironically (or maybe not so), my friends that moved there are staunch supporters.

Well they’ll fit right in!!

 

[beef]

Wisconsin. The northwoods.

Any particular town I could investigate further?

I live between Tomahawk and Rhinelander. Minocqua is a cool area, and Eagle River is nice too. It’s just soooooo nice up here. Now, I haven’t spent a winter here yet but that’s part of the reason we moved here.

We will see snow again and participate in winter hikes and ice fishing and such. Tons of hiking around here. No mountains per se, but there are a lot of hilly spots if you want to hike some elevation. And the UP of Michigan is very close, so there is that to explore.

And the fishing is world class here.

I absolutely love it here so far. Been here since April.

North of Tomahawk, from Three Lakes to Hayward, on up to Yooper and Superior, that entire area of WI is so beautiful. I've fished so many lakes all over up there. And there's tons of hidden lake fishing gems too.

If you have a good, out of the way Musky or Walleye spot that is not crazy overwhelmed with people help a brother out.

I pretty much only fish for muskie.

Not the closest to you, but my favorite little gem is Diamond Lake Oneida County. https://apps.dnr.wi.gov/lakes/lakepages/LakeDetail.aspx?wbic=1537100t It's not highly advertised as a muskie lake, but they're there. There's a small canal connecting to Squirrel Lake and muskies swim through to spawn every spring. Not a monster lake, but awesome action. I've caught 44, 42 hybrid, and many other upper 30's-40. It's a hidden gem because the canal is too small to get a big boat through. Kayak, canoe, maybe a 12-14' aluminum low V/jon boat if water is high enough. The public landing in the North Bay is usually really overgrown and hard to find. I purposely bought a small old 14' jon boat to fish this lake.

Next is Upper Gresham Lake. Medium size gem, much easier to get to and has nice ramp for bigger fishing boats. Noth on 51, half way between Arbor Vitae and Manitowish Waters. Kind a ways from you too, but the muskie action on this lake has been phenomenal for me. No big resorts and minimal boat traffic. Plenty of upper 40's muskies. No body fishes it and and drives right by to other lakes. A guide buddy I know introduced me to this one and it's a lake he takes people to often.

Where you are is a little more south than I usually go. I'd probably be fishing Crescent Lake. That's a good fishery and there's some huge muskie and walleye there. Big lake and can have a lot of fishing pressure and boat activity though. Something quieter and people always overlook is the Wisconsin River north of Tomahawk, and really any spot along the way to Rhinelander. I've caught some big lake muskie, and they can fight, but they got another on river muskies. River muskies and smallies are my favorites to fish. And that river is so beautiful. Everyone that goes up north to fish thinks they need to hit lakes and never think about the Wisconsin River. Amazing fishery. Another awesome river for muskie and smallies is the Flambeau River, just south of the dam on the Flowage. Fish it all the way to Park Falls. Maybe the best smallies action anywhere in the state.

 

[DA RAIDERS]

Never heard this much emphasis on water for a retirement spot. Especially when not talking boating etc

I don’t get this either.

 

[ChiefD]

I pretty much only fish for muskie.

Not the closest to you, but my favorite little gem is Diamond Lake Oneida County. https://apps.dnr.wi.gov/lakes/lakepages/LakeDetail.aspx?wbic=1537100t It's not highly advertised as a muskie lake, but they're there. There's a small canal connecting to Squirrel Lake and muskies swim through to spawn every spring. Not a monster lake, but awesome action. I've caught 44, 42 hybrid, and many other upper 30's-40. It's a hidden gem because the canal is too small to get a big boat through. Kayak, canoe, maybe a 12-14' aluminum low V/jon boat if water is high enough. The public landing in the North Bay is usually really overgrown and hard to find. I purposely bought a small old 14' jon boat to fish this lake.

Next is Upper Gresham Lake. Medium size gem, much easier to get to and has nice ramp for bigger fishing boats. Noth on 51, half way between Arbor Vitae and Manitowish Waters. Kind a ways from you too, but the muskie action on this lake has been phenomenal for me. No big resorts and minimal boat traffic. Plenty of upper 40's muskies. No body fishes it and and drives right by to other lakes. A guide buddy I know introduced me to this one and it's a lake he takes people to often.

Where you are is a little more south than I usually go. I'd probably be fishing Crescent Lake. That's a good fishery and there's some huge muskie and walleye there. Big lake and can have a lot of fishing pressure and boat activity though. Something quieter and people always overlook is the Wisconsin River north of Tomahawk, and really any spot along the way to Rhinelander. I've caught some big lake muskie, and they can fight, but they got another on river muskies. River muskies and smallies are my favorites to fish. And that river is so beautiful. Everyone that goes up north to fish thinks they need to hit lakes and never think about the Wisconsin River. Amazing fishery. Another awesome river for muskie and smallies is the Flambeau River, just south of the dam on the Flowage. Fish it all the way to Park Falls. Maybe the best smallies action anywhere in the state.

