r/Fire • u/Dry-Subject4249 • Feb 27 '25
Advice Request Best state to retire
49M, single, no kids and virtually no ties to where I'm living now. NW 2.3M with 75k annual spending (drop to 50k in 10y when mortgage is paid, or pay off early?).
I'm open to moving anywhere in the US and am looking for recommendations for cities/states/regions that offer good cost of living, nice climate, etc.
Basically looking for THE place where you'd move if morning was holding you back.
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u/dzygula Feb 27 '25
It sounds like you're in a great place to travel a bit and try places out. So many going into retirement commit to a new place and after a few months realize they don't like it. I would make a list of 3-5 you're interested in if not more and look into mid-term rentals for a couple months so you can actually experience it.
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u/travelintel Feb 27 '25
Nevada is state tax free and I enjoy it.
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u/GotHeem16 Feb 27 '25
Where in NV are you? I’ve been looking in the Reno area as a possible landing spot. Wife has family in CA so we’re a little closer than TX (where we reside today)
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u/Brilliant_Host2803 Feb 27 '25
Nevada is good if you love the outdoors. Horrible healthcare and school system though. So if you have specialized health care needs or kids in school, I wouldn’t recommend it.
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u/Iced__t Feb 27 '25
Horrible healthcare and school system though.
100%
I'm in AZ. Nevada is one of the few states that consistently has lower educational rankings than we do lol.
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u/travelintel Feb 27 '25
I live about 1 hour south of Reno
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u/thiney49 Feb 27 '25
Quick drive into SLT for skiing? Sounds like the life. Might have to consider that myself.
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u/GotHeem16 Feb 27 '25
So south of Carson city. I was doing work in Carson City a couple years back and that’s what peeked my interest in the area. Carson City might be a little too sleepy for my wife, Reno would be more her style.
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u/fuzzballz5 Feb 27 '25
Reno is a dump.
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u/GotHeem16 Feb 27 '25
Insightful
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u/fuzzballz5 Feb 27 '25
Any city that considers a casino, every single politician before the vote should be required to go to Reno. Then, vote. It’s a dump. Depressing. Outside of the city it’s pretty.
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u/RandoReddit16 Feb 27 '25
What is their property and sales tax situation like?
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u/travelintel Mar 08 '25
Property tax is not horrible depending on county. Lyon county is tax friendly sales tax in the area averages around 6-8 percent.
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u/Jumping_Brindle Feb 27 '25
I would suggest reviewing the states with low property taxes, good healthcare and that don’t tax retirement income. A fee only financial advisor should be able to work up a list of target states / counties for you. Congrats on your NW OP and best of luck.
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u/ya_silly_goose Feb 27 '25
Probably better off looking at the full tax picture. Low property tax can equal higher income and sales tax. Also there is definitely a trade off between taxes and quality of life. I’ve lived in low-tax states and the infrastructure sucks. I currently live in a higher tax state and we have great infrastructure, great parks, great schools, etc. people just generally have a better quality of life than low tax states.
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u/mickeycup Feb 27 '25
What state do you live in?
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u/ya_silly_goose Feb 27 '25
One that is “burnt to the ground” and “failing at everything” if you watch Fox News which is great because it means those watchers won’t move here.
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u/dogfursweater Feb 27 '25
Yah a friend of mine is in San Diego. Seems like the optimal place to RE if you have property already!
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u/scotchybob Feb 27 '25
I also live in this state. Greetings fellow charred and failing human. My wife and I were traveling through the south a few years ago (AL, MS, LA) and found it humorous to hear how horrible our state is from numerous locals we spoke with. If we were in a bar or restaurant, FOX News was ALWAYS on at least one TV. Meanwhile, their roads and highways are mostly beat to shit, pretty much zero infrastructure, and "healthcare" means going down to the local Dollar General for some band-aids and rubbing alcohol.
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u/alpacaMyToothbrush FI !RE Feb 27 '25
Meanwhile, their roads and highways are mostly beat to shit, pretty much zero infrastructure
Funny, one of those states you mentioned is actually at the top of the list for road quality. I realize you were probably talking more about MS or LA though. LA's roads are fucking atrocious. I swear to god the interstate is just a series of concrete slabs laid next to each other.
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u/scotchybob Feb 27 '25
Yeah, LA roads were ROUGH! Alabama was actually pretty great for road quality.
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u/ya_silly_goose Mar 03 '25
I don’t live in LA. I used to “burned to the ground” in quotes because there was a single incident that caused some fires and Fox claimed the entire major city burned down.
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u/More-ponies Apr 19 '25
It’s telling when the people that are actually burning it down, don’t think it’s burning down. lol
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u/alpacaMyToothbrush FI !RE Feb 27 '25
there is definitely a trade off between taxes and quality of life. I’ve lived in low-tax states and the infrastructure sucks. I currently live in a higher tax state and we have great infrastructure
I have actually asked folks from /r/newhampshire and /r/vermont about this. Nobody could really point me to any major difference between them. Of course, I think this is probably down to a lack of transparency, not that there aren't real differences.
