Story first appeared in USA Today.
Not many Baby Boomers have taken the time to think about where they want to retire.
Many are willing to just stay put as they grow older. And while some want to be close to family members, others are forced to stay where they are because their current home values have declined so much, reducing their equity.
AARP The Magazine decided to help Boomers do some shopping. It has come up with a list of the most affordable and desirable places to retire. The magazine has previously produced issues on the best college towns, the healthiest cities and other lists to help people figure out where to retire. But this is the first time it's focused on affordability.
Gabrielle Redford, editorial projects manager for AARP The Magazine said given the economy, they were interested in finding places that were less expensive to live. The issue will be released on July 24. It'll be online (www.aarp.org/bestplaces) today.
The destinations that AARP selected are not just dirt cheap. The selections were based on a number of criteria, such as property and sales tax rates, recreation, and health care, among others.
Although cities in the coldest parts of the country tend to be among the least expensive to live in, the study made sure to include a variety of climates. They put in some livability criteria into the mix, and they also decided to exclude cities that have high rates of unemployment and home foreclosures.
The top five destinations:
Portland, Maine
Median housing price: $202,800.
What a steal: A dozen raw oysters at J's Oyster, overlooking the bay; $11.50.
Best night on the town: Shakespeare in Deering Oaks Park: free.
Tulsa, Okla.
Median housing price: $125,600.
Best way to spend $10: Admission to the Philbrook Museum of Art, an Italian Renaissance villa built in the 1920s and converted to a museum, is just $7.50.
Gainesville, Ga.
Median housing price: $141,800.
Best way to spend $10: Grab a drink and a small plate at Recess Southern Gastro Pub on the square, then check out events downtown, including free concerts.
Wenatchee, Wash.
Median housing price: $192,000.
What a steal: All those dams provide enough power to give the region some of the nation's cheapest utility bills. Residents pay about 3 cents per kilowatt hour.
Winchester, Va.
Median housing price: $151,500.
Best night on the town: Shenandoah University has an exceptional music conservatory, with 100-plus professionals on staff. Evening performance: $27.
Runners up:
Cheyenne,Wyo.
Columbus,Ind.
Harrisburg,Pa.
Ithaca, N.Y.
Midland, Texas