This is awesome stuff - thanks.

I just fished Crescent this past Saturday. It's about 20 minutes from my house. Caught 12 fish - 1 pike and 11 bass. The pike and the bass came on an orange bucktail while fishing over the cabbage there. Had one muskie follow there, so I'll be back there for sure.

Diamond Lake sounds interesting and my kind of place. I have a small 12' aluminum for when I float the river. So I may try and sneak that in there - thanks for the tip.

As for the river, I've fished a ton below Pine River and floated all the way down to Brokaw. And then again from downtown Wausau upriver. Some awesome fish in that stretch. I've caught probably 8 muskie in that stretch over the last 15 years. Biggest a 47. Not to mention big sturgeon and smallies. Love the river. I'll have to check out that stretch you are talking about. Quick question about that stretch - I also have a 16' Lund with a 40HP Johnson on there. Is there enough depth there for that or is the smaller boat better there?

Will definitely check out Gresham.

I'll definitely be checking out your other suggestions. And if you are ever out and about and want someone to fish with, send me a PM.

 

[Zow]

Never heard this much emphasis on water for a retirement spot. Especially when not talking boating etc

Same - it's an interesting thought/discussion but was never something I was concerned about. Maybe I'm naive and should be.

Count me as another one that has no idea what this water concern is about. I am familiar with drought conditions in CA but didn't figure Colorado or Idaho or ???? had an issue.

The Colorado River largely provides the water for the American (desert) Southwest, and that part of the country has been in a "mega drought" for a few decades. Arizona, (Southern) California, Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, Wyoming and even Mexico all rely on it to varying degrees for their water. The amount of water in Lakes Mead and Powell are down to like 33% of capacity, the lowest ever. Meanwhile, places like Vegas, Phoenix, etc, are some of the faster growing parts of the country. The states are fighting over water rights, there are treaty agreements with Mexico involved, it's kind of a mess. So yes, it's pretty safe to say that part of the country is highly likely to experience water insecurity in the coming decades if something doesn't change.

Put another way - the river that once carved the Grand Canyon no longer even makes it to the Gulf of Mexico.

In Flagstaff, we are fortunate enough to have our own water reservoir so this isn't a major concern for us (except that it may mean more people moving my way).

That said, this has been a big deal for the areas I lived in along the Colorado River in Mohave County. The impact on Lake Mead is/was astounding. I do think it's stagnated a bit fortunately.

My understanding is that SoCal is to blame, but of course that could be Arizona's perspective.

 

[jamny]

I've been in Boise 3 years now and outside of the occasional smoke from fires, mostly coming from out west, I haven't had any issues with air quality. Most days are clear blue skies. Maybe it's because I'm from NY but I haven't even noticed any inversion yet.

 

[Joe Bryant]

I've been in Boise 3 years now and outside of the occasional smoke from fires, mostly coming from out west, I haven't had any issues with air quality. Most days are clear blue skies. Maybe it's because I'm from NY but I haven't even noticed any inversion yet.

That was my experience on multiple visits.

@Rodrigo Duterte can you elaborate on "If air quality is an issue, then take Boise off that list."?

 

[Sand]

In Flagstaff, we are fortunate enough to have our own water reservoir so this isn't a major concern for us (except that it may mean more people moving my way).

That said, this has been a big deal for the areas I lived in along the Colorado River in Mohave County. The impact on Lake Mead is/was astounding. I do think it's stagnated a bit fortunately.

My understanding is that SoCal is to blame, but of course that could be Arizona's perspective.

Mostly the central valley - farming. Add to it the Chinese growing alfalfa in the desert and exporting it back to China to feed their cows (ballsy). I think Arizona just shut that spigot off.

 

[The Dreaded Marco]

In Flagstaff, we are fortunate enough to have our own water reservoir so this isn't a major concern for us (except that it may mean more people moving my way).

That said, this has been a big deal for the areas I lived in along the Colorado River in Mohave County. The impact on Lake Mead is/was astounding. I do think it's stagnated a bit fortunately.

My understanding is that SoCal is to blame, but of course that could be Arizona's perspective.

Add to it the Chinese growing alfalfa in the desert and exporting it back to China to feed their cows (ballsy). I think Arizona just shut that spigot off.

I don't know if it's the Chinese growing the alfalfa here in Utah, but the legislature also is in the process of shutting it down to conserve water as well.

 

[Zow]

The one downside/upside depending on your politics, is that it seems like there are more and more Trumpers there every day. I'm not trying to make this a political thread at all, but it's just something to be aware of.

Ironically (or maybe not so), my friends that moved there are staunch supporters.

