When you get ready to retire, you need to think about the best place to spend the rest of your life. While your home state may have its appeal, it might not be the perfect spot in terms of temperature, mobility, finances, and activities for retirees. Fortunately, much of the United States offers warm weather, affordable accommodation, fun and frolic, and so much more. Florida and Arizona may get most of the attention, but these states offer plenty of the above. Here are four underrated states perfect for retirement to help you make your decision.
New Mexico
New Mexico isn’t just dry desert land. From your first month of retirement through the rest of your life, you’ll find a never-ending assortment of things to do and places to be in the real sunshine state. The desert landscapes are indeed breathtaking, providing endless trails to hike and see the state’s natural beauty. Living is low-cost in New Mexico as well, and there’s so much to do and see from a cultural perspective. Active seniors will enjoy the many trails and natural wonders, while sportier seniors will discover a golfer’s paradise as well as places to kayak, motorbike, and more.
Oregon
Head to the Pacific Northwest to enjoy a wide range of climates and beautiful scenery, from verdant forests to mountain ranges to inspiring shorelines. Hike, bike, walk, camp, and fish in any number of naturally beautiful spots. Oregon, of course, also has an amazing art scene as well as other cultural marvels. With no sales tax, it can be an attractive option if you want to make every penny count toward a long and enjoyable retirement.
Tennessee
Southern charm, delicious food, natural beauty, and one of the country’s biggest and most exciting music scenes are all available in Tennessee. You’ll enjoy all the splendor and activities of larger states but at a more affordable rate. Enjoy the warm weather, see and hike the Great Smoky Mountains, listen to great music in Nashville and beyond, and absorb the history of Tennessee. And, as another state with no income tax, your dollars will go farther.
Michigan
Yes, Michigan! Love the great outdoors? Then you’ll never be bored in Michigan. Between the three Great Lakes, there’s plenty of fun on the water, whether through fishing, boating, or just lazing around at the beach. And with several fascinating urban centers, from Ann Arbor to Detroit to Grand Rapids and others, there’s so much to do. Housing is relatively low cost as well, and while the winters can be cold, Michiganders are a warm and friendly bunch!
Those are just four underrated states perfect for retirement. Choosing a place to settle down can be a challenge, but hopefully, this should show you at least a few options.