Moving abroad has become a trend in recent years among American retirees, because the cost of living is very high for these Americans in many states. While some consider countries like Costa Rica, Mexico, or Portugal, others have found options within the United States that are just as affordable and also offer a comparable quality of life.
A recent analysis by US News and World Report highlights a specific city in a state that few have been considering, but is a beautiful little treasure to discover. It is one of the most affordable metropolitan areas for retirement, and we are going to analyze what they offer.
Metropolitan Areas for Retirees in the US: This Is the No.1 Place in 2024
The report evaluated more than 150 metropolitan areas in the U.S. to determine which would be the best option for affordability and quality of life. Among the factors considered were the cost of housing, resident happiness, destination attractiveness, taxes for retirees, the job market for those not ready to fully retire and access to health care.
Youngstown stood out in this evaluation for its low costs of living, convenient location, and range of natural and cultural attractions. According to the report, it is a city that has a lot to offer retirees without the cost associated with other popular destinations abroad.
Why Youngstown Has Ranked Itself as a Retirement Destination
Located about an hour’s drive from Pittsburgh and Cleveland, Youngstown is strategically positioned between New York City and Chicago. This central location is a plus for those looking for access to large urban areas without living in the middle of the hustle and bustle. “Retirees can enjoy a stroll through Mill Creek Park, which has two golf courses offering discounted rates for seniors and a ‘Cinderella’-style iron bridge,” noted US News and World Report.
As for the cost of living, the median home price in Youngstown is $137,546. This makes it an attractive option for those looking to purchase a property without compromising their retirement savings. In addition, the average rent for an apartment is $706 per month, a considerably lower figure compared to other destinations within and outside the United States.
Stop Thinking About Moving Abroad — Your New Home Is in Ohio
Thousands of retired Americans have moved their residence to countries like Mexico or Portugal, and some have even begun to opt for Costa Rica, Italy, or Spain. Of course, these countries with rich cultures are wonderful to navigate the golden years, but they have the disadvantage of being far from home, family and friends.
To give you an idea, as a comparison, in Mexico, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment ranges between $442 and $652 per month, while in Portugal the average is about $862, according to data from GoBankingRates.com. Youngstown, with its average monthly rent of $706, competes favorably with these international destinations.
For those who prefer not to deal with the potential complications of living abroad, such as language barriers or differences in healthcare systems, Youngstown offers a viable alternative within the US that provides an affordable living experience without the need to leave the country.
Not Just Youngstown — Other Places in the US to Retire in 2024
Looking for a retreat without leaving the US? Here are several options according to the same study, with good quality of life, affordable living costs, and health and entertainment services within everyone’s reach:
- Youngstown, Ohio
- Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (cercano a Youngstown)
- Cleveland, Ohio (cercano a Youngstown)
- New York City, New York (near Youngstown)
- Chicago, Illinois (cercano a Youngstown)
- Mill Creek Park (en Youngstown)
- Mexico (international comparison)
- Portugal (international comparison)
- Hickory, North Carolina
- Blue Ridge Mountains (near Hickory)
- Springfield, Missouri
- Brownsville, Texas
- Huntington, Virginia Occidental
- Ashland, Kentucky
- Ashland, Ohio