Well they’ll fit right in!!

Well, just tell them that they better not have any negative run ins with the law. Yavapai County is by far the most unreasonably strict prosecuting agency in what is already arguably the strictest/toughest state in the country on crime.

But if they do, I may or may not have a line on the best defense attorney in the area!

 

[cosjobs]

Maybe Colorado Springs as well. I don’t know what the real estate prices are there, but the hour (when there isn’t traffic) to Denver wasn’t the worst.

Living in the world headquarters of Focus n the family and the Air Force Academy made it unpleasant for me.

 

[cosjobs]

My list was much like yours, when I decided to relocate last year. We ended up ion Avon/Canton Connecticut. Weather great, water great and sustainable, Taxes and home prices aren't bargains, but not bad, Proximity of about 2 hours to NYC or Boston is nice to have, with the Berkshires an hour away and the hudson Valley the same is also good. My main problem with New England is adjusting to the taciturnity of it citizens, but I'm adapting, if not conforming.

 

[Judge Smails]

I've been in Boise 3 years now and outside of the occasional smoke from fires, mostly coming from out west, I haven't had any issues with air quality. Most days are clear blue skies. Maybe it's because I'm from NY but I haven't even noticed any inversion yet.

My friend lives in Star. Loves it. Came from Long Beach but chose Star for retirement. Visiting there in Oct for his big birthday. Tons of outdoor activities, seasons, good golf etc

 

[steelerfan1]

This area sounds just about perfect to me location wise. I like the feeling of being in the middle of nowhere, without being in the middle of nowhere. Will definitely be doing more research here. Thank you!

I think the lot next to us just went in the market....hahahhaha

I just looked at land there…..ouch lol. How do you feel about a neighbor in an airstream…..

 

[steelerfan1]

I've been in Boise 3 years now and outside of the occasional smoke from fires, mostly coming from out west, I haven't had any issues with air quality. Most days are clear blue skies. Maybe it's because I'm from NY but I haven't even noticed any inversion yet.

That’s from boots on the ground, so good to know. Thank you. I do see that your area as well as @Gally is crazy hot. Showing 104 to 107! That’s uncool (literally) to me. In your time there is this typical?

 

[steelerfan1]

My list was much like yours, when I decided to relocate last year. We ended up ion Avon/Canton Connecticut. Weather great, water great and sustainable, Taxes and home prices aren't bargains, but not bad, Proximity of about 2 hours to NYC or Boston is nice to have, with the Berkshires an hour away and the hudson Valley the same is also good. My main problem with New England is adjusting to the taciturnity of it citizens, but I'm adapting, if not conforming.

Will add to the list, thanks! I’m originally from mass so know the area and know that area usually kills you with taxes, but will be good to have another place to research.

 

[steelerfan1]

So, thanks to @kupcho1 for doing a KT for me and the wife. Going to try to sit down in the next couple weeks and gather info needed. We’ll then hopefully by the end of the year get to visit her top spot and then mine and work out from there. Thanks for your hard work kupcho!

 

[jamny]

I've been in Boise 3 years now and outside of the occasional smoke from fires, mostly coming from out west, I haven't had any issues with air quality. Most days are clear blue skies. Maybe it's because I'm from NY but I haven't even noticed any inversion yet.

That’s from boots on the ground, so good to know. Thank you. I do see that your area as well as @Gally is crazy hot. Showing 104 to 107! That’s uncool (literally) to me. In your time there is this typical?

I haven't been here long enough to know how normal it is but it is breaking records so I guess it's not typical, at least this early in the summer. Two years ago there were a couple of weeks in the 100s but that was late July/early August. I'll still take 100s with mid-teens humidity over a NYC 85 degrees with 60% humidity. There were days where I would leave my house in the morning in NY and it was like a swamp. I'd be sweating by time I got to work. Here in Boise, it's really nice in the morning, low 70s even when it'll be near 100 later. In the shade is a lot cooler. I do my running in the mornings. We actually had dinner in an outdoor patio when it was 102 degrees but in the shade it was fine. And it's weird because the hottest time of day is like 5 or 6pm, unlike in NY where it was like 2pm. One of the selling points moving here was the four seasons. Winters aren't as bad as NY and summers, while hotter in temp, are better without the humidity. Beautiful spring and fall too.

 

[Manster]

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 you looked at real estate? It's crazy expensive.

 

[MAC_32]

If mountains aren't that important, somewhere around Brecksville OH (15 miles south of Cleveland) checks every other box- cross the river if you want better taxes.

 

[bigbottom]

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 you looked at real estate? It's crazy expensive.

Maybe he should consider Aspen or Jackson Hole.

 

[Zow]

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 you looked at real estate? It's crazy expensive.

Maybe he should consider Aspen or Jackson Hole.

