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Advantages of City Living

The Baby Boomers have always impacted America no matter what stage they are in life and that’s not going to stop during their retirement years since they want all the variety of lifestyle options they had previously. In keeping with this trend, many of today’s retiring seniors are choosing city streets instead “one stoplight” towns, since there has been an explosion in city living amenities. Plus, many retirees are finding out that the energy of city life helps keep them feeling younger in mind and spirit. So, if you identify with the hit song “You Belong to the City,” then urban retirement may be the right decision for your golden years.

That choice is expected to become more appealing as we approach the next post-millennium decade, given that the number of Americans over age 50 is expected to triple in the next 10 years, to some 252 million individuals. That fact means most major cities will see an explosion in over 50 year old residents and will be forced to adapt accordingly.

Among the advantages you can expect by retiring to an urban area:

Social Opportunities in the City for Retirees:

The fact is that studies have shown that establishing a good circle of friends is critical to a satisfying retirement life. In fact, it’s even more important than the amount of money that they can afford to live on or their relative level of health. In the city, most people find it easier to grow their circle of friends because of the wide variety of civic clubs, community centers, and institutions which teach continuing education courses. This new social network of friends can help prevent depression caused by deteriorating health or the loss of a spouse or loved one.

Public Transportation in the City for Retirees.

Seniors living in a more rural community and lose their ability to drive become dependent on people or social services to provide transportation. Even if the physical aspects of driving are fine, you must maintain your vehicle which can be pricey on a limited income. Not so in the city due to bus and train systems. In fact, many transportation systems offer discounted rates for seniors to encourage usage. If public transportation isn’t convenient for your trip, taxis are usually readily available and relatively inexpensive. Public transportation is good since it keeps seniors independent and safe without the burden of having to find rides from someone.

Access to Medical Services.

It’s obvious to see that your chances of surviving a medical emergency are much higher if you’re located 10 minutes to the nearest hospital compared to an hour or more in some rural communities. Even long term care is better in cities since most retirees as they age will face a chronic illness. The variety of specialists related to aging make urban living an easier and cheaper option compared to all the driving that country living requires.

Access to Local Businesses.

Seniors who live in downtown lofts, condos or apartments often only need to walk one or two blocks to get their dry cleaning, pick up a loaf of bread, get a newspaper or find other daily living items they need. Even if it’s necessary to travel a bit further, shopping opportunities are plentiful in virtually every urban area. All cities offer more opportunities for frugal seniors to shop at discount retailers

Restaurants.

After years of slaving away over a stove, who wants to cook for themselves anymore? Even smaller cities offer a wide variety of dining experiences, many of which have senior citizens rates or delivery that isn’t found in a country setting.

Fitness for Retirees.

Many would argue that exercise is the number one way to improve or maintain their health. Cities have more fitness facilities and a wider variety of classes that serve as motivation and social opportunities while improving physical and mental health. For those not wanting to take a class, the big malls offer the ability to walk in the comfort of air conditioning.

   

Continuing Education.

The Boomers know they have to keep their minds active to prevent boredom. Urban living provides access to a wide range of classes, through local universities, museums, city recreation departments, etc. Enrolling in these types of courses can help prevent depression caused by a lack of engaging activities that their careers used to provide.

Entertainment.

Many retiree dreams include partaking in the things they missed out on during their careers. Cities offer access to everything from museums, theater and concerts to sporting events, festivals, zoos and historical sites. Many come with the added benefit of senior citizen rates.

Housing Options

Cities also offer the widest variety of housing options. Whereas most country settings don’t have a wide variety of rental properties that someone else maintains for you, cities offer everything from luxury residences with full staff to assisted living facilities that do all the housework while you go exploring.

With the city right outside your door, you can easily visit a new neighborhood restaurant or hop on a train to enjoy a meal out on the other side of town.

There’s also much more quantity of housing units and types in urban areas. Whereas you might only be able to live in one area of a country town due to price or location, in the city you can find any type of housing unit, whether a loft, condo, duplex, or single family house, in any area with a good chance that it fits your budget.


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