Rosalind Evans
Retirement is a time of new beginnings, and choosing the right place to spend these golden years is crucial. The year 2024 brings fresh insights with U.S. News’s comprehensive analysis of the 150 largest metropolitan areas in the United States. This guide is tailored to aid soon-to-be retirees in selecting a city that excels in affordability, health care, desirability, job prospects, and other vital factors.
The Criteria for Selection
The selection process is rooted in a meticulous analysis that includes diverse factors such as job market dynamics, retiree taxes, desirability, quality health care availability, affordability, and happiness. This year’s rankings significantly introduce new criteria, including weather temperateness, resilience to extreme weather, cost of living variations, and the establishments-to-population ratio. These parameters were strategically weighted according to a survey of 3,500 Americans over 45, focusing on what they prioritize most in a retirement destination.
The Top 25 Cities
The cities that have made it to the prestigious list of ‘The 25 Best Places to Retire in 2024’ are diverse, representing various regions across the country. These include:
1. Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
2. Reading, Pennsylvania
3. Lancaster, Pennsylvania
4. Scranton, Pennsylvania
5. Allentown, Pennsylvania
6. New York City
7. York, Pennsylvania
8. Daytona Beach, Florida
9. Youngstown, Ohio
10. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
11. Ann Arbor, Michigan
12. Tampa, Florida
13. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
14. Fort Wayne, Indiana
15. Manchester, New Hampshire
16. Green Bay, Wisconsin
17. Winston-Salem, North Carolina
18. Sarasota, Florida
19. Toledo, Ohio
20. Trenton, New Jersey
21. Rochester, New York
22. Lakeland, Florida
23. Melbourne, Florida
24. Orlando, Florida
25. Raleigh and Durham, North Carolina
Retirement is more than just a phase; it’s a lifestyle choice that demands careful consideration of various factors. The 2024 list of the best places to retire by U.S. News provides a well-rounded perspective, helping retirees make informed decisions. Whether it’s New York City’s cultural richness or Daytona’s serene beaches, each city offers a unique blend of elements that cater to retirees’ diverse needs and preferences.
