By: Paulo Andres Vallejo
Edited by: Pedro Gomez
01/24/2024
Planning to retire in Florida but not sure where?
The time will come when your day-to-day job responsibilities will end. What better way to spend your morning or evening than with a stroll on the gorgeous white sand beaches of Florida? The sound of the waves, seagulls, and wind. The smell of saltwater in the air as the coastal winds caress your face and hair. From North to South Florida, many luxurious sun-soaked communities exist for all budgets and lifestyles. However, since Florida cities have always been a retirement destination, and hotspot, finding a home in a market with surging prices can take time and effort. Here are some of the best places to retire in Florida with just the right pace of life for you. This blog will venture into all the gems and unveil Florida’s lesser-known retirement havens. As Florida is known, the Sunshine State has many quiet and relaxing beach towns and cultural hubs with vibrant communities where cultural events are non-stop. Financial planning is essential so you do not have to sacrifice your quality of life and retire serenely.
Important Stats
- The median sale price per square foot for a new single-family home in the USA is $192.
- The median price for a single-family home in the USA is $274K.
- The Florida Housing Market’s 10-year housing appreciation for all types of single-family homes, townhomes, and condominium properties from 2012 – 2022 has seen an increase of 191.9%.
- Florida ranks 42nd in national public school rankings (2024).
- National private school rankings were not available. However, you can find 2024’s best private K-12 schools in Florida at Private School Review.
- The national annual average for private school tuition in 2024 is $11,793 for elementary school and $16,265 for high school.
- In Florida, the annual average for private school tuition in 2024 is $10,484 for elementary school and $11,689 for high school.
- In Florida, the minimum wage is $13 an hour. The federal minimum wage is $7.25 an hour.
- Florida’s state income tax is zero.
- Florida’s sales tax is 6%.
- The average monthly Florida Power & Light bill is $130.40.
- The average monthly water bill is $33.
- The average monthly internet bill is $30.
- The average monthly car insurance is $94 for minimum coverage and $265 for full coverage.
- The average monthly house insurance is around $2,030 a year for a house with $350,000 in dwelling coverage. Floridians pay almost three times more for home insurance than the national average. Factors that determine insurance premiums are:
- Your home’s age
- The materials used to construct your home
- The cost it would take to rebuild your home
- Your location’s fire rating
- Your location’s claims history
- The insurer’s personal history claims
- Deductibles & coverage limits
- Insurer’s credit score
- Property taxes are levied by the city or county the property is in. There are several property tax exemptions available to those who qualify.
- Florida’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Commodity Supplemental Food Program.
- The Florida’s Department for Elder Affairs.
- Tri-rail offers a 50% discount fare.
- Brightline offers discounts to seniors. However, the discount varies depending on the trip.
1. Sarasota: A Paradise for Culture
– Population: 57,376
– Crime Rate Index: 6
-Healthcare: These three healthcare services are among the best in the city. Sarasota Memorial Hospital, Pam Health Specialty Hospital of Sarasota, and Creekside health and Rehabilitation Center.
– Gastronomy: With their average prices, these three restaurants will delight your palate. MADE Restaurant is $10 – $25, Shore St. Armands Restaurant is $15 – $40, and The Spot Tacos and More is $5 – $20.
– School District’s Quality Compared to the U.S.: They are better than 82.3% of all U.S. school districts.
– Activities & Attractions: Centered on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Sarasota’s vibrant arts scene offers soul-nourishing experiences with The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, many kayaking tours, and the Sarasota Opera. Considered by some to be the crown jewel of Sarasota, Siesta Key Beach has long, gorgeous, white, powdery sands and calm waters perfect for relaxing and barefoot walking. The Marie Selby Botanical Gardens are a floral delight. The Sarasota Art Crawl Trolley Tour is a mobile art experience. This city has easy access to I-75, one of three main highways traveling north and south. I-75 can connect with I-10 or I-4 (which go east and west), or you can go south until reaching Miami-Dade County.
