Best Places to Retire

In the past few years retirement has been reinvented. Americans are living longer, healthier, and more productive lives. Picturing retirement as merely spending time around the house and taking the occasional long stroll through a quiet, sedate country town? Think again. While many places still afford that quaint, down home atmosphere, retirement has evolved into marathons, yoga, deep sea fishing, golf, boating, and a million other recreational activities. Make the most of this exciting stage in life (and your hard earned nest egg). Retire to one of these ten amazing locales. You won't ever be sorry you did.

10. Des Moines, Iowa

Home to the Iowa caucuses, the Iowa Cubs baseball team, and capital city of the Hawkeye State, Des Moines makes a wonderful environment for retirees. Offering a taste of urban life without the hustle and bustle of much larger cities, Des Moines offers a wealth of museums and historic locations, plus an unexpected Des Moines Symphony, which performs at various places around the city. Blank Park Zoo makes for a great day trip. Des Moines is easily accessible on foot and boasts a beautiful riverwalk with shops and restaurants. Best of all: housing is very affordable. The median home price is around $170,000. A condominium overlooking the Des Moines River is around $130,000.

9. Sequim, Washington

A small town atmosphere boasting water, mountains, and a great local culture, Sequim, Washington is one retirement location that will leave you wanting more - more of Sequim, that is. Only two hours north of Seattle, Sequim (pronounced "skwim") seems far removed from the pace of city life. The Olympic Mountains cradle the city on the southern end, offering skiing, hiking, and a host of other activites. The Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge is a great place for bird watching, biking, and is home to the New Dungeness Lighthouse (one of the oldest in the American Northwest) and the longest natural sand spit in the United States. Unlike most of the Northwest, which is drenched each year, Sequim receives moderate rainfall, thanks to the Olympic Mountains, which play "umbrella" to the town throughout most of the year. Not the outdoorsy type? Try downtown Sequim's museums, performing arts center, and symphony. Housing here is a little pricer than the last location, coming in at $300,000 to $400,000 for two and three bedroom homes.

8. Bozeman, Montana

Wild West meets Retiree Resort in Bozeman, Montana. The once small, obscure western town is now booming with an influx of new comers. Why? Mostly because of the breathtaking natural beauty. Located only 90 miles from Yellowstone National Park and nestled into the Rocky Mountains, Bozeman is the embodiment of the great outdoors. Skiing, hiking, fishing, and hunting are favorite pasttimes for the nature fanatic. Dude ranches, rodeos, and horseback riding are also plentiful and constitute an important part in Bozeman's history and culture. Music festivals and art fairs abound in the picturesque and historic downtown, as do restaurants and shops. In recent years, affordable housing has almost become a thing of the past. Many wealthy people have gotten wind of this small, Western jewel, and have come in droves, dotting the landscape with luxury homes. However, there are still some affordable abodes - the average cost of a three bedroom home in Bozeman is $275,000 to $300,000. The downside to this town? Winters here can be harsh for those not accustomed to colder locales. In January, the average high temperature is 33 and the average low temperature is 12. Snow fall often begins in November and December and can stretch well into March, before finally thawing out in April and May, giving way to a beautiful and much anticipated spring.

7. Green Valley, Arizona

Longing for a warmer climate to retire to? Green Valley, Arizona may be the answer. Temperatures rarely reach below the mid-60's during the day, even in January, and lows at night (though they may dip into the 30's) are mild in comparison to some. Summer months offer temperatures well into the 90 and 100 degree ranges, but humidity is very low, making Arizona a great place for allergy sufferers. Great climate aside, Green Valley has much, much more to offer. Almost halfway to the Mexican border and nestled amid desert plains, tumbleweeds, and abundant cactus, Green Valley is a proverbial senior haven. Green Valley Recreation Centers are wonderful for the active retiree. There are about a dozen such centers around the Green Valley area, each of them offering fitness centers, tennis courts, heated swimming pools, woodworking shops, computer labs, cooking facilties (including catering services), and art galleries. Green Valley also boasts plenty of church activities, community organizations and clubs, dance classes, concerts, and a great performing arts center. Hiking in Madera Canyon is also a great way to spend a day. Most homes here are ranch style on smaller plots of land, which make for light upkeep for busy retirees. Prices are affordable. Two and three bedroom homes run from $200,000 to $275,000 in Green Valley.