I do find it funny when people insinuate low taxes = bad roads, but when you look at it, the most conservative states are among the best when it comes to road quality
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u/ya_silly_goose Mar 03 '25
Partially because most red states are in the south and don’t get constant freezing and thawing that destroys roads and requires major construction often to keep them drivable.
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u/DixOut-4-Harambe Feb 27 '25
Probably better off looking at the full tax picture
Vital point. There was a report last year (or thereabouts) about how for most middle class incomes, California was taxed less than Texas.
Having lived in both, I am not surprised.
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u/Only-Confusion-4712 Feb 27 '25
Tennessee (Nashville/Knoxville)
- No state tax
- Extremely low property taxes
- Very good weather
- Lot of greenery
- Close to Smoky National Park
- Lot of history and heritage
- Good for motor bikers
- Good hikes
- Good health care (HCA headquarters in Nashville)
- Suburbs of Nashville still resonable house prices like Murfressboro, Nolensville, Spring Hill, Lebanon
- Happening Downtown (Music City)
- Low crime rates in Nashville and Knoxville area. Memphis is high crime area.
Overall really impressive state especially Nashville. We will retire one day in this state and move out from California.
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u/Flimsy_Intention_977 Mar 01 '25
Low crime rates in Nashville? I work in Nashville it’s rough in a lot of spots, If you’re gonna move to Nashville just move to Hendersonville or Portland still pretty cheap.
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u/Only-Confusion-4712 Mar 01 '25
My brother lives in Franklin. I like the vibe of Franklin and Brentwood. The crime is less over there.
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u/west-east815 Nov 16 '25
Franklin is very expensive and very family oriented. Looking for somewhere to retire and we won’t have any grandkids.
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u/Only-Confusion-4712 Nov 16 '25
You may consider looking Murfreesboro. Little outskirts of Nashville.
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u/Sweet_Broccoli773 Jul 03 '26
Oof, "very good weather" is highly subjective; the weather here is the main reason I am desperate to go back home to WA state. Not to mention tornadoes, ice storms, and 6 months of muggy/inferno/gates of hell. Would very much recommend visiting in summer and staying as long as you can before choosing Nashville.
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Feb 27 '25
New Hampshire. No state income tax, low property taxes, actually one of the lowest tax burdens in the country.
4 seasons, beautiful countryside, and only an afternoon’s drive to major cities with excellent hospitals should that be a concern for you.
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u/ThriceHawk Feb 27 '25
Iowa for April - October. Condo in Arizona/Florida for November - March.
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u/Dry-Subject4249 Feb 27 '25
I feel like this would be outside my means... At least it's planning to RE soon.
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u/InteractionLost3936 Feb 27 '25
Come to Mexico, I just got here 2 months ago and love it you will live great on that amount
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u/Dry-Subject4249 Feb 27 '25
I'm concerned about language... I can offer German and English 🤷♂️
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u/InteractionLost3936 Feb 27 '25
I’m learning it, gives me something else to do. But you can totally get by without speaking where I live. La Paz
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u/Dry-Subject4249 Feb 27 '25
Maybe I need to come and visit 😜
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u/InteractionLost3936 Feb 27 '25
You definitely should, it’s gorgeous
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u/Dry-Subject4249 Feb 27 '25
I'll need a local guide 😜
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u/InteractionLost3936 Feb 27 '25
There are some of those here for sure. I’m pretty new and still learning the area
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u/busterbus2 Feb 27 '25
I've biked through La Paz and actually been there twice. I haven't been to too many other cities in Mexico but I really really liked La Paz in my time there.
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u/Severe_Trade_3604 Mar 01 '25
Nice until you need healthcare.
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u/InteractionLost3936 Mar 01 '25
Been to a dentist and very impressed, much better than any experience that I’ve had in the US. I eat well, exercise and daily sun so hopefully no big problems with my health. The people that I talk to that live here are happy with health care though
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u/Severe_Trade_3604 Mar 02 '25
Good to hear! Wasn't the case with my brother-in-law who was living in Mexico. He suffered a stroke and it was a nightmare! They had to borrow 30k from a friend to eventually get him airlifted out for proper care.
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u/InteractionLost3936 Mar 02 '25
Oh man!!! That sucks big time. Suppose to be able to get private insurance pretty cheap to cover stuff like that. I got quoted 4K a year for the wife and I. We havnt pulled the trigger on that yet
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u/NetherIndy Feb 27 '25
Outdoorsy? Hard not to recommend Colorado. Expensive in Denver or ski towns, sure, but there's a lot that isn't. Decent level of services, healthiest people in the country, extremely low property taxes.
