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Florida Retirement

The number one reason seniors choose Florida for retirement is the climate.  Subtropical and humid, Florida beckons to tourists and retirees alike, particularly those who enjoy year-round golf and miles of white, sandy beaches.   The second reason that seniors come to Florida is the low cost-of-living.  The state ranks below the national average, in part because there is no state income tax.   Of course, some areas, such as Key West, are more expensive.  Groceries, prescription drugs and medical services are all exempt from sales tax.    Roughly 20% of Florida's population is made up of retirees, so there are obviously many, many services that cater to the 55+ set.

Tourism is the state's biggest industry, followed by manufacturing and agriculture. Ponce De Leon was the first European to see the area in 1513, and the U.S. purchased it in 1819.  In 1845, the area became a state.  The railroad's arrival in the 1920s fueled a land boom and then bust.  Florida became a major tourist destination after World War II, with another boom starting in the 1960s and continuing with no end in sight.

Despite headlines about high crime, illegal immigration and many recent hurricanes, there are still many unspoiled areas that provide for an enjoyable and relaxing retirement.

Gainesville

Located 65 miles southwest of Jacksonville, Gainesville, population 91,000, is in area that is half covered with a wilderness of lakes, forest and wetlands, and the town enjoys a change of seasons.  There is no snow and little cold weather, and the autumn foliage is gorgeous.  A small-town atmosphere with stately homes on leafy streets gives the town its nickname of "The Tree City."

Gainesville is home to the University of Florida, one of the ten largest schools in the United States (population of 40,000 students).  The University brings significant educational, cultural and recreational opportunities to the area, and retirees who have resided in Gainesville at least one year may audit courses free of charge.  Some retirees may consider the large student population to be a drawback (it does limit the number of part-time jobs available), but many retirees enjoy living in a youthful environment.

Overall, the cost-of-living here is slightly below the national average, thanks to housing costs and health care costs that are below the national norm.   Homes are for sale, and rentals are available, but the market tightens in the fall when the college kids return to town.

Originally planned as a health resort by its founder, Gainesville's medical facilities are outstanding with four full-service hospitals and 1200 doctors and dentists.  Shands Hospital is the leading referral facility for the entire southeast.

Seniors account for roughly 10% of Gainesville's population, and senior services are good.  Seventy-five agencies offer volunteer opportunities, and the Center for Aging Resources maintains a toll-free elder help line that offers assistance to seniors.

Fort Myers

Fort Myers, on the Gulf Coast, is a retirement haven famous for its quartz sand beaches.   Retirees will find charming, upscale living here, as well as on the nearby barrier islands Captiva and Sanibel.  Cape Coral is a lovely nearby resort.   Tall Royal Palms line streets of southwestern architecture, and there are 25 public and private golf courses in the area.    Thomas Edison spent his winters here, and his home is now a museum, as is the home of another famous inventor, Henry Ford.

When one thinks of retirement, Fort Myers may come to mind with its warm weather, beautiful beaches, and abundant golf courses.  Fort Myers’ fame has spread, however, and in snowbirds swell the winter populations.  Streets are crowded and land prices have risen with the population. 

Retirees are an important part of the Ft. Myers economy and make up 25% of the population.