6. Denver, Colorado

The Mile High City. Breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains, plentiful sunshine, and a wide range of activities for every age group. What more could you ask for in a retirement location? Denver has a hip urban feel and the downtown sector is laid out well, making travel easy - whether it be on foot or bicycle, by public transit, or in your own vehicle. Quaint cafes, funky boutiques, classic museums, and commercial conglomerates all mix and mingle in downtown Denver, offering an experience unlike any other. Hungry for a taste of the outdoors? The Rocky Mountains are only a 20 minute drive away and with it comes hiking, skiing, mountain biking, jogging, fly fishing, and just about any other activity you could imagine. Any downsides to this great location? The Denver housing market can sometimes be a little pricey, especially if you are looking to live in the center of the urban buzz. Trendy, renovated downtown condominiums can cost in the $400,000 range. However, two and three bedroom homes along the outskirts of Denver can be as little as $275,000.

5. Austin, Texas

Capital of the Lone Star State and home to the mighty University of Texas Longhorns, Austin offers a variety of activities, cultural diversity, and one of the best darn music scenes in the whole United States. The climate here is favorable with mild winters, hot summers, and an astonishing 310 days of sunshine each year. Retirees may enjoy the weekly lectures and outreach programs hosted at the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum, taking a stroll through the beautiful grounds of the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, or climbing the 99 steps to the summit of Mount Bonnell, which offers a gorgeous panoramic view of Austin's skyline and Lake Austin. Want more outdoor activities? Try swimming at Barton Springs Pool. This artesian spring-fed swimming hole is kept at a luke warm 68 degrees year round. For an outdoor activity that is a little offbeat, check out Austin's bats. Yes, bats. Each evening, from April through October, the world's largest urban colony of Mexican freetailed bats swarm out from under the Congress Avenue Bridge to feed. There are a number of great places to watch from. The number of bats is both startling and amazing. You won't be disappointed. When you are tired of the outdoor life, Austin welcomes you back home with its inviting downtown. Shops, restaurants, music clubs, bars, and museums abound. Even better? The median housing price is $185,000, making this location highly affordable.

4. Reston, Virginia

Reston is a planned community just 20 miles from Washington, D.C. Designed to resemble a European-style plaza, this layout is perfect for families and retirees. There are over 50 miles of walking paths that weave behind and through residential areas and shopping districts, making the entire town accessible on foot. Not only is the town functional, it is beautiful, boasting colonnades of restaurants and stores, topped by townhouses, each with a blooming garden on its roof. The European appeal is undeniable. Fitness centers abound, offering classes in yoga, pilates, and dance. Tennis and racquetball courts are standard features. Public swimming pools are commonplace, as are running trails and bike paths, all of which make staying fit more convenient than ever. If the outdoors aren't your thing, Reston offers a great art scene. There are numerous galleries where local artisans display and sell their crafts. But the arts aren't just for the professionals. There are dozens of studios that offer classes in sculpture, ceramics, and painting. Housing in Reston is a little pricey, but you pay for convenience, as most places of residence are close to everything. Prices range from $350,000 to $510,000 and if you are in the market for a luxury home, buyers can easily spend into the millions. With so much to do and see here, one would have a difficult tired becoming bored in this quaint Virginia town.