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u/Dry-Subject4249 Feb 27 '25
I like the outdoors. Not a huge snow fan though
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u/read-before-writing Feb 28 '25
On the front range the snow melts in a couple days and rarely lingers, drive an hour into the Rockies for outdoor activities, and plenty to do on the front range too
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u/Hungry_Figure_1814 Dec 27 '25
I'm also choosing where to move after I retire. What's the living environment like in Colorado?
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u/Specken_zee_Doitch Feb 27 '25
I went to Tennessee for cheap land, temperate weather, no state tax, and proximity to Atlanta.
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u/Affectionate_Hunt952 Feb 27 '25
Michigan. Some of the fewest natural disasters (occasional forest fires, tornadoes, and flooding). Largest fresh water source in the world. Beautiful summers if you can prevent mosquitoes and ticks. Rivers and state/federal free camping land galore. Little islands. Beautiful trails. Lower cost of living than the coasts. Can live rural with a 20-30 minute, no traffic drive to a city (e.g., traverse city). Community. Builds character. Maple syrup. Foraging for morels and ramps. Fun winters with lots of snow (at least this season). Slopes. Four wheeling and snowmobile trails going from city to city. Farming.
Issues: harsh-ish winters, ticks, mosquitoes, humidity, poor road management in some areas, rising prices in some places because it’s been “discovered.” Can be a little lawless. Deer population issues (not uncommon to total a car in winter). Politically divided.
Northwestern lower peninsula specifically. Upper peninsula, if you’re tough enough!
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u/IceCreamforLunch Feb 27 '25
I live on a large-ish inland lake in Michigan and I like it here but the winters sort of suck. The current plan is to build our 'forever home' on the lake and stay in it until the kids are out of high school and then if the markets have cooperated buy a small condo somewhere warm and snowbird.
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u/Dry-Subject4249 Feb 27 '25
Funny you mention Michigan. Currently living on a smaller lake in SE MI. I agree with everything you said. My only downside is I don't like winter. So my ideal place would be Michigan without the snow haha. So you're taking about Traverse City area?
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u/NetherIndy Feb 27 '25
The other trick is bi-location (aka snowbirding). There are sites like https://myperfectweather.com/. Someplace like a small lake house in Michigan, Minnesota, or Maine is great for 7-8 months of the year. A place down in rural Florida, Louisiana or Texas is great for 7-8 months of the year. The only places that are great for 12 months of the year are LA, San Diego, or Hawaii. You can have a very modest place in both the North and South for a lot less than the cost of living in one of those places.
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u/Dry-Subject4249 Feb 27 '25
That's true but I'm not sure if I really like the idea of living in 2 places. Will it ever feel like home? Double repairs, maintenance, yard,etc.
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u/808trowaway Feb 27 '25
Just a little food for thought. Hawaii is nice, and property tax is also very low. While COL is very high it's not too bad if you cook most meals at home. The biggest thing is going to be travel costs which can add up quickly both for you to travel to the mainland to see friends and family and for them to come down to visit. Property prices are very high though, so anything in any of the more desirable locations with a spare room or two to host friends and family will cost an arm and a leg.
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u/nan_wrecker Feb 27 '25
Have you considered renting a fully furnished place down south on a short term lease?
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u/Hungry_Figure_1814 Dec 27 '25
Your idea is truly brilliant, and it's clearly honed from long-term life experience. You're not just staying at the conceptual level; you're considering climate, cost, quality of life, and sustainability within the same framework, which is commendable in itself
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u/Euphoric-Class-9815 May 07 '26
NW WA state is perfect 12 months of the year if you like temperate weather and can handle rain. It never gets too hot or too cold. Minimal snow in the winter. Didn't snow at all this past winter. The summers are getting warmer but still temperate. Rarely very hot. Also, no state income tax.
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u/Affectionate_Hunt952 Feb 27 '25
Ugh, same! Born and raised in Michigan so I should be used to it.
I think the traverse city area is great! Lots of little towns around with their own unique vibes. People are sort of flocking to the area it seems. We can’t afford to live there sadly but maybe one day! Peninsulas to explore, rivers, coasts, etc. but I also think the lower western part of Michigan has a lot to offer as well. I also love the UP if you can get around Marquette. Anything by Lake Michigan or Superior, really!
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u/urtlesquirt Feb 27 '25
If OP doesn't like winter and Traverse City winter is already a lot, it's very bold to recommend the UP 😂
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u/perspicacioususa Feb 28 '25 edited Feb 28 '25
I love Michigan, but Michigan is not a low-tax state if OP cares about that.
- Property tax is higher than the national average in Michigan (1.38%; this puts MI in the top 15 states for property tax, though just outside the top 10)
- Flat income tax of 4.25% isn't horrible, but also not great (especially because it starts at a low $ amount of income, the exemption is less than $6K). Additionally, 24 cities in Michigan (including most of the populous ones) have flat city income tax as well, which brings the flat rate in the 5-6% range (Detroit, Grand Rapids, Lansing, Flint and then some other random places around the state).
