Planning to retire soon? Curiously asking, “Where are the best places to retire in 2023?” Here are three recommendations plus sensible reasons why these special places have been uniquely selected.
Looking for great places to retire in 2023 or soon after?
Below are three examples of wonderful places to consider within the U.S. While not necessarily the cheapest places to retire, these locations were selected based on weather and climate, proximity to activities, access to good healthcare. They also consider general safety and some affordability factors.
- Mesa, AZ – There are many reasons why this third largest city in the state tops many retirement lists. This suburb of Phoenix, Arizona, boasts numerous resort-like 55+ communities. Not only does this location offer an abundance of sun-drenched weather, but there is an abundance of outdoor activities for seniors to enjoy. Mesa is surrounded by the Sonoran Desert, making it ideal for folks who enjoy hiking, golfing, and other outdoor sports. It is close to Phoenix, for those seeking city fun. And, as a bonus, it’s a great place for health as it’s situated near top-rated hospitals including Mayo Clinic of Phoenix and Mesa’s Banner Desert Medical Center. Arizona doesn’t tax Social Security retirement benefits, but the state does tax other types of retirement income like IRA and 401(k) distributions. Property taxes in Arizona are considered relatively low. In Mesa, sales taxes are moderately high at 8.3%. The state sales tax rate alone is 5.6%.
- Port St. Lucie, FL – This Floridian city, located along the Atlantic Coast, sits approximately halfway between Miami and Orlando. Port St. Lucie boasts sunny weather and affordable places to retire near the water, thus it’s the ideal location for retirees who enjoy boating and fishing. The area boasts the lovely Port St. Lucie Botanical Gardens, championship golf, and more. Florida has no state income tax. Thus, there are no taxes on Social Security, pension, and IRA or 401(K) incomes. Property taxes in Florida are moderate. Sales taxes in Port St. Lucie are 7%. Florida’s general state sales tax rate is 6%.
- Lancaster, PA – When exploring retirement living, consider Lancaster, the hub of Pennsylvania Dutch country and one of the oldest inland cities in the U.S. Lancaster sits approximately 60 miles west of Philadelphia. If change of season is your thing, enjoy warm and hot summers, mild fall and spring seasons, and cold, snowy winters. The city is known for its vintage shops, boutiques, and art galleries; thus, it is an ideal place for art lovers. Additionally, thanks to the Amish, there are excellent farm markets and places to buy handmade goods. Retirees will enjoy an abundance of historic sites, such as Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, and The Amish Village. Here, homes are generally affordable, and healthcare is abundant in the region. Pennsylvania has a state income tax, but no tax on retirement. Thus, there are no taxes on Social Security, pension, and IRA or 401(K) incomes. Property taxes in Lancaster are slightly higher than the state average, and sales taxes are at 6%.
A valuable resource:
For those interested in property tax information by state and county, click here.
A big decision
The above serve as examples of three best places to retire in 2023. Note that choosing where to retire is a deeply personal decision. Due to lifestyle preferences and individual financial situations, one answer does not suit all. Ultimately, it’s up to individuals to do some homework to narrow down choices and select the best environment for their retirement needs. To understand some factors which play into the decision-making process on where to retire, visit our sister article entitled Why relocate for retirement?
This article is purely informational and is not intended as personal or financial advice.
Anywhere but a democrat run state is the best place to retire.
Problem is democrats are fleeing the crap states they created and making it worse where they move. They’re like a human virus!
Why would anyone go to Arizona or Pennsylvania? They are blue and getting bluer. You would not be safe, why would you do that?
I was a Texan most of my life (Dallas and Austin), but no more. I retired to Oklahoma (Lawton/Duncan area), and it’s MUCH more affordable, plus it’s RED, so very little of the crazy crap, criminal-favoring, and escalating taxes that plague especially large blue-run cities. I loved the weather in Austin, but it was not affordable to retire there. Oklahoma has variable weather and colder winters, but I can deal with that to feel safe, secure, and financially positive.
I moved from Ohio to Arizona 36 years ago. I love Arizona and have lived in several different areas throughout the state. Regrettably, unfortunately, and sadly this state and the entire southwestern United States is running out of water. I am planning to leave because of this. I would NOT recommend moving here, and I say this with crocodile tears.
The only increasing population here in Florida is somewhat off-putting. I have been here since 1989 and it sure isn’t the place I moved to back then. The crisis of homeowners insurance is way beyond ridiculous with no sign of relief.
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Pigeon Forge, Tenn. ??
West Virginia : Almost Heaven.
I lived in Mesa over 10 Years, I have family living in Phoenix. I loved it there , but it was 12 years ago and I was doing the job I loved most, teaching. I was surprised to see it top on he list. I’ll have to contact a couple of my friends who live there and stalk to them. One has plenty of money, not so much the other. Interesting. Do I really want to move back there at 77 years of age? Something to think about