– Golf Courses: There are many gorgeous golf courses for enthusiasts to tee of on. TPC Prestancia, The Highlands Golf Course, and Bobby Jones Golf Course are prestigious and offer challenging yet enjoyable experiences.
– Cost of Living: It is in the top 2% most expensive cities.
– Average Monthly Rent: $1,544 for a studio, $2,283 for a one-bedroom, $3,395 for a two-bedroom, and $4,557 for a three-bedroom.
– Job Market: Sarasot’s residents are mainly retirees and snowbirds, so the city can support its economy without such a robust job market. This stable job market and low unemployment rate have helped keep foreclosures and mortgage delinquencies down. The average hourly wage is $21.63 or $45,000 a year. The unemployment rate is at 4.6%. The job market has seen an increase of 2.6% over the last year and is projected to grow 44.6% over the next ten years.
– 10-year housing market appreciation (2013 – 2023): Increase of 184.76%.
– Price per sq/ft for a single-family home: $560.
– Average Sales Price for Single Family Home: $500K.
– These homes usually sell 17 days after being on the market.
– Property Taxes: 0.89% of a property’s assessed fair market value is levied as property tax.
– Extra Benefits: The City of Sarasota’s Retiree Benefits offers two medical plans, access to the City’s Health Clinic when enrolled, Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance, two Legal Protection Plans, Basic Retiree Life Insurance if eligible, Conversion of Additional Life Insurance. and Health Reimbursement Account (HRA).
2. Naples: The Epitome of Luxury Living
– Population: 19,618
– Crime Rate Index: 28
-Healthcare: Excellence is a standard at these renowned hospitals. NCH North Naples Hospital, NCH Heart Institute, and NCH Baker Hospital Downtown.
– Gastronomy: If you are a foodie, Naples is your place, and these places might blow your mind. The French Brasserie Rustique is $10 – $48, Del Mar Restaurant is $31 to $50, and Osteria Tulia is $30.
– School District’s Quality Compared to the U.S.: They are better than 76.6% of all U.S. school districts.
– Activities & Attractions: Situated on the South Western Gulf Coast, Naples’ Fifth Avenue South provides a luxurious lifestyle with fine dining and high-end shopping. The Naples Botanical Garden and The Naples Pier offer beautiful and serene environments ideal for unwinding. Just a short drive away is Marco Island. This city has easy access to I-75, one of three main highways traveling north and south. I-75 can connect with I-10 or I-4 (which go east and west), or you can go south until reaching Miami-Dade County.
– Golf Courses
– Golf Courses: It’s a golfer’s paradise with amazing championship-style golf courses like Gulf View Beach Club, Hibiscus Golf Club, and Quail Run Golf Club.
– Cost of Living: It is 2.0% higher than the national average.
– Average Monthly Rent: $4,365 for a studio, $3,475 for a one-bedroom, $5,503 for a two-bedroom, and $8,420 for a three-bedroom.
– Job Market: Tourism is the primary economic driver. This means there are many jobs in the hospitality industry and in construction due to constant development. The average hourly wage is $22.60 or $47,000 a year. The unemployment rate is at 4%. The job market has seen a 0.9% increase over the last year and is projected to grow 39.3% over the next ten years.
– 10-year housing market appreciation (2013 – 2023): Increase of 216.39%.
– Price per sq/ft for a single-family home: $500.
– Average Sales Price for Single Family Home: $800K.
– These homes usually sell 38 days after being on the market.
– Property Taxes: The City of Naples property tax or millage rate is 1.1500 (1/1500 of a dollar)of a property’s assessed fair market value is levied as property tax.
– Extra Benefits: The City of Naples is in Collier County. Although no senior services were found by the City of Naples, the County it resides in, Collier County, provides Emergency Home Energy Assistance for the Elderly Program (EHEAP). The Collier Country‘s website also has senior resources, food resources, a senior lunch program, and senior volunteer opportunities.
3. The Villages: A Community-Centric Haven
– Population: 79,077
– Crime Rate Index: 54
-Healthcare: Retirement care at its finest. These retirement community centers specialize in senior care. The Villages Health, Villa Health Center, and Amedisys.
