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Places to Retire that Give You More Bang for Your Buck

A recent Wall Street Journal article detailed the top five alternative destinations as identified by Barron’s. This sometimes-surprising list was decided upon using the following five criteria:

1. Cost. Barron’s looked at homes that were three-bedroom condos or detached homes for around $300,000.
2. Culture. The availability of compelling cultural amenities was deemed extremely important.
3. Major Cities. How close the area was to a major city was also an important factor. Major cities not only mean more activities and events, but also better health care.
4. Airports. For the retiree that enjoys traveling, being close to a major airport has a number of advantages.

In short, the Wall Street Journal described these five places as “perfect destinations for the intelligent retiree.”

Bainbridge Island, Washington

With almost 50 miles of rocky shoreline and picturesque harbors, Bainbridge is just a short ferry ride from Seattle. Spectacular views include the Olympia Mountains, Mount Rainier and a variety of whales passing by. As well as being beautiful, the area is also culturally impressive. The area boasts art shows, poetry readings and classical music presentations. The weather tends to be nice, without being too hot or too cold - an ideal place to retire!

Gainesville, Georgia

Golf and water sports are the main attraction here. Residents of Gainesville have automatic access to the local country club golf course, and Lake Lanier allows residents to explore their aquatic side. The town is also very historical, with Confederate hero General James Longstreet being one of the area’s famous deceased residents. With Atlanta and all its sights and sounds being just a hope, skip and a jump away, Gainesville presents many attractions with the advantage of being economically sound.

Queens, New York

This unexpected Barron’s pick boasts Tudor homes, attractive gardens, neat shops, the West Side Tennis Club and Manhattan just thirty minutes away. Residents also have the option of two nearby airports, La Guardia and JFK. The dramatic remnants of the 1964 New York World’s Fair include the Perisphere, as well as an elevated restaurant providing patrons with fantastic views while they dine. The area has known a number of famous people, including Paul Newman, Paul Simon and Abby Joseph Cohen.

Salt Lake City, Utah

With Western deserts and snow-capped mountains, Salt Lake City provides residents with a lot more than they might expect. Surprisingly sophisticated dining is one of the many experiences visitors to the 2002 Winter Olympics were able to enjoy. Culturally adept, Salt Lake City is home to the Utah Symphony and the Salt Lake Symphony, as well as a satirical improv comedy company. Residents of the area can enjoy magnificent skiing in the many resort areas, and genealogists can explore the records of the Mormon Family History Library. In addition to all of this, Salt Lake City is also proud of have high quality health care and low crime rates.

Sarasota, Florida

With 35 miles of the Gulf of Mexico open to it, Sarasota is a natural beauty as well as a cultural haven. The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is home to over 120 performances a year, and close to the Ca d’Zan, the Ringling Art Museum, the Circus Museum and the Asolo Theatre, which is home to North America’s only winter repertory company. Living in one of the gated inland communities provides residents with good local restaurants, golf courses, tennis courts and plenty of cultural activities to keep you occupied.

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