The best places to retire after living and working in NYC

After years of navigating the concrete jungle of the City That Never Sleeps, it’s time to breathe a little, or rather retire finally. But the question is: where to? Truth be told, there are plenty of appealing choices, making this decision a particularly difficult one. That’s where Best Movers NYC comes in. We’ll walk you through some of the best places to retire after living and working in NYC. Should you decide to take it to one of the areas on the list, you’ll soon find yourself enjoying a place that’s calm, affordable, and, most importantly, safe.

What are the top places to retire after living and working in NYC?

There are plenty of destinations that may appeal to senior citizens currently based in New York City. In fact, there are so many that we could talk day and night about them. Still, our focus today will be only on the best of the best. Places that promise a new beginning where the focus shifts from the relentless pursuit of success to learning to enjoy the little things. Yes, some of them are hundreds of miles away from your current residence. Yet, interstate movers New York offers can make living in any of these a reality in a rather simple manner. But enough blabbering, let’s get to the top 5 places to retire after living and working in NYC:

• Iowa
• Delaware
• Pennsylvania
• Florida
• Massachusetts

Finding peace in Iowa

Located in the Midwest, Iowa invites retirees with a mix of factors that create an attractive retreat. One of its most notable draws is the significantly lower cost of living. Impressively, it is as much as 9% lower compared to the national average. This reduction is felt across essential aspects of life, making retirement funds stretch further. When it comes to housing costs, the difference is huge. In fact, buying a property in this state will save you 28% more funds than if you were to buy it in an area where the housing costs are close to the U.S. average. Even utilities are 6% cheaper, adding to a worry-free retirement.

Just as appealing are excellent healthcare and low crime rates. Besides, having top-notch medical care is really important when planning retirement, and Iowa does well here. The state has several well-equipped medical centers and hospitals that provide a range of healthcare services. For instance, the University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics in Iowa City is a renowned medical center known for its specialized medical care, research, and educational programs. Combined with a safe and calm atmosphere with crime rates that are the second lowest in the Midwest, retirees can feel at peace and enjoy their retirement in Iowa without worries post-moving with residential movers NYC has to provide.

Delaware is also one of the best places to retire after living and working in NYC

Delaware is a state often described as small but mighty. It is nestled along the Atlantic coastline, and although it boasts pristine beaches and wonderful landscapes, its charm doesn’t lie simply in them. In fact, it also lies in the balance it strikes between peaceful getaways and busy city life.

And while anyone, not exclusively those in the golden age, could enjoy living in such an environment, what truly distinguishes Delaware as a top-tier retirement destination is its tax-friendly environment. It offers a financial cushion that can amplify the joy of this period of life. With no state sales tax and low property taxes, retirees can make the most of their hard-earned savings. Plus, being close to cities like Philadelphia and New York means they don’t lose out on culture, dining, or fun.

Delaware is also home to some of the best places to retire in the United States. For example, Bethany Beach was ranked as the #1 best place to retire in the state by Niche. It is described as a good alternative to Rehoboth Beach with cheaper houses, less traffic, and overall more peaceful with fewer tourists. Additionally, friendly people and plenty of things to do make it a great place to live.

Pennsylvania’s rich history and affordable living

Pennsylvania is a state full of history and rich culture. It is a place where affordable living meets intellectual engagement. What’s more, with an average cost of living index of 92.5 compared to the national average of 100, it emerges as a pocket-friendly retirement destination. In other words, it offers a good quality of life without the added financial stress. This favorable cost of living is further underscored by the state’s varying expenses, revealing lower housing costs. However, the cost of transportation and utilities is on a slightly higher side.

Besides being affordable, Pennsylvania is rich in cultural experiences. The state’s history unfolds through its historic sites, museums, and architecture, which, for instance, the state capital, Philadelphia, is full of. These let retirees stimulate their minds and find inspiration, making moving from NYC to Philadelphia post-retirement quite a logical decision. What’s more, Pennsylvania has retained strong elements of folk culture among its diverse ethnic groups. The Plain People—the Amish, the Mennonites, and other small communities —have kept their traditional ways of life based on the teachings of the Bible.

When it comes to concrete examples, the state capital is home to one of the world’s finest art collections, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, as well as the Rodin Museum. Then, the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, also in Philadelphia, not only offers a base for teaching and study but also provides a notable collection of American art from the colonial through contemporary eras. There are also many unique festivals in the state that offer a rich cultural experience, such as the Kutztown Folk Festival in Kutztown, The Firebird Festival in Phoenixville, and The Odunde Festival in Philadelphia.