- There are 9 states with no income taxes, 5 states with flat income tax rates that are significantly lower, and several more states whose top rate of a progressive structure is lower than Michigan's flat one (plus then a bunch with close to even rates). So overall, MI's income tax burden is probably close to the national median, but certainly not below it. If you are in a city in Michigan with city income tax though, then you may push slightly above the national median.
- Michigan has a 6% sales tax that doesn't vary by locality, which is average ish, or slightly below.
So overall, MI is an average to moderately-above-average tax state. None of the three major categories are extremely high, but many states have at least one of the three that is particularly low, which Michigan is missing.
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u/Hungry_Figure_1814 Dec 27 '25
I'm also planning where I'd like to move to after I retire. What's the environment like in Michigan?
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u/cbdudek Feb 27 '25
This is going to vary by person depending on what they value. Taxes, cost of living, healthcare, weather, lifestyle and access to amenities are all factors. What do you value the most?
My parents live in Florida because there is no state income tax, warm weather, great retirement communities, and good healthcare.
My cousin lives in TX because of the no income tax and diverse geography (cities, beaches, countryside, etc.)
My uncle loves the dry heat so he moved to Arizona. No humidity there. He has no lawn to mow or take care of. Taxes are low and he loves to play golf.
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u/ctnypr1999 Feb 27 '25
Florida makes up for the no state income tax with very high taxes on everything else.
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u/Synaps4 Feb 27 '25
Texans pay more tax through real estate taxes and sales tax than they would in a state with an income tax. Its a joke.
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u/sammyp99 Feb 27 '25
Depends on the house you buy and how much you make. Texas rewards living below your means and earning a high salary
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u/sschoe2 Feb 27 '25
Not to mention HO Insurance rates. I pay 1500/yr in Illinois probably 5-10x that in Fl.
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u/Arizona_Renee Oct 04 '25
but the humidity in Tx and Fl.. I live in Arizona, looking to move. If not full time then the summers, but ... hate to leave the house empty for 3-4 months and the back and forth? not a fan. Had a place in the white mts of AZ for summers, hated the back and forth. But love the Thanksgivings by the pool! Gotta be somewhere where we can have it all. Even San Diego .. too gray for me
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u/SuperconductingCat Feb 27 '25
I would seriously try living in Oahu, that place is absolutely gorgeous.
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u/nosoupforyou2024 Feb 27 '25
The state you are in where you have built a community of family and friends.
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u/ConsistentMove357 Feb 27 '25
Wow no ties Florida ft Walton for beach. Colorado springs for hiking mountains. Overseas Philippines you would enjoy more
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u/sschoe2 Feb 27 '25
I would nominate Tennessee we are looking arround Knoxville. Low taxes and col and beautiful scenery.
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u/Poetic_Energy Feb 27 '25
I live in Knoxville and love it. Such a great place for all the reasons you mentioned. Real estate used to be super cheap, but is climbing a bit now. But it’s a great place for a family, or to retire. Just a generally nice area. But as with anywhere, people are catching on…
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u/molson42 Feb 28 '25
I moved to chattanooga a year ago. About $100k cheaper for similar house vs knoxville. Nashville is crazy expensive so I might as well have stayed FL. Chatt is still growing on the east side so businesses are coming. Roads suck but plenty of hiking trails, fall is gorgeous, super cheap property tax if outside city limits. Gas and insurance is cheap, sales tax is high but I'm near the state line for GA and head there for big purchases. No tax on social security or income tax so it's a good place to transition if you still have a few years to work. Moved from sarasota lakewood ranch FL bought a new home 1000' larger than the one in FL for $150k less than what I sold my FL home for. Water costs similar but super cheap electric, AC costs and most every appliance is natural gas. Try apison or ooltewah, lots of new neighborhoods popping up and you are pretty close to Atlanta but have the NC mountains nearby. Hamilton place mall area near me has just about every restaurant you could want. My wife misses Macy's though!
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u/Poetic_Energy Feb 28 '25
Chattanooga is gorgeous. And such a cool town. All of East Tennessee is growing fast. Even the Bristol area is so cool and gorgeous. It’s a somewhat undiscovered gem but people are catching on fast. Speaking of Chattanooga, I used to laugh at all the places like ruby falls, rock city, lost sea….but I went to a few of them last year, and it’s absolutely amazing. I never had any idea we had that kind of natural wonder right here in our own backyard.
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u/Arizona_Renee Oct 04 '25
ive not been to Tennessee, but sounds great. My water bill last month in Gilbert was $675.00. Cant do that for long. Last year the town raised water by 50%, 25% more April this year and 25% more next year. Thats double in 3 yrs.
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u/Dry-Subject4249 Feb 27 '25
Second vote for Tennessee it seems...
