We live in an enormous and beautiful country, so deciding where to retire can be tough. The city must be affordable, relaxing, vibrant, and (of course) accommodating to seniors. So where is the best place to retire in the US? Well, we don’t want to toot our own horn, so we’ll let Livability.com do most of the talking. In 2014, Livability.com, a website showcasing the best small-to-medium sized cities in America, ranked the ten best places to retire in the United States. Their top choice? None other than Springfield, Missouri, the Queen City of the Ozarks!
The Best Place to Retire in the US
Of course we weren’t surprised that Livability.com chose our fair city as the best place to retire in the US, but we would love to share with you why they believe Springfield is a great city for seniors:
WHY SHOULD YOU RETIRE IN SPRINGFIELD?
AFFORDABILITY. The cost of living in Springfield is 7% below the national average, the housing costs are low, and seniors receive several helpful tax breaks. Prescription drugs and the majority of Social Security benefits are not taxed, and in Missouri, certain seniors are given credit on real estate taxes and rent.
A HOT SPOT FOR SENIORS. In Springfield, 14.5% of the population is 65 years old or over. Plus, the city offers excellent health care and a variety of transportation options for those who aren’t able to drive, including taxis, buses, and bike lanes. When Livability.com weighed the factors that matter most to retired Americans, they found that Springfield had the top score.
THINGS TO DO. Springfield is an excellent combination of small town atmosphere and big city amenities. There are a number of trendy restaurants, music venues, shopping centers, seasonal festivities, and art galleries (as well as a monthly event called First Friday Art Watch). Plus, because Springfield is home to a minor league baseball team and universities like Missouri State, Drury, and Evangel, there are plenty of sports events to attend.
NATURAL BEAUTY. Since Springfield is located in the middle of America, it experiences all four seasons. As the months pass, residents enjoy sunny summer days, fall foliage, enchanting snow, and spring’s blooms and blossoms. The city is home to a number of clean, green parks where seniors can enjoy the seasons and exercise in the fresh air. Plus, the Ozark Mountains are a short drive away, and they’re a great place to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and fishing.
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It’s no secret that we love Springfield, but it’s always nice to be recognized by the media! If you’re interested in retiring in Springfield MO, be sure to check out Hearthside Senior Living Place’s two local retirement communities.
Hearthside Senior Living Place of Chesterfield Village includes 80 apartments for seniors and is located in a charming neighborhood with a movie theater, bookstore, and restaurants all within walking distance. Hearthside Senior Living Place of Springfield East includes 61 apartments for seniors located on the east side of town and, like its sister facility, it also features beautiful furnishings and tasteful decor. If you’re interested in taking a tour of Hearthside Senior Living Place, please click here or give us a call at 417-886-4000 (Chesterfield Village) or 417-889-2222 (Springfield East) for more information.