– Gastronomy: Classical food with elegance and full of flavor. These restaurants are more than meets the eye. Redsauce American – Italian Restaurant is $11 – $30, Cody’s Original is $10 – $25, and Lighthouse Point Bar and Grille is $11 – $30.
– School District’s Quality Compared to the U.S.: Public schools in The Villages belong to districts that are in Marion School District or Sumter School District.
– Activities & Attractions: This Central Florida city with a small-town feel is one of the best retirement destinations in Florida. The numerous recreational centers and over 2,000 social clubs offer resort-style amenities and engaging activities. The town squares are vibrant hubs of entertainment, dining, and shopping, fostering a strong sense of community. The city is connected to I-4, which goes east and west. I-4 can connect you with I-95 and I-75, which ride north and south.
– Golf Courses: Golf The Villages is every retirement golfer’s dream, and it is free to golf for all residents.
– Cost of Living: It is 3.6% higher than the national average.
– Average Monthly Rent: $1,170 for a one-bedroom, $3,500 for a two-bedroom, and $3,873 for a three-bedroom.
– Job Market: This is a retirement community that primarily live of retirement income, so they are self-sufficient. The average hourly rate is $17.88 an hour. The Villages has a projected job growth of 31.88%.
– 10-year housing appreciation (2012 – 2022): Increase of 216.39%.
– Price per sq/ft for a single-family home: $251.
– Average Sales Price for Single Family Home: $390K.
– These homes usually sell 32 days after being on the market.
– Property Taxes: The Villages is located in 3 counties: Lake, Marion, and Sumter. Lake’s millage rate is $5.0529 per $1,000 of value. Marion’s millage rate is 0.86% of a property’s assessed fair market value, and Sumter’s milage rate is 5.1900.
– Extra Benefits: The Villages is a community tailored to retirees, providing endless benefits.
4. St. Petersburg: St. Pete or The Sunshine City
– Population: 261,256
– Crime Rate Index: 9
-Healthcare: If you are looking for patient-centric comprehensive services, look no further. HCA Florida St. Petersburg Hospital, Kindred Hospital Bay Area, and Bayfront Health are here for you.
– Gastronomy: The following mouth-watering restaurants will turn you into regular guests. Bacchus Wine Bistro is $11- $30, BellaBrava St.Pete is $10 – $25, and Spinner’s Rooftop Revolving Bistro is $50 and over.
– Activities & Attractions: Positioned in the Central Gulf Coast of Florida, The Salvador Dalí Museum provides a rich cultural experience and is a must-see for art lovers. However, the city’s other vibrant art scenes shouldn’t be overlooked. The botanical beauty at Sunken Gardens is floral eye candy. This city has easy access to I-75, one of three main highways traveling north and south. I-75 can connect with I-10 or I-4 (which go east and west), or you can go south until reaching Miami-Dade County.
– Golf Courses: Challenging plays and scenic views like at Tocobaga DGC, St. Petersburg Country Club, and Vinoy Golf Club make golfing more than pleasurable.
– Cost of Living: It is 1.5% higher than the national average.
– Average Monthly Rent: $1,473 for a studio, $1,737 for a one-bedroom, $2,790 for a two-bedroom, and $3,292 for a three-bedroom.
– Job Market: The average hourly wage is $22.60 or $47,000 a year. The unemployment rate is at 4.6%. It has seen job market growth of 2.3% over the last year and predicted job growth of 42% over the next ten years.
– 10-year housing appreciation (2012 – 2022): Increase of 102.65%.
– Price per sq/ft for a single-family home: $323.
– Average Sales Price for Single Family Home: $403K.
– These homes usually sell 38 days after being on the market.
– Property Taxes: St. Petersburg is a city in Pinellas County. Pinellas County’s millage rate for 2024 is $4.7398 per $1,000 of a property’s assessed fair market value.
– Extra Benefits: Pinellas County Senior Care offers seniors with transportation assistance, companionship and conversation, grocery shopping, errand running, respite care, alzheimer’s care, and dementia care.
