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Places in Maine, New Hampshire, and Pennsylvania made Investopedia’s annual list of the top retirement locations in the country.
While the South, and especially Florida, may come to mind when thinking about top locations for retirement, spending your golden years in the Northeast has its perks, too. The region is home to affordable towns, bustling cities, top-notch healthcare providers, and scenic natural landmarks that encourage a year-round active lifestyle.
According to Investopedia’s annual Best 100 U.S Cities for Retirees list, 20 Northeastern communities in Maine, New Hampshire, and Pennsylvania made the cut as they “offer retirees the lifestyle they need to live comfortably,” especially when it comes to affordability and activities offered.
For retirees prioritizing access to affordable housing and the cost of living, Investopedia points to Pennsylvania where the average home is $282,736—lower than the national average—while monthly rental costs are estimated at $1,575. The publication also points out that everyday essentials, food, and healthcare are also cheaper in the Keystone State. However, retirees can expect to pay more for utilities and transportation. Nevertheless, Pennsylvania dominates the list of the top retirement locations in the Northeast with 15 communities, among which are cities like Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Allentown.
For people who prefer small-town living, though, Altoona is a great option. The Blair County town is tucked in the Allegheny Mountains and is home to several National Historic Landmarks and multiple state parks. Additionally, Altoona was named the No. 1 place to retire in Pennsylvania by U.S. News and World Report thanks to its affordable real estate as the average home value is $144,576.
Another town on Investopedia’s list that draws retirees thanks to its blend of outdoor recreation and affordability is Williamsport in Central Pennsylvania. Known as the birthplace of Little League Baseball, the town of about 27,000 sits on the Susquehanna River in the Allegheny Mountains and offers easy access to majestic Pine Creek Gorge, known as the “Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania.”
New Hampshire has the second-most communities on Investopedia’s list. The New England state offers “charming communities, access to good healthcare, and a four-season climate that promotes an outdoor lifestyle,” the report states. However, retirees should keep in mind that both the cost of living and housing are more expensive than the national average. It’s worth noting though, that the higher expense can be partially balanced out by the state’s tax-friendliness since New Hampshire has no state sales tax, no individual income tax, and no tax on Social Security and other retirement income.
Also representing New Hampshire were cities like Manchester, Nashua, and Concord which offer convenient access to urban amenities, historic landmarks, and cultural programming. Meanwhile, Conway is a perfect choice for retirees seeking access to top-notch year-round outdoor recreation, as the town is located in the Mount Washington Valley and surrounded by stunning White Mountains scenery.
Lastly, Maine’s coastal appeal has long drawn visitors and retirees to the state. Beyond its aesthetic though, Investopedia points to its low crime rates, high quality of life, and scenic landscapes as the main draws. This comes at a price though as the average home value there is $407,566, compared with $366,019 nationally, according to the outlet. Lewiston, a town of about 40,000 and the second most populous in the state, is the best option for retirees, thanks to a blend of “New England charm, a growing downtown, and a welcoming community,” Investopedia noted. Here, the average home value is $303,011, while the cost of living is also lower than in the rest of the state.
Read the original article on Travel & Leisure
