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Top 5 places to retire
Our exclusive list examines small cities that offer big
value.
With 401(k)s taking a
hit,
Americans are in no rush to retire now. But that doesn't
mean they're not planning for their golden years. A
recent survey of real estate agents, by Coldwell Banker,
finds that many 50-somethings are buying their
retirement homes now, well before they retire.
Below is our
surprising list of the top five cities for young
retirees (55 to 59), compiled exclusively for USA
WEEKEND by Coldwell Banker and data experts Onboard
Informatics. Rankings are weighted, in order, based on
recreation,
weather, health resources, crime and cost of living
(in all five towns, it's below the national average).
Driving that trend: plummeting home prices and low
interest rates. "The areas hardest hit by the recession
can be prime spots for second-home seekers," says Jim
Gillespie, Coldwell Banker CEO.
Buy now, retire later in these hot markets….
1. Helena, Mont. (pop. 28,726): This town has a local
symphony and fine-art galleries. Nature lovers can trek
1,000-plus miles of mountain and forest trails.
2. Pensacola, Fla. (pop. 54,283): The sun always shines
on its white beaches, it's super-safe (the crime rate is
well below the national average), and the American
Association baseball team boosts hometown spirit.
3. Creve Coeur, Mo. (pop. 16,933): Its 320-acre lake is
a boating haven surrounded by picnic sites and an
archery range. And St. Louis is a half-hour drive away.
4. Traverse City, Mich. (pop. 14,339): The "cherry
capital" is famous for its vineyards. Plus, its health
services are top-notch; the Munson Medical Center is
consistently named one of the top 100 hospitals in the
nation.
5. Butte-Silver Bow, Mont. (pop. 31,967): This area's 29
recreational facilities (golf courses, parks, pools)
keep residents active. And Butte will host the National
Folk Festival again next summer.
(excerpts reprinted)
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