5. Port Charlotte: A Serene Waterfront Lifestyle
– Population: 60,625
– Crime Rate Index: 56
-Healthcare: ShorePoint Health, Millennium Physician Group, and Transitions Family Healthcare have top-tier medical facilities and staff.
– Gastronomy: How would you describe delicious? Port Charlotte’s restaurants like these will leave you searching for words. Peace River Seafood and Crab Shack is $11 – $30, The Twisted Fork is $11 – $30, and Taste of Europe Bistro is $10 – $25.
– School District’s Quality Compared to the U.S.: They are better than 60.5% of all U.S. school districts.
– Activities & Attractions: This city is located in the Florida’s Central Gulf Coast. If boating and fishing are your way of life, 165 miles of waterways and water activities await you. Peaceful retreats for nature lovers await at the Port Charlotte Beach Park. This city has easy access to I-75, one of three main highways traveling north and south. I-75 can connect with I-10 or I-4 (which go east and west), or you can go south until reaching Miami-Dade County.
– Golf Courses: With courses of all skill levels, the Twin Isles Country Club, Deep Creek Golf Club, and Riverwood Golf Club cater to you by ensuring your experience is rewarding.
– Cost of Living: It is 8% less than the national average.
– Average Monthly Rent: $2,008 for a studio, $1,633 for a one-bedroom, $2,111 for a two-bedroom, and $2,872 for a three-bedroom.
– Job Market: The average hourly wage is $28.78 or $59,855 a year. The unemployment rate is at 5%. The job market has increased 1.9% over the last year and is expected to grow 38.9% over the next ten years.
– 10-year housing appreciation (2012 – 2022): Increase of 195.87%.
– Price per sq/ft for a single-family home: $202.
– Average Sales Price for Single Family Home: $310K.
– These homes usually sell 66 days after being on the market.
– Property Taxes: Port Charlotte’s average property tax rate is at 1.60%. The rate is based on the zip code you live in.
– Extra Benefits: Charlotte Country aging and adult services assist adults by providing in and out-of-home support.
6. Clearwater: Beachside Bliss and Marine Adventures
– Population: 117,027
– Crime Rate Index: 18
-Healthcare: Evara Health, HCA Florida Clearwater Emergency, and veriMED Health Group Clearwater provide globally recongnized staff with the newest technology.
– Gastronomy: Aroma and flavor mixed with deliciousness can be enjoyed at these spots. Guppy’s on the Beach is $20 – $30, Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill is $11 – $30, and Ocean Hai is $26 – $42.
– Activities & Attractions: Florida’s Central Gulf Coast city has beach activities that are available every day due to the city’s stunning coastline. You can also view marine life at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium or take a relaxing stroll to Pier 60. This city has easy access to I-75, one of three main highways traveling north and south. I-75 can connect with I-10 or I-4 (which go east and west), or you can go south until reaching Miami-Dade County.
– Golf Courses: Stunning views Enhance the playing experience at the Heritage Landing Country Club, Palm Bay Country Club, and Clearwater Country Club.
– Cost of Living: It is in the top 4% most expensive cities in the world.
– Average Monthly Rent: $2,002 for a studio, $1,759 for a one-bedroom, $2,902 for a two-bedroom, and $4,401 for a three-bedroom.
– Job Market: The average hourly wage is $21.15 or $44,000 a year. The unemployment rate is 4.6%. The job market has seen an increase of 2.3% over the last year and is projected to grow to 41.1% over the next ten years.
– 10-year housing appreciation (2012 – 2022): Increase of 172.53%.
– Price per sq/ft for a single-family home: $289.
– Average Sales Price for Single Family Home: $385K.
– These homes usually sell 29 days after being on the market.
– Property Taxes: St. Petersburg is in Pinellas Country. Pinellas County’s millage rate for 2024 is $4.7398 per $1,000 of a property’s assessed fair market value.
– Extra Benefits: Pinellas County Senior Care offers seniors transportation assistance, companionship and conversation, grocery shopping, errand running, respite care, alzheimer’s care, and dementia care.