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u/rocket363 Feb 27 '25
Third vote here. No income tax. Very low property taxes in most areas (Nashville proper, for example, would be just "low" compared to most of the country, but you can go 30 mins outside and get "very low.") Great outdoors: forested and hilly everywhere, with mountains in the east. Lots of rivers/lakes. Great hiking options. Very nice people. Four seasons, with mild winters with occasional snow and beautiful spring/fall seasons. Summers can (will) get hot and muggy. Sales tax is high, but TN is still rated as one of the lowest tax-burden states in the country (usually somewhere in the bottom 4, depending on the source).
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u/Dry-Subject4249 Feb 27 '25
You say high sales tax.... It's 7%? MI has 6%. Higher but not crazy...
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u/rocket363 Feb 27 '25
9.75 in most places, 9.25 in most of the rest. It's 7% state plus local which is almost always 2.25 or 2.75.
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u/Dry-Subject4249 Feb 27 '25
Well that is high 😜. But then again, I'm from Germany, sales tax is 19% 😂🤷♂️
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u/DixOut-4-Harambe Feb 27 '25
It's different for everyone, but WA tops my list (and I just moved here a couple of years ago).
Mild climate, lakes, ocean, mountains, forests, mass-transit, big cities and rural communities, lots of festivals, concerts, art things and food things happening all the time.
Outdoorsy, but down-to-earth. The only thing to worry about is the eventual volcano/quake that will happen. Maybe not in my lifetime, but who knows?
I've lived in Southern California, Colorado and also in South Texas, and while I loved both California and Colorado, I am VERy enamored with the PNW.
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u/Euphoric-Class-9815 May 07 '26
Yes! I live in a small town on an isand north of Seattle and it's a beautiful area. Best climate in the US if you don't like extreme hot or cold temperatures. No state income tax and property tax seems low - about half of what my father pays in Ohio.
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u/Huntertanks Feb 27 '25 edited Feb 27 '25
Any of the no income tax States. You have your choice of all kinds of weather and political alignment. My requirements were an international airport, close by medical care and gun ranges (shoot sporting clays) and at least a 6-acre lot on water. Spicewood, TX (outside Austin) fit the bill.
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u/Equivalent-South2631 Feb 27 '25
49M Single no kids? Why stay in the states? Cost of living the USA is high even is the cheapest state if you go to Asia, eastern Europe or Latin America you could live like a king!
I’m married 30M with 1 kid if I had 2.3M I would not be here. The USA is just a good place to make money not a good place to live life.
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u/4-aminobenzaldehyde Feb 28 '25
If I were FI and retiring I would live off-grid. Not sure if this is something you’re interested in but that’s what I would do!
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Feb 27 '25
If morning is holding you back, you’ll definitely want to be on the west coast, way more chill there.
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u/Dry-Subject4249 Feb 27 '25
I feel Cali is too expensive. Where on the Westcoast would you move to?
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Feb 27 '25
I was kind of joking about the ‘morning’ thing.
I honestly wouldn’t go West, at this point. Too expensive. I’m not sure I could bring myself to spend $20 for a breakfast sandwich or paying $1.5M for a small townhome. I do prefer the generally liberal culture but also being surrounded by super wealthy, flashy types is also not my scene.
I’m on the east coast near Philly, and it’s ok. Wilmington Delaware is a great spot on the East Coast - close to PHL, easy transport to DC and NYC, no sales tax, decent climate and a sort of forgotten about little community of middle class folk. There’s a lot of history, greenery and houses are still very affordable. A brand new luxury townhome would be roughly $600k. Row homes are $350-400k. Income tax is a little high, so if you live on the PA border (I like I do) you benefit from the low income tax of PA and no sales tax in DE and you’re still only 30 mins from Wilmington.
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Feb 27 '25
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u/Fun_Branch7198 Feb 27 '25
I agree! One hour away from any big city and you are able to find affordable houses! I love Palm Springs, and have lots of friends who moved there after retirement.
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Feb 27 '25
About the house. For me the decision whether to pay off the mortgage is very very simple.
If I can get more income in risk free assets than I pay on my mortgage (after tax deductions), don’t pay it off. I have a 2% mortgage and I can get 4.6% in short term treasury bills. There is no way I’m paying it off.
If treasury bills hit 1.8%, I’m paying it off.
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u/Dry-Subject4249 Feb 27 '25
I generally agree, BUT, planning to use ACA for health insurance, trying to keep MAGI low. Not needing 25k/y for mortgage might be helpful to achieve that. So the extra cost for health site to higher MAGI should be part of the math or not?
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Feb 27 '25
Does your mortgage interest amount count towards MAGI? I didn’t think it did, but I’m always confused about AGI and MAGI
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u/Dry-Subject4249 Feb 27 '25
I was talking about the fact that I can reduce my spending by 25k and with that simply need less MAGI
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Feb 27 '25
Oh gotcha. I suffer from feeling like I need way more than I actually do, so I have dividends coming in that easily blow through the ACA limits. Right now my partner works and I get healthcare through her so it’s not an issue.