Where the women flow like the salmon of Capistrano?

 

[Zow]

On a serious note, what about Reno? It's close to Lake Tahoe, probably more affordable, and may match some of the wish list.

 

[Yo Mama]

On a serious note, what about Reno? It's close to Lake Tahoe, probably more affordable, and may match some of the wish list.

My whole side of the family has moved there. There’s been a crazy amount of growth with CA transplants there over recent years and things have gotten more expensive as a result. This is according to my grumpy step-dad who forgets he was one of those transplants. Still cheaper and more tax friendly than CA though.

 

[skol asylum]

Let me know when you find it. I'm tiring of Arizona. Still a few years out here as well. Probably more than you.

 

[The Dreaded Marco]

On a serious note, what about Reno? It's close to Lake Tahoe, probably more affordable, and may match some of the wish list.

My wife’s grandparents, who were born and raised in Ogden,UT (my first recommendation) moved to Reno after her grandfather returned from WWII. They raised her mother and aunt there and she considers it her home town.

It definitely fits many of the OP’s criteria and is a place we also are considering retiring in.

 

[Chaos34]

I just got home (sadly) from two weeks in Tahoe. My sis has been retired there 8 years. She's rich. Zillow says her home is worth 10 million. Tough place to retire for us commoners. The winter is nice to visit but pretty rough to be stuck there, snowed in, etc. We had to drive down to Reno once (get someone at the airport) and Carson City twice (Costco run, eating). The road to Reno is awful. The road to Carson City is beautiful. I really like the two towns south of Carson City, Gardnerville and Minden. I could be happy retired there. Long beautiful Fall and Spring. Snows in winter but doesn't stick. Summer can have a couple heat spells but they're short and back to paradise. Four seasons for sure. All the amenities are 10 minutes away in Carson City. Real estate is 30% above national average but other cost of living markers are 10% below. I don't care for Reno in comparison. Feels dirty, but just 40 minutes away when needed. Tahoe is just an amazing place, 30 minutes away. That's the calling card. 30 minutes to Tahoe in an affordable very nice small town ten minutes from Costco and InNout. I looked at land. Again.

 

[steelerfan1]

I've been in Boise 3 years now and outside of the occasional smoke from fires, mostly coming from out west, I haven't had any issues with air quality. Most days are clear blue skies. Maybe it's because I'm from NY but I haven't even noticed any inversion yet.

That’s from boots on the ground, so good to know. Thank you. I do see that your area as well as @Gally is crazy hot. Showing 104 to 107! That’s uncool (literally) to me. In your time there is this typical?

I haven't been here long enough to know how normal it is but it is breaking records so I guess it's not typical, at least this early in the summer. Two years ago there were a couple of weeks in the 100s but that was late July/early August. I'll still take 100s with mid-teens humidity over a NYC 85 degrees with 60% humidity. There were days where I would leave my house in the morning in NY and it was like a swamp. I'd be sweating by time I got to work. Here in Boise, it's really nice in the morning, low 70s even when it'll be near 100 later. In the shade is a lot cooler. I do my running in the mornings. We actually had dinner in an outdoor patio when it was 102 degrees but in the shade it was fine. And it's weird because the hottest time of day is like 5 or 6pm, unlike in NY where it was like 2pm. One of the selling points moving here was the four seasons. Winters aren't as bad as NY and summers, while hotter in temp, are better without the humidity. Beautiful spring and fall too.

Thanks jamny. Yeah, nothing like opening the door at 630 am to go to work and it’s already 80 and feels like you’re breathing through a sponge…I’ve always heard the dry heat makes things much more tolerable, but just haven’t experienced it for myself yet which I guess will be part of out travel process. Do you mind sharing brief info on your home value and property taxes? No worries if you don’t want to put your stuff out there.

 

[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 you looked at real estate? It's crazy expensive.

Yes, sadly unless our portfolio triples over the next 5 years, some of these nice places are not going to be an option.

 

[steelerfan1]

If mountains aren't that important, somewhere around Brecksville OH (15 miles south of Cleveland) checks every other box- cross the river if you want better taxes.

Mountains would be ideal, but not a deal breaker if everything else was there. I notice Traverse City appearing to check a lot of boxes too, but missing mountains. Adding it to the list. Thanks!

 

[steelerfan1]

On a serious note, what about Reno? It's close to Lake Tahoe, probably more affordable, and may match some of the wish list.

Thanks Zow, even before posting this topic I had kind of been toying around looking at areas. Reno was an area I scanned and saw temps in the 100s and was onto the next without much more research. Maybe if I tolerate the dry like jamny mentioned a few posts up it is worth more research.

 

[steelerfan1]

Let me know when you find it. I'm tiring of Arizona. Still a few years out here as well. Probably more than you.

You looking for the same type of stuff skol?