7. Fort Myers: The City of Palms
– Population: 95,949
– Crime Rate Index: 23
-Healthcare: In healthcare, tender love and care is how you establish relationships. These fantastic establishments do so. Cedarbrook Health & Rehabilitation, Lee Health, and VIPcare Fort Myers – Medical Lane.
– Gastronomy: If a place has you coming back for more then usually it serves incredible dishes. These places serve incredible plates. Izzy’s Fish and Oyster: Trendy Seafood is $10 – $25, F.K. Your Diet: Comfort Food is $11 – $30, and Downtown House of Pizza: N.Y. Slices and Pies is $11 – $30.
– School District’s Quality Compared to the U.S.: They are better than 49.3% of all U.S. school districts.
– Activities & Attractions: This South Western Gulf Coast city’s rich historical background is evident in attractions like the Edison and Ford Winter Estates. Lakes Regional Park and Manatee Park are perfect for nature enthusiasts. This city has easy access to I-75, one of three main highways traveling north and south. I-75 can connect with I-10 or I-4 (which go east and west), or you can go south until reaching Miami-Dade County.
– Golf Courses: The Fort Myers Country Club, Whiskey Creek Country Club, Eagle Ridge Golf Club, and others offer a historic backdrop to your golf games.
– Cost of Living: It is in the top 5% most expensive cities in the world.
– Average Monthly Rent: $2,206 for a studio, $1,759 for a one-bedroom,$2,835 for a two-bedroom, and $3,734 for a three-bedroom.
– Job Market: The average hourly wage is $18.27 an hour or $38,000 a year. The unemployment rate is at 5.3%. The job market has seen growth of 1.9% over the last year and is expected to grow 44% over the next ten years.
– 10-year housing appreciation (2012 – 2022): Increase of 174.73%.
– Price per sq/ft for a single-family home: $252.
– Average Sales Price for Single Family Home: $380K.
– These homes usually sell 35 days after being on the market.
– Property Taxes: .9900% of a property’s assessed fair market value is levied as property tax.
– Extra Benefits: The City of Forty Myers offers recreation and senior centers, Meals on Wheels, Lee friendship centers, Senior Safety Resource Center, Share Club, Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida, Dr. Piper Center for Social Services, Accounting Help, and Barrington Terrace of Ft. Myers.
8. Tampa: The Big Guava or Cigar City
– Population: 398,173
– Crime Rate Index: 16
-Healthcare: Tampa is known for complementing care with the newest equipment and rigorously trained staff. These centers are at your disposal. HCA Florida South Tampa Hospital, Pediatric Health Care Alliance, and Ally Healthcare.
– Gastronomy: Check out these restaurants if you like tasty and yummy. Edison Food & Drink Lab is $ 25 – $50, OYSTERCATCHERS is $31 – $59, and ROOSTER & THE TILL is $25 – $50.
– School District’s Quality Compared to the U.S.: They are better than 57.3% of all U.S. school districts.
– Activities & Attractions: The city’s diverse cultural scene located in the Central Gulf Coast is anchored by a vibrant lifestyle and many attractions, such as historic Ybor City. The Tampa Riverwalk is perfect for pleasant strolls, while theme parks like Bush Gardens offers visitors encounters with exotic animals and thrilling rides. MLB fans can enjoy the Tampa Bay Rays. NFL fans can cheer the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. NHL fans can root for the Tampa Bay Lightning. This city has easy access to I-75, one of three main highways traveling north and south. I-75 can connect with I-10 or I-4 (which go east and west), or you can go south until reaching Miami-Dade County.
– Golf Courses: The Tampa Palms Golf & Country Club, Countryway Golf Clun, and Temple Terrace Golf & Country Club, with a lush backdrop for your games, are must-sees, among others.
– Cost of Living: It is 1.3% higher than the national average.
– Average Monthly Rent: $1,607 for a studio, $1,688 for a one-bedroom, $2,106 for a two-bedroom, and $2,925 for a three-bedroom.