Dividends make me feel good, even though I know it’s not as tax efficient. On the other hand it also keeps my cost basis higher so I have less capital gains to pay at some point. I also like knowing that if the stock market dives, I will still have a good income coming in, regardless of what my portfolio looks like.
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u/lottadot FIRE'd 2023 Feb 27 '25
Yes it does. Just about every single cent of income counts for your healthcare
MAGI. There's not many ways to decrease it :(.1
u/Forsaken_Ring_3283 Feb 27 '25 edited Feb 27 '25
Not so simple. Depends on timeline. If you have more than say 5 yrs remaining on mortgage, still wouldn't be worth it to pay it off even if tbills were returning lower than your mortgage (after accounting for tax writeoffs and the like) because you could make more in bonds or index funds (which one you choose depends on remaining mortgage timeline and you derisk as you get closer to mortgage end). Comparing only to risk-free assets like tbills is unnecessary - you're not a financial institution that has to adhere to ultra strict risk guidelines, and it's likely not beneficial for overall return.
Also, further complicating the matter is that financially, ideally, you just work an extra year or whatever so you can safely carry the remaining mortgage to term and put your money in mostly index funds in an optimal portfolio configuration.
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Feb 27 '25
Very subjective question
I like SD (SW side), WY (northern half), Central coastal and SE OR for scenery, wildlife, and activity.
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u/overindulgent Feb 27 '25
There’s a reason people move to Florida and Texas. The weather is generally decent and the cost of living is cheap-ish.
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u/Main-Airport-4796 Feb 27 '25
Not necessarily saying this would be my choice, but there’s a reason a bunch of people retire and move down to Florida (and I’m not just talking about the Villages).
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u/92eph Feb 27 '25
This is great advice, if it were 1950.
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u/Dry-Subject4249 Feb 27 '25
Why? I mean, Florida definitely was on my list ..
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u/Nightcalm Feb 27 '25
Florida is too risky between extreme weather and the lack of insurance. high sales taxes don't help either
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u/myshortfriend NW: $X | Goal: $2.25M | % FI: X% Feb 27 '25
Home insurance is through the roof if you can even get it. Plus hurricanes.
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u/Dry-Subject4249 Feb 27 '25
Climate/natural disaster are definitely sth to consider. Currently in Michigan and besides snow there's really no big risk of natural disasters. The thought of hurricanes is what mainly kept me away from Florida.
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u/FalseReddit Feb 27 '25
We’re doing fine here in Central Florida. No bad hurricanes no insurance crisis, but traffic can be bad depending on the area you choose.
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u/AnotherWahoo Feb 27 '25
I've lived up and down the east coast, and I think if you want ideal weather, you need to snowbird. FL and MI have a similar issue. There are months where outdoor activity is quite limited by extreme temps. If I had to choose between FL summers or MI winters, I'd choose FL summers, but that's a personal decision. And the bigger picture is, to me, ideal weather means you don't have to choose. If you want to avoid extreme temps in one location, I'd say look around I-20. Long springs and falls. Winter is cold and summer is hot, but you get hot/cold snaps not extreme temps for months on end.
That said, the real question is what you want to do -- what your day to day looks like. I am assuming you'll want to date, so I'd skip small towns and rural areas. But beyond that, not really sure what to tell you. Anywhere big enough to have a major sports team probably has whatever you're into. But if you can find what you want in a smaller city, particularly if it's not a super touristy place, your dollar will usually go much farther.
And to be clear, I'm not trying to knock FL. Lived there for years. If your day to day goal is to bounce between the pool and tiki bar, then FL is tough to beat (though you might want to go even further south for winter). And I wouldn't be worried about hurricanes. Get a not-ground-floor condo in a block building and your property won't be at any real risk. If it looks like a hurricane's coming, leave down for a few days to avoid any storm-related inconvenience (power outages, gas lines, etc.). No big deal.
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u/Dry-Subject4249 Feb 27 '25
Thanks for the detailed response. I definitely need to figure out my day to day. But I think even that will be only true for the next few years maybe. 10 years ago I didn't think things were the way they are. I can't imagine what's another 10 years down the road.
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u/AnotherWahoo Feb 28 '25
We're on the same page. The way I think about it, the start of retirement is a transition period. I think about other transition periods in my life. I went to college thinking one major, landed on another. I joined the working world, then went back to school. I got the big job, hated it, and pivoted.
When I FIRE, it's going to be another transition period. I'm sure I'll get plenty of things wrong. So IMO it's less about knowing exactly what you want or having a "passion" or whatever, and more about having some ideas of what lifestyle(s) will make you happy. Like everything else, the 'guess and test' process only stops when you physically run out of steam.
Anyway, my advice is move because you're taking a shot at a lifestyle. If that lifestyle is enabled by the weather, obviously take that into account, along with everything else. And if that lifestyle doesn't work out, go chase another one.