Florida: Warmth, tax perks, and endless recreation

In recent years, more and more individuals, seniors included, are moving from NYC to Florida. But what has caused this influx of people to the Sunshine State? Well, it’s none other but the promise of all-year warmth and numerous opportunities. Florida’s charm starts with its tropical climate, where the sun is always there. But, besides the sun, the state also invites with its financial benefits. No state income tax is a big plus for retirees. It allows them to enjoy their new nests without thinking twice about finances.

Yet, Florida’s appeal is not only tied to its climate and financial advantages. Different landscapes make it perfect for all sorts of interests. From the relaxed elegance of Pensacola’s beaches to the amazing energy of Tampa, the luxurious retreat of Naples, and the thrill of Daytona Beach, the state is truly a paradise for all. So, whether retirees seek sandy shores, golf courses that stretch for miles, or are looking to attend interesting events, Florida is a destination that delivers.

The Sunshine State’s recreation isn’t confined to outdoor adventures. It also nurtures artistic pursuits and intellectual curiosity. Furthermore, if you’re looking for a more leisurely pace, Florida is a good option, especially Tampa. That said, moving from NYC to Tampa is a decision that can make your golden years the best possible!

Massachusetts’ fusion of history and urbanity

Massachusetts, with its charming small towns, beautiful coastline, and rich history, can be an attractive option for those seeking a more relaxed lifestyle after living in NYC. And while its cost of living surpasses the national average – with expenses averaging $2,641, 1.28 times higher than the U.S. average – remember that it offers something special that’s beyond money. For instance, there’s the excellent healthcare! The state’s Group Insurance Commission (GIC) provides benefits for state retirees, which include non-Medicare and/or Medicare health insurance based on eligibility, life insurance, and dental and vision. Prescription drug benefits are also part of all health insurance plans. Additionally, there are many world-class hospitals and healthcare facilities throughout the state, such as Spaulding Hospital in Cambridge.

Massachusetts is also home to numerous historic sites that offer a glimpse into the state’s rich history. For example, the Freedom Trail in Boston is a 2.5-mile-long path that passes by 16 locations significant to the country’s history. The Bunker Hill Monument is another historic site located in Boston that commemorates the Battle of Bunker Hill. These historically significant places, among else, more than warrant moving from NYC to Boston post-retirement, or any other place in Massachusetts for that matter.

Why are retirees leaving NYC?

Retirees are bidding farewell to the lively streets of NYC in search of a more suitable retirement environment. But that’s not without a reason. In fact, there are several factors that contribute to this trend, including:

• High cost of living: NYC’s exorbitant cost of living, including steep housing prices and elevated everyday expenses, strains retirees on fixed incomes.
• Urban fatigue: The constant noise that defines city life can become overwhelming for those seeking a quieter, more relaxed pace.
• Limited outdoor spaces: The scarcity of accessible green spaces and the desire for a more nature-centric lifestyle drive retirees to explore greener areas.
• Quality of life: Many retirees are in pursuit of a higher quality of life, with cleaner air, less congestion, and a greater sense of community.
• Lower taxes: Retiree-friendly states with lower taxes provide financial relief.
• Healthcare access: Seeking top-tier medical facilities becomes crucial as healthcare needs evolve with age. This leads retirees to consider areas with better healthcare options.
• Safety concerns: The appeal of safer neighborhoods and a reduced crime rate motivates seniors to seek destinations with a greater sense of security.
• Weather preferences: Many elderly people dream of living in regions with more pleasant weather conditions.
• Cultural shift: Retirees often seek places that align with their new priorities and interests.
• Proximity to family and friends: Some elderly individuals move to be closer to family or friends.

Choosing the best of the best places to retire after living and working in NYC is yours to do

Today, we have chosen to talk about the five places that are particularly sought after; however, truth be told, there are many more great places to retire after living and working in NYC. Whether you’re looking for a change of pace, a lower cost of living, or access to world-class healthcare, there is something out there that is like meant for you. But how do you determine just what that something is? Well, by looking into your own desires, needs, and preferences. Ultimately, it’s research that’s your best friend here. Take the time to dive deep into the intricacies of the top destinations for retirees that are available, and you’re sure to find the perfect place to start the next chapter of your life.