– Job Market: The average hourly wage is $22.60 an hour or $47,000 a year. The unemployment rate is 5%. The job market has seen an increase of 2.3% over the last year and is expected to grow 42.7% over the next ten years.
– 10-year housing appreciation (2012 – 2022): Increase of 185.24%.
– Price per sq/ft for a single-family home: $278.
– Average Sales Price for Single Family Home: $418K.
– These homes usually sell 35 days after being on the market.
– Property Taxes: 1.09% of a property’s assessed fair market value is levied as property tax in Hillsborough County.
– Extra Benefits: The City of Tampa provides the Senior Connection Center, Inc. They oversee the Local Area Agency on Aging and the Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC)
9. Miami: The Magic City, a Multicultural Urban Oasis
– Population: 449,514
– Crime Rate Index: 11
-Healthcare: When discussing world-class healthcare, these hospitals in South Florida are at the forefront. HCA Florida Mercy Hospital, Baptist Hospital of Miami, and Mount Sinai Medical Center.
– Gastronomy: Some people fly to Miami just to eat at these restaurants. Joe’s Stone Crab is $10 – $80, Prime 112 is $31 – $60, and Juvia Miami is $48 – $100.
– School District’s Quality Compared to the U.S.: They are better than 67.9% of all U.S. school districts.
– Activities & Attractions: Located on the Atlantic Ocean, this vibrantly glamorous, luxurious multicultural prism of food, theater, art, and music continues to grow uncontrollably. Miami Beach’s historic Art Deco District and Vizcaya’s Museum & Garden are iconic to visit. MLB fans can watch the Miami Marlins play at Loan Depot Park. The NFL team the Miami Dolphins play at Hard Rock Stadium and the NBA team Miami Heat play at The Kaseya Center. This city is connected to three main highways. I-95, I-75, and the Palmetto Expressway. I-75 takes you north and south through the west coast of Florida, while I-95 takes you north and south through the east coast of Florida. The Palmetto Expressway takes you north and south through Central Florida.
– Golf Courses: The Miami Beach Golf Course, The Biltmore Hotel Spa & Golf, and Crandon Golf at Key Biscayne offer some of the best greens to tee at.
– Cost of Living: It is 15.4% higher than the national average.
– Average Monthly Rent: $2,197 for a studio, $2,733 for a one-bedroom, $3,780 for a two-bedroom, and $5,305 for a three-bedroom.
– Job Market: The average hourly wage is $21.15 an hour or $44,000 a year. The unemployment rate is at 8.3%. The job market has seen growth of 0.8% over the last year and is expected to grow 42.7% over the next ten years.
– 10-year housing appreciation (2012 – 2022): Increase of 180.16%.
– Price per sq/ft for a single-family home: $485.
– Average Sales Price for Single Family Home: $570K.
– These homes usually sell 69 days after being on the market.
– Property Taxes: Property taxes in Miami-Dade County and in the City of Miami vary by zip code.
– Extra Benefits: The Miami-Dade County offers an Active Older Adults Program, age-friendly mini-grants, and FREE transit on any MetroBus or MetroRail with the Golden Passport.
10. Fort Lauderdale: The Venice of America, Upscale Living by the Canals
– Population: 183,146
– Crime Rate Index: 5
-Healthcare: Some of the most knowledgable and experienced physicians in South Florida practice in these hospitals. Broward Health Medical Center, Holy Cross Hospital, and Florida Medical Center.
– Gastronomy: Appetizing and delish put these restaurants on a pedestal. Makoto is $31 – $50, Meraki Grek Bristo is $11 – $30, and Chima Steakhouse is $37 – $57.
– School District’s Quality Compared to the U.S.: They are better than 60.5% of all U.S. school districts.
– Activities & Attractions: Fort Lauderdale offers upscale living with its famous beaches, boating canals, and exquisite dining scene. Located on the Atlantic Ocean’s coast, Las Olas Boulevard and Fort Lauderdale Beach offer high-end entertainment and leisure. NHL fans can cheer for the Florida Panthers, who play at FLA Live Arena in Sunrise, a short drive away. The NFL football team Miami Dolphins play at Hard Rock Stadium, which is a short drive away. This city is connected to three main highways. I-95, I-75, and the Palmetto Expressway. I-75 takes you north and south through the west coast of Florida, while I-95 takes you north and south through the east coast of Florida. The Palmetto Expressway takes you north and south through Central Florida.