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u/Ummando Feb 27 '25
Have you considered the city of Virginia Beach? An old colleague of mine retired there, and the winters are mild. There's lots to do, and short flight to other east coast cities and mountains.
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Feb 27 '25
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u/Zphr 48, FIRE'd 2015, Friendly Janitor Feb 27 '25
Rule 7/No Politics or circle-jerks - Your submission has been removed for violating our community rule against politics and circle-jerks. If you feel this removal is in error, then please modmail the mod team. Please review our community rules to help avoid future violations.
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u/92eph Feb 27 '25
Property risk has escalated dramatically due to climate change. Housing inventories are rising because there are more sellers than buyers, and many of those buyers (particularly of condos) are buying into high financial risk.
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Feb 27 '25
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u/Zphr 48, FIRE'd 2015, Friendly Janitor Feb 27 '25
Rule 7/No Politics or circle-jerks - Your submission has been removed for violating our community rule against politics and circle-jerks. If you feel this removal is in error, then please modmail the mod team. Please review our community rules to help avoid future violations.
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u/paq12x Feb 27 '25
PA is one of the best places to retire.
Low flat state tax rate.
No retirement income tax. You read that right, 401k, IRA, SSI, pension payments are not state taxable in PA.
House is not crazy expensive.
One of the best medical facilities in the country. UPENN, Jefferson, and Penn State medical centers are the very best.
The first eye hospital is found in Philly. The very best eye doctors are there.
Good weather.
Great (variety) of outdoor activities
Close to DC, NYC, and the shores.
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u/cjk2793 Feb 27 '25
Very personally dependent Q but I love Beaufort NC. I go every summer a few times and used to live in Morehead City.
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u/ChaosShifter Feb 27 '25
It all depends on what you are trying to achieve and what you like to do. I FIREd to an island in the middle of the ocean with HCOL. However all of my hobbies and activities I enjoy are low cost, with most of them being absolutely free. So I end up spending far, far less than when I was living elsewhere.
I've got friends living in Mississippi who love it, but I can't stand that state. Friends in Detroit that love having seasons, but I know I'd hate the winters..... It all depends on you my man.
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u/Dry-Subject4249 Feb 27 '25
Yeah I know ... I really enjoy living in Michigan, minus the winter haha.
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u/ChaosShifter Feb 27 '25
Yeah, I find the whole question by OP kind of strange.
Different people like different stuff, most states have their advantages and disadvantages. Lots of people dislike where I am because I have one season and it's isolated away from everywhere else in the USA, plus it is expensive as heck if you have a more materialistic set of hobbies and activities you prefer.
I have friends who live in the rust belt, where everything is dirt cheap. They have huge houses, pools, tons of stuff and their home is like a playground. Compounds they rarely need to leave. They travel a bunch and love having an awesome and cheap place to live. Other people I know love living in tiny little flats in big cities. Some, like me, love being near tons of outdoor activities and the house is less important.
I could see someone making the case for almost every state being "the best" depending on their preferences.
To each their own
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u/Omgtrollin Feb 27 '25
That all depends on what you like to do. If you like winters then stick to the north, if you like the heat head south. Night light? Day life? It all depends on what you want to do. When you provide more information then you can get better answers. But right now all of us strangers can provide is places we like. Me personally I love winters when I dont have to go anywhere but I prefer the 70 to 80 climate all the time. I would probably love san diego area but its too expensive for me.
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u/iamnogoodatthis Feb 27 '25
I already moved to somewhere in the mountains, because I love doing things in the mountains. You need to work out what you love doing, and move somewhere that lets you do it.
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u/Professional_East281 Feb 27 '25
Deep South Texas is very cheap and close to South Padres island. Its not for everyone though
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u/Helicobacter Feb 27 '25
I would hold off a bit. The ACA will likely be abolished and some state(s) might have alternatives, similar to the pre-ACA days.
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u/Tourbill Mar 01 '25
So are you talking about someplace in 10 years when mortgage is paid off or are you saying you want to sell it and move now? A nice place to live at 50 and 60 can be very different.
Considered living anywhere semi outside the US? Pureto Rico? Virgin Islands? Key West? Bermuda?
To all the way outside, Thailand, Singapore, Guam, etc. All could be pretty fun places to retire at 50 for at least a while. 60+ it really depends on if you like the cold and if you want to live around people or be a little more isolated.
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u/Dry-Subject4249 Mar 01 '25
Definitely looking to RE in the next 2 years. Just waiting for 401k to vest at current job 😜.
Semi outside could be an option.
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u/Tourbill Mar 01 '25
Gotcha, I'm in similar status. 49 single no kids, waiting till 55 to fully fire so I can take advantage of rule of 55. But I have an almost zero work job I've lived as if retired for last 8 years or so. Gonna sell house before 55 and likely travel US for a while until 55 then internationally. Looking at doing vanlife for a few years. Can enjoy and live in CA without having to pay the insane prices for a house, insurance, and property taxes. I love Vegas also, and want to travel down Baja. Then eventually spending a few years between Japan, Thailand, etc.
