America’s Best Places For Retirement

U.S. News & World Report has compiled a list of the best places to retire in America, ranking the 100 largest metropolitan areas based on things like housing affordability, healthcare, and overall happiness.

Unsurprisingly, Florida is well represented. Shockingly, a city in my home state of Pennsylvania is in the top spot.

Don't get me wrong, I still have a lot of love for the Keystone State, and could even see myself living there again under the right circumstances. But the winters can be harsh and long. As I recall, the taxes are quite high in Pennsylvania, too. Nevertheless, U.S. News & World Report says Lancaster, PA is the place to be in your golden years. It works for the Amish.

This list has also made me realize that I've been living my life in the wrong order. By the time I was 25, I had already lived in two of the best retirement cities. I should have waited until I was at least 50 before moving to Pittsburgh and Austin. If Charlotte (#34) can find its way into the top ten, I'll be back on track and can avoid ever having to move again.

1. Lancaster, PA
2. Fort Myers, FL
3. Sarasota, FL
4. Austin, TX
5. Pittsburgh, PA
6. Grand Rapids, MI
7. Nashville, TN
8. San Antonio, TX
9. Dallas–Fort Worth, TX
10. Lakeland, FL

Click here to see all of the '100 Best Places to Retire in the USA.'