3. Beaufort, South Carolina

This three-hundred year old Southern town is full of charm and history. Set amid grand antebellum mansions and ancient oaks dripping with Spanish moss, Beaufort is a town unlike any other. Located amid the Sea Islands of South Carolina, those who enjoy boating and fishing will never run out of things to do in this town. Known as the "Intercoastal Waterway," boaters can cruise out of Beaufort via the Beaufort River and visit dozens of other Sea Islands, sail out into the waters of the Atlantic, or coast ashore on one of the many sandbars and enjoy their own little slice of heaven: a private beach. Avid fishermen (and women) will love Beaufort. The waters around are ideal for fly fishing and tackle fishing. Redfish, Sea Trout, Cobia, Tarpon, Flounder, Ladyfish, and several species of shark are all common catches. When you grow weary of sailing the seas, cruise into the harbor at Port Royal Sound a unique dining and shopping experience along the water. Also, try out one of over forty different golf courses in Beaufort and Hilton Head, only a short drive away. Retirees can thrive easily here. Temperatures are mild year round and housing prices are reasonable, ranging from $200,000 to $300,000. Plus, healthcare here is great - the local hospital is affiliated with Duke University.

2. Sarasota, Florida

Florida has long been considered the mecca for retirees and after visiting Sarasota, it's easy to see why. Located on the gulf coast of Florida, Sarasota and her islands - Longboat Key, Siesta Key, Lido Key, Casey Key, Venice, Engelwood, and Manasota Key - offer a year round mild climate. The lure of the beach atmosphere here is irresistible. Aside from boating, fishing, and tons of golfing, seniors will enjoy the cultural activities and shopping Sarasota has to offer. "Antique Row" boasts a wide array of vintage shops, chocked full of glassware, furnishing, and various antique collectibles. The John and Mabel Ringling Museum of Art is a stunning Venetian masterpiece of architecture...and that's just the exterior. Inside, art buffs will find a world of wonder, as the museum houses an amazing array of Old Masters paintings. The Marie Selby Botanical Gardens will be sure to please. This premier Sarasota attraction boasts one of the finest orchid collections in the world - over 6,000 of them are in bloom here each year. When your sightseeing is done for the day, take in a theater performance or dine in one of Sarasota's fine restaurants and bistros. The median home price in Sarasota is $305,000. Retirees will never have a dull moment in this pristine coastal town.

1. Asheville, North Carolina

Ranked number one on the list of best places to retire: Asheville, North Carolina. Asheville has practically been a retirement haven since its establishment as a town in the 1790's. This is due in part to several factors: affordable housing, excellent healthcare, and all the natural beauty your heart can desire. Nestled amid the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Great Smoky Mountains, Asheville is a natural wonderland - no matter what the season, there is always something to enjoy. There are a number of wildlife reserves and national parks in the area and there is never a shortage of outdoor recreational activities. Hiking, fishing, mountain biking, skiing, snowboarding, canoeing, kayaking, and various other watersports are available seasonally. In addition to the great outdoors, Asheville boasts a rich culture and history. George Vanderbilt's 255-room manor, Biltmore Estate, is located in Asheville and has long been a tourist attraction for the area. The Asheville Symphony and Brevard Music Center hold concert productions year round. The Folk Art Center is a great place to soak up the local flavor. Traditional Appalachian crafts, such as cornhusk dolls, patchwork quilts, and handwoven baskets, are all displayed and sold here. For seniors, another lure to the area is the excellent healthcare. There are more doctors in Asheville, per capita, than any other place in the United States. The price of healthcare in North Carolina is 14% less than in the other 49 states. The median housing price is $300,000 in Asheville, which is a bit steep for some retirees budgets. However, the low cost of medical care and the beauty and culture of the mountainous town more than make up for the splurge.

www.seedesmoines.com

www.visitsun.com

www.bozeman.net

www.greenvalleychamber.com

www.denver.org

www.austintexas.org

www.restonchamber.org/VisitorsCenter/tabid/2234/Default.aspx

www.beaufortsc.org/cwo/visit_beaufort

www.sarasotafl.org

www.exploreasheville.com