Larry
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Every year a variety of publications release "best places to retire" lists, but this doesn't really answer your question. The best place to retire is the place that fits your needs, and those needs will probably be at least different from what these lists cover.
Sure, this makes Portland look great, but do you really want to put up with the Maine winters?
When picking a place to retire, there are several things you should take into consideration.
Weather: Tropical areas like Hawaii and south Florida may not have snow, but they do have rainy seasons. If you can, see the place you want to move to several times during the year so you can see if the weather is a good fit for you.
Medical care: A location close to a city will mean better access to specialists. If you have a particular health problem, do some research and find a place that has a hospital or specialist team that specializes in your ailment.
Taxes: Since you will be living on investments, capital gains tax will be a primary concern. Alaska, Florida, Nevada, New Hampshire, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, and Wyoming have no capital gains tax, while Montana has the highest rate: 11% on short and long-term gains.
Property taxes vary widely both locally and state-wide, but tend to be higher in resort areas. Moving just a few miles away from your ideal location can save hundreds of dollars a year.
Activities: What do you want to do when you retire? Play golf? See theater shows? Travel? Find out what the location has to offer.
Once you've narrowed down your search, spend some time at each place acting as if you are a resident, not a tourist. Will you be missing out on things that you're used to where you live now? Is it easy for you to get around? Are the prices for food and household goods more than you're used to? Is there real estate on the market that will suit your needs?
 Posted 5454 day ago
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