– Golf Courses: The Coral Ridge Country Club, Golftec Fort Lauderdale, and Fort Lauderdale Country Club provide exclusive golfing experiences.
– Cost of Living: It is 22% higher than the national average.
– Average Monthly Rent: $1,822 for a studio, $2,277 for a one-bedroom,$3,411 for a two-bedroom, and $5,449 for a three-bedroom.
– Job Market: The average hourly wage is $23.56 an hour or $49,000 a year. The unemployment rate is at 6.1%. The job market has seen growth of 1.9% over the last year and is expected to grow 37.9% over the next ten years.
– 10-year housing appreciation (2012 – 2022): Increase of 161.03%.
– Price per sq/ft for a single-family home: $396.
– Average Sales Price for Single Family Home: $503K.
– These homes usually sell 63 days after being on the market.
– Property Taxes: of a property’s assessed fair market value is levied as property tax.
– Extra Benefits: City of Fort Lauderdale information for retirees.
11. Orlando: The City Beautiful or O-Town
– Population: 316,081
– Crime Rate Index: 3
-Healthcare: The personnel are first-class at Orlando Health-Orlando Regional Medical Center, and South Lake Hospital.
– Gastronomy: Desiring something succulent and savory? Check these restaurants out. Antonio’s is $18 – $42, DOMU is around $40, and Reyes Mezcaleria is $12 – $54.
– School District’s Quality Compared to the U.S.: They are better than 56.6% of all U.S. school districts.
– Activities & Attractions: A retirement gem for those seeking a vibrant retirement community. Situated in Central Florida, Walt Disney World and Universal Studios offer unlimited amusement park fun. These theme parks have more than just one park to visit. Walt Disney has The Magic Kingdom, Epcot Center, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Disney’s Hollywood Kingdom, and numerous Disney resorts. NBA fans can watch the Orlando Magic play at the Kia Center in downtown Orlando. This city is connected to I-4, which goes east and west. I-4 can connect you with I-95 and I-75, which ride north and south.
– Golf Courses: The Shingle Creek Golf Club, Ventura Country Club, and Lake Nona Golf & Country Club provide a pleasurable and scenic golfing experience.
– Cost of Living: It is 4.2% higher than the national average.
– Average Monthly Rent: $2,196 for a studio,$1,611 for a one-bedroom, $1,971 for a two-bedroom, and $2,429 for a three-bedroom.
– Job Market: The average hourly wage is $19.71 an hour or $41,000 a year. The unemployment rate is at 5.8%. The job market has seen growth of 3.9% over the last year and is expected to grow 51% over the next ten years.
– 10-year housing appreciation (2012 – 2022): Increase of 161.38%.
– Price per sq/ft for a single-family home: $241.
– Average Sales Price for Single Family Home: $395K.
– These homes usually sell 34 days after being on the market.
– Property Taxes: 0.94% of a property’s assessed fair market value is levied as property tax.
– Extra Benefits: The City of Orlando’s age-friendly world has many non-profit and governmental agencies like the Senior Resource Alliance, Volunteers for Community Impact, Lighthouse Central Florida, Share the Care, Seniors First, which provides Meals on Wheels, and the Orange County Office on Aging.
Financial Implications for Early Retirement
It is essential to consider several factors when planning to retire. A Certified Financial Planner™ can help you start building your retirement plan. If you are not working with one already, Brickell Financial Group specializes in working with Americans interested in retiring abroad.
Furthermore, working with a Certified Financial Planner™can help determine your retirement readiness and how critical decisions like retiring abroad would impact your budget, cost of living, and quality of life. If you are not already working with a trusted financial advisor, you can learn more about me and my advisory firm, Brickell Financial Group.
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