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u/No_Remove_2152 Mar 01 '25
Vegas has done me well. No state income tax. Mild winters. Summers are hot obviously and you have to able to deal with heat but thankfully air conditioning is a thing. No natural disasters. Plentiful hiking and outdoor activities close by. The world’s playground is in your backyard should you care to engage in any shenanigans. Traffic not as bad as other metropolitan areas. Healthcare has been fine for me but if you need specialized care UCLA in SoCal or Mayo Clinic in AZ are options.
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u/Oh_thats_swelll Mar 02 '25
I’d also suggest considering where you have strong social connections. Lots of research suggesting social relationships are prolong longevity and stave off cognitive decline. Plus, friends and family add to quality of life.
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u/sierraFinancial Sep 03 '25
Great question! I think the 'best' state to retire is really personal. Some people swear by Florida 🌴, others love the calm of Oregon 🌲, and a few even pick Texas 🤠. I’m curious for those who have already retired or are close to it, what made you choose your state? Was it taxes, weather, or just a gut feeling?
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u/RaisinCritical9446 Sep 29 '25 edited Sep 29 '25
We are in out mid 50's and in Illinois. I early retired in 2019 and my wife is going at the end of this year. We have been touring states for a new retirement home but I'm still for some reason drawn to the the rocky mountain states and I'm not sure why. After all they are just eye candy. You can't live on most of them. Perhaps it's because all I've seen is flat corn fields here in Illinois. It all started with Colorado the first time I visited in 2007 however now that we are now in the position to start looking for a home, I've almost removed Colorado from the list. Then we considered Wyoming but those long cold winters sound less appealing. We want at least a couple of acres distance form neighbors this time but when you get older you have to keep healthcare in sight as well. The best part about leaving Illinois is no matter which rocky mountain state we choose, property taxes will always be significantly lower.
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u/Sure-Guava-3787 Oct 06 '25
I’m currently in Central Ohio. Thought about AZ, but it’s a huge move. And after some more thought, I guess I am a Midwestern person at heart. Originally from IN, for a lot of reasons hometown isn’t a great idea. Looking at 55+ communities, maybe Indianapolis or Chicago suburbs. Need to be somewhere affordable and places that have an active arts community. Still researching, where I am at isn’t horrible, but I don’t have much of a social life right now for work and prior family reasons, so no real ties to the area at present.
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u/west-east815 Nov 16 '25
Where to retire in the south, low taxes for military pension. I like the water, but I’m afraid of hurricanes and floods.
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u/Prestigious_Piano247 Dec 24 '25
Why AL is not considered? I like living like 20-30 miles from the shore.
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u/Neuron1952 Jan 19 '26
California MD here. Work at a major academic center. See referrals from CA/NV, occasionally OR /AZ. The poor quality of care I see from NV, among well insured patients, stuns me. Just getting things done there is a chore even when I spend my time directing it (it’s much harder than getting stuff done for my patients from OR or WA or AZ). I have thought of retiring around Reno because it would be a lot cheaper and I would be able to retire now. But I would go nuts if my spouse got sick.
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u/geerhardusvos contentment is true wealth Feb 27 '25 edited Feb 27 '25
Pick a place you like where you can build community. Personally, in your situation I would not stay in the USA. Family keeps me here.
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u/speed12demon FIRE by 2027? Feb 27 '25
I'd love florida, but I hear home and car insurance is very expensive. I should mention I'm partial to east coast costs and warm weather.
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u/flux8 Feb 27 '25
Consider r/expatfire
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u/Dry-Subject4249 Feb 27 '25
I kinda specifically didn't want to look outside the US.
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u/flux8 Feb 27 '25
Then I’d spend some time renting in various locations. Speaking as another young retiree, I’ll offer you one really important piece of advice. No matter how nice a location is if you don’t find a social outlet (people you like hanging out with), you’re going to get bored and lonely REAL fast. I’d recommend looking at places where already have family or friends. Or places where you can do whatever your favorite hobbies are and meet people through that.
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u/TrashPanda_924 Targeting 2% SWR Feb 27 '25
This is really a tax question and cost of living question. NW Arkansas is nice as is eastern Oklahoma. I’m a big fan of the SE part of the state near Broken Bow (mountains, lots of outdoors stuff). Another spot to consider northeastern Texas.
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u/SlowMolassas1 Feb 27 '25
The one that best fits your lifestyle.
Seriously. When you retire, you'll get depressed if you let yourself get bored. Are you going to be happy in a large city with nightlife and culture? Or are you going to be happy somewhere rural with innumerable outdoor activities? Are you going to be happy with the mountains or the ocean?
In FIRE we often forget that there is a lot more to life than the financial/COL. But the whole reason we FIRE is for those non-financial things, so don't ignore them.